The BMW 3 Series is a compact executive car produced by the German manufacturer BMW since 1975. By 2012, it had evolved through six generations and five body styles. As BMW's best-selling model, it accounts for approximately 30% of the brand's total global sales. The first generation, the E21, was developed in response to the 1970s global fuel crisis, targeting customers seeking a balance of luxury and fuel efficiency.
The following generations, including the E30 and E36, saw increasing market success. The fourth generation, the E46, debuted in 1998 as a saloon, with coupé and touring (estate) variants introduced in 1999. If you own a BMW E46 and are unsure which tyres are suitable, the Oponeo.co.uk tyre configurator is a helpful tool.
Aside from a facelift, the E46 remained largely unchanged until 2005 and is still praised today for its timeless design, which holds up well against more modern vehicles. In 2005, the E46 was succeeded by the E90, which featured a more refined and less aggressive design while maintaining a dynamic character. In 2006, BMW introduced coupé and convertible versions, which, unlike previous generations, were developed as standalone models rather than derivatives of the saloon.
The E90 series brought several technological advancements, including aluminium-magnesium engine blocks, electric water pumps, Valvetronic (variable valve lift control), and an updated VANOS system. The sixth generation, designated F30, premiered in November 2011 and adopted styling cues consistent with other contemporary BMW models.
Depending on the trim level, BMW E46 tyre sizes include: 185/65 R15, 195/65 R15, 205/55 R16, 205/60 R15, and 255/40 R17.
Optional tyre sizes for the BMW 3 Series include: 205/45 R18, 205/50 R17, 215/40 R18, 225/40 R18, and 245/35 R18.
How to Reset the Tyre Pressure Sensor in a BMW E90
If you own a BMW E90, resetting the tyre pressure sensor is a straightforward process using the vehicle’s iDrive system. After selecting the appropriate settings in the infotainment menu, drive the car for approximately 2–3 km to allow the system to recalibrate and complete the reset.