BMW 3 Series E46 Bentley M3 323i 325i 325xi 328i 330i 330xi Service Repair Manual
👋 Introduction
Market Position
Positioning:
Provides in-depth technical knowledge for a popular premium sports sedan/coupe/convertible/wagon, catering to owners who want to perform their own maintenance and repairs.
Competitive Analysis
Comparison To Print:
Offers instant access and potentially lower cost than traditional printed manuals, with the benefit of environmental friendliness.
Key Features
Instant Access:
Immediate download available.
Technical Accuracy:
Information sourced directly from the manufacturer.
Completeness:
Covers a wide range of technical details, diagrams, and procedures.
📋 Manual Details
Coverage Areas
Primary Focus:
Service and Repair
Included Regions:
Global (technical specifications are manufacturer-based)
Page Count
Estimated Page Count:
Not specified, but comprehensive coverage implies substantial detail.
Manual Type
Type:
Service and Repair Manual
Publisher Reputation:
Implied Bentley (known for detailed automotive manuals)
5-speed Manual (optional on some models, 5-speed Steptronic Automatic standard on xi)
Optional
Automatic Transmission:
5-speed Steptronic Automatic (available on RWD models, standard on most xi models)
M3 Transmission:
6-speed Manual (SMG - Sequential Manual Gearbox optional on early models)
Features
Drivetrain Options:
Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD), xDrive All-Wheel Drive (AWD) on 'xi' models
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Wheelbase:
107.4 inches (2728 mm) (Sedan/Coupe/Convertible)
Length:
Varies by body style (e.g., Sedan: 177.4 in, Coupe: 177.4 in, Wagon: 183.7 in)
Weights
Curb Weight:
Varies significantly by model and options (e.g., 330i Sedan approx. 3350 lbs)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Ratings:
Generally good, with 4 or 5-star ratings in various frontal and side-impact tests depending on model year and configuration.
Active Features
Traction Control:
Yes (ASC+T - Automatic Stability Control + Traction)
Stability Control:
Yes (DSC - Dynamic Stability Control)
Antilock Brakes:
Yes (ABS)
Passive Features
Airbags:
Frontal airbags, Side airbags (standard)
Seatbelts:
3-point front and rear seatbelts with pretensioners
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Navigation System:
Optional on higher trims, typically older generation BMW Professional Navigation systems.
Audio System:
Various factory radio and CD player options, Harman Kardon premium audio available.
Driver Assistance
Parking Sensors:
Optional rear Park Distance Control (PDC).
Connectivity
Bluetooth:
Optional Bluetooth integration for hands-free calling on later models.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Variable, typically indicated by the Condition Based Service (CBS) system or every 7,500-15,000 miles (12,000-24,000 km) depending on driving conditions and oil type used. Manual recommends 10,000-15,000 miles.
Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 30,000 miles or 2 years (BMW Blue Coolant)
Brake Fluid Flush Interval:
Every 2 years, regardless of mileage.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type:
BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) or BMW Longlife-98 (LL-98) certified synthetic oil, typically 5W-30 or 5W-40.
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 ethylene glycol based)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
BMW MTF LT-2 or equivalent (check specific transmission type).
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
BMW ATF LT-3 (or ATF6 for later models with 5HP19Z). Fluid and filter changes are often recommended, though BMW initially specified 'lifetime' fluid.
Known Issues
Cooling System:
Plastic expansion tanks can become brittle and crack, causing leaks. Water pumps (often plastic impeller) can fail. Thermostat housing leaks.
Vanos System:
Seals in the VANOS (Variable Valve Timing) system can degrade, leading to loss of low-end torque and rough idle (especially on M54 engines).
Subframe Mounts:
Cracks can develop in the rear subframe mounting points, especially on older or harder-driven cars.
Oil Pan Gasket:
Common leak point due to aging seals.
Ccv System:
The Crankcase Ventilation (CCV) system can clog, leading to oil leaks and increased crankcase pressure.
Headlight Seals:
Headlight seals can degrade, allowing moisture ingress.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Bmw Legacy:
BMW has a long-standing reputation for producing sporty, driver-focused luxury vehicles.
Model Evolution
E46 Generation:
The E46 generation replaced the E36 3 Series and was produced from 1998 to 2006. It is widely regarded as a high point in the 3 Series lineage for its blend of performance, handling, and luxury.
M3 Introduction:
The E46 M3, introduced in 2000, is celebrated for its powerful S54 engine and exceptional chassis dynamics.
Production
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Germany (Munich, Dingolfing), also South Africa, and contract manufacturing in other locations.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
E46 M3 Acclaim:
The E46 M3 is frequently cited in 'best of' lists for sports cars and performance sedans, lauded for its driving dynamics and iconic status.
E46 Generation Acclaim:
The standard E46 models were well-received for their balance of sportiness and everyday usability, often praised for handling and build quality.
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