Home Garage Best Water Pump for E46 and E36 BMWs

Best Water Pump for E46 and E36 BMWs

April 26, 2023

Is your BMW E46 or E36 having trouble with its water pump? You don’t have to worry anymore. We have rounded up the best water pumps for your BMW E46, so you can get back on the road quickly and safely.

From quiet operation to faster cooling, these pumps will help keep your engine performance at its best.

Top rated water pumps for E36

Bestseller No. 1

IRONTREE 252-284 Professional Water Pump Kit with Gasket for BMW 320i 323ci 323i 323is 325ci 325i 325is 325xi 328ci 328i 328is 330ci 330i 330xi 525i 528i 530i M3 X3 X5 Z3 Z4, 2.0L 2.5L 3.0L L6 Engine

【Premium Quality】Built to stringent OE specifications and strict quality control standards by the professional OEM manufacturer, 100% function and leakage tested for reliable, leak-free performance
【Better Performance】Upgrade principal component parts, such as bearings (life), impellers (pumping water), mechanical seal kits (sealing) and housings (ruggedness), meet or exceed O.E. form, fit and function
【Perfect Fit】Direct replacement for a proper fit, includes all necessary gaskets and seals needed for a trouble-free and accurate installation
【Factory Direct】Factory direct pricing with no middleman markup. Our mission is to supply the best water pump at the best price
【Great Warranty】3-Year or 50000-Mile Warranty（please carefully check and confirm the detail fitment below in the description）

Bestseller No. 2

Beck/Arnley Water Pump - 131-2130

Matches OE form, fit and function
Heavy duty bearings, sealed and lubed for life
Includes all necessary gaskets and seals needed for a complete installation
Where applicable, metal and resin impellers are offered. See catalog to match pump to this vehicle
Be sure to use the proper coolant to maximize cooling system components. See Beck/Arnley catalog for the coolant for this application.

Bestseller No. 3

URO Parts 11517527799 Water Pump, w/Metal Impeller

Fit Type: Vehicle Specific
Package Dimensions: 5.25 L x 4.75 H x 4.5 W (inches)
Package Weight : 4.9 pounds
Country of Origin : China

Bestseller No. 4

ACDelco Professional 252-284 Water Pump Kit

All Makes water pumps fit GM vehicles as well as a wide range of non-GM vehicles
Thoroughly tested for reliable, leak-free performance
Coated seals support seal longevity and durability
Heat-treated shaft assemblies provide superior strength and durability over non-treated assemblies
High-quality bearings are permanently sealed and lubricated for greater durability and long life

Bestseller No. 5

A-Premium Engine Water Pump [DOHC, 6Cyl 2.0L 2.5L 2.8L 3.0L] Compatible with [3,5 Series E36 E46 E39 E34] 320i, 323ci, 325is, 328ci, 330i, 525i, 528i 97-00 & M3 E36, X3 E83, Z3 E36, Z4 E85 & More

