Positioning:
The 1999 BMW M3 represents the pinnacle of the E36 generation, a performance-focused variant of BMW's iconic 3 Series. It was positioned as a driver's car, offering exceptional handling and a powerful naturally aspirated engine for its era, directly competing with other high-performance sports sedans and coupes.
Competitors:
Competed with vehicles such as the Mercedes-Benz C43 AMG, Audi S4, and certain Porsche models, offering a blend of luxury, performance, and track-capable dynamics.
Performance Focus:
Emphasized driver engagement, balanced chassis, powerful inline-six engine, and superior handling characteristics.
Manual Value:
An officially licensed software manual provides authoritative, manufacturer-approved repair and maintenance information, crucial for preserving the integrity and performance of this enthusiast vehicle.
Primary Coverage:
Mechanical and Electrical Systems, Bodywork, Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Repair
Additional Coverage:
Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Component Testing, Specifications
Estimated Pages:
Approximately 2000+ pages (typical for comprehensive software)
Type:
Service and Repair Manual Software
Format:
Software (likely executable or viewable via a dedicated application)
Powertrain:
Engine (S50B32), Engine Management System (DME), Fuel System, Cooling System, Exhaust System
Drivetrain:
Transmission (Getrag 420G), Clutch, Driveshaft, Differential, Axles
Suspension Steering:
Front and Rear Suspension Components, Shock Absorbers, Springs, Bushings, Steering System
Brakes:
Brake System Components (ABS, Calipers, Rotors, Lines), Parking Brake
Electrical:
Battery, Charging System, Ignition System, Lighting System, Instrument Cluster, Audio System, HVAC Controls, SRS (Airbag) System
Bodywork:
Body Panels, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Bumpers, Glass, Interior Trim
Maintenance:
Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Spark Plug Replacement, Fluid Checks and Top-offs, Belt Inspections
Repair:
Engine Overhaul, Transmission Rebuild, Suspension Component Replacement, Brake System Repairs, Electrical Component Diagnosis and Replacement
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts, Symptom-based troubleshooting guides, Common problem identification
Diagnostics:
OBD-II diagnostics, DME troubleshooting, Sensor testing
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed electrical schematics and diagnostic procedures.
Compatibility:
Windows OS (typically requires a specific version like XP, Vista, 7, or 8 based on the age of the software).
Printability:
Likely printable, allowing users to generate hard copies of specific sections or the entire manual if desired, though the native format is software-based.
Binding:
N/A (Software format, not a physical book)
Paper Quality:
N/A (Software format, not a physical book)
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated Inline 6-Cylinder
Engine Code:
S50B32 (Euro-spec) / S52B32 (US-spec)
Displacement Euro:
3.2 Liters (3201 cc)
Displacement Us:
3.2 Liters (3201 cc)
Horsepower:
321 hp @ 7400 rpm
Torque:
350 Nm (258 lb-ft) @ 3250 rpm
Horsepower:
240 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque:
320 Nm (236 lb-ft) @ 3800 rpm
Fuel Injection:
Sequential Multi-Point Fuel Injection (DME Engine Management)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane or higher recommended)
Length:
Approx. 4470 mm (176.0 in)
Width:
Approx. 1710 mm (67.3 in)
Height:
Approx. 1350 mm (53.1 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2700 mm (106.3 in)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1510 kg (3329 lb) for Coupe
NHTSA Front Impact:
4-Star Driver, 4-Star Passenger (typical for the era)
Traction Control:
ASC+T (Automatic Stability Control + Traction)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Airbags:
Driver and Passenger Frontal Airbags, optional side airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pretensioners
Audio System:
Bavaria C Business/Professional CD or Cassette Player with optional CD changer.
Navigation:
Optional BMW Navigation System (Mk II or Mk III)
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control
Parking Sensors:
Optional rear Park Distance Control (PDC)
Tel Preparation:
Optional integrated telephone preparation.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 - 10,000 miles or 12 months (based on Condition Based Service system or typical recommendation)
Major Service Items:
Inspect/replace spark plugs (approx. 60,000 miles), inspect/replace drive belts, check coolant, inspect suspension and brake components.
Engine Oil:
SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 Synthetic Engine Oil meeting BMW LL-01 or LL-04 specification (consult manual for exact approval).
Coolant:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 or similar ethylene glycol-based coolant)
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 or DOT 5.1 Brake Fluid
Transmission Fluid Manual:
BMW MTF-LT-2 (Manual Transmission Fluid - Longlife 2) or equivalent GL-4 rated gear oil.
Differential Fluid:
SAE 75W-90 Synthetic Gear Oil (GL-5 rated, often a specific BMW SAF-XJ is recommended for LSDs)
Cooling System:
Plastic expansion tank can become brittle and crack; water pump failure is also common.
Subframe Mounts:
Rear subframe mounting points can crack or tear from the chassis due to stress.
Rod Bearings:
Rod bearing wear is a known concern, especially on high-mileage or poorly maintained S50/S52 engines.
Vanos:
The VANOS (Variable Valve Timing) system can develop issues with seals, leading to rough idling or reduced performance.
Bmw Motorsport:
The M3 badge signifies BMW's long-standing commitment to performance and motorsport heritage, stemming from homologation specials like the original E30 M3.
E36 Generation:
The E36 M3 was the second generation M3, introduced in 1992 for Europe and 1995 for North America. The 1999 model year represents the later evolution of the E36 M3, featuring the more powerful S50B32 engine in Europe and the S52B32 in North America.
Production Years:
E36 M3 produced from 1992-1999.
Assembly Locations:
Germany (Munich, Regensburg), South Africa
