Standard on:	Base model E46s
Diameter:	385 mm (15.2 inches)
Number of spokes:	4
Wrap material(s):	Leather
Stitching color:	Black
Fingertip control(s):	None
Notes:	Not used on any US Spec models.

Standard on:	Base model E46s
Diameter:	385 mm (15.2 inches)
Number of spokes:	4
Wrap material(s):	Leather
Stitching color:	Black
Fingertip control(s):	Cruise, audio, phone
Notes:	The only base model steering wheel offered for US Spec E46 models

Standard on:	Sport Package (ZSP), early models
Diameter:	375 mm (14.8 inches)
Number of spokes:	3
Wrap material(s):	Leather
Stitching color:	Black
Fingertip control(s):	Cruise, audio, phone
Notes:	Early model E46 sport package only

Standard on:	Sport Package (ZSP), late models
Diameter:	375 mm (14.8 inches)
Number of spokes:	3
Wrap material(s):	Leather
Stitching color:	Black
Fingertip control(s):	Cruise, audio, phone
Notes:	Late model E46 sport package only. Bottom spoke is double spoke design

Standard on:	ZHP Performance Package
Diameter:	375 mm (14.8 inches)
Number of spokes:	3
Wrap material(s):	Perforated Leather, Alcantara
Stitching color:	Black
Fingertip control(s):	Cruise, audio, phone
Notes:	ZHP Package (US Spec only, 330i models). Compared to sport model, thicker grip with thumb rests.

Standard on:	Base model M3
Diameter:	375 mm (14.8 inches)
Number of spokes:	3
Wrap material(s):	Leather
Stitching color:	M Color
Fingertip control(s):	Cruise, audio, phone
Notes:	Compared to sport model, thicker grip with thumb rests.

Standard on:	CSL & ZCP (Competition) Package
Diameter:	375 mm (14.8 inches)
Number of spokes:	3
Wrap material(s):	Alcantara
Stitching color:	M Color
Fingertip control(s):	M Track / Dynamic mode
Notes:	Compared to sport model, thicker grip with thumb rests.

BMW E46 M3, interior upholstery options 2000 thru 2006

UPHOLSTERY NAME	OPTION CODE	MODEL CODE	YEARS OFFERED
Anthracite Impulse cloth & Black Nappa leather	G8AT	BL91, BL92, BL93	09/2000 thru 08/2005
Anthracite M Texture Alcantara & Black Nappa leather	F2AT	BL91, BL92, BL93	09/2000 thru 08/2006
Anthracite Reflex cloth & Anthracite Amaretta	ADAT	BL95, BL96	05/2003 thru 12/2003
Black Nappa leather	N5SW	BL91, BL92, BL93, BR91, BR92, BR93	09/2000 thru 08/2006
Black extended Nappa leather	L7SW	BL91, BL92, BR91, BR92	09/2000 thru 08/2006
Grey Nappa leather	N5TT	BL91, BL92, BL93, BR91, BR92, BR93	09/2000 thru 08/2006
Grey extended Nappa leather	L7TT	BL91, BL92, BR91, BR92	09/2000 thru 08/2006
Imola Red Nappa leather	N5IM	BL91, BL92, BL93, BR91, BR92, BR93	09/2000 thru 08/2006
Imola Red extended Nappa leather	L7IM	BL91, BL92, BR91, BR92	09/2000 thru 08/2006
Cinnamon Nappa leather	N5ZM	BL91, BL92, BL93, BR91, BR92, BR93	09/2000 thru 08/2006
Cinnamon extended Nappa leather	L7ZM	BL91, BL92, BR91, BR92	09/2000 thru 08/2006
Laguna Seca Blue Nappa leather	N5LS	BL91, BL92, BL93, BR91, BR92, BR93	09/2000 thru 08/2006
Laguna Seca Blue extended Nappa leather	L7LS	BL91, BL92, BR91, BR92	09/2000 thru 08/2006
Kiwi Nappa leather	N5OV	BL91, BL92, BL93, BR91, BR92, BR93	09/2000 thru 08/2006
Kiwi extended Nappa leather	L7OV	BL91, BL92, BR91, BR92	09/2000 thru 08/2006

Style Number:	Style 67
Manufacturer:	Ronal
Standard on:	Base model
Wheel Name:	M Double Spoke
Front Offset:	ET+47
Rear Offset:	ET+26
Bolt Pattern:	5 x 120
Factory Setup, Front:	18 x 8
Factory Setup, Rear:	18 x 9
Factory Tire Size, Front:	225/45/18
Factory Tire Size, Rear:	255/40/18
Weight, Front:	24.76 lbs (11.23 kg)
Weight, Rear:	26.96 lbs (12.23 kg)

