the same layout as the rear wheel drive
version.
The rear suspension travel of the E46 all
wheel drive is approx. 17 mm (0.67 in.)
less than the rear wheel drive version.
The reason for the reduced travel in the
rear is to prevent excessive body roll as
a result of the higher body profile.
The rear stabilizer bar diameter has
been increased to accommodate the
additional vehicle weight. See
Table
a
.
Table a. E46 stabilizer bars
Model
Front
diameter
Rear
diameter
Rear wheel
drive
23.0 mm
(0.906 in.)
18 mm
(0.709 in.)
All wheel
drive
23.5 mm
(0.925 in.)
20 mm
(0.787 in.)
Sport
suspension
(n/a on awd)
24.0 mm
(0.945 in.)
19 mm
(0.748 in.)
Brakes
E46 cars are equipped with power disc
brakes with integral antilock brakes
(ABS). The parking brake is a dual-drum
system integrated with the rear brake
rotors.
Power assist is provided by a vacuum
booster when the engine is running. The
brake pedal pushrod is connected
directly to the master cylinder, so failure
of the vacuum booster does not normally
result in total brake failure.
Each disc brake uses a caliper with a
single hydraulic cylinder. Brake pads in
the left front and right rear contain wear
sensors. When the pads need
replacement, the sensors illuminate a
Suspension, Steering and Brakes — General
http://ebahn.bentleypublishers.com/BMW/3/E46/Repair%20Manuals/3...
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