Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)
Emission Controls:
Catalytic converter, secondary air injection (where applicable), EVAP system
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Standard Transmission Type:
5-speed Manual (e.g., Getrag S5D 250G)
Optional
Optional Transmission Type:
5-speed Automatic (e.g., GM A5S 360R / A5S 325Z)
Features
Automatic Transmission Modes:
Sport and Manual modes (Steptronic on some models)
Manual Transmission Clutch:
Hydraulic clutch actuation
Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:
Dexron III or equivalent (check specific model variant)
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Sedan Wheelbase:
2760 mm (108.7 inches)
Coupe Wheelbase:
2731 mm (107.5 inches)
Sedan Length:
4471 mm (176.0 inches)
Coupe Length:
4471 mm (176.0 inches)
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
5x120
Wheel Offset:
ET35 to ET47 (varies by wheel size and width)
Cargo
Sedan Trunk Capacity:
430 Liters (15.2 cubic feet)
Weights
Curb Weight Sedan Approx:
1450 kg (3197 lbs)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Front Impact Rating:
4 stars (driver), 4 stars (passenger) - *Note: Ratings can vary by testing body and year; based on general E46 data.
IIHS Side Impact Rating:
Good - *Note: Ratings can vary by testing body and year; based on general E46 data.
Active Features
Active Safety Systems:
ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), DSC (Dynamic Stability Control), ASC+T (Automatic Stability Control and Traction) on some models
Passive Features
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags, optional side airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pretensions and force limiters
Chassis Structure:
Reinforced safety cage, crumple zones
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Infotainment System Name:
Business CD or Professional CD radio, optional Navigation system (MK III/MK IV)
Audio Features:
AM/FM radio, CD player, optional CD changer, optional Harman Kardon audio system
Driver Assistance
Driver Assistance Features:
ABS, Traction Control (ASC+T), Stability Control (DSC), Cruise Control
Connectivity
Connectivity Options:
Optional cellular phone integration (BMW Assist), optional navigation system
Comfort Features
Climate Control:
Manual or automatic climate control with air conditioning
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 10,000-15,000 miles or annually, based on BMW's Condition Based Service (CBS) system and driving conditions. Consult manual for exact recommendation.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approx. 60,000 miles for M54 engines (NGK BKR6EQUP or equivalent)
Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 2-3 years or as indicated by CBS
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type:
BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) or LL-04 compliant synthetic oil, typically 0W-30 or 5W-30
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48) mixed 50/50 with distilled water
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 (low viscosity recommended)
Known Issues
Common Problems:
VANOS (Variable Valve Timing) seal wear, cooling system failures (water pump, thermostat, expansion tank), VANOS solenoids, PCV system issues (especially on M54 engines leading to oil consumption), oil separator failures, ignition coil failures, ABS/DSC sensor failures, subframe cracking (less common on 2001+ models but inspect), front suspension bushings/ball joints wear
Preventative Maintenance Recommendations:
Regularly inspect VANOS system, check for oil leaks, replace PCV system and oil separator as preventative measure, flush cooling system regularly, inspect subframe mounts
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Brand Origin:
Bayerische Motoren Werke AG (BMW), founded in 1916 in Germany
Model Evolution
E46 Generation Period:
1998–2006 (facelift in 2001)
E46 Positioning:
Replaced the E36 3 Series, known for improved chassis dynamics and refinement
2001 Facelift Changes:
Revised headlights, taillights, bumpers, M-Sport package enhancements, interior trim updates
Production
Production Locations:
Germany (Munich, Dingolfing), South Africa, Thailand, Russia, India, Mexico
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Car And Driver 10 Best:
E46 3 Series models frequently appeared on Car and Driver's 10Best list during its production run, recognizing its driving dynamics and overall excellence.
Ratings
Consumer Reports Reliability:
Reliability ratings varied by year and specific component, with some model years receiving above-average ratings while others had average or below-average ratings, often due to specific known issues (e.g., cooling system, VANOS). The manual helps address these.