🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: BMW Model: 328i Product Type: Workshop Service Repair Manual Generation Chassis Code: E46 Codes Engine Code: M52TUB28 👋 Introduction Market Position Segment: Entry-level luxury sedan, known for sporty handling and driver engagement. Competitive Analysis Competitors: Mercedes-Benz C-Class (W203), Audi A4 (B6), Lexus IS300, Acura TL. Key Features Driving Dynamics: Rear-wheel drive platform, balanced chassis, responsive steering, performance-oriented suspension. Powertrain: Smooth and powerful inline-six engine, robust transmissions. Build Quality: Renowned BMW build quality and interior materials for its era. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Covered Years: 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005 Page Count Estimated Pages: Varies by specific manual edition, typically 1000+ pages for a complete E46 service manual. Manual Type Type: Comprehensive Workshop Service and Repair Manual Language Language: English Format Format: Digital (e.g., PDF, downloadable archive) 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine Systems: Engine mechanical (M52TUB28), fuel injection (DME), ignition, cooling, lubrication, emissions control. Transmission Systems: Manual and automatic transmissions (e.g., Getrag 5-speed, ZF 5HP19), clutch, driveline, differential. Chassis Systems: Suspension (front strut, rear multi-link), steering, brakes (ABS, DSC), wheels, tires. Electrical Systems: Wiring diagrams, battery, charging system, starter, lighting, instrument cluster, power accessories, comfort systems, DME control modules. Body And Interior: Body panels, doors, windows, seats, HVAC system, interior trim, safety restraint systems (airbags). Procedures Included Maintenance: Oil change, filter replacements, spark plug service, coolant flush, brake fluid service, belt inspection/replacement, diagnostic checks. Repair: Engine component overhaul, transmission rebuild, brake caliper replacement, suspension component repair, electrical diagnostic and repair, bodywork. Troubleshooting: Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting guides, electrical circuit analysis. Specifications: Torque specifications for all fasteners, fluid capacities, component clearances, alignment settings. Technical Depth Depth: Expert level, covering diagnostics, troubleshooting, repair, and overhaul procedures for all major vehicle systems. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Digital Format: Searchable PDF with high-resolution diagrams and schematics. Print Quality Quality: High-quality digital reproduction of original factory documentation. Binding Type Binding: Not Applicable (Digital Format) Paper Type Paper: Not Applicable (Digital Format) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Code: M52TUB28 Engine Type: 2.8L DOHC Inline-6 (Straight-6) Displacement: 2793 cc (2.8 Liters) Bore X Stroke: 84.0 mm x 83.6 mm Compression Ratio: 10.2:1 Performance Horsepower: 193 hp @ 5500 rpm Torque: 206 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (SMPI) with Double VANOS Fuel Type: Premium Unleaded (91 AKI or higher recommended) Engine Management ECU: Bosch Motronic ME 7.2 or similar. 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type Std: 5-speed Manual (Getrag GS5-39DZ) Optional Transmission Type Opt: 5-speed Automatic (ZF 5HP19) Features Transmission Features: Rear-wheel drive layout, electronic clutch control (automatic), sport mode. 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: 4,471 mm (176.0 in) Width: 1,739 mm (68.5 in) Height: 1,415 mm (55.7 in) Wheelbase: 2,725 mm (107.3 in) Weights Curb Weight: Approx. 1,500-1,550 kg (3,300-3,420 lbs) Gross Weight Rating: Approx. 1,900 kg (4,180 lbs) Cargo Trunk Volume: 440 Liters (15.5 cu ft) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Front Crash: Not explicitly rated for these specific model years by NHTSA in all categories, but generally considered safe for its time. IIHS Safety Pick: Generally well-regarded for structural integrity in frontal and side impacts of its era. Active Features ABS: Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) Traction Control: Standard Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) on most models. Brake Assist: Included as part of DSC system functionality. Passive Features Airbags: Frontal airbags for driver and passenger, optional side airbags. Seatbelts: Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners, active head restraints (front). Chassis Structure: Reinforced safety cell, crumple zones. 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Head Unit: BMW Business CD, BMW Professional CD, or optional Professional Navigation System (MK III/MK IV). Audio System: Standard 6-speaker system, optional Harman Kardon premium audio. Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Standard electronic cruise control. Parking Assistance: Optional rear park distance control (PDC). Connectivity Phone Integration: Optional Bluetooth hands-free interface (BMW Assist/TeleAid system). Lighting Headlights: Halogen projector headlights, optional Xenon Adaptive Headlights. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: BMW Condition Based Service (CBS) system; typically 10,000-15,000 miles or 12-24 months, depending on driving conditions. Spark Plug Replacement: Typically around 60,000 miles for iridium spark plugs. Coolant Flush: Recommended every 2-3 years or 30,000 miles. Fluid Specifications Engine Oil Type: SAE 0W-30 or 5W-30 Synthetic, meeting BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) specification is highly recommended. Coolant Type: BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 ethylene glycol based) mixed with distilled water (50/50). Transmission Fluid Manual: GL-4 SAE 75W-90 synthetic gear oil. Transmission Fluid Automatic: Dexron III/VI ATF (ZF specified fluid). Brake Fluid Type: DOT 4 Low Viscosity (LV) brake fluid. Known Issues Cooling System: Plastic coolant expansion tank can become brittle and crack, leading to leaks. Water pump impellers can degrade. M52TU VANOS solenoids can fail. Suspension: Control arm bushings (RTABs) wear out, leading to rear-end instability. Strut mounts and ball joints are common wear items. Electrical: ABS/DSC sensor failures, eccentric shaft sensor failure (affecting idle and...
BMW Condition Based Service (CBS) system; typically 10,000-15,000 miles or 12-24 months, depending on driving conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically around 60,000 miles for iridium spark plugs.
Coolant Flush:
Recommended every 2-3 years or 30,000 miles.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 0W-30 or 5W-30 Synthetic, meeting BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) specification is highly recommended.
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 ethylene glycol based) mixed with distilled water (50/50).
Transmission Fluid Manual:
GL-4 SAE 75W-90 synthetic gear oil.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron III/VI ATF (ZF specified fluid).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 Low Viscosity (LV) brake fluid.
Known Issues
Cooling System:
Plastic coolant expansion tank can become brittle and crack, leading to leaks. Water pump impellers can degrade. M52TU VANOS solenoids can fail.
Suspension:
Control arm bushings (RTABs) wear out, leading to rear-end instability. Strut mounts and ball joints are common wear items.
Electrical:
ABS/DSC sensor failures, eccentric shaft sensor failure (affecting idle and power), ignition coil failures, blower motor resistor failure.
Oil Leaks:
Valve cover gasket and oil pan gasket are common sources of leaks.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Bmw Legacy:
BMW has a long-standing reputation for building driver-focused, sporty vehicles with advanced engineering.
Model Evolution
E46 Introduction:
The E46 generation replaced the E36 3 Series and introduced significant advancements in chassis, engine technology, and interior refinement.
328I Positioning:
The 328i was positioned as a powerful and refined mid-range option within the E46 sedan lineup, slotting below the 330i but offering more performance than the 325i.