Standard DSC III (incorporates ABS, ASC+T traction control).
Traction Control:
Automatic Stability Control and Traction (ASC+T).
Passive Features
Airbags:
Front dual-stage airbags, front side-impact airbags, optional head protection airbags (Cortina).
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pretensioners and force limiters.
๐ก Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Factory BMW Business CD or Professional CD/RDS radio with optional Harman Kardon sound system.
Navigation:
Optional BMW Professional Navigation System (MK III or MK IV era).
Driver Assistance
Parking Assistance:
Optional Rear Park Distance Control (PDC).
Connectivity
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control, electronically controlled.
Keyless Entry:
Standard remote keyless entry and central locking.
๐ง Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000-15,000 miles or 12-24 months, indicated by the Condition Based Service (CBS) system or at BMW's recommendation.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles (platinum/iridium plugs).
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 miles or 2-3 years, using BMW blue coolant (G48).
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 2 years, regardless of mileage.
Transmission Fluid Service Auto:
BMW officially stated 'lifetime' fluid for the 5L40-E, but independent recommendations suggest changing every 60,000-100,000 miles.
Transmission Fluid Service Manual:
Recommended every 60,000 miles.
Differential Fluid Service:
Recommended every 60,000 miles for both front and rear differentials.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil:
SAE 5W-30 or 0W-30 synthetic oil meeting BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) or Longlife-98 (LL-98) specifications.
Coolant:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 compatible).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 (BMW Super DOT 4 recommended).
Power Steering Fluid:
Pentosin CHF 11S or equivalent Pentosin hydraulic fluid.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
BMW ATF LT-71141 or equivalent Dexron III/Mercon (check specific fill for accuracy).
Known Issues
Cooling System:
Plastic expansion tank leaks, water pump failures (plastic impeller), thermostat housing leaks, radiator leaks.
Engine M54:
CCV (Crankcase Ventilation) system failures leading to oil leaks and rough idle, VANOS solenoid failures, oil pan gasket leaks, oil filter housing gasket leaks.
Suspension Bushings:
Wear on front control arm bushings (lollipops), rear trailing arm bushings, and subframe bushings.
BMW, renowned for 'The Ultimate Driving Machine', has a long history of producing performance-oriented luxury vehicles with a focus on driver engagement and engineering excellence.
Model Evolution
E46 Generation Introduction:
The E46 generation of the 3 Series debuted in 1998 (for the 1999 model year in Europe), replacing the E36. The 325xi variant, with AWD, was introduced later in the E46 lifecycle.
2002 Updates:
The 2002 model year for the E46 brought minor styling tweaks and feature updates across the range. The 325xi solidified its position as a capable all-weather luxury sport sedan.
Production
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily produced at BMW's Dingolfing plant in Germany.
The E46 generation 3 Series was a frequent recipient of Car and Driver's '10Best' award during its production run, a testament to its driving dynamics and overall excellence.
Ward S Auto:
The M54 engine family received multiple Ward's 10 Best Engines awards during its tenure.
Certifications
Safety Certifications:
Meets all relevant Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) for its model year.