🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: BMW Model: 3 Series Chassis Code: E46 Body Style: Convertible Engine Variant: 323i Model Years Covered: 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005 Codes Engine Code General: M52TU Chassis Codes Relevant: E46 (specific to convertible variants) 👋 Introduction Market Position Segment: Compact Executive Sports Sedan/Convertible Target Audience: Enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, professional automotive repair shops Competitive Analysis Competitors: Mercedes-Benz C-Class (W202/W203), Audi A4 (B5/B6), Lexus IS, Infiniti G20 Key Features Vehicle Appeal: Rear-wheel drive dynamics, refined luxury, sporty handling, convertible option for open-air driving Manual Value Proposition: Empowers owners and technicians with detailed, accurate information to maintain and repair the vehicle effectively, reducing reliance on expensive dealerships. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Primary Coverage: Mechanical, Electrical, Bodywork, Diagnostics, Maintenance Specific Systems: Engine, Drivetrain, Suspension, Steering, Brakes, HVAC, Convertible Top Mechanism, Electrical System, Body & Chassis Page Count Estimated Page Count: Approximately 2000+ pages (typical for a comprehensive factory-style manual) Manual Type Type: Service and Repair Manual Purpose: Detailed repair and maintenance guidance for technicians and enthusiasts Language Language: English Format Format: PDF File Attributes: Searchable text, printable pages, high-resolution diagrams 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Powertrain: Engine (M52TU B25), cooling system, fuel system, exhaust system, transmission (manual & automatic), clutch, driveshaft, differential, axles Chassis And Suspension: Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, bushings, steering system (rack and pinion), wheel bearings Brakes: Front and rear brake systems (disc brakes), ABS, DSC, brake fluid service, caliper and rotor replacement Electrical System: Battery, alternator, starter, ignition system, lighting, power windows, central locking, SRS airbags, ECU functions, wiring diagrams Comfort And Convenience: HVAC system (climate control), convertible top operation and repair, seats, interior trim, audio system Procedures Included Maintenance: Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, coolant flush, brake fluid flush, transmission fluid changes, belt inspection/replacement Repair And Rebuild: Engine component replacement (e.g., head gasket, pistons), transmission overhaul, suspension component replacement, brake system repairs, convertible top motor and hydraulic system repair Diagnostics And Troubleshooting: OBD-II codes, symptom-based troubleshooting, electrical system diagnostics, component testing Bodywork: Panel replacement, alignment, convertible top frame repair, convertible top material replacement Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive, covering from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic procedures and torque specifications Diagrams And Illustrations: Abundant, with step-by-step illustrated procedures and exploded views Special Tools: Lists and specifications for required BMW special tools 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Type: Digital (PDF) Print Quality Quality: High-resolution scans of original factory documentation Binding Type Binding: Not Applicable (Digital PDF) Paper Type Paper Type: Not Applicable (Digital PDF) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Type: Inline 6-cylinder, DOHC, 24 valves Engine Code: M52TU B25 (Technical Update) Displacement: 2494 cc (2.5 Liters) Performance Horsepower: 170 hp @ 5500 rpm Torque: 245 Nm (181 lb-ft) @ 3500 rpm Bore X Stroke: 84.0 mm x 75.0 mm Compression Ratio: 10.2:1 Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Electronic Port Fuel Injection (Bosch Motronic ME 7.2) Fuel Type: Unleaded Premium Gasoline (91+ Octane Recommended) Ignition System: Distributorless Electronic Ignition (DIS) with Coil-on-Plug 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type Standard: 5-Speed Manual (Getrag S5D 250G) Optional Transmission Type Optional: 5-Speed Automatic (Steptronic - GM A5S 325Z) Features Clutch Type: Hydraulically actuated single dry plate clutch (for manual transmission) Differential: Standard: Open Differential (2.93:1 final drive ratio) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: 4471 mm (176.0 in) Width: 1739 mm (68.5 in) Height: 1372 mm (54.0 in) Wheelbase: 2730 mm (107.5 in) Front Track: 1471 mm (57.9 in) Rear Track: 1492 mm (58.7 in) Interior Seating Capacity: 4 passengers Cargo Trunk Volume: Approximately 300 Liters (with top up) Weights Curb Weight: Approximately 1650 kg (3638 lbs) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Front Impact: Not explicitly rated for this specific convertible variant in commonly available archives, but E46 sedan/coupe received good ratings. Active Features Traction Control: Standard: Automatic Stability Control (ASC+T) on later models, optional Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) Braking System: Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD) Passive Features Airbags: Front dual-stage airbags, optional side airbags Rollover Protection: Integrated roll bars behind headrests, pop-up rollover protection system (PRP) 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Head Unit: Various BMW Business or Professional CD/Radio systems, optional Navigation system (MKIII or MKIV) Audio Features: Optional Harman Kardon sound system Driver Assistance Stability Control: ASC+T (Automatic Stability Control) or DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) available Connectivity Telematics: Optional BMW Assist telematics system 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: BMW Condition Based Service (CBS) system typically recommends every 10,000-15,000 miles or annually, depending on driving conditions. Spark Plug Replacement: Approximately 60,000 miles (refer to manual for specific plug type and gap) Coolant Flush: Every 2-3 years or 30,000-50,000 miles (BMW Blue Coolant recommended) Brake Fluid Flush: Every 2 years Fluid Specifications Engine Oil: SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 Synthetic (BMW Longlife-01 or LL-04 recommended for later models, check manual for specific grade...