Basic Information Identification Make: BMW Model: 3 Series Chassis Code: E46 Years Covered: 1999-2005 Generation Generation Name: E46 Generation Years: 1998-2006 (global rollout) Introduction Market Market Position: The BMW 3 Series (E46) represented the benchmark for premium compact executive cars during its production run, known for its driving dynamics, build quality, and advanced technology for its era. Competition Competitive Analysis: Competed directly with the Audi A4, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, and Lexus IS series, often considered the driver's choice in its segment. Features Key Features: Renowned for its balanced chassis, responsive engines, rear-wheel-drive bias (with optional xDrive all-wheel-drive), and premium interior appointments. This manual provides essential information for maintaining and repairing these sophisticated vehicles. Manual Details Coverage Coverage Areas: M3, 323i, 325i, 325xi, 328i, 330i, 330xi (Sedan, Coupe, Convertible, Sports Wagon) Pages Page Count: 1200+ Type Manual Type: Workshop Manual / Service Manual / Repair Manual Language Language: English Format Format: PDF Portability: Easily accessible on any computer or tablet, making it convenient for use in a workshop or at home. Manual Coverage Systems Systems Covered: General Data & Maintenance, Engine, Engine Removal & Installation, Diagnostic Testing, Fluids & Lubricants, Body & Interior, Ignition System, Fuel Injection, Cooling System, Manual & Automatic Transmission, Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Electrical System, Transfer Case, Drive Axles, Differential, Equipment & Accessories, Electrical Wiring Diagrams, On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-II) Body And Interior Coverage: Includes procedures for interior trim removal/installation, seat adjustments, airbag system servicing (with safety precautions), door panel removal, headliner repair, and body panel alignment. Electrical System Coverage: Extensive coverage of the vehicle's electrical architecture, including fuses, relays, lighting systems, power windows, central locking, instrument cluster diagnostics, and ECU pinouts. Differential And Drive Axle Coverage: Covers rear axle disassembly, differential service, gear backlash adjustment, bearing replacement, and drive shaft/CV joint maintenance. Fuel Injection System Detail: Information on fuel pump pressure testing, injector cleaning and testing, fuel pressure regulator diagnostics, and throttle body cleaning/calibration. Procedures Procedures Included: Routine maintenance, scheduled servicing, troubleshooting, diagnostic procedures, component removal and installation, repair procedures, overhaul instructions, electrical system diagnostics, wiring harness repair, fluid level checks and changes, brake system servicing, suspension alignment and repair, engine tuning, transmission service and repair, driveline maintenance. Engine Rebuild Procedures: Includes step-by-step instructions for engine disassembly, component inspection (pistons, rings, bearings, cylinder head, valves), crankshaft and camshaft installation, timing chain service, and engine reassembly with torque specifications. Clutch Replacement: Detailed instructions for manual transmission clutch assembly replacement, including flywheel inspection and resurfacing, pressure plate installation, and clutch alignment. Depth Technical Depth: Comprehensive. Covers everything from basic maintenance tasks to in-depth engine and transmission overhauls. Includes detailed diagnostic steps, wiring diagrams, and component specifications. Technical Depth Diagnostic Procedures Detail: Detailed diagnostic flowcharts for various systems (engine, transmission, ABS, etc.), including the use of BMW's diagnostic tools (e.g., GT1/DIS). Wiring Diagrams Detail: Comprehensive, color-coded wiring diagrams for all major systems, allowing for precise tracing of circuits and troubleshooting of electrical faults. Manual Specifications File File Format Details: Searchable PDF, capable of printing individual pages. Searchability: PDF format with text search capability, allowing quick access to specific topics or keywords. Print Print Quality: High-resolution, suitable for clear printing of diagrams and text. Binding Binding Type: N/A (Digital PDF Format) Paper Paper Type: N/A (Digital PDF Format) Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Options Covered: Inline-6 (M52TU, M54, S54), Inline-4 (M43TU - earlier models, less common in this range but possible overlap), specific models like 323i (2.5L), 325i (2.5L), 328i (2.8L), 330i (3.0L), and the high-performance M3 (3.2L S54). Performance Typical Power Output: Ranges from approximately 170 hp (323i) to 333 hp (M3). Torque figures also vary significantly by engine. Fuel System Fuel System Type: Sequential Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI), often with VANOS (Variable Valve Timing) and DISA (Differential Air Intake System) on M54 engines. M3 features individual throttle bodies. Engine Management Engine Control Unit: Bosch Motronic (e.g., ME7.2, ME7.4.2 for M54, DME 7.3 for S54) with sophisticated diagnostic capabilities. Cooling Cooling System Type: Pressurized coolant system with electric fan and viscous fan coupling, typically using a water pump driven by the serpentine belt. Transmission Standard Standard Transmission Offered: 5-speed manual transmission (e.g., Getrag S5D 250G) for most models. Optional Optional Transmission Offered: 5-speed Steptronic automatic transmission (GM A5S325Z for many models) or 6-speed manual for M3 (Getrag 420G). Features Transmission Features: Rear-wheel drive architecture standard. xDrive (all-wheel drive) available on select models (e.g., 325xi, 330xi). Clutch specifications and automatic transmission fluid (ATF) types are critical maintenance points. Dimensions Exterior Body Styles: Sedan (4-door), Coupe (2-door), Convertible (2-door), Sports Wagon (Touring, 5-door). Weights Curb Weight Range: Approximately 3,200 lbs to 3,800 lbs, varying significantly by body style and engine. Wheelbase Wheelbase Dimensions: Typically around 107.4 inches (2728 mm), with slight variations. Track Width Front Rear Track Width: Varies by model and wheel size, essential for alignment procedures covered in the manual. Safety Features...