🏷️ Basic Information
Identification
Make:
BMW
Model:
330i / 330xi
Year:
2004
Generation
Chassis Code:
E46
Codes
Engine Code Primary:
M54B30
👋 Introduction
Market Position
Segment:
Compact Executive Sedan/Wagon
Competitive Analysis
Key Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Audi A4, Lexus IS, Acura TL
Key Features
Driving Dynamics:
Renowned for balanced handling, rear-wheel drive bias (xi models add AWD)
Engine Performance:
Smooth and powerful inline-six engine
📋 Manual Details
Coverage Areas
Coverage Scope:
Complete Factory Service Repair
Page Count
Estimated Pages:
1500+
Manual Type
Type:
Factory Service Repair Manual
Language
Language:
English
Format
Format:
PDF Download
📖 Manual Coverage
Systems Covered
Engine:
Service, Repair, Overhaul, Diagnostics, Fuel Injection, Cooling, Lubrication, Emissions
Transmission:
Service, Repair, Diagnostics (Manual & Automatic)
Drivetrain:
Differential, Axles, AWD System (xi models)
Brakes:
Service, Repair, Diagnostics, ABS, DSC
Suspension:
Service, Repair, Diagnostics, Front, Rear
Steering:
Service, Repair, Diagnostics, Power Steering
Electrical:
System Diagnostics, Wiring Diagrams, Component Testing, ECU Function
Chassis Body:
Bodywork Repair, Exterior Trim, Interior Trim, Chassis Components
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning Service and Repair
Restraint Systems:
Airbags, Seatbelts, SRS System Diagnostics
Procedures Included
Maintenance:
General Maintenance, Periodic Lubrication, Fluid Changes, Filter Replacements
Troubleshooting:
Advanced Diagnostic Procedures, Fault Code Interpretation, Symptom-Based Diagnosis
Repair:
Step-by-step repair procedures for all major and minor components
Rebuilding:
Engine and transmission rebuild procedures
Tuning:
While not explicit, diagnostic and system adjustments are covered
Technical Depth
Depth:
Comprehensive (Factory Level)
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
Format Details:
PDF, Adobe Reader Compatible, Searchable Text
Print Quality
Printability:
Fully Printable (Individual pages or entire manual)
Binding Type
Binding:
N/A (Digital Download)
Paper Type
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital Download)
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated Inline 6-Cylinder
Displacement:
3.0 Liters (2979 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
84.0 mm x 89.6 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.2:1
Performance
Horsepower:
225 hp @ 6100 rpm
Torque:
214 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm
Fuel System
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Multi-Point Fuel Injection (S54 variant)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ octane)
Engine Management
ECU Type:
MS43 (likely for early 2004 models) or MS45 (likely for later 2004 models)
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Transmission Type:
5-Speed Manual (SMG optional on some markets)
Optional
Automatic Transmission:
5-Speed Automatic Steptronic
Features
All Wheel Drive:
xDrive AWD System (on 330xi models)
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Wheelbase:
107.3 inches (2726 mm)
Length:
177.4 inches (4506 mm)
Width:
68.7 inches (1745 mm)
Height:
55.7 inches (1415 mm)
Weights
Curb Weight 330I:
~3400 lbs (1542 kg)
Curb Weight 330Xi:
~3550 lbs (1610 kg)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Front Impact:
5-Star (Driver and Passenger)
IIHS Side Impact:
Good (for models equipped with side airbags)
Active Features
Traction Control:
Automatic Stability Control and Traction (ASC+T)
Stability Control:
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)
Passive Features
Airbags:
Frontal, Side-Impact, and Optional Head Protection Airbags
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Head Unit Options:
Standard BMW Business CD, optional BMW Professional CD/Navigation system
Display:
Central LCD screen for climate, audio, and optional navigation
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control
Parking Assistance:
Optional rear parking sensors
Connectivity
Phone Integration:
Optional Bluetooth hands-free preparation
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Variable (Condition Based Service - typically 10,000-15,000 miles or 12-24 months)
Spark Plug Replacement:
60,000 - 100,000 miles (depending on plug type, typically Iridium)
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-4 years or 30,000-50,000 miles (BMW Blue Coolant)
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type:
BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) Approved Synthetic SAE 0W-30 or 5W-30
Engine Oil Capacity:
6.5 Liters (approx. 6.9 US Quarts)
Transmission Fluid Manual:
BMW MTF LT-2 (or equivalent GL-4 SAE 75W-80)
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
BMW ATF LT-3 (or equivalent Dexron III/VI)
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4
Known Issues
Vibration Issues:
Driveshaft flex disc failure, center support bearing wear
Cooling System Problems:
Plastic expansion tank cracks, water pump impeller failure (especially later models with plastic impellers)
Oil Leaks:
Valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, oil filter housing gasket
Subframe Mounts:
Cracking or separation of rear subframe mounting points
Electrical Gremlins:
Water ingress into footwell modules (GM5 module), ABS/DSC sensor failures
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Brand Focus:
Known for sporty driving dynamics, engineering precision, and luxury.
Model Evolution
E46 Generation:
Fourth generation of the BMW 3 Series, introduced for the 1998 model year, with significant updates for the 2001 facelift.
Production
Production Years:
2000-2006 (E46 generation 330 models)
Manufacturing Locations:
Germany, South Africa, Egypt, Thailand, Russia, Brazil, India
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Car And Driver Best 10:
Car and Driver's 10Best Cars lists for multiple years during its production run.
Ratings
Consumer Reports Reliability:
Generally rated as average to above average for its era, with specific model year variations.