🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: BMW Model: 3 Series Chassis Code: E46 Production Years Covered: 1999-2005 Generation Generation Name: Fifth Generation BMW 3 Series Generation Introduction Year: 1998 👋 Introduction Market Position Segment: Compact Executive Car Reputation: Renowned for driving dynamics, build quality, and sophisticated engineering Competitive Analysis Key Competitors: Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Audi A4, Lexus IS Key Features Driving Dynamics: Rear-wheel drive platform, near-perfect 50/50 weight distribution, responsive steering Powertrain Options: Smooth inline-six engines, efficient four-cylinder engines, performance-oriented M variants Interior Design: Driver-focused cockpit, high-quality materials, premium feel 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Coverage Scope: Comprehensive Service, Repair, and Maintenance Vehicle Variants Covered: Sedan (E46/4), Coupe (E46/2), Convertible (E46/2C), Touring (E46/3), M3 (E46/2CSL) Page Count Estimated Page Count: 1500+ Manual Type Type: Factory-Type Service Repair Workshop Manual Language Language: English Format Format: PDF 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine Systems: Engine mechanical (N42, N46, M54, S54), fuel injection, ignition, cooling, lubrication, exhaust Transmission Systems: Manual transmissions (Getrag 260, 6-speed), Automatic transmissions (ZF 5HP19, 5HP24, GS1912), clutch, drivetrain Chassis Systems: Suspension (front strut, rear multi-link), steering, brakes (ABS, DSC), wheels, tires Electrical Systems: Wiring diagrams, battery, alternator, starter, lighting, instruments, body electronics, DME/ECU troubleshooting Body And Interior: Body panels, doors, windows, seats, HVAC, safety restraints (airbags, seatbelts) Procedures Included Maintenance Procedures: Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, fluid checks and changes, belt inspections Repair Procedures: Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, suspension component replacement, brake caliper servicing, electrical component diagnosis and replacement Troubleshooting Guides: Diagnostic flowcharts for common drivability, electrical, and mechanical issues Technical Depth Depth: Full factory-level repair and diagnostic information, including torque specifications, tolerances, and detailed step-by-step instructions 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Type: PDF Searchability: Searchable text content Print Quality: High-resolution, printable pages Binding Type Binding: N/A (Digital PDF) Paper Type Paper Type: N/A (Digital PDF) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Family: M54 (Inline-6) Engine Variants And Displacement: M54B25 (2.5L), M54B30 (3.0L) Engine Codes Covered: M54B22, M54B25, M54B30, N42B20, N46B20, S54B32 Performance M54B25 Horsepower: 189 hp @ 6000 rpm M54B25 Torque: 245 Nm (181 lb-ft) @ 3500 rpm M54B30 Horsepower: 228 hp @ 6000 rpm M54B30 Torque: 300 Nm (221 lb-ft) @ 3500 rpm S54B32 M3 Horsepower: 333 hp @ 7900 rpm S54B32 M3 Torque: 350 Nm (258 lb-ft) @ 4900 rpm Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with DISA intake manifold (on most M54 variants) Fuel Type: Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended) 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type: 5-Speed Manual (Getrag 260/5) Optional Transmission Type: 5-Speed Automatic (ZF 5HP19 / 5HP24) M3 Transmission: 6-Speed Manual (Getrag 420G), SMG II (Sequential Manual Gearbox) Features Clutch Type: Hydraulic, single dry plate Automatic Transmission Modes: Sport Mode, Steptronic (manual shifting capability) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Sedan Length: Approx. 4471 mm (176.0 in) Coupe Length: Approx. 4471 mm (176.0 in) Touring Length: Approx. 4492 mm (176.9 in) Wheelbase: Approx. 2760 mm (108.7 in) Wheel Bolt Pattern: 5x120 mm Standard Wheel Size: 16-inch (7Jx16 ET47) Optional Wheel Size: 17-inch, 18-inch Weights Curb Weight Approx: 1450-1550 kg (3197-3417 lbs) depending on body style and engine 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Front Impact Rating: 5-Star (for models equipped with side airbags) Active Features Stability Control: Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) standard on most models Traction Control: Automatic Stability Control and Traction (ASC+T) or DSC Braking System: Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD) Passive Features Airbags: Front airbags, optional front side-impact airbags, optional curtain airbags (on sedans/tourings) Seatbelts: 3-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pre-tensioners and force limiters Child Seat Anchors: ISOFIX (LATCH) points 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Head Unit Options: BMW Business CD, BMW Professional CD, optional Navigation systems (Mk III, Mk IV) Audio Features: Optional Harman Kardon sound system, CD changer preparation Driver Assistance Parking Sensors: Optional Park Distance Control (PDC) Cruise Control: Standard on most models Connectivity Telematics: Optional BMW Assist (telematics service) Key Features: Keyless entry, power windows, power mirrors, climate control 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Typically 15,000 km (9,300 miles) or 12 months, depending on Condition Based Service (CBS) system or manual recommendation Microfilter Replacement: Every 2 years or 40,000 km (25,000 miles) Brake Fluid Change: Every 2 years Coolant Change: Every 4 years or 100,000 km (60,000 miles) using BMW coolant antifreeze Fluid Specifications Engine Oil Specification: BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) or BMW Longlife-04 (LL-04) depending on fuel quality and emissions requirements. Typical viscosity: 5W-30 or 0W-30. Transmission Fluid Manual: MTF LT-2 (Manual Transmission Fluid) Transmission Fluid Automatic: ATF LT-3 (Automatic Transmission Fluid) for ZF 5HP19/5HP24 Coolant Type: G48 (Ethylene Glycol based) - typically blue/green Known Issues Cooling System: Plastic expansion tank prone to cracking, water pump failure (especially plastic impeller) Vanos System: Solenoid failure leading to rough idle or performance loss (M54) Rear Subframe: Cracking or separation from chassis at mounting points Oil Leaks: Valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, oil filter...