🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: BMW Model: 323i Year: 1999 Codes Chassis Code: E46 Engine Code General: M52TU 👋 Introduction Market Position Segment: Compact Executive Sedan/Coupe/Convertible Target Audience: Enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, professional workshops Competitive Analysis Key Competitors: Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Audi A4, Lexus IS, Infiniti G20 Key Features Product Value Proposition: Enables owners to perform all necessary maintenance and repairs, saving on labor costs and ensuring longevity Manual Advantage: Provides in-depth technical knowledge, diagnostic procedures, and repair sequences not found in simpler guides 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Primary Coverage: Comprehensive Service and Repair Vehicle Variants Covered: BMW 323i Sedan (E46), Coupe (E46), Convertible (E46) Page Count Estimated Page Count: 1500+ Manual Type Type: Full Service Repair Manual Language Language: English Format Format: Digital (PDF) 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine: Complete overhaul, diagnostics, fuel injection, ignition, cooling, lubrication, emissions control Transmission: Automatic and Manual: overhaul, fluid service, diagnostics, clutch operation (manual) Drivetrain: Driveshafts, axles, differential, wheel bearings Suspension: Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, bushings Steering: Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, steering column Brakes: Hydraulic system, ABS, brake pads, rotors, calipers, lines, parking brake Electrical System: Battery, charging system, starter, lighting, gauges, fuse box, relays, wiring diagrams Body And Chassis: Body panels, doors, windows, convertible top mechanism (if applicable), chassis components, frame HVAC: Air conditioning, heating, ventilation system components and servicing Interior: Seats, upholstery, dashboard, interior trim, airbags Procedures Included Maintenance: Oil change, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspection/replacement Diagnostics: Troubleshooting common faults, DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Code) interpretation and clearing, component testing Repair: Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and repair Rebuild: Engine rebuild, transmission overhaul, differential rebuild procedures Refurbishment: Guidance on restoring worn or aged components Restoration: Detailed procedures for bringing the vehicle back to original specifications Technical Depth Depth: Advanced diagnostics, complete mechanical and electrical system repair, factory-level procedures 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Searchability: Fully searchable text content Printability: Printable pages for workshop use Print Quality Image Resolution: High-resolution for clear diagrams and illustrations Binding Type Binding Style: N/A (Digital Format) Paper Type Paper Quality: N/A (Digital Format) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Type: Inline 6-Cylinder, Double VANOS Engine Code: M52TUB25 Displacement: 2.5 Liters (2494 cc) Bore X Stroke: 84 mm x 75 mm Compression Ratio: 10.2:1 Performance Horsepower: 168 hp @ 5300 rpm Torque: 181 lb-ft @ 3950 rpm Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Electronic Multi-Point Fuel Injection (Bosch Motronic ME 7.2) Fuel Type: Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane or higher recommended) Fuel Tank Capacity: 16.1 US Gallons (61 Liters) 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type: Getrag 250G 5-speed Manual Optional Transmission Type: ZF 5HP19 5-speed Automatic (Steptronic optional) Features Clutch Type: Hydraulically Actuated Single Dry Plate (Manual) Transmission Fluid Manual: BMW MTF LT-2 or equivalent (e.g., Red Line MTL) Transmission Fluid Automatic: BMW ATF LT-3 or equivalent (e.g., Mobil ATF LT 71141) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Wheelbase: 107.3 inches (2725 mm) Length: 177.4 inches (4506 mm) Width: 68.5 inches (1740 mm) Height: 55.7 inches (1415 mm) Wheel Bolt Pattern: 5x120 Lug Nut Size: M12 x 1.5 Tire Size Standard: 205/55R16 Wheel Size Standard: 16 x 7.0 Weights Curb Weight: 3263 lbs (1480 kg) (Manual Transmission) Gross Vehicle Weight Rating: 4365 lbs (1980 kg) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Front Impact: 4/5 Stars (Driver/Passenger) IIHS Side Impact: Acceptable Active Features ABS: Standard Anti-lock Braking System Traction Control: Optional ASC+T (Automatic Stability Control + Traction) Passive Features Airbags: Driver and front passenger airbags, optional side airbags Seatbelts: 3-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pretensioners and force limiters Rollover Protection: Active rollover protection for convertible models 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Head Unit: BMW Business CD or optional BMW Professional CD with RDS, cassette player, and CD changer pre-wiring Navigation: Optional BMW Navigation System II (MKIII or MKIV DVD-based) Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Standard Parking Sensors: Optional Rear Park Distance Control (PDC) Connectivity Phone Integration: Optional Bluetooth hands-free preparation with cradle 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Every 7,500 to 10,000 miles (12,000 to 16,000 km) or annually, depending on driving conditions (per CBS - Condition Based Service) Spark Plug Replacement: Approx. 60,000 miles (96,000 km) for standard spark plugs Coolant Flush: Every 2 to 3 years or 30,000 to 40,000 miles Brake Fluid Flush: Every 2 years Fluid Specifications Engine Oil Type: SAE 5W-40 or 0W-40 Synthetic (BMW Longlife-01 approved) Engine Oil Capacity: 6.7 US Quarts (6.3 Liters) Coolant Type: BMW Blue Antifreeze (G48) or equivalent, mixed 50/50 with distilled water Power Steering Fluid: Pentosin CHF 11S or equivalent (Dexron III/VI is NOT recommended for E46) Known Issues Common Issues List: Cooling system failures (plastic expansion tank, water pump, hoses), VANOS solenoid issues, Oil separator (CCV) system clogging, Rear axle subframe mounting cracks, Door seal degradation, Window regulator failures, Suspension bushing wear 📚 Vehicle History Brand Heritage Bmw Legacy: Renowned...