Hood/Headlights

Hood/Headlights




The E46 follows the E38/E39 design with the kidney grille being integrated into the hood. The grille openings are more rounded and sweep down to the front bumper. The cowl opening is now integrated in the hood and is similar to the E38. The hood can be opened to a maximum of 90°, the workshop position, by disconnecting the gas struts and inserting a pin in the aligned holes.

The hood is opened by first pulling the release lever located inside the vehicle and then releasing the secondary catch that pops out of the grille.

The E46 carries on with the traditional four head lamp configuration, however, no internal lens is used over each lamp. The free-form reflectors are clearly visible through the smooth, plastic covers. The plastic covers are lighter in weight and more resistant to breakage than the previous glass covers.

Vertical and horizontal adjustments for the head lamps are located on the upper rear edge of the assemblies.

Xenon low beam head lamps will be an available option starting with 9/98 production.