🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: BMW Model: 3 Series (E46) Specific Model: 328i Year: 2002 Generation Chassis Code: E46 Body Styles Covered: Sedan (4-door), Coupe (2-door), Convertible (2-door), Sports Wagon (5-door) 👋 Introduction Market Position Segment: Compact Executive Sedan/Coupe/Wagon Target Audience: Enthusiast owners, independent repair shops, BMW dealerships Competitive Analysis Key Competitors: Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Audi A4, Lexus IS, Infiniti G35 Key Features Driving Dynamics: Renowned for its balanced chassis, responsive steering, and engaging driving experience Build Quality: High level of German engineering and premium interior materials Powertrain Options: Smooth inline-six engines known for their refinement and performance 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Primary Coverage: Maintenance, Repair, Troubleshooting, Diagnostics, Specifications Engine Coverage: All gasoline engine variants for the 2002 model year 328i Transmission Coverage: All automatic and manual transmission types Drivetrain Coverage: Rear-wheel drive (RWD) Trim Level Coverage: All factory trim levels and options Page Count Estimated Pages: 1500+ Manual Type Type: Workshop Repair and Service Manual Language Language: English Format Format: PDF Download 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine Mechanical: Engine block, cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, valve train, cooling system, lubrication system Engine Management: Fuel injection, ignition system, emission controls, sensors, actuators, ECU diagnostics Transmission Manual: Clutch system, gearbox components, shift mechanisms, linkages Transmission Automatic: Torque converter, valve body, planetary gear sets, transmission control module (TCM), hydraulic systems Drivetrain: Driveshafts, differential, rear axle assembly, hub bearings Suspension: Front and rear suspension components, springs, shock absorbers, control arms, bushings, sway bars Steering: Steering rack, power steering pump, steering column, tie rods, ball joints Brakes: Brake discs, brake pads, calipers, ABS system, hydraulic lines, parking brake Electrical System: Battery, alternator, starter motor, lighting system, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams Body And Chassis: Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, interior trim, chassis components Climate Control: HVAC system, air conditioning, heating, ventilation, blower motor, evaporator, condenser Infotainment: Radio, CD player, navigation system (if equipped), speaker systems Safety Systems: Airbags, seatbelts, ABS, traction control Procedures Included Routine Maintenance: Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspection Engine Repair: Head gasket replacement, piston ring replacement, bearing service, timing belt/chain service (if applicable), component removal and installation Transmission Service: Fluid and filter changes, seal replacement, transmission overhaul (detailed rebuild procedures) Brake Service: Pad and rotor replacement, caliper service, brake fluid bleeding, ABS component diagnosis and replacement Suspension And Steering Repair: Component replacement, alignment specifications, troubleshooting steering issues Electrical Diagnostics: Troubleshooting circuits, component testing, wiring harness repair, diagnostic trouble code (DTC) interpretation Bodywork And Interior: Panel replacement, trim removal and installation, glass replacement, door and lock repair HVAC Service: Refrigerant system service, component replacement, leak detection, blower and actuator diagnosis Troubleshooting Guides: Systematic approaches to diagnosing common and uncommon problems Diagnostic Procedures: Step-by-step guides for identifying faults using diagnostic tools and visual inspection Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to in-depth mechanical and electrical system overhauls Diagnostic Tools Reference: Mentions and utilizes BMW proprietary diagnostic tools and common OBD-II scanners Torque Specifications: Detailed torque values for all critical fasteners and components Special Tools: Lists and describes required BMW special tools for specific procedures 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Format: PDF (Portable Document Format) Searchability: Searchable text content for quick information