BMW E46 – one of the most popular and recognizable models of the German automaker. The car came out 1998 year and won the hearts of many BMW fans with its design, driving performance and reliability. But even such a great car can be made even better, if carried out tuning for BMW e46. Tuning – is the change or improvement of any characteristics of a car in order to increase its performance, comfort, safety or appearance. There are many types of tuning, which can be applied to BMW E46. In this article we will talk about some of them, We will also give recommendations on their selection and installation. 
Types of tuning BMW E46
Tuning the BMW E46 can be divided into several types depending on, what parts of the car are subject to change:
- Technical tuning – this is an engine improvement, powertrain, suspension, braking system, steering and other elements, responsible for the operation of the car. Technical tuning allows you to increase power, acceleration, speed, controllability, braking properties and vehicle stability. Examples of technical tuning of BMW E46:
- Installing a turbocharger or compressor to increase air pressure in the cylinders and, respectively, engine power.
- Replacement or chip tuning of the electronic engine control unit (ECU) to optimize the operation of the fuel system, ignition, inlet and outlet.
- Installing a sports intake manifold, air filter, pipeline and receiver to improve air supply to the engine.
- Installing a sports exhaust manifold, catalyst, muffler and nozzles to reduce exhaust gas resistance and improve engine sound.
- Replacing or installing additional radiators, oil coolers, thermostats and fans to improve engine and transmission cooling.
- Replacing or installing a sports gearbox, clutch, differential, cardan and axle shafts to improve gear shifting, traction and torque distribution between the wheels.
- Replacement or installation of sports suspension, racks, springs, shock absorbers, stabilizers, levers and silent blocks to improve handling, grip and comfort.
- Replacement or installation of a sports brake system, CDs, pads, calipers, hoses and fluids to improve braking performance and safety.
- Replacement or installation of sports steering, rails, pump, rubber and metal hoses, fluid and steering wheel to improve steering sensitivity and responsiveness.
- Exterior tuning – This is a change in the appearance of the car, including body, optics, wheel, rubber and accessories. Exterior tuning allows you to give your car individuality, style, aggressiveness or elegance. Examples of exterior tuning of BMW E46:
- Installation of aerodynamic body kit, including front and rear bumpers, thresholds, wings, spoilers, diffusers and other elements to improve aerodynamics, ventilation and cooling, as well as to change the visual perception of the car.
- Installation of carbon or plastic linings, panels, hood, roof, trunk and other parts to reduce vehicle weight and improve performance, as well as to create contrast or harmony with the main body color.
- Installing sporty or stylish headlights, lanterns, turn signals, fog lights, daytime running lights, angel eyes and other optical elements to improve lighting, visibility and safety, and also to change the appearance of the car.
- Installation of alloy or forged wheels, low profile or sports tires, caps, rings, nuts and other wheel elements to improve driving performance, road grip and braking properties, and also to change the appearance of the car.
- Installation of chrome or painted grilles, lunch, mirrors, moldings, stickers, emblem, antennas and other accessories to decorate the car and emphasize its status or character.
- Interior tuning – this is a change in the interior space of the car, including salon, dashboard, steering wheel, seat, belts, pedals and other elements. Interior tuning improves comfort, convenience, functionality and safety of the car. Examples of interior tuning of BMW E46:
- Leather installation, alcantara, velor or other upholstery material, doors, ceiling and other parts to improve comfort, aesthetics and durability of the interior.
- Installation of sports or ergonomic seats, adjustable in height, bow, lumbar and lateral support for improved comfort, safety and seating of the driver and passengers.
- Installation of sport or decorative seat belts, color, illuminated or with BMW logo to improve safety, car style and personality.
- Installation of sports or stylish pedals, handbrake handles, rugs, headrests and other elements to improve functionality, comfort and interior appearance.
- Installation of carbon, wood, aluminum or other linings, panels, steering wheel, gear lever and other parts to improve quality, style and harmony of the interior.
Secrets and recommendations for tuning the BMW E46
Tuning BMW E46 – This is not only a way to improve the performance and appearance of the car, but also a way to express your individuality, taste and style. but, the process requires not only desire, but also knowledge, experience and finance. therefore, before you start tuning, some secrets and recommendations must be taken into account, that will help you avoid mistakes, disappointments and extra expenses. Here are some of them:
- Determine the goal and budget of tuning. What do you want to get from tuning?: productivity increase, change in appearance, increased comfort or something else? How much are you willing to spend on tuning?: several thousand, tens of thousands or hundreds of thousands of hryvnia? The choice of species depends on these factors, tuning methods and details.
- Explore the features and characteristics of your car. What body type do you have?, engine, powertrain, suspension and other systems? Which parts do or do not fit your car?? What parts can make or break your car's performance?? Compatibility depends on these factors, efficiency and safety of tuning.
- Choose high-quality and suitable tuning parts. Don't skimp on quality, otherwise you risk ruining the performance and appearance of your car, and also compromise its security. Don't buy parts, which do not fit your car, otherwise you risk losing your warranty, break the law or damage other parts. Don't buy parts, that don't suit your style, otherwise you risk ruining the appearance of your car and causing negative emotions in yourself and others.
- Contact professionals or experienced amateurs to install tuning parts. Do not attempt to install parts yourself, if you are not confident in your knowledge and skills, otherwise you risk damaging the parts, car or yourself. Do not trust the installation of parts to unqualified or unscrupulous craftsmen, otherwise you risk receiving low-quality, unsafe or illegal work. Don't skimp on the services of professionals or experienced amateurs, otherwise you risk wasting time, money or car.
- Monitor the condition and maintenance of your car after tuning. Don't forget about regular diagnostics, maintenance and repair of your car after tuning, otherwise you risk deteriorating the performance and appearance of your car, and also compromise its security. Don't ignore possible problems, malfunctions or damage to your car after tuning, otherwise you risk aggravating the situation or losing your car. Don't skimp on quality spare parts, consumables and services for your car after tuning, otherwise you risk losing money, time or car.
Tuning BMW E46 – it's an interesting and exciting process, which allows you to improve the performance and appearance of the car, and also express your individuality, taste and style.
