Front (MacPherson strut, multi-link) and Rear (Multi-link): Control arms, ball joints, bushings, shock absorbers, springs, stabilizer bars, steering knuckles.
Steering:
Hydraulic power steering system: Steering rack, pump, fluid, tie rods, steering column.
Electrical:
12V battery, alternator, starter motor, lighting (headlights, taillights, interior), power windows, locks, mirrors, wipers, horn, instrument cluster, body control module (BCM), fuse box diagrams, relay assignments.
Engine rebuild, head gasket replacement, timing chain/guide replacement, water pump replacement, alternator replacement, starter replacement, brake caliper rebuild, suspension component replacement, power steering pump replacement, clutch replacement, transmission overhaul.
Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step diagnostic guides for common and uncommon issues, symptom-based troubleshooting.
Installation:
Installation procedures for major components and accessories.
Technical Depth
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers everything from routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including detailed electrical schematics and diagnostic procedures.
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
File Type:
PDF
Searchability:
Searchable text content
Printability:
Printable pages
Resolution:
High-resolution images and diagrams
Binding Type
Binding:
N/A (Digital)
Paper Type
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital)
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine Type:
M54B30 Inline-6, Naturally Aspirated
Displacement:
2979 cc (3.0 Liters)
Bore X Stroke:
84 mm x 89.6 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.2:1
Valve Train:
DOHC, 24 Valves, VANOS (Variable Valve Timing)
Performance
Horsepower:
225 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque:
214 lb-ft (290 Nm) @ 3500 rpm
Fuel System
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ Octane)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (Bosch Motronic ME9.2)
Ignition System:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with Coil-on-Plug (COP)
Dexron III or Dexron VI compatible (e.g., Mobil ATF 3309)
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
177.5 inches (4508 mm)
Width:
68.7 inches (1745 mm)
Height:
55.7 inches (1415 mm)
Wheelbase:
107.3 inches (2726 mm)
Front Track:
58.5 inches (1486 mm)
Rear Track:
59.3 inches (1506 mm)
Weights
Curb Weight Manual:
3373 lbs (1530 kg)
Curb Weight Automatic:
3450 lbs (1565 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
4431 lbs (2010 kg)
Cargo
Trunk Capacity:
11.1 cu ft (314 L)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver:
5-Star
NHTSA Frontal Impact Passenger:
5-Star
IIHS Frontal Offset:
Good
Active Features
Traction Control:
ASC+T (Automatic Stability Control + Traction)
Stability Control:
DSC (Dynamic Stability Control)
Anti Lock Brakes:
ABS (Anti-lock Braking System)
Passive Features
Airbags:
Frontal airbags (driver and passenger), front side-impact airbags, available head protection system (HPS).
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia-reel seatbelts with front pre-tensioners and force limiters.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Head Unit:
Optional BMW Business CD or Professional RDS CD/Radio with cassette player. Optional Navigation system available.
Sound System:
Standard 6-speaker audio system; optional Harman Kardon premium sound system.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control.
Parking Sensors:
Optional rear Park Distance Control (PDC).
Connectivity
Auxiliary Input:
Not standard; often added via aftermarket adapters.
Bluetooth:
Optional Bluetooth integration for hands-free calling (BMW Assist/Tele Aid).
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500-10,000 miles or 12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil used. BMW Condition Based Service (CBS) system typically indicates via the Service Indicator Light (SI).
Air Filter Replacement:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed or typically every 30,000 miles.
Cabin Filter Replacement:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed or typically every 15,000-30,000 miles.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 100,000 miles (using original equipment long-life plugs).
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-3 years or 30,000 miles (BMW Blue Antifreeze).
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type:
BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) approved synthetic oil, typically 5W-30 or 0W-40.
Engine Oil Capacity:
6.5 US quarts (6.2 Liters) with filter change.
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze (G48) or equivalent.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 (typically specified as BMW Super DOT 4).
Known Issues
Ccv System:
Crankcase Ventilation (CCV) system failure leading to oil leaks, rough idle, and increased oil consumption.
Cooling System:
Plastic coolant expansion tank can crack; water pump and thermostat failure are common as mileage increases.
Vibration Issue:
Driveshaft flex disc (guibo) failure, center support bearing wear, subframe bushings, and differential bushings can cause vibrations.
Oil Pan Gasket Leaks:
Oil pan gasket and rear main seal leaks are prevalent due to age and material degradation.
Oil Seals:
Valve cover gasket and spark plug well seals often leak oil.
Window Regulators:
Plastic components in window regulator mechanisms can fail, causing windows to drop.
ABS Wheel Speed Sensors:
ABS/DSC warning lights due to faulty wheel speed sensors.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Bmw Legacy:
BMW has a long history of producing sporty and well-engineered vehicles, particularly in the premium sedan segment.
Model Evolution
E46 Generation:
The E46 generation (1998-2006) is renowned for its excellent driving dynamics, refined interiors, and the introduction of more powerful engine options.
330I Introduction:
The 330i replaced the 328i in 2000/2001 model year, offering a significant increase in power and torque with the new M54 engine.
Production
Production Years E46:
1998-2006 (Global)
Manufacturing Locations:
Germany (Dingolfing, Munich), South Africa, Austria, Russia, Thailand, Brazil, China.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Car And Driver 10Best:
The E46 3 Series, including the 330i, was a consistent recipient of Car and Driver's 10Best list during its production run for its exceptional driving dynamics and value.
Consumer Reports:
Generally received good reliability ratings, though specific components like the cooling system and CCV were noted as potential weak points over time.