🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

M3

Year:

2001

Generation Designation:

E46 M3

Chassis Code:

E46

Engine Code Primary:

S54B32

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The 2001 BMW M3 (E46) represented the pinnacle of naturally aspirated inline-six performance in its era, targeting driving enthusiasts who prioritized track capability and a connected driving experience.

Competitors:

Competed directly with high-performance coupes from Audi (RS4), Mercedes-Benz (C32 AMG/C55 AMG), and Porsche (911 Carrera) of the period.

Performance Focus:

The E46 M3 is renowned for its high-revving S54 engine, balanced chassis, precise steering, and optional SMG-II automated manual transmission.

Manual Value Proposition:

Provides official, detailed procedures crucial for maintaining and repairing the complex S54 engine and the M-specific chassis components, ensuring long-term performance and value.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage:

Comprehensive service, repair, and maintenance procedures for the 2001 BMW M3.

Estimated Pages:

Likely over 1000 pages in digital format, reflecting the complexity of the E46 M3.

Type:

Official Service and Repair Manual Software

Language:

English (based on typical official BMW manuals for this market)

Format:

Software/Digital (likely searchable PDF or proprietary viewer)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine (S54B32), cooling system, lubrication, fuel system, exhaust system, clutch, transmission (SMG and 5-speed manual), drive shafts, differential.

Chassis:

Suspension (front and rear), steering system, braking system (including DSC), wheels and tires.

Electrical:

Engine management (DME), ignition system, lighting, instrumentation, infotainment, comfort electronics, body control modules (BCM), diagnostics (OBD-II).

Body:

Body structure, exterior panels, interior trim, doors, windows, sunroof, HVAC system.

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, brake pad/rotor replacement, spark plug replacement.

Diagnostics Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting, component testing, electrical system diagnostics.

Repair Rebuild:

Engine repair (e.g., VANOS, rod bearings), transmission overhaul, clutch replacement, suspension component replacement, brake caliper service, differential service, HVAC component replacement.

Special Tools Procedures:

Use of specific BMW specialty tools for engine timing, VANOS adjustment, clutch alignment, etc.

Depth:

Expert-level, covering detailed component removal/installation, torque specifications, diagnostic procedures, wiring diagrams, and service bulletins.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

Likely a proprietary BMW software executable or a high-resolution, multi-page PDF. Optimized for searchability and navigation.

Print Readability:

Designed for clear viewing on screen and potential printing of individual pages or sections. High-resolution diagrams and illustrations.

Binding:

N/A (Software/Digital Format)

Paper Quality:

N/A (Software/Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Name:

S54B32

Engine Configuration:

Inline 6-cylinder, naturally aspirated

Displacement:

3.2 Liters (3246 cc)

Bore X Stroke:

87.0 mm x 91.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

11.5:1

Redline:

8000 RPM

Horsepower:

333 bhp (245 kW) at 7900 RPM

Torque:

262 lb-ft (355 Nm) at 4900 RPM

Fuel Delivery:

Sequential Multi-Point Fuel Injection (SFI), individual throttle bodies (ITBs)

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ octane recommended)

Dme Type:

MS43

Valve Train:

Double VANOS (variable intake and exhaust camshaft timing), 4 valves per cylinder

🔧 Transmission

Type:

Getrag 420G 6-speed manual transmission

Type:

SMG-II (Sequential Manual Gearbox) electro-hydraulic automated manual transmission

Clutch Manual:

Hydraulically operated single dry plate clutch

Clutch Smg:

Hydraulically operated single dry plate clutch with electro-hydraulic actuation

Differential:

M Variable Lock Differential (M-VLD)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

4488 mm (176.7 in)

Width:

1798 mm (70.8 in)

Height:

1372 mm (54.0 in)

Wheelbase:

2760 mm (108.7 in)

Front Track:

1519 mm (59.8 in)

Rear Track:

1534 mm (60.4 in)

Curb Weight Manual:

1570 kg (3461 lbs)

Curb Weight Smg:

1580 kg (3483 lbs)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

1970 kg (4343 lbs)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact:

Likely 4-star (typical for BMWs of this era, specific data may vary)

IIHS Side Impact:

Likely Acceptable or Good (specific data may vary)

Traction Control:

ASC+T (Automatic Stability Control and Traction)

Stability Control:

DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) with M Dynamic Mode

Braking System:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Dynamic Brake Control (DBC)

Airbags:

Frontal airbags, side-impact airbags (front)

Seatbelts:

Pretensioning seatbelts with force limiters

💡 Technology Features

Head Unit:

BMW Professional Radio/Cassette or CD player, optional navigation system (Business or Professional).

Audio System:

Standard 6-speaker system or optional Harman Kardon premium audio.

Parking Sensors:

Optional Park Distance Control (PDC).

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control.

Telematics:

Optional BMW Assist telematics system with emergency call function.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 7,500 to 10,000 miles or 12-18 months, or as indicated by the Condition Based Service (CBS) system (check manual for specific guidance).

Air Filter Replacement:

Recommended every 15,000-30,000 miles or as needed based on driving conditions.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Typically every 30,000-60,000 miles, depending on spark plug type (e.g., platinum vs. iridium).

Brake Fluid Flush:

Recommended every 2 years regardless of mileage.

Engine Oil Type:

BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) certified synthetic oil, typically 0W-40 or 5W-40.

Engine Oil Capacity:

6.5 Liters (6.9 US Quarts) with filter change.

Coolant Type:

BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 formulation or equivalent), 50/50 mix with distilled water.

Transmission Fluid Manual:

BMW MTF LT-2 (manual transmission fluid), 1.8 Liters capacity.

Transmission Fluid Smg:

BMW DCTF-1 or Pentosin FFL-3 (for SMG hydraulic system), approx. 1.0 Liters capacity for gearbox, additional capacity for hydraulic pump.

Differential Fluid:

BMW Hypoid Gear Oil LS (for limited-slip differential), 1.0 Liter capacity.

Rod Bearings:

Crucial to monitor rod bearing wear, especially on high-mileage or hard-driven examples. Oil analysis is recommended.

Vanos:

VANOS solenoids and seals can degrade, affecting engine performance and idle quality. Repair kits are available.

Subframe Mounts:

Rear subframe mounting points can crack or pull through the chassis due to stress. Reinforcement is often performed.

Cooling System:

Plastic expansion tank and water pump can become brittle and fail. Regular inspection and replacement are advised.

Smg Pump:

SMG hydraulic pump accumulator and pump motor can fail, affecting gear changes. Fluid leaks are also common.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Motorsport:

BMW M GmbH has a rich history of producing high-performance variants of standard BMW models, focusing on motorsport-derived engineering.

E46 M3 Introduction:

The E46 M3 was introduced in 2000 and replaced the E36 M3. It represented a significant leap in performance and technology.

S54 Engine:

The S54 engine was derived from the S50 engine used in the European E36 M3 but featured increased displacement, individual throttle bodies, and Double VANOS for enhanced performance.

Production Period:

2000-2006

Assembly Location:

Regensburg, Germany

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver Award:

Named to Car and Driver's '10Best' list multiple times.

Motortrend Award:

Often praised by automotive journalists for its handling and engine performance.

Emissions Standards:

Compliant with relevant emissions standards for its model year (e.g., EPA Tier 1 in the US).