[Vehicle Fitment]: ①Compatible with BMW [3 Series E36 E46] 3i 92-95 01-05 // 323ci 00 // 323i 98-06 // 323is 98-99 // 325Ci 01-06 // 325i 01-05 // 325i 92-95 // 325is 92-95 // 325xi 01-05 // 328ci 00 // 328i 96-00 // 328is 96-99 // 330ci 01-06 // 330i 01-05 // 330xi 01-05 ②fits for [5 Series E34 E39] 525i 01-05 91-95 // 528i 97-00 // 525it 93 // 530i 01-05 ③fits for M3 E36 94-99 // X3 E83 04-06 // X5 E53 01-06 // Z3 E36 97-02 // Z4 E85 03-05 -- [fits the model for DOHC, 6Cyl 3.3L 3.5L 3.8L]
[Reference Number]: AW9261, 43536, W882M, 43536M, V2050012, V20500121, PA5401, US926, CP17000P, 1433712, 1433828, 1437648, 1722536, 1730414, 1740241, 1744243, 7503884, 7504040, 7509985, 7527799, 7527910, 1571387, 1152090, 11511504040, 121005325B, 11217509985, 11511433712, 11511433828, 11511437648, 11511722536, 11511730414, 11511740241, 11511744243, 11517503884, 11517504040, 11517509985, 11517527799, 11517527910
[Specifications]: ①[Impeller Material:] Composite; ②[Housing Material:] Cast Aluminum ③[Impeller Rotation:] Standard ④[Hub Hole Quantity:] 4; ⑤[Impeller Vane Quantity:] 7; ⑥[Mounting Hole Quantity:] 6; ⑦[Drive Type:] Serpentine Belt
[Benefits]: Manufactured and tested to the most stringent standards for superior performance. Made of excellent materials with anti-corrosion features, long-lasting and stable. The bearings have superior impact and wear resistance, and the excellent sealing performance can effectively prevent leakage and extend the service life.
[Buy with Confidence]: A-Premium offers a one-year unlimited-mileage guarantee on our meticulously crafted engine water pump. We offer a wide variety of automotive accessory categories, ensuring that you can hit the road with peace of mind.

Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Top rated water pumps for E46

Bestseller No. 1

IRONTREE 252-284 Professional Water Pump Kit with Gasket for BMW 320i 323ci 323i 323is 325ci 325i 325is 325xi 328ci 328i 328is 330ci 330i 330xi 525i 528i 530i M3 X3 X5 Z3 Z4, 2.0L 2.5L 3.0L L6 Engine

【Premium Quality】Built to stringent OE specifications and strict quality control standards by the professional OEM manufacturer, 100% function and leakage tested for reliable, leak-free performance
【Better Performance】Upgrade principal component parts, such as bearings (life), impellers (pumping water), mechanical seal kits (sealing) and housings (ruggedness), meet or exceed O.E. form, fit and function
【Perfect Fit】Direct replacement for a proper fit, includes all necessary gaskets and seals needed for a trouble-free and accurate installation
【Factory Direct】Factory direct pricing with no middleman markup. Our mission is to supply the best water pump at the best price
【Great Warranty】3-Year or 50000-Mile Warranty（please carefully check and confirm the detail fitment below in the description）

Bestseller No. 2

Beck/Arnley Water Pump - 131-2130

Matches OE form, fit and function
Heavy duty bearings, sealed and lubed for life
Includes all necessary gaskets and seals needed for a complete installation
Where applicable, metal and resin impellers are offered. See catalog to match pump to this vehicle
Be sure to use the proper coolant to maximize cooling system components. See Beck/Arnley catalog for the coolant for this application.

Bestseller No. 3

URO Parts 11517527799 Water Pump, w/Metal Impeller

Fit Type: Vehicle Specific
Package Dimensions: 5.25 L x 4.75 H x 4.5 W (inches)
Package Weight : 4.9 pounds
Country of Origin : China

Bestseller No. 4

ACDelco Professional 252-284 Water Pump Kit

All Makes water pumps fit GM vehicles as well as a wide range of non-GM vehicles
Thoroughly tested for reliable, leak-free performance
Coated seals support seal longevity and durability
Heat-treated shaft assemblies provide superior strength and durability over non-treated assemblies
High-quality bearings are permanently sealed and lubricated for greater durability and long life

Bestseller No. 5

A-Premium Engine Water Pump [DOHC, 6Cyl 2.0L 2.5L 2.8L 3.0L] Compatible with [3,5 Series E36 E46 E39 E34] 320i, 323ci, 325is, 328ci, 330i, 525i, 528i 97-00 & M3 E36, X3 E83, Z3 E36, Z4 E85 & More

