🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: BMW Model: 330i Generation: E46 Production Years Covered: 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005 Codes Chassis Code: E46 👋 Introduction Market Position Segment: Compact Executive Sedan/Coupe Target Audience: Enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, professional repair shops Competitive Analysis Key Competitors: Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Audi A4, Lexus IS, Acura TL Key Features Vehicle Appeal: Sporty handling, refined engine, premium interior, balanced performance Manual Value Proposition: Empowers owners to maintain and repair their vehicle, saving on labor costs and ensuring proper upkeep. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Engine Mechanical: Yes Engine Electrical: Yes Fuel System: Yes Transmission Manual: Yes Transmission Automatic: Yes Drivetrain Components: Yes Suspension: Yes Steering: Yes Brakes: Yes Body And Chassis: Yes Electrical System Body: Yes Climate Control: Yes Diagnostics Troubleshooting: Yes Maintenance Schedules: Yes Wiring Diagrams: Yes Page Count Estimated Pages: 1000+ Manual Type Type: Workshop Service Repair Manual Language Language: English Format Format: Digital (PDF) 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine Systems: M54B30 (3.0L Inline-6), engine tuning, lubrication, cooling, ignition, emissions control, starting, charging Transmission Systems: Getrag 420G (5-speed manual), GM A5S360R/A5S390R (5-speed automatic), clutch, gearbox, differential, driveshafts Braking Systems: ABS, DSC, hydraulic system, brake pad/rotor replacement, brake caliper service Suspension Steering Systems: MacPherson struts (front), multi-link independent rear suspension, power steering system, wheel alignment Electrical Systems: ECU, sensors, actuators, lighting, power windows, central locking, battery, alternator, starter, wiring schematics Body And Interior Systems: Body panels, doors, bumpers, glass, seating, dashboard, trim components HVAC Systems: Air conditioning, heating, ventilation, blower motor, refrigerant system Procedures Included Maintenance Procedures: Oil and filter changes, air filter replacement, spark plug replacement, fluid flushes (coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid), belt replacement Repair Procedures: Engine component replacement (e.g., head gasket, water pump), transmission overhaul, brake caliper rebuild, suspension component replacement, electrical component diagnosis and replacement Troubleshooting Guides: Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), common symptoms and their causes, step-by-step diagnostic procedures Diagnostics: On-board diagnostics (OBD-II) procedures, using diagnostic tools, interpreting sensor data Technical Depth Depth Level: Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to complex engine and transmission rebuilds) Detail Level: Detailed step-by-step instructions with torque specifications, component identification, and diagrams 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Format: PDF Searchability: Searchable text Printability: Printable pages Print Quality Image Resolution: High-resolution images and diagrams Binding Type Binding: N/A (Digital) Paper Type Paper: N/A (Digital) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Code: M54B30 Configuration: 3.0L DOHC Inline-6 Displacement: 2979 cc (3.0 liters) Bore X Stroke: 84.0 mm x 89.6 mm Compression Ratio: 10.2:1 Valvetrain: Double VANOS (variable intake and exhaust camshaft timing), DOHC Performance Horsepower: 225 hp @ 5900 rpm Torque: 214 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm Fuel System Induction: Naturally Aspirated Fuel Delivery: Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (SFI) Fuel Type: Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended) Emission Control: California Emission Standards (LEV) 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type: Getrag 420G (5-speed manual) Optional Transmission Type: GM A5S360R / A5S390R (5-speed Steptronic automatic) Features Steptronic Functionality: Allows manual gear selection via shifter or steering wheel buttons Clutch Type: Hydraulically actuated single-plate dry clutch (manual) Drivetrain: Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: 4471 mm (176.0 in) Width: 1739 mm (68.5 in) Height: 1415 mm (55.7 in) Wheelbase: 2760 mm (108.7 in) Front Track: 1471 mm (57.9 in) Rear Track: 1477 mm (58.1 in) Weights Curb Weight Manual: 1500 kg (3307 lbs) Curb Weight Automatic: 1530 kg (3373 lbs) Gross Vehicle Weight Rating: 2000 kg (4409 lbs) Towing Capacity: Not Recommended 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Front Impact: 4/5 Stars (Driver), 4/5 Stars (Passenger) IIHS Side Impact: Good Active Features ABS: Standard Anti-lock Braking System Dsc: Standard Dynamic Stability Control Traction Control: Standard Automatic Stability Control + Traction (ASC+T) Passive Features Airbags: Frontal airbags for driver and front passenger, optional side-impact airbags Seatbelts: Three-point inertia-reel seat belts with pretensioners Body Structure: Reinforced safety cell with energy-absorbing crumple zones 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Head Unit: BMW Business CD or Professional CD/RDS radio, optional CD changer Display: Central information display (CID) for OBC, radio, climate control data. Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Standard on most models. Parking Sensors: Optional rear park distance control (PDC). Connectivity Telematics: Optional BMW Assist telematics system with SOS button. Auxiliary Input: Typically not standard; aftermarket solutions available. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Every 7,500 - 10,000 miles or annually, depending on driving conditions and oil used (refer to manual for specific condition-based service 'CBS' indicators). Air Filter Replacement: Every 30,000 miles or as indicated by the condition-based service system. Spark Plug Replacement: Approximately every 100,000 miles for long-life spark plugs (e.g., NGK BKR6EQUP). Coolant Flush: Every 2-3 years or 30,000-50,000 miles. Brake Fluid Flush: Every 2 years regardless of mileage. Fluid Specifications Engine Oil Type: SAE 5W-30 or 0W-30 Synthetic (BMW Longlife-01 or LL-01 approved) Engine Oil Capacity: 6.5 liters (6.9 US quarts) Coolant Type: BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 ethylene glycol based) - 50/50 mixture...