Style Number:	Style 67
Manufacturer:	Fuchs
Available as:	Extra cost option
Wheel Name:	M Double Spoke
Offset Front:	ET+47
Offset Rear:	ET+27
Bolt Pattern:	5 x 120
Factory Setup, Front:	19 x 8
Factory Setup, Rear:	19 x 9.5
Factory Tire Size, Front:	225/40/19
Factory Tire Size, Rear:	255/35/19
Weight, Front:	26.1 lbs (11.8 kg)
Weight, Rear:	27.34 lbs (12.4 kg)
Notes:	Extra cost option wheel for most markets

Style Number:	Style 163M
Manufacturer:	BBS Germany
Standard on:	ZCP & CS Package
Wheel Name:	M Cross Spoke
Offset Front:	ET+47
Offset Rear:	ET+27
Bolt Pattern:	5 x 120
Factory Setup, Front:	19 x 8
Factory Setup, Rear:	19 x 9.5
Factory Tire Size, Front:	225/40/19
Factory Tire Size, Rear:	255/35/19
Weight, Front:	22.93 lbs (10.4 kg)
Weight, Rear:	25 lb.02s (11.35 kg)
Notes:	Standard on ZCP and CS packages

Style Number:	Style 163M
Manufacturer:	BBS Germany
Standard on:	CSL
Wheel Name:	M Cross Spoke
Offset Front:	ET+44
Offset Rear:	ET+27
Bolt Pattern:	5 x 120
Factory Setup, Front:	19 x 8.5
Factory Setup, Rear:	19 x 9.5
Factory Tire Size, Front:	235/35/19
Factory Tire Size, Rear:	265/30/19
Weight, Front:	23.15 lbs (10.5 kg)
Weight, Rear:	25.02 lbs (11.35 kg)
Notes:	Similar style as ZCP and CS packaged equipped models, but different specs

Where can I learn more BMW wheel styles?

Learn more about BMW wheel styles by clicking HERE

The BMW E46 toolkit:

The OEM BMW E46 toolkit is comprehensive and contains most tools required to do general maintenance on your vehicle. Spark plug changes, wheel mounting and dismount, simple fastener removal and emergency sunroof crank are just a few of the operations the OEM BMW toolkit can assist the owner in. The toolkit represents a time when BMW expected the owners to take part in the simple maintenance of their vehicle rather than relying on the dealership to perform everything. This type of owner/vehicle interaction is something which is severely lacking in the DNA of current models. An indication of a true shift from the old mechanical models of the past to more high tech electrical models of the present.

Having a complete OEM BMW E46 toolkit is a badge of honor to BMW enthusiasts. It shows attention to detail and also gives peace of mind knowing you have a set of tools to be used in emergency situations. Most older model BMW toolkit contents are lost at this point in their life however, it is refreshing to know that most of these tools can still be purchased new and for a cheap price.

Below is a list of the complete BMW E46 toolkit contents and their associated OEM BMW part numbers. Not all tools are found in every model as some markets had extended toolkits with more tools / equipment than others.

What are the contents of the factory BMW E46 toolkit?

No.	Tool	Part Number	Notes
(1)	Spark plug puller	71111180680
(2)	Wheel alignment pin	71111093774	Click HERE to learn more
(3)	Screw Driver	71111179629
(4)	Pliers	71111179522
(5)	Lug wrench	71121179953
(6)	Tow Hook	72157203519
(7)	Emergency sunroof crank	54127199322
(8)	12mm x 13mm wrench	71111126148
(9)	8mm x 10mm wrench	71111112893
(10)	Wheel lock adapter	Unique part number to lug pattern	Not in every kit
*	Warning triangle (not shown)	71606770487	Not in every kit

Where can I learn more BMW fun facts?

Learn more BMW fun facts by clicking HERE

 

How to adjust the BMW E46 clock / time setting:

If you installed a new battery, disconnected your current battery or it happens to be daylight saving time, you will need to learn how to set the clock in your BMW E46.

Luckily, the procedure is very simple and only takes a few minutes of your time.

What are the steps?

• ➊ Turn the key to position 1 or higher (this procedure can be done with the engine running).
• ➋ On the left steering wheel stalk, press the computer button to make the time display in the instrument cluster (see picture below).
• ➌ On the right instrument cluster button, rotate the button left or right to adjust the time.
• ➍ Turning the button to the right sets the time ahead, turning the button to the left to set the time back.
• ➎ The adjustment speed will increase the longer you continue to hold the button.
• ➏ To change the display mode to or from 12 hr / 24 hr press the right button briefly.
• ➐ Remove the key, the procedure is complete.
• ✔ The time on the radio will automatically adjust.

What are other instrument cluster tips?

• ✔ Learn how to reset your oil service / inspection light -->HERE.
• ✔ Learn how to tell if your instrument cluster mileage has been tampered with -->HERE.

OEM BMW E46 radio delete blanking plate:

Removal of the radio head unit has many advantages. It reduces the overall weight of your vehicle (OEM BMW radio weighs about 3 pounds), cleans up the look of your interior and also frees up space for the mounting of additional gauges.

