Blog · research notes
What we learn while building the configurators: changeovers, part families, the traps. Every article names its sources and how sure we are.
The E46 Compact shares its name, not its nose: own headlights, own bumper covers front and rear, no facelift split. What that means when you buy parts.
BMW's catalogue picks an E46 bumper cover by body style, production date and package, never by engine. What sensors, tow hitches and washers really change.
Forum names like M-Tech, M-Tech 2 and xenons are not in BMW's parts catalogue. A glossary of what BMW actually calls E46 bumpers, steering wheels and lights.
Try it on your car
Pick your model, year and body style in the configurator and get the part that fits it, with the OEM number and offers side by side.
Open E46BUILD