E46: The 4th Generation BMW 3 Series
I LOVE The E46—especially the memories I’ve made ❤️
Whether it’s a basic 323i or a Competition Package M3, I feel that every model of E46 is special in its own way. I’ve owned 8 E46 models over the last decade and have loved every single one. The driving experience, the steering feel, the memories i’ve made; they all combine to make the E46 one of my favorite car platforms.
So many times, people disregard a car because it’s “not that fast” or because it’s not the pinnacle model. Don’t do that 😂 Enjoy your car and the experiences that come along with it. For me, that’s how I view my first car, a 1999 323i. My 323i was an incredibly special car to me (even though it was a base model with 170hp) and nothing will change that ❤️
My 1999 323i was the getaway car for my wedding!
My Favorite Interior Products For The E46
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Coby Wheel/Ledermanz
The steering wheel is the way you interact with your car. For me, It’s one of the first things I upgrade. Coby Wheel and Ledermanz are my favorite vendors. They have incredible craftsmanship, great communication, and prices that aren’t insane (Wheel wrapping starts at $225 from Colby).
If you already have the steering wheel, Coby is a great option. Link to their store: Coby Wheel
If you need a whole new wheel (Airbag and wheel),I’d go with Ledermanz. Link to their store: Ledermanz
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Headunit upgrades (CarPlay/Android Auto integration)
For me, it’s pretty important to have some modern connectivity options in my daily driver. I’ve tried all the different headunit brands (Seicane, Xtrons, Eonon, the random Aliexpress brands, Joying), but I keep coming back to Avin. They aren’t the cheapest option, but the head units are fantastic quality and really do look OEM. Great install video: E46 install video
Link to the Avin E46 headunits: Avin Avant 4
Another option that is receiving incredible reviews is BlueBus. An I-Bus enabled, fully integrated Bluetooth module for your BMW, Land Rover, or Mini. Link to their store: BlueBus
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ZHP Shift Knob
It’s my favorite knob. Heavier than the standard knob, it’s a pleasure to shift. ECS seems to have one of the better prices around: ZHP Shift Knob
Resources
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E46 Fanatics
The OG of E46 forums. You'll find everything on here: DIY guides, oil recommendations, for sale ads, and plenty of "USE THE SEARCH BUTTON YOU &$*#^&." If you're not sure where to start, check out these discussions:
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RealOEM
It might not seem like much, but RealOEM is THE PLACE for looking up part numbers and names. Detailed diagrams and exploded views of everything. I go here before purchasing almost any part.
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ZHP Mafia
Ah, the ZHP. Some think it's overrated, but once you own one (or 3) you understand why it's so special. Whether or not you have a ZHP, this site is incredibly helpful. DIYs, a great classified section, and plenty of threads to get lost in.