Standard Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) on most models
Traction Control:
Standard Automatic Traction Control (ASC+T)
Braking:
4-wheel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), ventilated front discs, solid rear discs
Passive Features
Airbags Front:
Dual front airbags, driver's side knee airbag
Airbags Side:
Standard front side-impact airbags, available seat-mounted thorax airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point front seatbelts with pretensioners, rear 3-point seatbelts
Structure:
Reinforced safety cage, crumple zones
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Standard BMW Business CD, optional BMW Professional CD/Radio with enhanced speaker systems, optional Harman Kardon audio upgrade.
Navigation:
Optional MK III or MK IV navigation system with CD-ROM based maps.
Driver Assistance
Parking Sensors:
Optional Park Distance Control (PDC) - front and rear sensors.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control system.
Connectivity
Telematics:
Optional BMW Assist telematics system (may be deprecated).
Comfort Features
Climate Control:
Standard manual climate control, optional Automatic climate control with digital display.
Seats:
Manually adjustable front seats with optional lumbar support, optional power-adjustable sport seats with memory.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals Oil
Oil Change Interval:
Variable Service Interval (VSI) system typically recommends every 10,000-15,000 miles (15,000-25,000 km) or annually, based on driving conditions. Consult manual for specific trigger points.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Specification:
BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) or BMW Longlife-98 (LL-98) compliant synthetic oil, SAE 0W-30 or 5W-30 recommended.
Coolant Specification:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 ethylene glycol based), diluted 50/50 with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 4 Low Viscosity (LV)
Transmission Fluid Manual:
SAE 75W-90 Synthetic Gear Oil (API GL-4 or GL-5 compliant, refer to specific manual)
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
BMW ATF LT-2 or equivalent (specific to GM A5S360R/Z, check manual for exact spec)
Known Issues
Common Issue Oil Vanos Seals:
Degradation of VANOS (Variable Valve Timing) solenoid O-rings and seals can lead to rough idle and reduced performance.
Common Issue Cooling System:
Plastic expansion tank, water pump, and thermostat housing are known failure points; inspect for leaks.
Common Issue Rear Subframe:
Cracking or separation of the rear subframe mounting points from the chassis is a critical structural issue requiring reinforcement.
Common Issue Window Regulators:
Plastic components in window regulator mechanisms can break, causing windows to fail.
Common Issue Ccv System:
Crankcase Ventilation (CCV) system can clog, leading to oil leaks and increased crankcase pressure.
Part Numbers
Oil Filter Example:
Mann-Filter HU 836/2 x, Mahle OX 38D (Consult manual for exact fitment)
Cabin Air Filter Example:
Mann-Filter CU 21 004 (Activated Carbon)
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Bmw History:
Bayerische Motoren Werke AG, founded in 1916, renowned for engineering excellence, sporting heritage, and luxury vehicles.
Model Evolution
E46 Generation:
The E46 generation succeeded the E36 and was produced from 1998 to 2006 (globally). It represented a significant step forward in design, technology, and driving dynamics.
E46 Facelift:
The 2001 model year often falls within the E46's mid-cycle refresh period (depending on region, typically starting around 2001/2002), which included subtle styling updates, improved interior materials, and powertrain enhancements.
Production
Production Years E46:
1998-2006
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Dingolfing, Germany; also Regensburg, Germany; Rosslyn, South Africa; Graz, Austria (for convertibles); Spartanburg, USA (for X models)
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Car And Driver 10 Best:
The BMW 3 Series (E46) was frequently honored on Car and Driver's 10Best lists in the late 1990s and early 2000s for its exceptional driving dynamics.
Motor Trend Car Of The Year:
While not specifically for the 2001 model year, the 3 Series platform consistently received high marks from automotive journalists.