Front Suspension (MacPherson Strut), Rear Suspension (Multi-link), Power Steering System, Wheel Alignment
Electrical Electronics:
Complete Electrical System, Battery, Alternator, Starter, Lighting, Fuses, Relays, ECU (Engine Control Unit), DME (Digital Motor Electronics), Body Control Module (BCM), Instrument Cluster, Power Windows, Central Locking, Radio/Audio System, Navigation System (Optional)
Allows manual gear selection via shifter or steering wheel buttons
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
Sedan: 177.4 in (4506 mm)
Width:
Sedan: 68.5 in (1740 mm)
Height:
Sedan: 55.7 in (1415 mm)
Wheelbase:
108.7 in (2760 mm)
Weights
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3350 lbs (1520 kg) for Sedan Manual
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Front Impact:
5-Star (Driver and Passenger)
IIHS Side Impact:
Good (for comparable models)
Active Features
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System
Dsc:
Standard Dynamic Stability Control (also includes traction control)
Passive Features
Airbags:
Frontal Driver and Passenger Airbags, Optional Side-Impact Airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia-reel seat belts with pretensioners and force limiters
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Standard AM/FM/CD player, optional Harman Kardon premium audio system.
Navigation:
Optional BMW Professional Navigation system (older generation CRT screen).
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control.
Parking Assistance:
Optional rear parking sensors (Park Distance Control - PDC).
Connectivity
Telematics:
Optional BMW Assist telematics system.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 - 10,000 miles (or as indicated by Condition Based Service - CBS) using BMW approved synthetic oil.
Air Filter Replacement:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace every 30,000 miles or as needed.
Cabin Filter Replacement:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace every 30,000 miles or as needed.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 60,000 - 100,000 miles depending on plug type (e.g., iridium).
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type:
BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) Approved Synthetic SAE 5W-30 or 0W-30
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 ethylene glycol based)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4
Transmission Fluid Auto:
Dexron III/VI (or BMW approved equivalent for specific transmission model)
Transmission Fluid Manual:
BMW Manual Gearbox Oil (e.g., SAF-XJ 75W-140 for differential, specific MTF for gearbox)
Known Issues
Ccv System:
Crankcase Ventilation (CCV) system failure can lead to oil leaks and rough running.
Cooling System:
Plastic expansion tank and water pump are known failure points, leading to coolant leaks.
Oil Pan Gasket:
Oil pan gasket and valve cover gasket leaks are common due to age and material degradation.
ABS Asc Wheel Speed Sensors:
ABS/ASC sensor failures can trigger warning lights and affect braking/traction control.
Window Regulators:
Plastic components in power window regulators can break.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Bmw Legacy:
BMW has a long history of producing performance-oriented luxury vehicles with a focus on driving dynamics and engineering excellence.
Model Evolution
E46 Introduction:
The E46 generation of the 3 Series was introduced in 1998 for the 1999 model year in Europe and later for the 2000 model year in North America, succeeding the E36.
E46 Facelift:
The 2001 model year represents the pre-facelift E46, with styling and feature updates occurring for the 2002 model year in North America.
Production
Production Era:
1998-2006 (E46 Generation)
Manufacturing Plants:
Primary production in Munich, Germany; Dingolfing, Germany; Regensburg, Germany; Spartanburg, USA.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Car And Driver 10Best:
The E46 3 Series, including the 325i, was a frequent recipient of Car and Driver's 10Best awards during its production run.
Ratings
Jd Power Initial Quality:
Consistently ranked well in J.D. Power and Associates initial quality studies for its segment.
Certifications
Emission Standards:
Compliant with EPA and CARB emission standards for the model year.
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