[Vehicle Fitment]: ①Compatible with BMW [3 Series E36 E46] 3i 92-95 01-05 // 323ci 00 // 323i 98-06 // 323is 98-99 // 325Ci 01-06 // 325i 01-05 // 325i 92-95 // 325is 92-95 // 325xi 01-05 // 328ci 00 // 328i 96-00 // 328is 96-99 // 330ci 01-06 // 330i 01-05 // 330xi 01-05 ②fits for [5 Series E34 E39] 525i 01-05 91-95 // 528i 97-00 // 525it 93 // 530i 01-05 ③fits for M3 E36 94-99 // X3 E83 04-06 // X5 E53 01-06 // Z3 E36 97-02 // Z4 E85 03-05 -- [fits the model for DOHC, 6Cyl 3.3L 3.5L 3.8L]
[Reference Number]: AW9261, 43536, W882M, 43536M, V2050012, V20500121, PA5401, US926, CP17000P, 1433712, 1433828, 1437648, 1722536, 1730414, 1740241, 1744243, 7503884, 7504040, 7509985, 7527799, 7527910, 1571387, 1152090, 11511504040, 121005325B, 11217509985, 11511433712, 11511433828, 11511437648, 11511722536, 11511730414, 11511740241, 11511744243, 11517503884, 11517504040, 11517509985, 11517527799, 11517527910
[Specifications]: ①[Impeller Material:] Composite; ②[Housing Material:] Cast Aluminum ③[Impeller Rotation:] Standard ④[Hub Hole Quantity:] 4; ⑤[Impeller Vane Quantity:] 7; ⑥[Mounting Hole Quantity:] 6; ⑦[Drive Type:] Serpentine Belt
[Benefits]: Manufactured and tested to the most stringent standards for superior performance. Made of excellent materials with anti-corrosion features, long-lasting and stable. The bearings have superior impact and wear resistance, and the excellent sealing performance can effectively prevent leakage and extend the service life.
[Buy with Confidence]: A-Premium offers a one-year unlimited-mileage guarantee on our meticulously crafted engine water pump. We offer a wide variety of automotive accessory categories, ensuring that you can hit the road with peace of mind.

Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

best water pump for e36 — Photo courtesy nakhon100 via flickr. Used under a CC BY 2.0 license.

Keep Your E36 or E46 Running Cool

Installing a water pump in your vehicle, especially a BMW E46, can offer several benefits that include regulating the engine temperature, increasing the longevity of the engine, and improving fuel efficiency.

The BMW E46 has been known for experiencing overheating issues due to a malfunctioning water pump, and therefore replacing it with the best water pump for your vehicle is crucial.

The best water pump for a BMW E46 should have high-quality materials, efficient flow design, and durable bearings to improve performance and reduce the risk of overheating.

Moreover, a reliable water pump ensures consistent cooling and helps maintain optimal engine temperature, improving efficiency and preventing long-term engine damage.

With benefits like these, it is clear why installing the best water pump in your BMW E46 is a wise and worthwhile investment.

Types of Water Pumps for E46

When it comes to selecting the best water pump for your E46, it’s important to understand the different types of water pumps available in the market.

Electric Water Pump – This type of water pump is electronically driven and designed to increase engine performance and fuel efficiency. It operates quietly and provides a seamless driving experience.

Mechanical Water Pump – Unlike the electric water pump, the mechanical water pump is operated by a belt drive system. This pump is suitable for high-performance applications and is more affordable than its electric counterpart. However, it requires regular maintenance to function optimally and can be noisy.

Electric- Mechanical Water Pump – This type of water pump combines both electric and mechanical water pumps’ features, offering a smooth operating experience, increased engine comfort, and high fuel efficiency. It’s the most advanced water pump type and also the most expensive.

When choosing the best water pump for your E46, you need to consider the price, type of its fitting, and water flow. You should also prioritize your driving style and your vehicle’s condition to determine the most suitable water pump for you.

Factors to Consider When Buying a Water Pump

When buying a water pump for your e46, there are several important factors to consider to ensure you make the right choice.

