The BMW 3-Series had gone through a series of generational changes, with each redesign carrying a specific “E” designation: E21, E30, E36, E46 and E90. The E46 generation, which lasted from 1999 through 2005, contained a total of five models: 323, 325, 328, 330 and M3. Within the five models were various sub-models and body styles. The 2002 BMW E46 included the 325, 330 and M3 models, all of which had the exact same unorthodox location of the fuel pump relay.
Open the glove box and remove the six glove-box-retaining screws — three across the top, one on either side and one on the bottom corner of the passenger’s side — with a Phillips screwdriver. Pull the glove box outward and down to remove it. Allow the glove box to set on the floor.
Look just above the white storage unit behind the glove box and find the two leftmost wiring harnesses. Unplug these two harnesses by pressing and holding the locking button on each, while pulling the harness toward you. Once you unplug the wiring harnesses, notice the three relays above the white storage unit.
Grab the leftmost relay — the fuel pump relay — and pull it outward with a slight wiggling motion to remove it.
Line up the prongs on the new fuel pump relay with the slots in the receptacle. Press the relay into the receptacle.
Plug the two wiring harnesses back into their respective receptacles.
Set the glove box back in its cavity in the dashboard. Tighten the six glove box retaining screws with a Phillips screwdriver.
