🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

330i

Year:

2002

Chassis Code:

E46

Engine Code:

M54B30

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The 2002 BMW 330i (E46) represented a high-performance luxury sport sedan, positioned as a premium offering in its segment, appealing to enthusiasts seeking a balance of driving dynamics, comfort, and technological sophistication.

Competitive Analysis:

Competed directly with vehicles such as the Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Audi A4, and Lexus IS series. The 330i was often praised for its superior handling and engaging driving experience.

Key Features:

Inline-six engine, rear-wheel drive (optional xDrive AWD), premium interior appointments, advanced chassis tuning, and the characteristic BMW driving feel.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

Complete Service and Repair for 2002 BMW 330i

Page Count:

Extensive (Software dependent, often hundreds of pages equivalent)

Manual Type:

Service and Repair Manual Software

Language:

English

Format:

Digital Software (Likely PDF or proprietary application)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Complete overhaul, cylinder head, pistons, connecting rods, crankshaft, timing, lubrication system.

Engine Electrical:

Ignition system, fuel injection, emission controls, starter, alternator, ECU diagnosis.

Transmission Manual:

Clutch, gearbox overhaul, shift linkage, fluid specifications.

Transmission Automatic:

Torque converter, hydraulic systems, electronic controls, valve body, fluid specifications.

Drivetrain:

Driveshaft, universal joints, differential, axle shafts, wheel bearings.

Suspension:

Front struts, rear shock absorbers, control arms, ball joints, bushings, wheel alignment specifications.

Steering:

Power steering system, steering rack, tie rod ends, steering column.

Brakes:

Front and rear brake systems (discs), ABS, DSC, parking brake, brake fluid specifications.

Electrical System:

Battery, charging system, lighting, wipers, horn, power accessories, fuses and relays.

Body And Frame:

Body panel removal and installation, doors, windows, interior trim, sunroof, chassis straightening.

HVAC:

Air conditioning system, heater core, blower motor, climate control unit.

Safety Systems:

Airbags, seat belts, SRS system diagnosis.

Preventative Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotations, spark plug replacement.

Troubleshooting:

Systematic diagnostic procedures for common and complex issues, fault code interpretation.

Repair Procedures:

Step-by-step instructions for component replacement and repair across all major vehicle systems.

Diagnostics:

On-board diagnostics (OBD-II) information, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), wiring diagrams, sensor data interpretation.

Special Tools:

Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repair procedures.

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive: Covers basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including electrical schematics and diagnostic routines.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

Digital Software (PDF or executable)

Print Quality:

High-resolution, printable diagrams and text.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Naturally Aspirated Inline 6-Cylinder

Displacement:

3.0 Liters (2979 cc)

Bore X Stroke:

84.0 mm x 89.6 mm

Compression Ratio:

10.2:1

Valvetrain:

DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder, Double VANOS

Horsepower:

225 hp @ 6000 rpm

Torque:

214 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Sequential Electronic Fuel Injection (SFI)

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 AKI or higher recommended)

Coolant Type:

BMW Blue Antifreeze (G48)

Coolant Capacity:

Approx. 8.5 Liters (8.9 US Quarts)

Oil Type:

SAE 5W-30 Synthetic or SAE 0W-30 Synthetic (BMW LL-01 approved)

Oil Capacity:

Approx. 6.5 Liters (6.8 US Quarts) with filter

Oil Filter Part Number:

BMW 11 42 7 511 777 (example, verify with VIN)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-Speed Manual (Getrag GS5-39DZ)

Transmission Type:

5-Speed Automatic (Steptronic)

Manual Fluid Type:

MTF LT-2 (BMW recommended) or equivalent GL-4

Automatic Fluid Type:

ATF LT 71141 (BMW recommended) or equivalent

Clutch Type:

Hydraulically actuated, single dry plate

📐 Dimensions

Length:

177.4 inches (4506 mm)

Width:

68.7 inches (1745 mm)

Height:

55.5 inches (1410 mm)

Wheelbase:

107.4 inches (2729 mm)

Front Track:

58.5 inches (1486 mm)

Rear Track:

59.2 inches (1504 mm)

Trunk Volume:

11.7 cu ft (331 Liters)

Curb Weight Manual:

3450 lbs (1565 kg)

Curb Weight Automatic:

3530 lbs (1601 kg)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:

4519 lbs (2050 kg)

Standard Wheel Size:

17 x 7.5 inches (Front), 17 x 8.0 inches (Rear)

Optional Wheel Size:

18 x 8.0 inches (Front), 18 x 8.5 inches (Rear)

Standard Tire Size:

225/45R17 (Front), 245/40R17 (Rear)

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5 x 120 mm

Lug Nut Size:

M14 x 1.5

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Crash Rating:

4 Stars (Driver), 4 Stars (Passenger)

NHTSA Side Impact Rating:

5 Stars (Front), 5 Stars (Rear)

IIHS Moderate Overlap Front Test:

Good

IIHS Side Impact Test:

Good

Traction Control:

Automatic Stability Control (ASC), optional Dynamic Traction Control (DTC)

Stability Control:

Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)

Antilock Brakes:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

Airbags:

Frontal airbags, side-impact airbags, optional curtain airbags.

Seatbelts:

3-point inertia-reel seat belts with pretensioners and force limiters.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Optional BMW Business CD or Professional CD/RDS radio with CD player, cassette player (early models), and optional navigation system (MKIV).

Audio Controls:

Steering wheel mounted audio controls.

Driver Assistance Features:

Cruise control, parking sensors (optional).

Connectivity Features:

Optional Bluetooth integration (for phone calls), optional BMW Assist telematics.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Variable Oil Service Indicator (Condition Based Service), typically every 10,000-15,000 miles or 12-24 months, depending on driving conditions.

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 30,000 miles or as indicated by service indicator.

Cabin Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000-30,000 miles or annually.

Spark Plug Replacement:

NGK BKR6EQUP (or equivalent) every 60,000 miles.

Brake Fluid Flush:

Every 2 years, regardless of mileage.

Coolant Flush:

First change at 100,000 miles, then every 50,000 miles thereafter.

Power Steering Fluid:

ATF Dexron III or Pentosin CHF 11 S (verify with vehicle specific documentation)

Windshield Washer Fluid:

Water/washer fluid mixture

Known Issues:

PCV system failure (leading to oil leaks and rough idle), coolant expansion tank leaks, VANOS solenoid failure, oil filter housing gasket leaks, rear axle carrier bearing failure (less common on 330i), strut mount wear, power steering hose leaks, alternator bracket failure.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

BMW (Bayerische Motoren Werke AG) has a long-standing reputation for producing high-performance, driver-focused vehicles, emphasizing engineering excellence and dynamic handling since its inception.

Model Evolution:

The E46 generation (1998-2006) succeeded the E36 and was a significant evolution, featuring a stiffer chassis, improved aerodynamics, and a more refined interior. The 330i model replaced the 328i, offering increased engine power and performance.

Production Years:

2000-2006 (E46 generation), 2001-2006 for 330i variants.

Manufacturing Locations:

Germany (primarily Munich, Dingolfing, Regensburg), South Africa, China, Russia, Thailand, India.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

The E46 generation, including the 330i, was frequently lauded by automotive journalists for its exceptional handling, responsive powertrain, and upscale interior. While specific awards may vary, it consistently ranked high in its class for driving dynamics.