Firstly, you must check the compatibility of the water pump with your e46 model. This is critical to selecting the right water pump that will work efficiently with your e46.

Secondly, you should consider the quality and durability of the water pump. It is advisable to opt for a high-quality water pump to avoid frequent breakdowns and replacement costs.

Thirdly, you should think about the type of water pump you want. There are two types of water pumps: electric and mechanical pumps. Electric pumps are more efficient and typically last longer, while mechanical pumps are simpler and easier to repair.

Lastly, you should consider the cost of the water pump. Ensure that the water pump you choose falls within your budget while also meeting all your requirements.

By taking these factors into consideration, you can select the best water pump for your e46 that will offer optimal performance and durability.

Top rated water pumps for E36

Bestseller No. 1

IRONTREE 252-284 Professional Water Pump Kit with Gasket for BMW 320i 323ci 323i 323is 325ci 325i 325is 325xi 328ci 328i 328is 330ci 330i 330xi 525i 528i 530i M3 X3 X5 Z3 Z4, 2.0L 2.5L 3.0L L6 Engine

【Premium Quality】Built to stringent OE specifications and strict quality control standards by the professional OEM manufacturer, 100% function and leakage tested for reliable, leak-free performance
【Better Performance】Upgrade principal component parts, such as bearings (life), impellers (pumping water), mechanical seal kits (sealing) and housings (ruggedness), meet or exceed O.E. form, fit and function
【Perfect Fit】Direct replacement for a proper fit, includes all necessary gaskets and seals needed for a trouble-free and accurate installation
【Factory Direct】Factory direct pricing with no middleman markup. Our mission is to supply the best water pump at the best price
【Great Warranty】3-Year or 50000-Mile Warranty（please carefully check and confirm the detail fitment below in the description）

Bestseller No. 2

Beck/Arnley Water Pump - 131-2130

Matches OE form, fit and function
Heavy duty bearings, sealed and lubed for life
Includes all necessary gaskets and seals needed for a complete installation
Where applicable, metal and resin impellers are offered. See catalog to match pump to this vehicle
Be sure to use the proper coolant to maximize cooling system components. See Beck/Arnley catalog for the coolant for this application.

Bestseller No. 3

URO Parts 11517527799 Water Pump, w/Metal Impeller

Fit Type: Vehicle Specific
Package Dimensions: 5.25 L x 4.75 H x 4.5 W (inches)
Package Weight : 4.9 pounds
Country of Origin : China

Bestseller No. 4

ACDelco Professional 252-284 Water Pump Kit

All Makes water pumps fit GM vehicles as well as a wide range of non-GM vehicles
Thoroughly tested for reliable, leak-free performance
Coated seals support seal longevity and durability
Heat-treated shaft assemblies provide superior strength and durability over non-treated assemblies
High-quality bearings are permanently sealed and lubricated for greater durability and long life

Bestseller No. 5

A-Premium Engine Water Pump [DOHC, 6Cyl 2.0L 2.5L 2.8L 3.0L] Compatible with [3,5 Series E36 E46 E39 E34] 320i, 323ci, 325is, 328ci, 330i, 525i, 528i 97-00 & M3 E36, X3 E83, Z3 E36, Z4 E85 & More

