5-speed Manual (may vary by specific model variant, e.g., 6-speed for M3)
Optional
Optional Transmission:
5-speed Automatic (Steptronic optional on some models)
Features
Transmission Features:
Close-ratio gearing, smooth shifts, robust construction
Fluid Specs
Manual Transmission Fluid Spec:
BMW MTF LT-2 or equivalent (e.g., Castrol Syntrans B 75W-80)
Automatic Transmission Fluid Spec:
BMW ATF LT 71141 or equivalent (e.g., ZF Lifeguardfluid 5)
Differential Fluid Spec
Differential Fluid:
BMW Hypoid Gear Oil G2 or equivalent SAE 75W-90
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Wheelbase:
107.4 inches (2728 mm)
Length:
Approx. 177.4 - 180.4 inches (4495 - 4582 mm), depending on body style (Sedan, Coupe, Convertible, Sport Wagon)
Width:
Approx. 68.9 inches (1750 mm)
Height:
Approx. 55.2 - 56.7 inches (1402 - 1440 mm), depending on body style
Weights
Curb Weight Range:
Approx. 3100 - 3500 lbs (1406 - 1588 kg), depending on model and equipment
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Varies by model, consult specific vehicle VIN
Wheels Tires
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
5x120 mm
Wheel Size Range:
15-inch, 16-inch, 17-inch, 18-inch (M3)
Tire Size Range:
205/55R16, 225/45R17, 245/40R18 (M3)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Front Impact Rating:
4 Stars (for Sedan and Wagon, as per contemporary NHTSA data)
IIHS Side Impact Rating:
Good (for models tested)
Active Features
Active Safety Features:
ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), ASC+T (Automatic Stability Control and Traction), DSC (Dynamic Stability Control - optional/standard on higher trims)
Passive Features
Passive Safety Features:
Front airbags, front side-impact airbags, front and rear head protection system (HPS) curtain airbags (optional/standard on higher trims), crumple zones, energy-absorbing steering column
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Infotainment Systems:
Optional BMW Business CD, BMW Professional CD, navigation systems (Mk III or Mk IV), optional Harman Kardon audio system
Driver Assistance
Driver Assistance Features:
Cruise control, optional park distance control (PDC), rain-sensing wipers, automatic climate control
Connectivity
Connectivity Features:
Optional Bluetooth hands-free interface (via adapter or integrated system on later models), remote central locking, alarm system
Lighting
Lighting Options:
Optional Xenon headlights with auto-leveling and headlamp washers
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
BMW Condition Based Service (CBS) system, typically every 10,000-15,000 miles or 12-24 months, depending on driving conditions
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 60,000 - 100,000 miles depending on plug type (standard vs. long-life)
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-4 years or 30,000-60,000 miles
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Specification:
BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) or Longlife-04 (LL-04) approved synthetic oil, viscosity typically 0W-30 or 5W-30
Coolant Specification:
BMW Blue Coolant (G48) or equivalent ethylene glycol based coolant with corrosion inhibitors
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 4 or DOT 4 PLUS
Power Steering Fluid Spec:
BMW Power Steering Fluid (Pentosin CHF 11S or equivalent)
Known Issues
Common E46 Issues:
Cracked rear subframe mounting points, cooling system failures (plastic coolant expansion tank, water pump, thermostat), VANOS solenoid failure, oil leaks (valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket), ABS/DSC sensor failures, power steering hose leaks
Maintenance Focus:
Proactive replacement of cooling system components, inspection of rear subframe area, regular VANOS service/cleaning
1998-2006 (production dates vary slightly by region and body style)
E46 Facelift Year:
2001 (mid-cycle refresh including updated engines, styling tweaks, and suspension revisions)
Production
Manufacturing Locations:
Germany (primarily Munich and Regensburg), South Africa, Mexico
Sales Figures E46:
Over 1.5 million units produced globally
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Car And Driver 10 Best:
Car and Driver 10Best list multiple times during its production run (e.g., 1999, 2000, 2001 for various configurations)
Motor Trend Car Of The Year:
Not a direct winner for the E46, but BMW as a brand consistently recognized for engineering
Ratings
Consumer Reports Ratings:
Generally received good to excellent ratings for reliability and performance, with noted exceptions for specific components as detailed in maintenance section.
Een selectie kiezen resulteert in het geheel verversen van de pagina.