5-speed Manual (may vary by specific model variant, e.g., 6-speed for M3)
Optional
Optional Transmission:
5-speed Automatic (Steptronic optional on some models)
Features
Transmission Features:
Close-ratio gearing, smooth shifts, robust construction
Fluid Specs
Manual Transmission Fluid Spec:
BMW MTF LT-2 or equivalent (e.g., Castrol Syntrans B 75W-80)
Automatic Transmission Fluid Spec:
BMW ATF LT 71141 or equivalent (e.g., ZF Lifeguardfluid 5)
Differential Fluid Spec
Differential Fluid:
BMW Hypoid Gear Oil G2 or equivalent SAE 75W-90
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Wheelbase:
107.4 inches (2728 mm)
Length:
Approx. 177.4 - 180.4 inches (4495 - 4582 mm), depending on body style (Sedan, Coupe, Convertible, Sport Wagon)
Width:
Approx. 68.9 inches (1750 mm)
Height:
Approx. 55.2 - 56.7 inches (1402 - 1440 mm), depending on body style
Weights
Curb Weight Range:
Approx. 3100 - 3500 lbs (1406 - 1588 kg), depending on model and equipment
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Varies by model, consult specific vehicle VIN
Wheels Tires
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
5x120 mm
Wheel Size Range:
15-inch, 16-inch, 17-inch, 18-inch (M3)
Tire Size Range:
205/55R16, 225/45R17, 245/40R18 (M3)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Front Impact Rating:
4 Stars (for Sedan and Wagon, as per contemporary NHTSA data)
IIHS Side Impact Rating:
Good (for models tested)
Active Features
Active Safety Features:
ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), ASC+T (Automatic Stability Control and Traction), DSC (Dynamic Stability Control - optional/standard on higher trims)
Passive Features
Passive Safety Features:
Front airbags, front side-impact airbags, front and rear head protection system (HPS) curtain airbags (optional/standard on higher trims), crumple zones, energy-absorbing steering column
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Infotainment Systems:
Optional BMW Business CD, BMW Professional CD, navigation systems (Mk III or Mk IV), optional Harman Kardon audio system
Driver Assistance
Driver Assistance Features:
Cruise control, optional park distance control (PDC), rain-sensing wipers, automatic climate control
Connectivity
Connectivity Features:
Optional Bluetooth hands-free interface (via adapter or integrated system on later models), remote central locking, alarm system
Lighting
Lighting Options:
Optional Xenon headlights with auto-leveling and headlamp washers
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
BMW Condition Based Service (CBS) system, typically every 10,000-15,000 miles or 12-24 months, depending on driving conditions
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 60,000 - 100,000 miles depending on plug type (standard vs. long-life)
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-4 years or 30,000-60,000 miles
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Specification:
BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) or Longlife-04 (LL-04) approved synthetic oil, viscosity typically 0W-30 or 5W-30
Coolant Specification:
BMW Blue Coolant (G48) or equivalent ethylene glycol based coolant with corrosion inhibitors
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 4 or DOT 4 PLUS
Power Steering Fluid Spec:
BMW Power Steering Fluid (Pentosin CHF 11S or equivalent)
Known Issues
Common E46 Issues:
Cracked rear subframe mounting points, cooling system failures (plastic coolant expansion tank, water pump, thermostat), VANOS solenoid failure, oil leaks (valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket), ABS/DSC sensor failures, power steering hose leaks
Maintenance Focus:
Proactive replacement of cooling system components, inspection of rear subframe area, regular VANOS service/cleaning
1998-2006 (production dates vary slightly by region and body style)
E46 Facelift Year:
2001 (mid-cycle refresh including updated engines, styling tweaks, and suspension revisions)
Production
Manufacturing Locations:
Germany (primarily Munich and Regensburg), South Africa, Mexico
Sales Figures E46:
Over 1.5 million units produced globally
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Car And Driver 10 Best:
Car and Driver 10Best list multiple times during its production run (e.g., 1999, 2000, 2001 for various configurations)
Motor Trend Car Of The Year:
Not a direct winner for the E46, but BMW as a brand consistently recognized for engineering
Ratings
Consumer Reports Ratings:
Generally received good to excellent ratings for reliability and performance, with noted exceptions for specific components as detailed in maintenance section.
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