🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

330i

Year:

2001

Chassis Code:

E46

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact Executive Sedan

Usp:

Sporty driving dynamics, premium interior, advanced engineering for its era.

Key Competitors:

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

Performance Orientation:

Focus on driver engagement and handling characteristics.

Engineering Philosophy:

German engineering precision, balanced chassis, high-revving inline-six engines.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Full Service and Repair Instructions

Intended Audience:

Professional Mechanics and Advanced DIY Enthusiasts

Estimated Pages:

1500+

Type:

Workshop Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (likely PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

M54B30 Engine Overhaul, Diagnostics, Tuning

Transmission:

Manual (Getrag 420G) and Automatic (GM A5S360R/A5S325Z) Transmission Repair and Overhaul

Drivetrain:

Rear Wheel Drive System, Driveshaft, Differential, Axles

Suspension:

Front Struts, Rear Multi-link Suspension, Bushings, Springs, Dampers

Brakes:

Front and Rear Disc Brakes, ABS System (including DSC), Hydraulic System

Steering:

Power Steering System, Steering Rack, Column

Electrical:

Battery, Charging System, Ignition System, Lighting, Fuses, Relays, ECU Diagnostics, Wiring Diagrams

Cooling:

Radiator, Water Pump, Thermostat, Coolant Lines, Fan Assembly

Fuel:

Fuel Tank, Fuel Pump, Fuel Injectors, Fuel Filter, Fuel Lines, DME Control

Exhaust:

Exhaust Manifold, Catalytic Converter, Mufflers, Sensors

HVAC:

Air Conditioning System, Heater Core, Blower Motor, Climate Control Module

Bodywork:

Exterior Panel Removal and Installation, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Bumpers

Interior:

Dashboard Removal, Seat Systems, Trim Panels

Maintenance:

Routine Service, Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Spark Plug Replacement, Belt Replacement

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting Guides, Fault Code Interpretation (OBD-II), Component Testing

Repair:

Component Replacement, Overhauling Procedures, Reassembly Steps

Adjustment:

Wheel Alignment Specifications, Headlight Aiming

Rebuilding:

Engine Rebuild, Transmission Rebuild, Differential Rebuild

Lubrication:

Lubrication Points, Greasing Procedures

Safety Systems:

Airbag System Service and Diagnostics

Depth:

Comprehensive: From basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed electrical schematics and diagnostic procedures.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF (typically optimized for searchability and printability)

Quality Description:

High-resolution diagrams and clear text for easy reading and reproduction.

Binding:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

M54B30

Engine Type:

3.0L Inline-6, Naturally Aspirated

Displacement:

2979 cc (181.8 cu in)

Bore X Stroke:

84.0 mm x 89.6 mm (3.31 in x 3.53 in)

Compression Ratio:

10.2:1

Horsepower:

225 hp @ 5900 rpm (approx.)

Torque:

214 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm (approx.)

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with Bosch Motronic DME

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded (91+ Octane Recommended)

Valvetrain:

Dual Overhead Camshafts (DOHC), 24 Valves, VANOS (Variable Valve Timing)

🔧 Transmission

Type:

5-Speed Manual (Getrag 420G)

Type:

5-Speed Automatic (GM A5S360R / A5S325Z)

Manual Clutch:

Hydraulically Actuated Single Dry Plate

Automatic Features:

Steptronic (manual shifting mode)

Manual Transmission Fluid:

BMW MTF LT-2 or equivalent (e.g., Pentosin MTF 2)

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Dexron III or equivalent (check specific A5S360R/A5S325Z specs for exact fluid type)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

177.5 in (4509 mm)

Width:

68.8 in (1748 mm)

Height:

55.5 in (1410 mm)

Wheelbase:

107.4 in (2728 mm)

Curb Weight:

3373 lbs (1530 kg) (approx. for manual transmission)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

4431 lbs (2010 kg) (approx.)

Trunk Volume:

11.7 cu ft (331 L) (approx.)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Impact:

4 Stars (Driver and Passenger)

Traction Control:

Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)

Braking System:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD)

Airbags:

Frontal Airbags (Driver and Passenger), Optional Side Airbags

Seatbelts:

3-Point Inertia Reel Seatbelts with Pretensioners

💡 Technology Features

Head Unit:

BMW Professional Radio/Cassette or CD Player. Optional Navigation system available.

Speakers:

Standard speaker system, with optional Harman Kardon premium audio.

Cruise Control:

Standard on most models.

Parking Sensors:

Optional Rear Park Distance Control (PDC).

Phone Integration:

Optional Bluetooth hands-free system with cradle.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Variable Service Interval System (Condition-Based Service - CBS) indicated by the car's computer, typically around 7,500-15,000 miles or 12-24 months, depending on driving conditions. Refer to manual for specific triggers.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Approximately 100,000 miles (Long Life Spark Plugs).

Coolant Replacement:

BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48), typically replaced every 2-4 years or as indicated by CBS.

Engine Oil Type:

BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) synthetic oil, typically 5W-30 or 5W-40. Check manual for specific viscosity recommendations based on climate.

Engine Oil Capacity:

6.5 US quarts (6.2 L) with filter change

Brake Fluid:

DOT 4 Low Viscosity (LV) or DOT 4+.

Power Steering Fluid:

Pentosin CHF 11S or a BMW approved substitute.

Crankcase Ventilation System:

Clogged PCV valve and hoses leading to vacuum leaks, rough idle, and oil consumption.

Cooling System:

Plastic coolant expansion tank, water pump, and thermostat housing are prone to cracking and failure.

Oil Pan Gasket:

Common oil leaks from the oil pan gasket and rear main seal.

Vanos:

Solenoid seals or rattle from the VANOS unit, affecting performance and idle.

Suspension Bushings:

Wear in control arm bushings and subframe bushings, leading to sloppy handling and noise.

📚 Vehicle History

Manufacturer Origins:

Bayerische Motoren Werke AG, founded in 1916, Germany.

E46 Generation:

Fourth generation of the BMW 3 Series, produced from 1998 to 2006.

330I Positioning:

Replaced the 328i, offering increased displacement and power, representing the sportier, more powerful naturally aspirated offering in the lineup for this year.

Production Locations:

Mainly Germany (Dingolfing, Munich), with some assembly in other countries.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver Ten Best:

BMW 3 Series (including E46 variants) frequently appeared on Car and Driver's 10 Best lists in its production years for exceptional driving dynamics.

Consumer Reports:

Generally rated well for performance and driving experience, though reliability scores varied over its lifespan with certain common issues becoming known.