retrieval Printability: Printable pages for offline use Print Quality Image Resolution: High-resolution diagrams, illustrations, and photographs Binding Type Binding: N/A (Digital Download) Paper Type Paper Type: N/A (Digital Download) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Code: M54B30 Engine Type: 3.0L Inline 6-cylinder (I6) Displacement: 2979 cc (3.0 Liters) Bore X Stroke: 84.0 mm x 89.6 mm Compression Ratio: 10.2:1 Performance Horsepower: 225 hp @ 5900 rpm Torque: 214 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) - Multi-point injection (MPI) Fuel Type: Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended) Engine Management ECU Type: MS43 (Motronic System) Lubrication Oil Capacity: 6.5 liters (6.9 US quarts) Recommended Oil Viscosity: SAE 5W-30 Synthetic Cooling System Coolant Capacity: 7.5 liters (7.9 US quarts) Coolant Type: BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 specification) 🔧 Transmission Standard Type: 5-speed Manual Transmission (Getrag 260/6 or similar) Optional Type: 5-speed Steptronic Automatic Transmission (GM A5S 325Z or ZF 5HP19) Features Manual Gear Ratios: Specific ratios detailed in manual (e.g., 4.23:1 first gear) Automatic Features: Driver-selectable modes (Sport/Comfort), manual shifting capability (Steptronic) Fluid Type Manual Fluid Specification: BMW Manual Transmission Fluid (MTF) - e.g., Pentosin MTF.2 or equivalent Fluid Capacity Manual Capacity: Approx. 1.5 liters (1.6 US quarts) Fluid Type Automatic Fluid Specification: BMW ATF LT-3 or equivalent (e.g., Pentosin ATF1) Fluid Capacity Automatic Capacity: Approx. 8.0 liters (8.5 US quarts) for total fill, 3.5-4.0 liters for drain and fill 📐 Dimensions Exterior Sedan Length: 4471 mm (176.0 inches) Sedan Width: 1739 mm (68.5 inches) Sedan Height: 1412 mm (55.6 inches) Coupe Length: 4471 mm (176.0 inches) Coupe Width: 1739 mm (68.5 inches) Coupe Height: 1367 mm (53.8...
BMW Condition Based Service (CBS) system typically recommends every 10,000-15,000 miles or 12-24 months, depending on driving conditions. Check manual for specific CBS reset procedures.
Engine Air Filter:
Inspect every 24,000 miles, replace as needed or every 48,000 miles
Cabin Air Filter:
Replace every 12,000-15,000 miles or annually
Spark Plugs:
Replace every 60,000 miles (Bosch FGR7DPP33+ or equivalent)
Coolant Flush:
Replace every 2-3 years or 30,000 miles
Transmission Fluid Change Automatic:
BMW traditionally stated 'lifetime' fill, but recommended replacement every 50,000-80,000 miles for longevity, especially for high-mileage vehicles.
Transmission Fluid Change Manual:
Inspect for leaks, replace every 60,000-100,000 miles or if shifting becomes rough.
BMW's long-standing reputation for performance, luxury, and engineering excellence.
Model Evolution
E46 Introduction:
The E46 generation of the 3 Series debuted in 1998 for the 1999 model year, replacing the E36. The 328i was part of the initial E46 lineup.
E46 Facelift:
The E46 received a significant facelift (LCI) for the 2002 model year, affecting exterior styling (headlights, taillights, bumpers) and interior updates, including the introduction of the M54 engine for the 328i.
328I Engine Change:
The 328i model in 2001 transitioned from the M52TU engine to the M54B28 (2.8L) for some markets, and then for 2002, it was replaced by the 330i (M54B30) in many regions, while some markets retained a 328i badge with the M54B30 engine. This manual specifically covers the 328i and likely refers to the M54B30 engine or the later M54B28 if applicable for specific regional models.
Production
Production Years E46:
1998-2006 (varies by body style)
Manufacturing Locations:
Germany (Munich, Dingolfing), USA (Spartanburg, SC), South Africa, Austria, Russia
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Car And Driver Ten Best:
The E46 generation 3 Series was a perennial recipient of Car and Driver's '10Best' list for multiple years during its production run, including the 2002 model year.
Ward Best Engines:
The M54 engine family was recognized by Ward's AutoWorld as one of the '10Best Engines' in North America.
Ratings
Consumer Reports Reliability:
Mixed to Average reliability ratings for the E46 generation; specific year and model ratings varied. Maintenance is key.
Certifications
Emissions Certification:
Meets EPA and CARB emissions standards for the 2002 model year.