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How to change serpentine belt on BMW 3 Saloon (E46) – replacement guide
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Recommended replacement interval for the part category Serpentine belt : 30000 km
Important!
This replacement procedure can be used for:
BMW 3 Saloon (E46) 320d, BMW 3 Saloon (E46) 318 d, BMW 3 Saloon (E46) 320 d … View more
The steps may slightly vary depending on the car design.
BMW 3 Saloon (E46) 320d, BMW 3 Saloon (E46) 318 d, BMW 3 Saloon (E46) 320 d … View more
The steps may slightly vary depending on the car design.
This video shows the replacement procedure of a similar car part on another vehicle
All the parts you need to replace – Poly V-Belt for 3 Saloon (E46) and other BMW models
Serpentine belt
Alternative products

Combination spanner #17
Drive socket # 12
Ratchet wrench
Crow bar
Fender cover
Replacement: serpentine belt – BMW 3 (E46). AUTODOC experts recommend:
- All work should be done with the engine stopped.
Replacement: serpentine belt – BMW 3 (E46). Use the following procedure:
- Step 1Open the bonnet.Step 2Use a fender protection cover to prevent damaging paintwork and plastic parts of the car.Step 3Unscrew the fasteners of the air distribution housing assembly. Use a drive socket #12. Use a ratchet wrench.
- Step 4Remove the air distribution housing assembly.
- Step 5Pull aside the V-ribbed belt tensioner pulley. Use a combination spanner #17. Use a crowbar.
- Step 6Remove the V-ribbed belt.
- Step 7Return the tensioner pulley to its initial position. Use a combination spanner #17. Use a crowbar.Replacement: serpentine belt – BMW 3 (E46). Tip from AUTODOC:Check the condition of the tensioner pulley and idler pulley. Replace them if necessary.
- Step 8Pull aside the V-ribbed belt tensioner pulley. Use a combination spanner #17. Use a crowbar.Step 9Install the V-ribbed belt.Replacement: serpentine belt – BMW 3 (E46). AUTODOC experts recommend:Make sure that the V-ribbed belt fits all pulleys snugly.
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