🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

330i

Year:

2000

Chassis Code:

E46

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact Executive Sedan/Coupe. The E46 3 Series was renowned for its blend of luxury, performance, and driving dynamics, establishing BMW's dominance in its class.

Competitors:

Mercedes-Benz C-Class (W203), Audi A4 (B6), Lexus IS300, Infiniti G35.

Driving Dynamics:

Renowned for its balanced chassis, rear-wheel drive layout, and precise steering, offering a superior driving experience.

Powertrain:

The M54B30 engine provided a strong blend of power and refinement.

Build Quality:

Exceptional German engineering and build quality, contributing to its long-term desirability.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Scope:

Comprehensive service, repair, and diagnostic procedures for the BMW 330i (E46 chassis) model year 2000.

Estimated Page Count:

1000+

Type:

Service and Repair Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (likely PDF, searchable)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

M54B30 (3.0L Inline-6), including diagnostics, repair, and overhaul of all components (cylinder head, block, valvetrain, cooling, lubrication, fuel injection, ignition).

Transmission:

GM A5S360R (5-speed automatic) and Getrag 420G (6-speed manual) – including diagnosis, fluid service, seal replacement, and complete overhaul procedures.

Brakes:

Hydraulic system, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), DSC (Dynamic Stability Control), pad/rotor replacement, caliper service, brake line bleeding, and hydraulic unit repair.

Suspension Steering:

Front (MacPherson strut with multi-link) and rear (multi-link) suspension, shock absorber replacement, ball joint service, wheel bearing replacement, power steering system (hydraulic pump, rack and pinion) service, and alignment specifications.

Electrical Electronic:

Detailed wiring diagrams, ECU (Engine Control Unit) functions, sensor diagnostics, alternator, starter motor, battery maintenance, lighting systems, instrument cluster, power accessories, and DME (Digital Motor Electronics) troubleshooting.

Body Chassis:

Body panel removal/installation, door mechanisms, glass replacement, interior trim, underbody protection, and chassis component torque specifications.

Heating Air Conditioning:

Climate control system operation, refrigerant handling, compressor, evaporator, condenser service, HVAC blower motor, and cabin filter replacement.

Fuel System:

Fuel pump, fuel injectors, fuel pressure regulator, evaporative emissions control (EVAP) system, and fuel tank service.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil and filter changes, air filter replacement, spark plug replacement, coolant flushes, brake fluid replacement, power steering fluid replacement, and general inspection procedures.

Diagnostic Troubleshooting:

Step-by-step troubleshooting guides for common and complex issues, symptom-based diagnostics, OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics) code interpretation, and component testing procedures.

Major Repairs:

Engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, suspension component replacement (e.g., control arms, struts), brake system repairs, and electrical system component replacement.

Component Replacement:

Detailed instructions for replacing virtually all major and minor components, including torque specifications and special tool requirements.

Technical Specifications Data:

Includes all necessary specifications, tolerances, capacities, and torque values for every repair and maintenance procedure.

Depth:

Expert-level detail suitable for professional mechanics and advanced DIY enthusiasts. Covers everything from basic fluid changes to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including complex electrical diagnostics.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

Likely PDF, optimized for searchability and clear image reproduction.

Image Resolution:

High resolution for clear diagrams and illustrations.

Binding:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper Quality:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

M54B30

Configuration:

3.0-liter (2979 cc) Naturally Aspirated Inline-6 Cylinder

Bore X Stroke:

84.0 mm x 89.6 mm

Compression Ratio:

10.2:1

Valve Train:

DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft), 24 valves, Double VANOS (Variable Valve Timing for both intake and exhaust camshafts)

Horsepower:

225 hp @ 5900 rpm

Torque:

214 lb-ft (290 Nm) @ 3500 rpm

Injection Type:

Sequential Multi-Point Fuel Injection (SMPI), Bosch Motronic ME 7.2 DME

Recommended Fuel:

Premium Unleaded (91 Octane or higher)

Oil Type:

SAE 0W-40 Synthetic

Oil Capacity:

6.5 US Quarts (6.2 Liters) with filter

🔧 Transmission

Type:

Getrag 420G 6-speed Manual Transmission

Type:

GM A5S360R 5-speed Steptronic Automatic Transmission

Manual Gear Ratios:

1st: 4.23:1, 2nd: 2.50:1, 3rd: 1.66:1, 4th: 1.22:1, 5th: 1.00:1, 6th: 0.85:1, Reverse: 3.91:1

Steptronic Functionality:

Allows manual selection of gears via shifter or steering wheel buttons (on some trims).

