Segment:
High-performance compact executive car
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, professional automotive technicians seeking in-depth knowledge of the E46 M3.
Key Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz C-Class AMG, Audi S4, Porsche 911 (Carrera)
Driving Dynamics:
Renowned for precise handling, responsive steering, and balanced chassis.
Engine Performance:
The naturally aspirated S54 engine is a legendary high-revving powerplant.
Value Proposition:
Empowers owners and technicians with the knowledge to maintain, repair, and optimize their E46 M3.
Primary Coverage:
Service, Repair, Maintenance, Diagnostics
Secondary Coverage:
Troubleshooting, Specifications, Wiring Diagrams
Estimated Page Count:
1500+
Type:
Factory Service Manual (FSM)
Engine:
S54 (3.2L Inline-6), S52 (3.2L Inline-6 - US Market early models)
Transmission:
Getrag 420G (6-speed manual), SMG II (Sequential Manual Gearbox)
Drivetrain:
Rear-wheel drive, Limited-slip differential (M Variable Lock)
Suspension:
Front: MacPherson struts, Rear: Multi-link independent suspension, M-specific tuning
Brakes:
Front: Vented discs with floating calipers, Rear: Vented discs, ABS, DSC (Dynamic Stability Control)
Electrical:
ECU diagnostics, DME (Digital Motor Electronics), Integrated chassis management, Lighting, Audio, HVAC, Power accessories
Body:
Body structure, Exterior panels, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Bumpers, Glass, Sealing
Interior:
Seats, Dashboard, Trim, Airbags, Restraint systems, Climate control
Diagnostics:
On-board diagnostics (OBD-II), Fault code interpretation, Live data stream analysis
Routine Maintenance:
Oil change, Filter replacement, Spark plug replacement, Coolant flush, Brake fluid flush, Differential fluid change
Major Repairs:
Engine rebuild, Transmission overhaul, Clutch replacement, Suspension component replacement, Brake system overhaul
Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step diagnostic guides for common and uncommon issues
Component Removal Installation:
Detailed instructions for removing and installing all major and minor components
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical schematics for all vehicle systems
Depth:
In-depth mechanical and electrical repair, including complete engine and transmission rebuilds, advanced diagnostics, and component-level troubleshooting.
Digital Format:
PDF (Portable Document Format)
Searchability:
Text-searchable, allowing for quick information retrieval.
Image Quality:
High-resolution diagrams, illustrations, and photographs.
Digital Binding:
N/A (Digital File)
Digital Paper:
N/A (Digital File)
Configuration:
3.2L (3246cc) Naturally Aspirated Inline-6
Bore X Stroke:
87 mm x 91 mm
Compression Ratio:
11.5:1
Valvetrain:
Double Overhead Camshafts (DOHC), 24 Valves, VANOS (Variable Valve Timing) on intake and exhaust camshafts
Horsepower:
333 hp @ 7900 rpm (US Market), 343 hp @ 7900 rpm (Euro Market)
Torque:
262 lb-ft @ 4900 rpm (US Market), 273 lb-ft @ 4900 rpm (Euro Market)
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI), Individual throttle bodies (ITBs)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ Octane Recommended)
Oil Capacity:
6.9 Liters (7.3 US Quarts)
Oil Type:
BMW Longlife-01 (e.g., Castrol EDGE Synthetic 5W-30)
Coolant Capacity:
9.5 Liters (10 US Quarts)
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (Ethylene Glycol based)
Type:
Getrag 420G 6-speed Manual Transmission
Type:
SMG II (Sequential Manual Gearbox) with paddle shifters
Clutch:
Hydraulically actuated single-plate dry clutch
Gear Ratios Manual:
1st: 4.23, 2nd: 2.50, 3rd: 1.67, 4th: 1.23, 5th: 1.00, 6th: 0.83
Final Drive Ratio:
3.62:1 (Standard)
Manual Transmission Fluid Type:
MTF LT-2 or equivalent (e.g., Red Line D4 ATF for smoother shifts)
Smg Fluid Type:
Pentosin CHF 11S (Hydraulic fluid for SMG pump and actuators)
Manual Transmission Fluid Capacity:
1.5 Liters (1.6 US Quarts)
Smg Fluid Capacity:
0.8 Liters (0.85 US Quarts)
NHTSA Front Impact:
4/5 stars (Model Year specific variations may apply)
IIHS Side Impact:
Good (Model Year specific variations may apply)
Stability Control:
DSC (Dynamic Stability Control), M Dynamic Mode (MDM)
Braking Assistance:
ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), EBD (Electronic Brake-force Distribution)
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags, front side-impact airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia-reel seat belts with pretensioners and force limiters
Audio System:
Optional Harman Kardon premium audio system, standard BMW Business CD player.
Navigation:
Optional MKIV Navigation System with CD-ROM maps.
Traction Control:
DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) system provides active stability management.
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control.
Bluetooth:
Optional Bluetooth interface for hands-free calling, depending on the specific year and options package.
Oil Change Interval:
Variable Service Indicator (VSI) system, typically around 10,000-15,000 miles or annually. Refer to manual for exact conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles (NGK BKR6EQUP spark plugs)
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles or as needed based on driving conditions.
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 miles or 2 years.
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 2 years regardless of mileage.
Differential Fluid Change:
Every 60,000 miles (BMW Hypoid Gear Oil G3 SAE 75W-140)
Power Steering Fluid:
Pentosin CHF 11S
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 LV (Low Viscosity) or DOT 4+ (e.g., Ate Typ 200)
Rod Bearings:
S54 engine is known for potential wear on connecting rod bearings, especially in early models or those not meticulously maintained. A common preventative replacement item.
Subframe Mounts:
Cracking or separation of the rear subframe mounting points due to chassis stress. Reinforcement kits are available.
Fuel Pump:
Can fail over time, leading to rough running or no-start conditions.
Smg Hydraulic Pump:
The SMG system's hydraulic pump can fail, leading to shifting issues or an inability to engage gears.
HVAC Blower Motor Resistor:
Can fail, causing the blower motor to only work at certain speeds or not at all.
Car And Driver 10Best:
Named to Car and Driver's 10Best list multiple times during its production run.
Motortrend Performance Car Of The Year:
Often considered a benchmark for performance and handling in its class.
Epa Fuel Economy:
EPA estimates for the manual transmission: 17 MPG city / 24 MPG highway (subject to driving conditions and vehicle maintenance).
