Do it yourself
Frequently asked questions about cars and motorcycles
Car tutorial (Do it yourself) Motorcycle tutorial (Do it yourself) Frequently Asked Questions

Replacing Alternator Belt on BMW 3

Model: BMW Serie 3 E46 - Years: 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006
Part: Alternator

See other generations:
Video tutorial

Removing the non-functioning alternator? Let's see how to remove and replace it in the engine compartment of the BMW 3. Open and lift the hood, disconnect the engine cover, remove the air duct hose and, if necessary, the front bumper. Use a wrench to loosen the tensioner pulley and slide the belt off. Use a socket wrench to remove the tensioner pulley mounting bolt and unscrew the mounting bolts of the alternator.

Remove the alternator from the engine compartment. Install the new alternator, the tensioner, and the belt, and tighten everything with the socket wrench.

Test the operation at the end of the installation of all parts.


Updated on 20 March 2026 by ScegliAuto


Related tutorials

Replacing the Serpentine Belt on the BMW 3 Series 330i
Replacing the Serpentine Belt on the BMW 3 Series 330i
BMW Serie 3 (1998-2006 / E46) In this brief and simple guide, see how to remove and replace the serpentine belt on the BMW 3 Series 330i by following the instructions below. First…
Alternator Replacement Instructions
Alternator Replacement Instructions
BMW Serie 3 (1998-2006 / E46) To replace the alternator, first remove the air filter housing (air box) and the cooling fan: you will need a special wrench to loosen the nut securi…
Replacing the Alternator on the BMW 3 Series
Replacing the Alternator on the BMW 3 Series
BMW Serie 3 (1998-2006 / E46) In this brief and simple guide, find the main instructions on how to remove and replace the alternator on the BMW 3 Series. First, open the hood of y…

Other guides you may be interested in

How to open the boot if it is stuck on a Mercedes B-Class?

On the Mercedes B-Class, the boot may become stuck, possibly due to a problem with the control button or the lock actuator. In this case, perform the emergency opening by following the simple procedure shown in this tutorial. First, unlock the locks with the remote control, then open the rear doors and, by operating the indicated lever, lower the backrest of the seat. Next, go inside the boot, locate the indicated gap, and manually unlock the lock using a small screwdriver.

Watch the video!


by ScegliAuto

More videos