Optional Bluetooth mobile phone integration (requires specific phone compatibility).
Telematics:
Optional BMW Assist telematics system.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
BMW Condition Based Service (CBS) system typically recommends ~10,000-15,000 miles or annually, or when indicated by the service indicator.
Major Service Intervals:
Refer to the manual for specific mileage/time-based service items, such as spark plug replacement (e.g., ~60,000-100,000 miles), coolant flush (e.g., every 2-4 years), and brake fluid flush (e.g., every 2 years).
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil:
BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) approved synthetic oil, typically SAE 0W-40 or 5W-30.
Engine Oil Capacity:
6.5 US quarts (6.2 Liters) with filter change.
Coolant:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 specification) or equivalent, mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 (e.g., Pentosin DOT 4 LV) or DOT 4 PLUS.
Power Steering Fluid:
Pentosin CHF 11S or CHF 202 (Green fluid).
Known Issues
Cooling System:
Plastic coolant expansion tank failures, water pump bearing failure, thermostat housing leaks, cracking radiator end tanks.
Engine M54:
Eccentric shaft sensor (ESS) failure, oil filter housing gasket leaks, intake manifold gasket leaks (DISA flap issues), VANOS solenoid failures, CCV system clogging leading to oil leaks.
Suspension Steering:
Front control arm bushings and ball joints wear, rear subframe mounting points can crack (common on coupes/convertibles), tie rod end wear.
Frequent failure of power window regulator mechanisms.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Heritage:
BMW, founded in 1916, is renowned for producing premium automobiles with a focus on driving pleasure ('The Ultimate Driving Machine').
Model Evolution
E46 Introduction:
The E46 generation replaced the E36 3 Series, introducing significant advancements in chassis design, engine technology, and interior refinement.
E46 Lineup Expansion:
The E46 platform also included the 320i, 323i, 325i, 328i, 330Ci, 330xi, M3, and various wagon/coupe/convertible variants over its lifecycle.
Production
Production Period:
1998-2006 (Global production for E46 platform)
Manufacturing Locations:
Main production at Dingolfing, Germany; assembly in other locations worldwide.
Significant Facelift:
Mid-cycle facelift (LCI) occurred for the 2002 model year, with updated styling and feature revisions.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Car And Driver 10Best:
The E46 3 Series, including variants like the 330i, frequently appeared on Car and Driver's 10Best lists during its production run, recognized for its performance and handling.
Ward 3 Best Engines:
The M54 inline-six engine family received multiple Ward's 10 Best Engines awards.
Ratings
Safety Ratings General:
Generally received good to excellent safety ratings from NHTSA and IIHS for its era.
Certifications
Manual Quality Certification:
Professional technical manual, compiled to industry standards for automotive repair documentation.
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