[Vehicle Fitment]: ①Compatible with BMW [3 Series E36 E46] 3i 92-95 01-05 // 323ci 00 // 323i 98-06 // 323is 98-99 // 325Ci 01-06 // 325i 01-05 // 325i 92-95 // 325is 92-95 // 325xi 01-05 // 328ci 00 // 328i 96-00 // 328is 96-99 // 330ci 01-06 // 330i 01-05 // 330xi 01-05 ②fits for [5 Series E34 E39] 525i 01-05 91-95 // 528i 97-00 // 525it 93 // 530i 01-05 ③fits for M3 E36 94-99 // X3 E83 04-06 // X5 E53 01-06 // Z3 E36 97-02 // Z4 E85 03-05 -- [fits the model for DOHC, 6Cyl 3.3L 3.5L 3.8L]
[Reference Number]: AW9261, 43536, W882M, 43536M, V2050012, V20500121, PA5401, US926, CP17000P, 1433712, 1433828, 1437648, 1722536, 1730414, 1740241, 1744243, 7503884, 7504040, 7509985, 7527799, 7527910, 1571387, 1152090, 11511504040, 121005325B, 11217509985, 11511433712, 11511433828, 11511437648, 11511722536, 11511730414, 11511740241, 11511744243, 11517503884, 11517504040, 11517509985, 11517527799, 11517527910
[Specifications]: ①[Impeller Material:] Composite; ②[Housing Material:] Cast Aluminum ③[Impeller Rotation:] Standard ④[Hub Hole Quantity:] 4; ⑤[Impeller Vane Quantity:] 7; ⑥[Mounting Hole Quantity:] 6; ⑦[Drive Type:] Serpentine Belt
[Benefits]: Manufactured and tested to the most stringent standards for superior performance. Made of excellent materials with anti-corrosion features, long-lasting and stable. The bearings have superior impact and wear resistance, and the excellent sealing performance can effectively prevent leakage and extend the service life.
[Buy with Confidence]: A-Premium offers a one-year unlimited-mileage guarantee on our meticulously crafted engine water pump. We offer a wide variety of automotive accessory categories, ensuring that you can hit the road with peace of mind.

Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Top rated water pumps for E46

Bestseller No. 1

IRONTREE 252-284 Professional Water Pump Kit with Gasket for BMW 320i 323ci 323i 323is 325ci 325i 325is 325xi 328ci 328i 328is 330ci 330i 330xi 525i 528i 530i M3 X3 X5 Z3 Z4, 2.0L 2.5L 3.0L L6 Engine

【Premium Quality】Built to stringent OE specifications and strict quality control standards by the professional OEM manufacturer, 100% function and leakage tested for reliable, leak-free performance
【Better Performance】Upgrade principal component parts, such as bearings (life), impellers (pumping water), mechanical seal kits (sealing) and housings (ruggedness), meet or exceed O.E. form, fit and function
【Perfect Fit】Direct replacement for a proper fit, includes all necessary gaskets and seals needed for a trouble-free and accurate installation
【Factory Direct】Factory direct pricing with no middleman markup. Our mission is to supply the best water pump at the best price
【Great Warranty】3-Year or 50000-Mile Warranty（please carefully check and confirm the detail fitment below in the description）

Bestseller No. 2

Beck/Arnley Water Pump - 131-2130

Matches OE form, fit and function
Heavy duty bearings, sealed and lubed for life
Includes all necessary gaskets and seals needed for a complete installation
Where applicable, metal and resin impellers are offered. See catalog to match pump to this vehicle
Be sure to use the proper coolant to maximize cooling system components. See Beck/Arnley catalog for the coolant for this application.

Bestseller No. 3

URO Parts 11517527799 Water Pump, w/Metal Impeller

Fit Type: Vehicle Specific
Package Dimensions: 5.25 L x 4.75 H x 4.5 W (inches)
Package Weight : 4.9 pounds
Country of Origin : China

Bestseller No. 4

ACDelco Professional 252-284 Water Pump Kit

All Makes water pumps fit GM vehicles as well as a wide range of non-GM vehicles
Thoroughly tested for reliable, leak-free performance
Coated seals support seal longevity and durability
Heat-treated shaft assemblies provide superior strength and durability over non-treated assemblies
High-quality bearings are permanently sealed and lubricated for greater durability and long life

Bestseller No. 5

A-Premium Engine Water Pump [DOHC, 6Cyl 2.0L 2.5L 2.8L 3.0L] Compatible with [3,5 Series E36 E46 E39 E34] 320i, 323ci, 325is, 328ci, 330i, 525i, 528i 97-00 & M3 E36, X3 E83, Z3 E36, Z4 E85 & More

