Basic information (BMW 3 Series E46)

The body is made of stamped steel parts. The parts are mostly welded together, but some connections are made with glue.

The hood, doors and some other vulnerable panels are made of galvanized metal and are treated with a primer before painting to prevent cracking of the paint.

Many parts are made of plastic. These are mainly interior parts of the cabin, as well as some exterior parts. The front and rear bumpers, as well as the radiator grille, are made by extrusion from a highly durable and lightweight synthetic material. To increase the body's resistance to corrosion, plastic parts are installed in its lower part, such as wheel arch liners (lockers).