Frontal airbags (driver and passenger), Optional front side-impact airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pretensioners and force limiters
Chassis Structure:
Reinforced safety cage, crumple zones
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Head Unit:
BMW Business CD or Professional RDS CD/Cassette player with optional CD changer. Harman Kardon audio system available.
Navigation:
Optional BMW Professional Navigation System (MK III or MK IV)
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control
Parking Assist:
Optional rear parking sensors (Park Distance Control - PDC)
Connectivity
Phone Integration:
Optional Bluetooth mobile phone preparation with cradle
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
BMW Condition Based Service (CBS) system recommends intervals typically between 10,000-15,000 miles (16,000-24,000 km) or annually, whichever comes first, but manual will detail specific checks.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approximately 100,000 miles (160,000 km) for iridium spark plugs (check manual for exact interval and part numbers).
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-3 years or as indicated by CBS.
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 2 years regardless of mileage.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 Synthetic, BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) approved (e.g., Castrol EDGE Professional OE BMW LL-01)
Engine Oil Capacity:
6.5 US quarts (6.2 liters) with filter
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 ethylene glycol based) mixed 50/50 with distilled water
Power Steering Fluid:
BMW Power Steering Fluid (P/N 83 29 0 429 576) or Pentosin CHF 11S
Known Issues
Cooling System:
Water pump failures (plastic impeller prone to cracking), thermostat failures, expansion tank leaks, cooling hose degradation.
Engine:
VANOS solenoid failure (leading to rough idle, loss of power), CCV (Crankcase Ventilation) system clogging (can cause oil leaks), oil pan gasket leaks, valve cover gasket leaks.
Suspension:
Front control arm bushings (bushing separation), rear shock mount failure, strut bearing wear.
Pixelated LCD displays (dashboard and radio), headliner sagging, door panel vapor barriers failing.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Bmw Heritage:
BMW (Bayerische Motoren Werke AG) is a German luxury vehicle manufacturer founded in 1916, renowned for its performance-oriented vehicles and driving pleasure ('The Ultimate Driving Machine').
Model Evolution
E46 Introduction:
The E46 generation of the 3 Series debuted in 1998 for the 1999 model year in Europe, and in 2000 for the 2001 model year in North America. The 330i replaced the 328i.
E46 Facelift:
The E46 received a mid-cycle facelift in 2001 (for the 2002 model year) which included revised headlights, taillights, bumpers, and interior trim. The 2001 model year represents the pre-facelift E46.