Standard Automatic Stability Control + Traction (ASC+T)
Passive Features
Airbags:
Frontal airbags for driver and front passenger, optional side-impact airbags
Seatbelts:
Three-point inertia-reel seat belts with pretensioners
Body Structure:
Reinforced safety cell with energy-absorbing crumple zones
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Head Unit:
BMW Business CD or Professional CD/RDS radio, optional CD changer
Display:
Central information display (CID) for OBC, radio, climate control data.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard on most models.
Parking Sensors:
Optional rear park distance control (PDC).
Connectivity
Telematics:
Optional BMW Assist telematics system with SOS button.
Auxiliary Input:
Typically not standard; aftermarket solutions available.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 - 10,000 miles or annually, depending on driving conditions and oil used (refer to manual for specific condition-based service 'CBS' indicators).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles or as indicated by the condition-based service system.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approximately every 100,000 miles for long-life spark plugs (e.g., NGK BKR6EQUP).
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-3 years or 30,000-50,000 miles.
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 2 years regardless of mileage.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 or 0W-30 Synthetic (BMW Longlife-01 or LL-01 approved)
Engine Oil Capacity:
6.5 liters (6.9 US quarts)
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 ethylene glycol based) - 50/50 mixture with distilled water
Transmission Fluid Manual:
MTF LT-2 (BMW Part No. 83220309031) or equivalent 75W-90 synthetic gear oil
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
LT 71141 (BMW Part No. 83229407821) or ZF LifeguardFluid5
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 (BMW Part No. 81229407779)
Known Issues
Common Issues:
VANOS solenoid failure, CCV (Crankcase Ventilation) system issues (leading to oil leaks/consumption), oil pan gasket leaks, coolant expansion tank cracks, alternator bracket gasket leaks, vacuum hose deterioration, ABS/DSC sensor failures, ignition coil failures, fuel pump issues.
Typical Repairs:
Replacement of VANOS solenoids, CCV system overhaul, replacement of oil pan and valve cover gaskets, replacement of cooling system components (hoses, expansion tank, water pump), replacement of ignition coils and spark plugs, replacement of fuel pump and filter.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Bmw Legacy:
Founded in 1916, BMW is renowned for its 'Ultimate Driving Machine' ethos, combining performance, luxury, and engineering excellence.
Model Evolution
E46 Introduction:
The E46 generation replaced the E36 3 Series and was praised for its improved chassis dynamics, refined interior, and introduction of advanced technologies.
330I Positioning:
The 330i represented the pinnacle of naturally aspirated performance in the non-M E46 lineup, offering a significant power upgrade over its predecessors.
Production
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Germany (Munich, Regensburg), with some assembly in other global locations.
Facelift Updates:
E46 received a mid-cycle facelift in 2001, featuring updated headlights, taillights, bumpers, and interior trim.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Car And Driver 10Best:
The E46 3 Series frequently appeared on Car and Driver's 10Best list during its production run, celebrated for its driving dynamics.
Automotive Journalism Praise:
Widely acclaimed by automotive journalists for its balance of sportiness, comfort, and everyday usability.
Certifications
Emissions Compliance:
Meets various national and international emissions standards (e.g., EPA, Euro 4).