[Vehicle Fitment]: ①Compatible with BMW [3 Series E36 E46] 3i 92-95 01-05 // 323ci 00 // 323i 98-06 // 323is 98-99 // 325Ci 01-06 // 325i 01-05 // 325i 92-95 // 325is 92-95 // 325xi 01-05 // 328ci 00 // 328i 96-00 // 328is 96-99 // 330ci 01-06 // 330i 01-05 // 330xi 01-05 ②fits for [5 Series E34 E39] 525i 01-05 91-95 // 528i 97-00 // 525it 93 // 530i 01-05 ③fits for M3 E36 94-99 // X3 E83 04-06 // X5 E53 01-06 // Z3 E36 97-02 // Z4 E85 03-05 -- [fits the model for DOHC, 6Cyl 3.3L 3.5L 3.8L]
[Reference Number]: AW9261, 43536, W882M, 43536M, V2050012, V20500121, PA5401, US926, CP17000P, 1433712, 1433828, 1437648, 1722536, 1730414, 1740241, 1744243, 7503884, 7504040, 7509985, 7527799, 7527910, 1571387, 1152090, 11511504040, 121005325B, 11217509985, 11511433712, 11511433828, 11511437648, 11511722536, 11511730414, 11511740241, 11511744243, 11517503884, 11517504040, 11517509985, 11517527799, 11517527910
[Specifications]: ①[Impeller Material:] Composite; ②[Housing Material:] Cast Aluminum ③[Impeller Rotation:] Standard ④[Hub Hole Quantity:] 4; ⑤[Impeller Vane Quantity:] 7; ⑥[Mounting Hole Quantity:] 6; ⑦[Drive Type:] Serpentine Belt
[Benefits]: Manufactured and tested to the most stringent standards for superior performance. Made of excellent materials with anti-corrosion features, long-lasting and stable. The bearings have superior impact and wear resistance, and the excellent sealing performance can effectively prevent leakage and extend the service life.
[Buy with Confidence]: A-Premium offers a one-year unlimited-mileage guarantee on our meticulously crafted engine water pump. We offer a wide variety of automotive accessory categories, ensuring that you can hit the road with peace of mind.

Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Installation Tips for Water Pumps for E46

When installing a water pump on an E46 BMW, ensure that you choose the best water pump based on quality and compatibility, and follow these installation tips to ensure optimal performance and longevity.

Here are a few installation tips to keep in mind:

Use a gasket sealant to prevent leaks and ensure a tight seal between the water pump and the engine block.

Make sure to properly torque the bolts to BMW’s specifications for your specific E46 model.

Priming the water pump by adding coolant to the cylinder head and squeezing the upper radiator hose can minimize the risk of dry start damage.

After installation, perform a pressure check to confirm that there are no leaks in the system.

Use high-quality coolant and replace it every 2-3 years to prevent corrosion and rust buildup in the engine block.

Pro Tip: If you’re not comfortable installing a water pump on your E46, it’s best to have a professional mechanic handle it.

Summary of Best Water Pump for E46

The best water pump for E46 BMWs is the EMP Stewart High-Performance Water Pump. This pump has a superior design and construction that can withstand extreme temperature and pressure conditions.

EMP Stewart water pumps come with a high-flow impeller that ensures efficient coolant circulation, which leads to better engine performance and longer-lasting parts. The pump is also made from high-quality materials that resist corrosion and increase durability.

Other water pumps that may fit E46 BMWs include the BMW Water Pump by Graf and the Saleri Water Pump.

When choosing a water pump for your E46, it is crucial to pick one that meets your specific needs, including your budget, driving style, and climate.

Ensuring that your vehicle’s cooling system is in optimal condition with the right water pump will help prevent engine overheating and costly repairs down the road.

Find the best water pump for E46 and E36 BMWs on Amazon.