BMW 3 Serie 320 D E46
Spare parts and drivetrain components for BMW 3 Serie 320 D E46. Confirm fitment using your make, model and engine before ordering.
Products for BMW 3 Serie 320 D 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 left, Rear right
- Flange diameter: 100 mm
- Total length: 614 mm
- Splines wheel side: 27
- ABS teeth: 48
- Position: Rear
- Number of centre bearings: 1
- Number of joints: 2
- Total length: 1,462 mm
- Position: Rear
- Number of centre bearings: 1
- Number of joints: 3
- Total length: 1,380 mm
- 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
Drivetrain for BMW 3 Serie 320 D E46
The BMW 3 Serie 320 D E46 is an iconic model renowned for its balance and driving dynamics, but keeping those qualities intact requires a drivetrain in peak condition. As the owner of a 320d on the E46 chassis, you know that power delivery is central to the car's character. The drivetrain in this model is engineered to cope with the stout torque generated by the diesel engine, placing high demands on component durability. Here at CVJoint24, you will find a dedicated range tailored specifically to this model variant. We understand the technical nuances of BMW engineering and supply parts that meet or exceed original equipment specifications. Choosing the right spare parts protects not only your car's reliability but also its resale value. Our focus is on delivering an exact fit to minimise installation time and maximise the service life of your BMW 3 Serie.
How the drivetrain is configured on the BMW 3 Serie 320 D E46
The drivetrain layout on a BMW 3 Serie 320 D E46 follows BMW's classic rear-wheel-drive principle. Power from the four-cylinder diesel engine is transmitted via the gearbox to a longitudinal propeller shaft. This prop shaft is typically split into sections supported by a centre bearing and flexible rubber couplings (guibos) to absorb vibrations. From the propeller shaft, torque enters the rear differential, which distributes power to the wheels through two drive shafts. On a 320d, it is especially vital that these components are dimensioned to handle the characteristic low-end torque of the diesel engine. Every link in the chain, from the gearbox flange to the wheel hub, plays a decisive role in how the car feels on the road. A properly functioning drivetrain minimises parasitic losses and ensures every horsepower reaches the tarmac efficiently. Understanding this layout is essential for identifying where a fault originates when the car no longer behaves as it should.
Common faults and symptoms
There are several distinct signs that drivetrain components on your BMW 3 Serie 320 D E46 are wearing out. One of the most frequent symptoms is vibration felt through the bodyshell under acceleration, which can often be traced back to an unbalanced propeller shaft or a worn centre bearing. If you hear a clicking noise on tight turns, an outer CV joint is often failing, usually because a split CV boot has allowed dirt to enter. Another issue characteristic of the E46 chassis involves the ABS system: if the ABS warning light illuminates or the system intervenes erratically, the cause is frequently a corroded or cracked ABS ring. Paying close attention to these early warning signs allows you to rectify problems before they cause more extensive, costly damage to other driveline parts.
Common parts to replace on the BMW 3 Serie 320 D E46
When the time comes for maintenance or repairs on your BMW 3 Serie 320 D E46, certain components are replaced more regularly. The rear drive shafts endure considerable strain and are common wear items, especially on cars with high mileage. The propeller shaft and its associated hardware, such as universal joints and bearings, are also vital inspection points. To make finding what you need simple, we have categorised the most essential parts for your model:
- Drive shaft BMW 3 Serie 320 D E46 - Complete shafts for dependable power delivery to the rear wheels.
- Propeller shaft BMW 3 Serie 320 D E46 - Centre drive shafts engineered to eliminate drivetrain vibrations.
- ABS ring BMW 3 Serie 320 D E46 - Precision-engineered reluctor rings ensuring accurate sensor signals.
By replacing worn parts with components manufactured to the correct specification, you ensure your BMW maintains its factory road manners. We always recommend inspecting surrounding seals and bolts during installation to guarantee a lasting repair.
How to find the right part for your BMW 3 Serie 320 D E46
Navigate directly to the right category for your BMW 3 Serie 320 D E46:
On a vehicle where drivetrain issues can stem from multiple areas, starting in the correct category saves valuable time. By comparing the specific subcategories for the BMW 3 Serie 320 D E46, it becomes straightforward to distinguish between faults in a drive shaft, CV joint or propeller shaft, and head straight to the section matching your symptoms and specifications.
- Drive shafts for BMW 3 Serie 320 D E46
- Propeller shafts for BMW 3 Serie 320 D E46
- ABS rings for BMW 3 Serie 320 D E46
Finding the exact part for a BMW 3 Serie 320 D E46 can occasionally prove tricky due to variations linked to production month and equipment levels. The most reliable method to identify compatible components is using our make, model and engine selector. By selecting your car's precise specifications, you can filter our catalogue to parts guaranteed to fit your vehicle. This is particularly crucial for components such as driveshafts and prop shafts, where lengths and spline counts frequently vary. At CVJoint24, we have invested extensive effort into aligning our database with BMW technical data so you can pick the right product first time. Should you have any doubts, our technical specialists are always available to guide you through our range of car parts. Our goal is to ensure you never have to worry about fitment, saving time and hassle in the garage.
Why shop with CVJoint24
CVJoint24 is the international shop of a Swedish driveline specialist, dispatching orders across the EU from our central warehouse in Helsingborg, Sweden. We stand out from general motor factors thanks to our deep specialist expertise and uncompromising focus on driveline components. When you purchase parts for your BMW 3 Serie 320 D E46 from us, you receive not just a quality spare part, but the reassurance of our fitment guarantee. Our extensive stockholding ensures prompt dispatch across Europe, minimising the time your car spends off the road. Our catalogue is carefully curated to offer the ideal balance between competitive pricing and durability. As drivetrain specialists, we know that precision engineering matters, and we strive to be the trusted partner for DIY mechanics and professional garages who expect parts built to last.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Drivetrain for BMW 3 Serie 320 D E46
How do I know if the drive shaft is failing on my BMW E46 320d?
The most common signs are clicking noises when cornering sharply or vibrations under acceleration. You should also check if the CV boots are split, as this often leads to premature wear.
Why does my BMW 320d vibrate under acceleration?
Vibrations felt through the bodyshell are often caused by an unbalanced propeller shaft, a worn centre bearing, or a deteriorated propshaft coupling (guibo). It is important to inspect the entire prop shaft to eliminate the vibrations.
Do all E46 drive shafts fit a 320d?
No, drive shafts vary depending on the engine variant and gearbox. Diesel models such as the 320d often have sturdier driveshafts to cope with the higher torque. Always select your vehicle by make, model and engine to find the correct part.
What causes ABS faults on the BMW 3 Serie E46?
A very common issue is that the ABS ring on the drive shaft corrodes and splits, disrupting the sensor signal. This triggers the ABS warning light and can cause unwanted interference from the braking system.
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 itself is otherwise in good condition, making it a very cost-effective repair.
How quickly are the parts delivered for my BMW?
We offer fast delivery on most of our stocked items, meaning you can get your parts promptly and get your repair underway.