BMW 3 Serie 320 CD E46
Car parts and drivetrain components for BMW 3 Serie 320 CD E46. Always check the fit before ordering.
Products for BMW 3 Serie 320 CD E46
- Position: Rear right
- Flange diameter: 100 mm
- Total length: 668 mm
- Splines wheel side: 27
- ABS teeth: 48
- Diameter: 30 mm
- Hole spacing c/c: 160 mm
- Bearing thickness: 35 mm
- Position: Rear
- Number of centre bearings: 1
- Number of joints: 2
- Total length: 1,462 mm
- Position: Rear left, Rear right
- Flange diameter: 100 mm
- Total length: 614 mm
- Splines wheel side: 27
- ABS teeth: 48
- Flange diameter: 94 mm
- Total length: 610 mm
- Splines wheel side: 27
- Flange diameter: 94 mm
- Total length: 675 mm
- Splines wheel side: 27
- Position: Rear, Outer
- Inner splines: 25
- Outer diameter: 94 mm
- Splines wheel side: 27
- ABS teeth: 48
- Flange diameter: 100 mm
- Total length: 665 mm
- Splines wheel side: 27
- Position: Rear left
- Total length: 620 mm
- Splines wheel side: 27
- Flange diameter: 100 mm
- Total length: 610 mm
- Splines wheel side: 27
Frequently Asked Questions about Drivetrain Parts for BMW 3 Serie 320 CD E46
What are the most common signs that the propeller shaft needs replacing on a BMW E46 320 CD?
The most common symptoms are body vibrations, especially during acceleration or at speeds between 80–120 km/h. A thumping or clunking noise from the centre of the car under load can also indicate wear in the universal joints or the prop shaft centre bearing.
Does the same drive shaft fit all BMW 3 Series E46 models?
No, drive shafts vary depending on the engine, gearbox and whether the car is rear-wheel drive or four-wheel drive. For the 320 CD, it is essential to choose a shaft engineered to handle the diesel engine's torque. Always filter by make, model and engine to find the correct fitment.
Why do the ABS rings fail on the BMW 320 CD E46?
This is usually caused by corrosion. Rust builds up on the drive shaft beneath the ABS ring, causing the ring to expand and eventually crack. This alters the distance to the wheel speed sensor and triggers fault codes in the ABS and DSC systems.
Can I replace just the ABS ring, or do I need to replace the entire drive shaft?
On the BMW E46, it is often possible to replace just the ABS ring if the drive shaft is otherwise in good condition. This requires thoroughly cleaning all rust off the mounting surface before fitting the new ring.
How do I know if vibrations are coming from the drive shaft or the propeller shaft?
Vibrations from the propeller shaft are typically felt through the entire bodyshell and floorpan, whereas vibrations from a drive shaft are often felt through the steering wheel or on one specific side of the car, particularly when cornering or accelerating hard.
Do you offer a guaranteed fitment on parts for the BMW 3 Serie 320 CD E46?
Yes, we guarantee fitment when you select parts using your vehicle's exact make, model and engine specification. This ensures that the component is technically compatible with your specific car.