Identification and usage of BMW-specific special tools
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
File Type:
PDF
Searchability:
Likely text-searchable (standard for most modern PDFs)
Print Quality
Printability:
Designed for printing, high-resolution pages
Binding Type
Binding:
Digital download (N/A for physical binding)
Paper Type
Paper Quality:
Digital (N/A for physical paper type)
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine Lineup:
Inline-6 Cylinder Engines
323I Engine
Engine Code 323I:
M52TUB25
Displacement 323I:
2.5 Liters (2494 cc)
Horsepower 323I:
184 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque 323I:
235 Nm (173 lb-ft) @ 3500 rpm
325I Engine
Engine Code 325I:
M54B25
Displacement 325I:
2.5 Liters (2494 cc)
Horsepower 325I:
189 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque 325I:
245 Nm (181 lb-ft) @ 3500 rpm
328I Engine
Engine Code 328I:
M52TUB28
Displacement 328I:
2.8 Liters (2793 cc)
Horsepower 328I:
193 hp @ 5500 rpm
Torque 328I:
280 Nm (206 lb-ft) @ 3250 rpm
330I Engine
Engine Code 330I:
M54B30
Displacement 330I:
3.0 Liters (2979 cc)
Horsepower 330I:
225 hp @ 5900 rpm
Torque 330I:
300 Nm (221 lb-ft) @ 3500 rpm
M3 Engine
Engine Code M3:
S54B32
Displacement M3:
3.2 Liters (3246 cc)
Horsepower M3:
333 hp @ 7900 rpm
Torque M3:
350 Nm (258 lb-ft) @ 4900 rpm
Performance
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated Inline-6, Double VANOS
Fuel System
Injection Type:
Sequential Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Requirement:
Premium Unleaded (91 Octane or higher recommended)
Lubrication
Oil Capacity Example 330I:
6.5 Liters (6.9 US Quarts)
Oil Type Example:
BMW Longlife-01 (e.g., Castrol EDGE 5W-30)
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Standard Transmission Type:
5-Speed Manual (Getrag 420G for M3, ZF for others)
Optional
Optional Transmission Type:
5-Speed Steptronic Automatic Transmission (e.g., GM A5S360R/Z for non-M, ZF 5HP19/HP24 for some models)
Features
M3 Transmission Features:
Close-ratio manual gearbox, M Sport clutch
Fluid Specifications
Manual Transmission Fluid:
BMW MTF LT-2 (or equivalent high-quality synthetic GL-4/GL-5)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
BMW ATF LT-3 (or equivalent Dexron III/VI compatible synthetic)
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Body Styles:
Sedan (4-door), Coupe (2-door), Convertible (2-door), Wagon (Touring - 5-door)
Wheelbase Sedan Coupe:
Approx. 2760 mm (108.7 in)
Length Sedan:
Approx. 4471 mm (176.0 in)
Width:
Approx. 1751 mm (68.9 in)
Height Sedan:
Approx. 1415 mm (55.7 in)
Weights
Curb Weight Example 330I Sedan:
Approx. 1530 kg (3373 lbs)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Varies by model and configuration (consult manual)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
5 Stars (for applicable models)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
5 Stars (for applicable models)
IIHS Front Offset Crashworthiness:
Good (for applicable models)
Active Features
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System
Traction Control:
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) or Automatic Stability Control and Traction (ASC+T) depending on model/options
Passive Features
Airbags:
Frontal airbags, side airbags (optional/standard depending on trim)
Seatbelts:
3-point seatbelts with pretensioners
Chassis Structure:
Reinforced safety cell, crumple zones
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Infotainment System Example:
Optional BMW Professional Radio or Navigation System with CD player and optional Harman Kardon audio system.
Driver Assistance
Driver Assistance Features:
Park Distance Control (PDC), Cruise Control (standard/optional depending on trim).
Connectivity
Connectivity Options:
Optional Bluetooth hands-free interface for compatible phones.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
BMW Condition Based Service (CBS) system or typically every 10,000-15,000 miles (16,000-24,000 km) or annually, whichever comes first. Consult manual for specific CBS recommendations.
Air Filter Replacement:
Check every 30,000 miles (48,000 km), replace as needed based on condition. Manual will provide specific guidance.
Cabin Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles (24,000-48,000 km) or annually. Manual will specify.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically at 100,000 miles (160,000 km) for iridium plugs, but consult manual for specific type and interval. M54 engines may have different recommendations.
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 2 years, regardless of mileage.
Fluid Specifications
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 ethylene glycol based)
Power Steering Fluid:
Pentosin CHF 11S or BMW's specified hydraulic fluid.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 Low Viscosity (LV)
Known Issues
E46 Common Issues Vibrations:
Driveshaft flex disc (guibos) wear, center support bearing failure, rear subframe cracking, VANOS solenoid issues (M54 engines), oil separator (CCV) failure leading to vacuum leaks.
M3 Common Issues:
Rod bearing wear (especially on early S54 engines), VANOS system issues, subframe mounts, exhaust manifold cracks.
Cooling System Maintenance:
Water pump (plastic impeller failure), thermostat housing leaks, expansion tank cracks are common failure points.
Bayerische Motoren Werke AG (BMW) has a long history of producing premium and performance-oriented vehicles, dating back to the early 20th century.
Model Evolution
E46 Generation:
The E46 generation of the 3 Series was produced from 1998 to 2006, representing the fifth generation of BMW's compact executive car. It followed the E36 generation and was succeeded by the E90/E91/E92/E93 generation.
Facelift:
The E46 received a significant facelift in 2001 (for the 2002 model year), which included updated styling, new engines (like the M54 series), and revised interior features. The 2005 model is part of the post-facelift era.
M3 Development:
The E46 M3, launched in 2000, is considered one of the most iconic M cars, featuring the high-revving S54 naturally aspirated inline-six engine and a bespoke chassis tuned for performance driving.
Production
Production Years E46:
1998-2006
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Dingolfing, Germany; Regensburg, Germany; and Rosslyn, South Africa.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Car And Driver 10Best:
The BMW 3 Series (E46) was a perennial recipient of Car and Driver's 10Best award during its production run, recognized for its exceptional driving dynamics.
Ward S 10Best Engines:
The M54 engines (particularly the 3.0L) received recognition in the automotive press for their smooth power delivery and robust performance.
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