These radio delete blanking panels were originally designed for the E46 M3 CSL (Coupe Sport Lightweight) which had the OEM option upon ordering for radio delete to save weight. The CSL model was not available in the US market, unfortunately. Clean examples of E46 M3 CSL models are highly desirable as production numbers were limited to 1,383 examples worldwide.

BMW makes both a plastic and carbon fiber version of the E46 radio delete blanking plate. The plastic versions go for $10 - $15 brand new where the full carbon versions fetch $190 new. The OEM BMW part number is 65128229147 for the plastic and 65107896770 for the carbon fiber, both can readily be purchased right now. The installation uses the same two mounting screws as the factory radio, installation requires no custom modification with a mounting time of 5 - 10 minutes. The texture of the plastic matches the other plastics found in the interior of your car and fit and finish is perfect as you would expect from an OEM BMW part. Don't settle for third part aftermarket radio delete panels when BMW offers original equipment at a cheap price.

These blanking plates fit all BMW E46 models. New blanking plates can be purchased online by searching the part number or going to your local BMW dealership to order.

Where can I learn more BMW tips?

Learn more BMW pro tips by clicking HERE

Upgrading OEM BMW E46 radio head unit with an AUX Cable:

What draws many people to the older BMW models is the pure driving experience that cannot be replicated by modern cars, some even say by BMW themselves. If you own an E46 you know what I am talking about. It is possibly one of the greatest 3 series ever built. If you daily one you may be frustrated by the lack of modern options to be able to play music from your phone through the OEM radio. CDs and Cassettes have their limitations and do not allow the versatility of having any song at your fingertips like modern phones. Luckily, BMW has a retro fit kit that allows a more modern functionality to the OEM radio.

Obviously, there are options to replace the entire head unit with modern features such as Bluetooth, USB, WiFi etc. Although this is an acceptable solution for some people, it isn't one all E46 owners want. The downside to this are the modern head units can be pricey, you have to cut/splice into the OEM wiring harness, they do not look as clean on installation and the glow the colors at night which is distracting and takes away from the clean OEM look since they often do not match.

The clean, OEM BMW solution:

BMW has created a retrofit kit which allows owners to use the OEM BMW Business radio head unit and install an AUX cable off the back. This keeps the OEM radio harness intact, the clean look and the natural orange glow of the buttons at night to match the rest of your interior.

NOTE: The kit comes with an AUX port only, this allows for the user to stow away the actual cable until needed and plug it into the port when wanting to use it. Many owners opt to not mount the port, but keep an AUX cable permanently installed into the port and feed the AUX cable under the center console for a clean look (see picture below).

Who is this kit for?

Any E46 owner who wants to keep the OEM head unit but still have the option to play music from a device with an auxiliary cable output.

What OEM radios will this work with?

Radios without navigation manufactured after September 2002.

How do I know when my radio was manufactured?

There is a sticker on the bottom side of the OEM head unit with the manufactured date. See picture below for clarification.

Which OEM radios will this not work with?

Any radio with navigation and or built before September 2002.

What is the kit part number?

OEM BMW Part Number: 82110149389

Will my steering wheel buttons work with it?

The volume buttons will work but the next and previous track buttons will not. Same functionality as the OEM head unit.

How much is the OEM kit?

$33 - $40

Where can I purchase it?

BMW dealership, FCPeuro.com, ECStuning.com

What tools are needed?

Philips head screwdriver, plastic pry tool.

How long does installation take?

10 - 15 min

How do I install the AUX kit?

The kit comes complete with step by step installation instructions. The entire process is very simple.

How do I access the AUX mode once installed?

Hit the MODE button on the head unit until AUX appears on the screen.

Where can I learn more BMW fun facts?

Learn more BMW fun facts by clicking HERE

How to reset BMW E46 oil service / inspection oil light:

After performing an oil change, the BMW E46 oil service / inspection light must be reset.  Once reset, the computer will then count down from 15,000 miles until the next oil change.  The below procedure works on every BMW E46 model produced from 9/99 onward.

The reset procedure is straightforward and does not require any special tools or even for the vehicle to be brought to a dealer.  If you change your own oil at home you can and must reset your indicator light through the steps below.

What are the steps?

• ➊ Turn the ignition key in the "off" position.
• ➋ Press and hold the lower left button on the instrument cluster, which is the trip odometer button.
• ➌ While the trip odometer button is pressed, turn the ignition key to the FIRST position (KLR).
• ✔ IMPORTANT:  DO NOT GO TO THE SECOND POSITION, if you do, remove the key and start over.
• ➎ Keep the trip odometer button pressed for approximately 5 seconds until one of the following words appear in the display: "OIL SERVICE" or "INSPECTION" with "rESET" illuminated above.
• ➏ Release the trip odometer button and press and hold it until "rESET" flashes.
• ➐ While the display is flashing, press the left button briefly to reset the service interval.
• ➑ After the display has shown the new interval, the following will appear: "END SIA".

✔ The system can only be reset again after 2.5 gallons (10 liters) of fuel have been consumed.

Other BMW model oil service inspection light reset procedures:

• E38, E38, E53 X5
• E30