Market Position:
The BMW 3 Series (E46) was positioned as a premium compact executive sports sedan and coupe, renowned for its driving dynamics, build quality, and refined engineering. The 330i and 330xi represented the higher-performance and all-wheel-drive variants of this highly successful generation.
Competitive Analysis:
Competed with rivals like the Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Audi A4, and Lexus IS. The E46 3 Series, particularly in its 330 variants, was lauded for offering a more engaging driving experience and superior handling compared to many competitors.
Key Features:
Legendary handling, powerful inline-six engines, sophisticated chassis, premium interior appointments, advanced (for its time) safety features.
Systems Covered:
Engine, Drivetrain (including xDrive AWD system), Transmission (manual and automatic), Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Fuel System, Cooling System, Exhaust System, Electrical System (including wiring diagrams), HVAC, Bodywork, Interior Trim, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Emississions Control
Procedures Included:
Scheduled maintenance, routine inspections, diagnostic procedures, step-by-step repair instructions for all major and minor components, component removal and installation, torque specifications, fluid capacities and types, troubleshooting guides, wiring harness repair, component testing
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive, covering basic to advanced diagnostics and repairs, including full engine and transmission overhauls, electrical system troubleshooting, and body panel alignment.
Engine:
M54B30 (3.0L Inline 6-Cylinder)
Horsepower:
225 hp @ 5900 rpm
Torque:
214 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Multi-Port Fuel Injection (Bosch Motronic ME7.2)
Bore X Stroke:
84.0 mm x 89.6 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.2:1
Engine Control Unit:
BMW DME (Digital Motor Electronics)
Valve Train:
Double VANOS (variable valve timing), DOHC (Dual Overhead Camshafts)
Transmission Standard 330I:
Getrag 5-speed manual
Transmission Optional:
GM 5-speed Steptronic automatic
Transmission Features:
Rear-wheel drive (330i), xDrive all-wheel drive (330xi), hydraulic clutch (manual), electronic control (automatic).
Manual Transmission Fluid:
BMW recommends specific MTF LT-2 or equivalent (e.g., Castrol Syntrans B75)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
BMW recommends ATF LT71141 or equivalent (e.g., ZF LifeguardFluid 5)
Wheelbase:
107.4 inches (2728 mm)
Length:
177.4 inches (4506 mm)
Width:
68.7 inches (1745 mm)
Height:
55.2 inches (1402 mm)
Curb Weight 330I Manual:
approx. 3351 lbs (1520 kg)
Curb Weight 330Xi Manual:
approx. 3593 lbs (1630 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Varies by model and configuration (refer to manual)
Towing Capacity:
Not officially specified by BMW for US market; check local regulations and owner's manual if equipped.
Standard Wheel Size:
17 x 7.5 inches (front), 17 x 8.0 inches (rear) - often staggered on 330i
Standard Tire Size:
225/45R17 (front), 245/40R17 (rear) - often staggered on 330i
NHTSA Front Impact:
4-Star (Driver), 4-Star (Passenger)
Active Safety Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), Traction Control System (TCS)
Passive Safety Features:
Front airbags (driver and passenger), front side-impact airbags, front and rear head protection system (optional), crumple zones, safety-reinforced passenger compartment.
Infotainment System:
Optional BMW Business CD or Professional RDS CD/radio, optional navigation system (MKIII/MKIV).
Driver Assistance Features:
Cruise control, parking sensors (optional), rain-sensing wipers (optional), Xenon headlights with adaptive cornering (optional).
Connectivity Features:
Optional Bluetooth hands-free system.
Climate Control:
Manual or automatic climate control with recirculation, cabin air filter replacement procedures.
Oil Change Interval:
BMW Condition Based Service (CBS) system, typically around 10,000-15,000 miles or annually, but the manual details specific checks and recommended intervals based on driving conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approximately 100,000 miles for iridium spark plugs (e.g., NGK BKR6EQUP).
Coolant Replacement:
First change at approx. 4 years/50,000 miles, then every 2 years/30,000 miles thereafter (BMW Blue coolant).
Engine Oil Specification:
BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) synthetic oil, typically SAE 0W-40 or 5W-40. Refer to manual for exact type and viscosity.
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 (BMW Super DOT 4)
Known Issues Common:
Cooling system failures (plastic expansion tank, water pump, thermostat), VANOS system issues (rattle, oil leaks), CCV (Crankcase Ventilation) system failures leading to oil consumption/leaks, oil pan gasket leaks, subframe bushings, window regulator failures, spark plug well seal leaks, valve cover gasket leaks.
Air Filter Part Number Example:
Mann-Filter C 24 005 / BMW 13721438436
Oil Filter Part Number Example:
Mann-Filter HU 832 x / BMW 11421742274
Diagnostic Tools:
BMW GT1, INPA, DIS (covered in manual procedures)
Brand Heritage:
BMW, known as Bayerische Motoren Werke AG, has a long history of producing high-performance luxury vehicles, particularly renowned for its sporting sedans and coupes.
Model Evolution:
The E46 generation, launched in 1998 (as a 1999 model in the US), succeeded the E36. It was a significant advancement in terms of chassis rigidity, suspension design, and interior refinement, setting new benchmarks for the compact executive segment.
Production Years E46:
1998-2006
Manufacturing Locations:
Germany (Dingolfing, Munich), South Africa (Rosslyn), Thailand (Rayong), Egypt (6th October City)
Car And Driver 10Best:
The E46 3 Series, including variants like the 330i, was a frequent recipient of Car and Driver's 10Best awards during its production run.
General Reputation:
Highly regarded for its balance of performance, luxury, and driving dynamics; considered a benchmark in its class.
Certifications:
Not applicable in the traditional sense, but adheres to all relevant automotive engineering and safety standards for its market.
