BMW 3 Compact (E46) Wheel Lug Pattern, Offset & Center Bore Reference
The BMW 3 Compact (E46) uses specific wheel lug patterns defined by lug count and pitch circle diameter (PCD) to ensure proper fitment. Understanding the exact bolt pattern is crucial for selecting compatible aftermarket or replacement wheels.\n\nTypically, the 3 Compact (E46) features a 5×120 mm lug pattern with offset ET values varying between model years and trims. Center bore dimensions are consistent, designed to maintain wheel centering on the hub for balanced performance.\n\nRim sizes for the E46 3 Compact also vary, generally ranging from 15 to 17 inches in diameter, affecting overall stance and handling characteristics. Referencing year-specific fitment data helps optimize wheel upgrades and replacements for this model.\n\nUsing accurate lug pattern, offset, and center bore data prevents mounting issues and ensures safety and performance when selecting wheels for the BMW 3 Compact (E46). Consult our detailed year-sorted catalog for precise specifications.
| Make / model / trim | Year | Tire | Rim width (in) | Rim diam. (in) | Bolt pattern | Offset ET | Bore DIA | Mounting |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| BMW 3 Compact (E46) 316 ti | 2005 | 195/65R15 | 7 | 15 | 5×120 | 42 | 72.6 | M12*1,5 |
| BMW 3 Compact (E46) 318 td | 2005 | 195/65R15 | 7 | 15 | 5×120 | 42 | 72.6 | M12*1,5 |
| BMW 3 Compact (E46) 318 ti | 2005 | 195/65R15 | 7 | 15 | 5×120 | 42 | 72.6 | M12*1,5 |
| BMW 3 Compact (E46) 320 td | 2005 | 195/65R15 | 7 | 15 | 5×120 | 42 | 72.6 | M12*1,5 |
| BMW 3 Compact (E46) 325 ti | 2005 | 195/65R15 | 7 | 15 | 5×120 | 42 | 72.6 | M12*1,5 |
| BMW 3 Compact (E46) 316 ti | 2004 | 195/65R15 | 7 | 15 | 5×120 | 42 | 72.6 | M12*1,5 |
| BMW 3 Compact (E46) 318 td | 2004 | 195/65R15 | 7 | 15 | 5×120 | 42 | 72.6 | M12*1,5 |
| BMW 3 Compact (E46) 318 ti | 2004 | 195/65R15 | 7 | 15 | 5×120 | 42 | 72.6 | M12*1,5 |
| BMW 3 Compact (E46) 320 td | 2004 | 195/65R15 | 7 | 15 | 5×120 | 42 | 72.6 | M12*1,5 |
| BMW 3 Compact (E46) 325 ti | 2004 | 195/65R15 | 7 | 15 | 5×120 | 42 | 72.6 | M12*1,5 |
| BMW 3 Compact (E46) 316 ti | 2003 | 195/65R15 | 7 | 15 | 5×120 | 42 | 72.6 | M12*1,5 |
| BMW 3 Compact (E46) 318 td | 2003 | 195/65R15 | 7 | 15 | 5×120 | 42 | 72.6 | M12*1,5 |
| BMW 3 Compact (E46) 318 ti | 2003 | 195/65R15 | 7 | 15 | 5×120 | 42 | 72.6 | M12*1,5 |
| BMW 3 Compact (E46) 320 td | 2003 | 195/65R15 | 7 | 15 | 5×120 | 42 | 72.6 | M12*1,5 |
| BMW 3 Compact (E46) 325 ti | 2003 | 195/65R15 | 7 | 15 | 5×120 | 42 | 72.6 | M12*1,5 |
| BMW 3 Compact (E46) 316 ti | 2002 | 195/65R15 | 7 | 15 | 5×120 | 42 | 72.6 | M12*1,5 |
| BMW 3 Compact (E46) 318 ti | 2002 | 195/65R15 | 7 | 15 | 5×120 | 42 | 72.6 | M12*1,5 |
| BMW 3 Compact (E46) 320 td | 2002 | 195/65R15 | 7 | 15 | 5×120 | 42 | 72.6 | M12*1,5 |
| BMW 3 Compact (E46) 325 ti | 2002 | 195/65R15 | 7 | 15 | 5×120 | 42 | 72.6 | M12*1,5 |
| BMW 3 Compact (E46) 316 ti | 2001 | 195/65R15 | 7 | 15 | 5×120 | 42 | 72.6 | M12*1,5 |
| BMW 3 Compact (E46) 318 ti | 2001 | 195/65R15 | 7 | 15 | 5×120 | 42 | 72.6 | M12*1,5 |
| BMW 3 Compact (E46) 320 td | 2001 | 195/65R15 | 7 | 15 | 5×120 | 42 | 72.6 | M12*1,5 |
| BMW 3 Compact (E46) 325 ti | 2001 | 195/65R15 | 7 | 15 | 5×120 | 42 | 72.6 | M12*1,5 |
FAQ
- What is the standard lug pattern for the BMW 3 Compact (E46)?
- The BMW 3 Compact (E46) typically uses a 5×120 mm lug pattern.
- What offset (ET) values are common for the 3 Compact (E46) wheels?
- Offset (ET) values generally range between ET30 and ET40, depending on the specific year and trim.
- Why is the center bore important for wheel fitment on the 3 Compact (E46)?
- The center bore ensures the wheel centers properly on the hub, preventing vibrations and ensuring safe mounting.
Tire size calculatorShow
Compare two tire sizes — diameter, speedometer error, and clearance change.
| Size 1 | Size 2 | Diff | Diff(%) | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Diameter | 25.0" | 25.4" | 0.5" | 1.89% |
| Width | 7.7" | 8.5" | 0.8" | 10.26% |
| Circumference | 78.4" | 79.9" | 1.5" | 1.86% |
| Profile height | 5.0" | 4.2" | -0.7" | -15.08% |
| Turnover per mile | 807 | 793 | 14 | -1.73% |
| Clearance | - | - | +0.2" | - |






Speedometer Error
(First wheel OEM size)
| Reading | 20 mph | 30 mph | 40 mph | 50 mph | 60 mph | 70 mph | 80 mph | 90 mph |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Actual | 20.4 | 30.5 | 40.7 | 50.9 | 61.1 | 71.2 | 81.4 | 91.6 |
