Vehicle Segment:
Compact Executive Sports Car / Performance Sedan
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, Performance Drivers, DIY Mechanics
Key Competitors:
Audi S4, Mercedes-Benz C32 AMG, Porsche 911 (996)
Performance Focus:
High-revving naturally aspirated engine, superior handling dynamics
Engineering Excellence:
BMW's renowned driving pleasure, M-division tuning
Manual Value Proposition:
Essential resource for maintaining and repairing the iconic E46 M3
Engine:
Complete Engine Overhaul, Diagnostics, Maint. (S54)
Transmission:
Manual & SMG Transmission Service & Repair
Drivetrain:
Driveshaft, Differential, Axles
Suspension:
Front & Rear Suspension Systems, Bushings, Struts
Brakes:
Brake System, ABS, DSC, Rotor/Pad Replacement
Steering:
Power Steering System, Steering Column
Electrical:
Wiring Diagrams, ECU, Sensors, Lighting, Power Distribution
Bodywork:
Exterior Body Panels, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Bumpers
Interior:
Interior Trim, Seats, Airbags, