That's right, and it's a 2001 325ixt wagon w/164k miles! OK kick me. I want to treat this car well though, as a steward. Should I use synthetic oil next time I change the oil? and where do I find a manual?? Thanks anyone! Joe
I don't have much comment on what might happen with that particular engine if you try synthetic. In years past, it wasn't uncommon for a high-mileage engine that had used conventional oil up to that point to suffer oil leaks when switched to synthetic. If your engine already has synthetic in it, obviously you'd be good-to-go. If you try it, probably advisable to keep a close eye on potential leaks and oil level. I wouldn't be surprised if it did have synthetic, I don't know offhand if yours started life w/ synthetic from BMW; check that out, it's possible - &, presumably, synthetic may well have continued to be used. Manual here: http://www.bentleypublishers.com/bm...bmw-3-series-e46-1999-2005-repair-manual.html You may want to consider this: http://www.turnermotorsport.com/p-91-e46-rear-chassissubframe-reinforcement-kit.aspx
I would use synthetic in your touring. The M54 is supposed to use 7qts of synthetic with filter. I am not typically an advocate for purchasing things from the dealer, but its just easier and cheaper to do i have found. that way, you dont have to worry about the all the oil specifications (which change over time). On any and every car forum, their are arguments abound about what oil to use and their opinions are like, well you know. Be sure to change it every 7500 with 5w-30 if you do end up using synthetic, dont use that crazy 15k service interval BMW recommends as a cost saver to themselves. two links for your consideration: http://www.bimmerfest.com/wiki/index.php?title=BMW_E46#Oil_service http://www.e46fanatics.com/faq/faqs.php#maint as for a manual, i would recommend a bentley as mgarrison said. they are available from most any place that sells bimmer parts. here is one from pelican: http://www.pelicanparts.com/cgi-bin...TOLbks&page=1&bookmark=8&part_number=PEL-B305 also, congrats on your touring! and one with a proper gearbox at that! color me a little jealous! post pics if you can!
Definitely synthetic. All E46 with M54 were factory filled with Castrol (BMW) 5W-30 synthetic. Look on the BMWNA website for the list. You might also be able to find a PDF download for the manual (I presume you want the owner's manual) on the website.
