🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: BMW Model: 323i Year: 2003 Generation Chassis Code: E46 Codes Engine Code Primary: M52TU B25 👋 Introduction Market Position Segment: Compact Executive Sedan/Coupe/Convertible/Wagon Target Audience: Owners seeking to perform DIY maintenance and repairs, independent repair shops, enthusiasts. Competitive Analysis Competitors: Mercedes-Benz C-Class (W203), Audi A4 (B6), Lexus IS300, Acura TL. Key Features Vehicle Appeal: Rear-wheel drive dynamics, premium interior, reliable inline-six engine, sporty handling. Manual Value Proposition: Provides in-depth, factory-level information to maintain and repair the E46 323i, saving significant costs over dealership servicing. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Covered Models: BMW 323i (E46) Sedan, Coupe, Convertible, Sport Wagon Covered Engines: 2.5L Inline-6 (M52TU B25) Covered Transmissions: 5-speed Manual (Getrag 250G), 5-speed Automatic (GM A5S360R/Z) Page Count Estimated Pages: ~1500-2000 Manual Type Type: Workshop Repair and Service Manual Language Language: English Format Format: PDF Download 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Powertrain: Engine mechanical, fuel injection, ignition, cooling, lubrication, exhaust, emissions, clutch, manual transmission, automatic transmission, drivetrain (driveshafts, differential). Chassis: Suspension (front and rear), steering system, braking system (ABS, DSC), wheels, tires. Electrical: Body electrical, lighting, instruments, gauges, infotainment, HVAC controls, starter, alternator, battery, wiring diagrams, fuse box locations and functions. Body: Body construction, exterior panels, doors, windows, glass, interior trim, seats, airbags, bumpers. Procedures Included Maintenance: Scheduled maintenance (oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks), spark plug replacement, brake pad/rotor replacement, belt replacement. Diagnostics Troubleshooting: Fault code interpretation, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, diagnostic procedures for all major systems. Repair Rebuild: Engine component overhaul, transmission repair, brake caliper/master cylinder replacement, suspension component replacement, electrical component repair. Installation Adjustment: Component replacement (e.g., alternator, starter, water pump), timing belt/chain replacement (if applicable, though M52TU uses a chain), wheel alignment procedures. Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive, covering routine maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic flowcharts and wiring diagrams. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Format: PDF Print Quality Quality: High-resolution, searchable text, clear diagrams and illustrations. Binding Type Binding: N/A (Digital Download) Paper Type Paper: N/A (Digital Download) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Type: Naturally Aspirated Inline-6 Displacement: 2.5 Liters (2494 cc) Bore X Stroke: 84.0 mm x 75.0 mm Compression Ratio: 10.2:1 Valve Train: Dual Overhead Camshafts (DOHC), 4 Valves per Cylinder, VANOS (Variable Valve Timing) Performance Horsepower: 184 hp @ 6000 rpm Torque: 235 Nm (173 lb-ft) @ 3500 rpm Fuel System Induction: Multi-point Fuel Injection (Bosch Motronic ME7.2) Fuel Type: Premium Unleaded (91 Octane Recommended) Fluid Specifications Engine Oil Capacity: 6.5 Liters (6.9 US Quarts) Engine Oil Type: BMW Longlife-01 (e.g., 5W-30 Synthetic) Known Issues Common Problems: Cracked intake manifold (plastic), VANOS system issues, oil leaks from valve cover gasket and oil pan gasket, cooling system components (water pump, thermostat, expansion tank), CCV system failure. 🔧 Transmission Standard Type: 5-speed Manual (Getrag 250G) Optional Type: 5-speed Automatic (GM A5S360R/Z) Features Manual Gear Ratios: 1st: 4.235, 2nd: 2.520, 3rd: 1.670, 4th: 1.245, 5th: 1.000, Reverse: 3.913 Automatic Features: Steptronic (manual shifting capability), Sport Mode. Fluid Specifications Manual Transmission Fluid: MTF LT-2 (BMW Official Specification), typically equivalent to ATF Dexron III or Mercon for older specifications, but consult manual for precise type. Automatic Transmission Fluid: Esso JWS 3309 / Toyota Type T-IV / ATF LT 71141 (Check specific VIN/transmission variant for precise BMW spec) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Wheelbase: 2760 mm (108.7 in) Length: 4471 mm (176.0 in) (Sedan/Coupe) Width: 1739 mm (68.5 in) Height: 1412 mm (55.6 in) (Sedan) Weights Curb Weight: 1480-1580 kg (3260-3480 lbs) (Varies by body style and transmission) Gross Vehicle Weight Rating: Approx. 1950-2050 kg (4300-4520 lbs) Wheels Tires Wheel Bolt Pattern: 5x120 Standard Tire Size: 205/55R16 Optional Tire Size: 225/45R17, 245/40R17 (Rear) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Frontal Impact: 4 Stars (Driver), 5 Stars (Passenger) IIHS Side Impact: Acceptable Active Features Stability Control: Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) standard Traction Control: Automatic Stability Control and Traction (ASC+T) Braking System: 4-wheel disc brakes with Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) Passive Features Airbags: Frontal airbags, front side-impact airbags, optional head protection airbags. Seat Belts: 3-point inertia-reel seat belts with pretensioners and force limiters. 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Head Unit: BMW Business CD, BMW Professional RDS, optional navigation system (MKIII). Audio System: Standard 6-speaker system, optional Harman Kardon upgraded audio. Driver Assistance Parking Assist: Optional rear parking sensors (Park Distance Control - PDC). Connectivity Phone Integration: Optional Bluetooth phone preparation with telematics unit. Climate Control HVAC: Manual climate control or optional automatic climate control with AUC (Automatic Recirculation Control). 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Typically 7,500-15,000 miles (12,000-24,000 km) or 12-24 months, depending on driving conditions and BMW's Condition Based Service (CBS) system. Consult the manual for specific intervals. Brake Fluid Flush: Every 2 years Coolant Change: BMW recommends BMW Blue coolant. Initial fill may last longer, but typically every 2-4 years or 100,000 miles. Spark Plugs: Denso PKJ20CR8 or Bosch FGR7KQP+ (or equivalent). Replace typically...