1999-2006 (with specific focus on 1999-2005 for this manual)
Codes
Body Styles Covered:
Sedan, Coupe, Convertible, Sport Wagon (Touring)
Engine Codes Covered:
M54B25 (325i/xi), M54B30 (330i/xi), S54B32 (M3)
👋 Introduction
Market Position
Segment:
Premium Sport Sedan/Coupe/Convertible/Wagon
Brand Philosophy:
The E46 generation represented BMW's commitment to driving dynamics ('The Ultimate Driving Machine') with refined engineering and a focus on performance.
Competitive Analysis
Key Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Audi A4, Lexus IS, Infiniti G35, Porsche 911 (for M3 variants).
Key Features
Performance Focus:
Renowned for balanced chassis, rear-wheel drive (with available xDrive AWD), precise steering, and powerful engines, especially the S54 in the M3.
Versatility:
Offered in multiple body styles catering to different needs, from sporty coupes and convertibles to practical sedans and wagons.
📋 Manual Details
Coverage Areas
Regions Covered:
Global (primarily North America, Europe)
Page Count
Estimated Page Count:
Extensive, typically over 2,000 pages for a comprehensive workshop manual.
Suspension (front and rear), steering system (hydraulic power steering), brakes (ABS, DSC, EBD, brake bleeding, rotor/pad replacement), wheels and tires.
Body And Electrical:
Body structure, exterior panels, doors, windows, locks, interior trim, HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning), lighting, instrument cluster, power accessories, SRS (airbag) system, central locking, alarm system, infotainment system, diagnostic connectors (OBD-II).
Procedures Included
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance intervals, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspection/replacement.
Comprehensive. Covers basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including detailed diagnostic procedures and electrical system troubleshooting.
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
File Type:
PDF
Searchability:
Text-searchable for quick information retrieval.
Print Quality
Resolution:
High-resolution scans/digital creation for clear diagrams and text.
Sedan: ~11.2 cu ft (317 L), Coupe: ~11.2 cu ft (317 L), Convertible: ~9.7 cu ft (275 L) with top up
Weights
Curb Weight:
Varies by model and body style, approx. 3300-3700 lbs (1500-1680 kg) for 330i, M3 approx. 3500 lbs (1590 kg).
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
5x120
Center Bore:
72.5 mm
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
IIHS Front Crash Test:
Good (for models tested)
NHTSA Front Crash Test:
4-star (for driver and front passenger, for models tested)
Active Features
Stability Control:
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) standard on most models.
Traction Control:
Automatic Stability Control and Traction (ASC+T) or Dynamic Traction Control (DTC).
Braking Assist:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD).
Passive Features
Airbags:
Front airbags, side airbags, available head protection airbags.
Seat Belts:
Three-point seat belts with pretensioners.
Rollover Protection:
Active rollover protection bars for convertible models.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Head Unit:
BMW Business CD/RDS, BMW Professional CD/RDS, optional navigation system (MKIII or MKIV).
Audio System:
Standard 6-speaker system, optional Harman Kardon premium sound system.
Driver Assistance
Parking Sensors:
Optional Park Distance Control (PDC) front and rear.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control, some models with Active Cruise Control (ACC) were available but rare.
Connectivity
Phone Integration:
Optional Bluetooth hands-free interface (available via snap-in adapter in center armrest).
Diagnostics
OBD Ii:
On-Board Diagnostics II (OBD-II) port located under the dashboard for scan tool connection and fault code retrieval.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
BMW's Condition Based Service (CBS) system typically recommends intervals between 10,000 and 15,000 miles (16,000-24,000 km) or annually, depending on driving conditions.
Coolant Change:
Every 2-4 years or as indicated by the CBS system.
Brake Fluid Change:
Every 2 years.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Spec:
BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) or BMW Longlife-04 (LL-04) certified synthetic oil, viscosity typically 0W-40 or 5W-30 (e.g., Castrol Edge Professional OE).
Coolant Spec:
BMW Coolant/Antifreeze (G48 ethylene glycol based, blue color), mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Power Steering Fluid:
Pentosin CHF 11S or equivalent hydraulic fluid (refer to manual for specific type and color).
Known Issues
Oil Consumption:
Some M54 engines (especially early ones) can consume oil due to PCV system issues or worn piston rings/valve seals.
Cooling System:
Plastic coolant expansion tanks and water pumps can become brittle and fail. Thermostat housing leaks are also common.
Subframe Mounts:
Cracking or separation of rear subframe mounting points, especially on coupes and convertibles, is a significant structural concern that the manual will detail inspection for.
Vanos:
Variable Valve Timing (VANOS) system seals can degrade, leading to rough idle and performance issues. The manual covers diagnosis and repair.
Rod Bearings:
A known issue on the S54 M3 engine, particularly early models, can involve bearing wear. Early detection and replacement are crucial. The manual details inspection procedures.
Oil Pan Gasket:
Leaking oil pan gaskets are common due to age and material degradation.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Bmw Legacy:
BMW has a long-standing reputation for producing driver-focused cars with advanced engineering, a legacy dating back to the early 20th century.
Model Evolution
E46 Context:
The E46 was the fourth generation of the BMW 3 Series, succeeding the E36. It marked a significant evolution in design, technology, and performance, solidifying the 3 Series' position as a benchmark in its class.
M3 Development:
The E46 M3, powered by the high-revving S54 engine, is considered one of the greatest M cars ever produced, known for its exceptional track capability and everyday usability.
Production
Production Years:
1999-2006 (for E46 platform globally)
Manufacturing Locations:
Germany (Main assembly plant in Dingolfing), South Africa, Egypt, Thailand, Russia, India, and China through CKD assembly.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Car And Driver 10 Best:
The BMW 3 Series (including E46 variants) was a perennial recipient of Car and Driver's '10Best' awards during its production run, particularly for its driving dynamics.
Motor Trend Car Of The Year:
While specific E46 models might not have won outright, the 3 Series consistently ranked highly in comparison tests.
Sales Performance:
The E46 was a strong seller for BMW, reinforcing the 3 Series' status as the brand's volume leader and a dominant force in the premium compact executive car segment.
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