Manual Transmission Fluid:

BMW MTF LT-2 (or equivalent GL-4/GL-5 rated gear oil)

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

BMW ATF LT-4 (Dexron III H compatible)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

177.4 inches (4506 mm)

Width:

68.5 inches (1740 mm)

Height:

56.1 inches (1425 mm)

Wheelbase:

107.4 inches (2728 mm)

Front Track:

58.7 inches (1491 mm)

Rear Track:

59.5 inches (1511 mm)

Curb Weight:

3373 lbs (1530 kg) for Manual / 3472 lbs (1575 kg) for Automatic

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

4564 lbs (2070 kg)

Trunk Volume:

11.7 cubic feet (331 liters)

Standard Wheel Size:

16 x 7.0 inch alloy

Optional Wheel Size:

17 x 7.5 inch front, 17 x 8.0 inch rear

Standard Tire Size:

205/55 R16

Optional Tire Size:

225/45 R17 front, 245/40 R17 rear

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5 x 120 mm

Lug Nut Torque:

140 Nm (103 lb-ft)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact:

4/5 Stars

IIHS Side Impact:

Good (for comparable vehicles)

ABS:

Standard (Anti-lock Braking System)

Dsc:

Standard (Dynamic Stability Control) / DTC (Dynamic Traction Control)

Airbags:

Frontal airbags for driver and passenger, optional side-impact airbags.

Seatbelts:

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

Chassis Structure:

Reinforced safety cell and crumple zones for improved occupant protection.

💡 Technology Features

Head Unit:

BMW Business CD or Professional RDS radio/cassette/CD player. Navigation system (optional).

Speaker System:

Standard 6-speaker system, optional premium HiFi system.

Cruise Control:

Standard

Parking Sensors:

Optional rear parking sensors.

Remote Keyless Entry:

Standard

On Board Computer:

Standard, providing trip computer functions and vehicle status monitoring.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

BMW Condition Based Service (CBS) typically recommends every 10,000-15,000 miles or annually, depending on driving conditions. Manual will provide precise guidance.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Approximately every 60,000 miles (refer to manual for exact interval and plug type - typically Bosch FGR7DQP+ or equivalent).

Coolant Replacement:

First change at 4 years, then every 2 years thereafter. Use BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant.

Brake Fluid Replacement:

Every 2 years. Use DOT 4 fluid.

Power Steering Fluid:

BMW PSF-4 or Pentosin CHF 11S

Coolant Type:

BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (Ethylene Glycol based, silicates)

Common Problems:

Cracked vacuum hoses, VANOS solenoid issues, coolant expansion tank failure, oil pan gasket leaks, CCV (Crankcase Ventilation) system clogging, rear subframe mounting points fatigue, cooling system leaks (water pump, thermostat housing, hoses).

Manual Assistance For Issues:

The manual provides detailed diagnostic and repair procedures for all known common issues, including troubleshooting steps and part replacement guides.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Legacy:

BMW has a long-standing reputation for producing driver-focused luxury vehicles with exceptional engineering and performance.

E46 Generation:

The E46 generation (1998-2006) marked a significant evolution for the 3 Series, building upon the success of the E36 and introducing more advanced technology and refined styling.

Production Years:

1998-2006 (E46 Generation), 330i model introduced in 2000.

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily Dingolfing, Germany; alsoSpartanburg, South Carolina, USA.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver 10Best:

The E46 generation 3 Series, including variants like the 330i, was frequently recognized on Car and Driver's '10Best' list for its exceptional driving dynamics and overall package.

Vehicle Handling:

Universally praised for its class-leading handling and steering feedback.

Automotive Press Reviews:

Consistently received rave reviews from automotive journalists for performance, luxury, and driving pleasure.