Segment:
Compact Executive Sedan/Coupe/Touring
Competitors:
Audi A4, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Lexus IS, Alfa Romeo 156
Chassis Dynamics:
Renowned for its balanced chassis, rear-wheel-drive bias (or xDrive AWD), and engaging driving experience.
Build Quality:
High standard of build quality and interior materials typical of BMW.
Audience:
Enthusiast drivers, owners seeking to perform their own maintenance and repairs.
Supported Models:
316i, 318i, 320i, 323i, 325xi, 330i, 330xi, 318d, 320d, 330d, 330xd
Supported Years:
1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004
Estimated Page Count:
Highly comprehensive (exact number not specified, but implies full factory coverage)
Type:
Workshop Service and Repair Manual
Language:
English (implied by description and typical market)
Format:
Digital Download (PDF)
Engine:
Complete diagnostics, repair, overhaul, component replacement for all listed gasoline and diesel engines.
Transmission:
Manual and Automatic transmission service, repair, diagnostics, fluid specifications.
Drivetrain:
Front and rear axle, differentials, driveshafts, AWD systems (xi models).
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension, steering system, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, alignment procedures.
Brakes:
Brake system diagnostics, repair, component replacement (pads, rotors, calipers, master cylinder), ABS, DSC.
Electrical:
Comprehensive electrical system coverage, including wiring diagrams, component testing, ECU diagnostics, lighting, sensors, actuators.
Bodywork:
Body panel removal and installation, collision repair guidelines, glass replacement, structural repair.
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning system servicing and repair.
Fuel System:
Fuel delivery, injection systems (gasoline and diesel), fuel pumps, injectors, filters.
Cooling System:
Radiator, water pump, thermostat, coolant specifications, bleeding procedures.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, inspections, lubrication points.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, fault code interpretation, step-by-step diagnostic procedures.
Repair:
Detailed repair procedures for all major mechanical and electrical components.
Assembly Disassembly:
Step-by-step instructions for removing and installing vehicle components.
Refurbishment:
Cleaning and refurbishment of specific parts.
Depth:
Comprehensive coverage from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls.
Detail Level:
Detailed diagrams, illustrations, torque specifications, clearances, and procedural steps.
316I Engine:
1.9L I4 (M43/N42/N46 depending on exact year/market), ~105-115 hp
318I Engine:
2.0L I4 (M43/N42/N46 depending on exact year/market), ~118-143 hp
320I Engine:
2.2L I6 (M54), ~170 hp
323I Engine:
2.5L I6 (M52TU), ~170 hp
325Xi Engine:
2.5L I6 (M54), ~184 hp, xDrive AWD
330I Engine:
3.0L I6 (M54), ~228 hp
330Xi Engine:
3.0L I6 (M54), ~228 hp, xDrive AWD
318D Engine:
2.0L I4 Turbo Diesel (M47), ~116 hp
320D Engine:
2.0L I4 Turbo Diesel (M47/M47N), ~136-150 hp
330D Engine:
3.0L I6 Turbo Diesel (M57), ~184-201 hp
330Xd Engine:
3.0L I6 Turbo Diesel (M57), ~184-201 hp, xDrive AWD
Gasoline Engine Variant Notes:
Some gasoline engines (e.g., N42/N46) introduced Valvetronic technology.
Gasoline Injection Type:
Multi-point fuel injection (MPI) or Direct Injection (DI) for some later models.
Diesel Injection Type:
Common Rail Direct Injection (CRDI)
Body Styles:
Saloon (Sedan), Touring (Wagon), Coupe, Convertible, M3 variants.
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2760 mm (108.7 in)
Length:
Approx. 4471-4488 mm (176.0-176.7 in) depending on body style.
Curb Weight:
Varies significantly by engine and body style, typically 1300-1600 kg.
Eucap Rating:
Generally achieved 4-star Euro NCAP rating for frontal and side impact, though specific results varied by year and configuration.
Driver Assistance:
ABS, DSC (Dynamic Stability Control), Traction Control System (TCS), optional Xenon headlights.
Airbags:
Frontal airbags, side airbags, optional head airbags.
Chassis Design:
Advanced safety cell structure.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 15,000 km (9,300 miles) or 12 months, managed by Condition Based Service (CBS) system.
Brake Fluid Interval:
Every 2 years.
Spark Plug Interval Gasoline:
Varies by engine type (e.g., Longlife spark plugs every 60,000 km or 4 years for some models).
Engine Oil Specification:
BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) or Longlife-04 (LL-04) for diesel, typically SAE 5W-30 or 0W-30 depending on climate.
Coolant Specification:
BMW Advanced Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 Ethylene Glycol based), typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
BMW recommends specific MTF LT-2 or MTF LT-3 for manual transmissions. Manual fill is critical.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
BMW ATF Dexron III-H or Dexron VI for 5-speed automatic. Fluid change recommended as per service schedule (often considered 'lifetime' by some, but proactive changes beneficial).
Coolant Leaks:
Common issues include coolant expansion tank cracks, hose leaks, and water pump failures.
Subframe Cracks:
Rear subframe mounting points can crack, particularly on early models and high-performance variants. The manual will cover inspection and repair.
Cooling System Plastic Parts:
Plastic components in the cooling system (e.g., thermostat housing, expansion tank) can become brittle and leak.
Oil Vanos Seals:
Vanos (Variable Valve Timing) system seals can degrade, leading to rough idle and power loss. The manual will detail Vanos repair.
Diesel Glow Plugs And Module:
Glow plugs and the glow plug control module can fail, affecting cold starts. Manual will cover diagnosis and replacement.
Bmw Philosophy:
Focus on 'The Ultimate Driving Machine' slogan, emphasizing performance, handling, and driver engagement.
E46 Introduction:
Launched in 1998 as a successor to the E36 generation. Known for significant advancements in chassis tuning and design.
Facelift:
Received a facelift (LCI - Life Cycle Impulse) in 2001, with updated exterior styling, interior trim, and powertrain improvements.
Production Period:
1998-2006 (Sedan/Touring/Coupe/Convertible, with some overlap and specific model end dates).
