🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: BMW Model: 3 Series Chassis Code: E46 Product Name: BMW 3 Series E46 1999-2005 Service Repair Workshop Manual Generation Generation Code: E46 Production Years: 1998-2006 (Globally), 1999-2005 (North America) Codes Manual Coverage Years: 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005 👋 Introduction Market Position Segment: Compact Executive Sedan/Coupe/Convertible/Wagon Target Audience: Enthusiast owners, independent repair shops, DIY mechanics Competitive Analysis Competitors: Audi A4, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Lexus IS, Infiniti G35 Key Features Brand Strength: Renowned for driving dynamics, build quality, and premium feel Manual Value Proposition: Empowers owners to maintain and repair their E46 with professional-level guidance, saving on dealership costs and ensuring proper upkeep. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Region Covered: Global (Specifications typically reflect North American models, but principles apply broadly) Page Count Estimated Page Count: Extensive (Specific page count varies by specific edition, typically 1000+ pages) Manual Type Type: Service and Repair Workshop Manual Language Language: English Format Format: Digital (Likely PDF) 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Powertrain: Engine mechanical, engine management, fuel system, cooling system, lubrication, exhaust system, transmission (manual and automatic), drivetrain, clutch Chassis: Suspension (front and rear), steering system, braking system (ABS, DSC), wheels and tires Electrical: Wiring diagrams, lighting, instrumentation, power supply, ignition system, starter, alternator, body electronics, infotainment, climate control electronics, diagnostic connectors (OBD-II) Body: Body panels, doors, windows, locks, seats, interior trim, exterior trim, convertible top (if applicable), chassis structural components Procedures Included Maintenance: Routine inspections, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, fluid checks and changes, brake pad/rotor replacement, belt replacement Repair: Engine component removal and installation (e.g., cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft), transmission overhaul, suspension component replacement, brake caliper/master cylinder repair, electrical component diagnosis and replacement Diagnostics: Troubleshooting common faults, symptom-based diagnostics, use of diagnostic tools, reading trouble codes (DTCs) Troubleshooting: Step-by-step guides for diagnosing and resolving specific vehicle issues Technical Depth Scope: Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to in-depth component overhauls and electrical diagnostics Detail Level: Detailed torque specifications, diagnostic procedures, wiring diagrams, and exploded views 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Type: PDF (Portable Document Format) Searchability: Likely text-searchable for quick information retrieval Print Quality Resolution: High-resolution images and diagrams suitable for printing Binding Type Type: N/A (Digital Format) Paper Type Type: N/A (Digital Format) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Common Engines Offered: M52TU (Inline-6), M54 (Inline-6), N42/N46 (Inline-4 - less common in North America for this generation) Performance 320I Engine: 2.0L M52TU/M54B20 I6, 148-168 hp 323I Engine: 2.5L M52TU I6, 168-170 hp 325I Engine: 2.5L M54B25 I6, 184-189 hp 328I Engine: 2.8L M52TU I6, 190-193 hp 330I Engine: 3.0L M54B30 I6, 225-231 hp M3 Engine: 3.2L S54 I6, 333-338 hp Fuel System Injection Type: Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) - Bosch Motronic Fuel Type: Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ octane recommended) 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type: 5-speed Manual (Getrag GS5-39DZ) Optional Transmission Type: 5-speed Automatic (GM A5S360R/A5S390R Steptronic) Features Clutch: Hydraulically actuated single-plate dry clutch Automatic Features: Steptronic manual shifting mode 📐 Dimensions Exterior Sedan Length: Approx. 177.4 - 179.1 inches (4506 - 4550 mm) Coupe Length: Approx. 177.4 inches (4506 mm) Wagon Length: Approx. 181.1 inches (4600 mm) Weights Curb Weight Range: Approx. 3100 - 3500 lbs (1400 - 1590 kg) Gross Vehicle Weight Rating: Varies by model, typically 4300 - 4500 lbs (1950 - 2040 kg) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Front Impact Rating: 5-Star (for applicable models/years) IIHS Moderate Overlap Front: Good (for applicable models/years) Active Features Traction Control: Automatic Stability Control (ASC), Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) Braking System: Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) Passive Features Airbags: Front airbags, front side-impact airbags, optional rear side-impact airbags Seatbelts: 3-point inertia-reel seat belts with pre-tensioners 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Head Unit Options: BMW Business CD, BMW Professional CD, optional navigation systems (Mk III/Mk IV) Audio Features: CD player, cassette player (early models), optional Harman Kardon sound system, optional Sirius satellite radio Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Standard on most models Parking Assistance: Optional rear parking sensors (Park Distance Control - PDC) Connectivity Phone Integration: Optional Bluetooth hands-free system (may require separate cradle/adapter) Diagnostic Interface: OBD-II connector, typically located under the dash on the driver's side. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: BMW Condition Based Service (CBS) system, typically 10,000-15,000 miles or 12-24 months (check CBS indicator) Brake Fluid Flush: Every 2 years Coolant Change: BMW Blue coolant, typically every 4 years or 100,000 miles (initial fill), then every 2 years thereafter. Fluid Specifications Engine Oil: BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) approved synthetic oil, e.g., 5W-30 or 5W-40 depending on climate and engine. Coolant: BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 type) Transmission Fluid Manual: BMW MTF LT-2 Transmission Fluid Automatic: BMW ATF LT-3 or equivalent (check specific transmission variant) Brake Fluid: DOT 4 Low Viscosity (LV) Known Issues Common Problems: Coolant expansion tank leaks, VANOS system issues (rattles, performance loss), CCV (Crankcase Ventilation) system failure, oil separator...