🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: BMW Model: 3 Series Model Variant: 328i Year: 2004 Codes Chassis Code: E46 👋 Introduction Market Position Segment: Compact Executive Sedan/Coupe/Convertible/Wagon Target Audience: Enthusiast owners, Independent repair shops, DIY mechanics Competitive Analysis Key Competitors: Audi A4, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Lexus IS300, Infiniti G35 Key Features Vehicle Attributes: Sporty handling, Responsive engines, Premium interior, Rear-wheel-drive bias (optional xDrive) Manual Value Proposition: Empowers owners with detailed technical knowledge for maintenance and repair, saving time and money. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Vehicle Models Covered: BMW 328i (E46) Sedan, Coupe, Convertible, Wagon Engine Variants Covered: All M54B30 variants Transmission Types Covered: Manual (Getrag 420G), Automatic (GM A5S360R/Z) Trim Levels Covered: All available trim levels Page Count Estimated Page Count: 1500+ Manual Type Type: Workshop Repair Service Manual Language Language: English Format Format: PDF Download 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Powertrain: Engine (M54B30), Cooling System, Fuel System, Exhaust System, Ignition System, Drivetrain (Differential, Driveshafts) Chassis: Suspension (Front/Rear), Steering System, Brakes (ABS, DSC), Wheels and Tires Electrical: Engine Control Unit (DME), Body Control Module (BCM), Lighting, Instrumentation, Infotainment, Power Accessories, Body Electronics Body And Interior: Body Panels, Doors, Windows, Seats, Trim, HVAC System Procedures Included Maintenance: Oil Change, Filter Replacements, Spark Plug Replacement, Fluid Checks and Replacements, Belt Inspection/Replacement Diagnostics: Troubleshooting guides, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Symptom-based diagnostics Repair: Engine Overhaul, Transmission Overhaul, Brake System Repair, Suspension Component Replacement, Electrical Component Repair, Body Panel Repair Assembly Disassembly: Step-by-step instructions for removing and installing major components Wiring Diagrams: Comprehensive electrical schematics for all systems Diagnostic Tools: Information relevant to using BMW diagnostic tools like DIS or ISTA/D (though a modern reader may need specific software for full interpretation of older DTCs). Technical Depth Depth: Complete Engine Rebuild, Transmission Overhaul, Advanced Electrical Diagnostics, Chassis Component Replacement, Bodywork Procedures 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Quality: High-resolution, searchable PDF Printability: Printable pages for workshop use Binding Type Binding: N/A (Digital Download) Paper Type Paper: N/A (Digital Download) Manual Completeness Coverage Scope: Covers all major mechanical, electrical, and body systems, including diagnostics and repair procedures. ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Code: M54B30 Engine Type: Inline 6-Cylinder, Double VANOS Displacement: 2979 cc (3.0 Liters) Performance Horsepower: 225 hp @ 5900 rpm Torque: 214 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm Fuel System Induction: Naturally Aspirated, Multi-point Fuel Injection (Bosch Motronic ME7.2) Recommended Fuel: Premium Unleaded (91 Octane or higher) Features Valvetrain: DOHC (Dual Overhead Camshafts), 24 Valves (4 per cylinder) 🔧 Transmission Standard Type: 5-Speed Manual (Getrag 420G) Optional Type: 5-Speed Automatic (GM A5S360R/Z) Features Manual Gear Ratios: 1st: 4.23, 2nd: 2.51, 3rd: 1.67, 4th: 1.23, 5th: 1.00, Reverse: 3.55 Automatic Features: Steptronic (manual shifting capability) Fluid Specifications Manual Transmission Fluid: BMW MTF LT-2 (or equivalent Dexron III/VI for some applications, consult manual) Automatic Transmission Fluid: BMW ETL-800 (or equivalent Dexron VI) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Wheelbase: 107.4 inches (2728 mm) Length: 177.4 inches (4506 mm) - Sedan Width: 68.5 inches (1740 mm) Height: 55.7 inches (1415 mm) - Sedan Weights Curb Weight: Approximately 3300-3500 lbs (1497-1588 kg), varies by body style and options Gross Vehicle Weight Rating: Approximately 4400 lbs (1996 kg) Towing Capacity: Not generally recommended or specified for most 3 Series models. Cargo Trunk Capacity: 13.6 cu ft (385 Liters) - Sedan Wheelbase Coupe Convertible Wheelbase: 107.3 inches (2725 mm) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Front Impact: 4/5 Stars IIHS Side Impact: Good Active Features Traction Control: Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) Braking System: Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist Passive Features Airbags: Frontal airbags, Side-impact airbags, Front and Rear Head Protection System (HPS) Seatbelts: 3-point inertia-reel seat belts with pretensioners and force limiters 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Head Unit: Professional Radio/CD Player, optional Navigation system (MK4) Audio System: Standard 6-speaker system, optional Harman Kardon premium audio Driver Assistance Stability Control: Standard Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) Parking Assistance: Optional Rear Park Distance Control (PDC) Connectivity Auxiliary Input: Rarely standard; often required an aftermarket adapter or modification for auxiliary audio input. Climate Control System: Automatic climate control with cabin microfilter 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Typically every 7,500 - 10,000 miles (12,000 - 16,000 km) or as indicated by the Condition Based Service (CBS) system. Coolant Change Interval: Every 2-4 years or as per CBS. Spark Plug Replacement: Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) for standard plugs, longer for Long-Life plugs. Fluid Specifications Engine Oil Capacity: 6.5 quarts (6.2 Liters) with filter Engine Oil Viscosity: SAE 0W-30 or 5W-30 Synthetic (BMW LL-01 approved) Coolant Type: BMW Blue Coolant (G48) or equivalent Brake Fluid: DOT 4 (BMW Super DOT 4 approved) Known Issues Engine Common Issues: Oil leaks from valve cover gasket and oil filter housing gasket, VANOS solenoids, PCV system failures (especially the "flame trap" breather hose). Cooling System Common Issues: Plastic expansion tank cracking, water pump failure (often plastic impeller), radiator leaks, thermostat...