Segment:
Compact Executive Sedan/Wagon
Target Audience:
Premium, performance-oriented buyers seeking a blend of luxury and sportiness, with the added capability of all-wheel drive.
Key Competitors:
Audi A4 Quattro, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Lexus IS300
Drivetrain Advantage:
xDrive all-wheel-drive system provides enhanced traction and stability in various weather conditions.
Powertrain Performance:
Smooth and powerful M54B30 inline-six engine, known for its refinement and responsiveness.
Handling:
Renowned BMW handling dynamics, chassis balance, and responsive steering.
Engine:
M54B30 3.0L Inline-6 (including VANOS, cooling, lubrication, fuel injection, ignition)
Transmission:
5-speed Manual (Getrag Type G), 5-speed Automatic (GM A5S360R/A5S390R)
Drivetrain:
xDrive All-Wheel Drive System (transfer case, differentials, drive shafts)
Suspension:
Front (MacPherson struts, multi-link), Rear (multi-link), shock absorbers, springs, bushings
Brakes:
Front (Vented Discs), Rear (Solid/Vented Discs), ABS, DSC (Dynamic Stability Control)
Steering:
Hydraulic Power Steering (rack and pinion)
Electrical:
12V system, battery, alternator, starter, fuse box, relays, lighting, horn, wipers, power accessories
Body:
Body panels, doors, windows, locks, mirrors, bumpers, chassis structure
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning system (compressor, evaporator, condenser, blower)
Safety Systems:
Airbags, seatbelt pretensioners, SRS system
Diagnostics:
OBD-II diagnostics, fault code interpretation, component testing
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plugs, belts, hoses, fluid checks/flushes
Repair:
Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, suspension component replacement, brake system repair, electrical component diagnosis/replacement
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon faults
Adjustment:
Wheel alignment, parking brake adjustment
Installation:
Component replacement and installation guidelines
Depth:
Detailed, from basic maintenance to advanced diagnostics and full component overhaul, suitable for professional mechanics and advanced DIYers.
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated Inline-6 Cylinder
Displacement:
2979 cc (3.0 Liters)
Bore X Stroke:
84.0 mm x 89.6 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.2:1
Valve Train:
DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder, Double VANOS (Variable Valve Timing)
Horsepower:
225 hp @ 6100 rpm
Torque:
214 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with Sequential Ignition
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane or higher recommended)
Engine Management System:
Bosch Motronic ME 7.2
Type:
5-speed Manual Transmission
Type:
5-speed Automatic Transmission (Steptronic optional)
AWD System:
xDrive All-Wheel Drive with variable torque split (default 38% front, 62% rear)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
BMW MTF LT-1 or equivalent (refer to manual for exact specification)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
BMW ATF LT-71141 or equivalent (refer to manual for exact specification)
NHTSA Front Impact:
5-Star (for driver and passenger in E46 generation generally)
IIHS Side Impact:
Good (for E46 generation generally)
Dynamic Stability Control:
Standard (DSC III)
Anti Lock Braking System:
Standard (ABS)
Traction Control:
Standard (part of DSC)
Airbags:
Frontal airbags for driver and passenger, optional side-impact airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pretensioners and force limiters
Body Structure:
Integrated safety cage, crumple zones
Oil Change Interval:
BMW Condition Based Service (CBS) system; typically 10,000-15,000 miles or annually, depending on driving conditions. Refer to manual for exact CBS reset procedures.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles or as indicated by CBS.
Cabin Filter Replacement:
Annually or every 15,000 miles.
Spark Plug Replacement:
NGK BKR6EQUP; typically every 60,000 - 100,000 miles depending on plug type and condition.
Coolant Flush:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48); every 2-4 years or 30,000-60,000 miles.
Engine Oil Type:
BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) approved synthetic oil, typically 5W-30 or 5W-40 (refer to manual for precise viscosity based on climate).
Engine Oil Capacity:
6.5 Liters (6.9 US Quarts) with filter.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4, BMW recommends P/N 82 11 1 468 095.
Power Steering Fluid:
Pentosin CHF 11 S or equivalent ATF.
Ccv System Failure:
Crankcase Ventilation (CCV) system can fail, leading to oil leaks, rough idle, and increased oil consumption.
Oil Filter Housing Gasket Leak:
Oil filter housing gasket is prone to cracking, causing oil leaks.
Vanos Solenoid Failure:
Double VANOS system solenoids can fail, leading to reduced engine power and rough idle, especially at lower RPMs.
Cooling System Failures:
Plastic coolant expansion tank and radiator end tanks can become brittle and crack; water pump and thermostat failures are also common.
Window Regulator Failure:
Power window regulators are known to fail frequently.
Brand Philosophy:
BMW is renowned for its 'Ultimate Driving Machine' philosophy, emphasizing performance, handling, and driver engagement.
E46 Generation:
The E46 generation (1998-2006) succeeded the E36 and was celebrated for its refined design, improved dynamics, and technological advancements. The 330xi variant introduced xDrive all-wheel-drive to the 3 Series sedan line in 2001.
Production Years:
2001-2005 (for 330xi)
Manufacturing Locations:
Germany (primarily Munich, Dingolfing)
