The first time I start my 97 BMW 325 each day it starts right up. The rest of the day I cant get it started. I have to press down on the gas pedal .. it doesnt turn over something sounds like its whirring or spinning and it dies. after several tries it will finally start. the bmw dealer says nothing shows up on the computer

yamaha g16 gas golf cart

time for a service and cant be ignored

something not right between pedal and drive wheels
if pedal has to be pressed like that

hi Looks like your starter motor is sticking.
Get that checked out.
thanks

For a minute there I was going to say a 2001 would not have a carb.
If the fuel line has no gas, is the pump working ?

While I agree that the fuel pump would be the most likely suspect for this car failing to restart, if it is the fuel pump, however, the fact that it started after tapping hard on the throttle would be pure coincidence.
I believe that all e46s have used drive-by-wire throttles. That is - there is no throttle cable between the gas pedal and the throttle. The gas pedal generates an electronic signal that tells the computer where your foot is, and the computer opens the throttle. You say that the car experienced a sudden stop. Did the engine get shut off while the throttle was open? If so, perhaps flooring the throttle caused the electronically controlled throttle to cycle and reset itself (just a theory).
Listen for the hum of the fuel pump when you turn the key to the On position, before you turn the key to the crank position. The hum should last only a second or so. The pump shuts off after the system is pressurized. If you don't hear that hum when the car fails to start (if this happens again), then you have a fuel pump problem.

Don't shut it off.

If the fuel filter has been replaced, then maybe these are other reasons:

1. intake camshaft sensor (known to go bad on BMW E46s). ~$100 part.

2. fuel injectors (though I doubt they go bad that easily). ~$100/ piece. Your car has 6.

3. Ignition coils. ~$90 a piece. Your car has 6.

4. mass air flow sensor. Again, another expensive part. ~$300.

Are you getting fuel to the fuel rail on the engine? Can you hear the pump running? Recheck the hose you replaced. Could have come off. 

could be 3 things being i cant see it...either the starter. alternator...and doubt it but could be water pump

There have been several recalls on this vehicle for similar problems. I don't see in your posting where you took the vehicle to the dealer to check for recalls. You can call Nissan at 1-800-Nissan1 (in the U.S.) and have them check the VIN without taking it to the dealership. They will tell you if there are any outstanding recalls.

the powersteering reservoir is black and right in front towards the right side of the engine with a twist off cap