🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

Coupe

Model Codes:

E46 (specific coupe variants)

Year Range:

1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005

Generation Code:

E46 (Third Generation 3 Series)

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact Executive Sports Coupe

Key Competitors:

Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class, Audi A4 Cabriolet (though less direct competitor), Lexus IS Coupe (if applicable), Infiniti G35 Coupe.

Vehicle Appeal:

Rear-wheel drive platform, premium build quality, engaging driving dynamics, luxurious interior, potent inline-six engines.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Workshop Service, Repair, Maintenance

Estimated Page Count:

Thousands (typical for comprehensive workshop manuals)

Type:

Workshop Service Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Systems:

Engine mechanical (M52TU, M54 series), fuel injection, ignition, cooling, lubrication, exhaust, emissions control, engine management (DME).

Drivetrain Systems:

Manual transmission (Getrag GS5-39DZ, GS6-37BZ), Automatic transmission (Steptronic GM A5S360R, A5S320R), clutch, driveshafts, differential, rear axle.

Chassis Systems:

Suspension (front McPherson strut, rear multi-link), steering (rack and pinion, hydraulic power assist), brakes (ABS, DSC, vented discs, calipers), wheel bearings.

Electrical Systems:

Vehicle electrical system (12V), battery, alternator, starter, lighting, power windows, central locking, fuse boxes, relays, wiring diagrams, diagnostic connectors (OBD-II).

Body And Interior:

Body shell repair, exterior trim, interior trim, seats, airbags, climate control (HVAC), body control module (BCM).

Body And Frame:

Structural repair information, body panel replacement, corrosion protection measures, panel gaps, door/hood/trunk alignment.

Climate Control And HVAC:

Refrigerant handling, system diagnostics, blower motor replacement, heater core service, climate control module troubleshooting.

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, fluid checks and changes, brake pad/rotor replacement.

Repair And Rebuild:

Engine overhaul, transmission overhaul, suspension component replacement, brake caliper rebuild, exhaust system repair, cooling system flush and repair.

Diagnostics And Troubleshooting:

Fault code diagnosis, electrical troubleshooting, mechanical diagnostics, drivability issues, common problem diagnosis.

Technical Specifications:

Torque specifications, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), electrical values, fluid capacities, component tolerances.

Wiring Diagrams:

Extensive electrical wiring diagrams covering all vehicle systems, with component locations and wire tracing information.

Depth:

Comprehensive: Covers everything from routine maintenance to major component overhauls and advanced diagnostics.

Diagnostics Capabilities:

Detailed diagnostic procedures for engine, transmission, ABS, DSC, SRS (airbag), climate control, and body electrical systems using BMW's diagnostic tools and protocols.

Passive Features Detail:

Detailed information on airbag system components, deployment triggers, sensor locations, and SRS system servicing procedures.

📊 Manual Specifications

PDF Quality:

High-resolution, searchable text, vector graphics (schematics), printable pages.

Printability:

Designed for easy printing of individual sections or the entire manual.

Binding:

N/A (Digital PDF Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital PDF Download)

Manual Completeness:

Comprehensive Workshop Manual, covering all major systems and procedures for the specified model years and engine variants.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options:

2.5L Inline-6 (M54B25), 3.0L Inline-6 (M54B30), 2.8L Inline-6 (M52TUB28 - earlier models).

Horsepower Range:

Approx. 184 hp (2.5L) to 228 hp (3.0L), depending on specific engine and market.

Torque Range:

Approx. 230 Nm (2.5L) to 300 Nm (3.0L), depending on specific engine.

Injection Type:

Sequential Multi-Point Fuel Injection (SFI)

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 AKI or higher recommended)

ECU Type:

Bosch Motronic DME (Digital Motor Electronics)

Diagnostic Interface:

OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics II) compliant, typically using a 16-pin connector located under the dashboard.

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

5-speed Manual Transmission

Optional Transmission:

5-speed Automatic Transmission (Steptronic)

Transmission Features:

Rear-wheel drive bias, limited-slip differential available on select performance models (e.g., 330Ci with ZHP package).

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approx. 107.3 inches (2728 mm)

Length:

Approx. 183.2 inches (4653 mm)

Width:

Approx. 68.7 inches (1745 mm)

Height:

Approx. 53.7 inches (1364 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3300 - 3500 lbs (1497 - 1588 kg), depending on engine and options.

Trunk Volume:

Approx. 11.1 cu ft (314 L)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Ratings:

Varied by year and specific test, generally good for its era. Refer to NHTSA archives for specific model year data.

Active Safety:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), Traction Control System (TCS).

Passive Safety:

Front airbags, side airbags, pretensioner seatbelts, reinforced body structure, energy-absorbing steering column.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

BMW Business CD, BMW Professional CD with optional Navigation system (MK III or MK IV).

Audio Features:

AM/FM radio, CD player, optional Harman Kardon audio system.

Driver Assistance Features:

Park Distance Control (PDC - rear), Cruise Control.

Connectivity Features:

Optional BMW Assist telematics system (early form of connected services), hands-free Bluetooth phone integration (later production).

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 7,500 - 10,000 miles or annually, depending on driving conditions and oil used. BMW's Condition Based Service (CBS) system may dictate intervals.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Around 60,000 miles for standard spark plugs; consult manual for specific engine.

Coolant Flush:

Every 2-3 years or 30,000-50,000 miles with BMW blue coolant.

Brake Fluid Change Interval:

Every 2 years regardless of mileage.

Engine Oil:

SAE 5W-30 or 0W-40 synthetic, meeting BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) specification. Consult manual for specific engine variant.

Transmission Fluid Manual:

GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil, e.g., Castrol SAF-XJ or equivalent.

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

BMW ATF LT-3 (or equivalent approved ATF, e.g., Pentosin ATF1).

Coolant:

BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 type), mixed 50/50 with distilled water.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 4 (BMW Premium Brake Fluid) or DOT 4 LV.

Common Failures:

VANOS (Variable Valve Timing) solenoid leaks/failures, oil filter housing gasket leaks, CCV (Crankcase Ventilation) system clogging, coolant expansion tank cracking, ABS/DSC sensor failures, window regulator failures, cooling system components (water pump, thermostat, hoses).

Oil Filter Part Number Example:

Mann-Filter HU 821 X, Mahle OX 157/1D, or OEM 11 42 1 469 277.

Air Filter Part Number Example:

Mann-Filter C 30 100, or OEM 13 72 1 432 001.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Legacy:

BMW has a long-standing reputation for building driver-focused, performance-oriented vehicles with exceptional engineering and build quality.

E46 Introduction:

The E46 generation (1998-2006) represented a significant evolution of the 3 Series, offering improved aerodynamics, chassis dynamics, and interior refinement over its E36 predecessor. The coupe variants (E46/2) debuted shortly after the sedan.

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily Germany (Munich, Dingolfing), with some production potentially in other BMW plants worldwide.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Automotive Awards:

The E46 platform and its variants were widely praised by automotive journalists for their driving dynamics, build quality, and performance, often featuring on 'Car of the Year' or 'Best of' lists from publications like Car and Driver and MotorTrend.

Consumer Reports Ratings:

Generally received good reliability ratings for its era, though specific issues such as those noted in 'known_issues' should be considered.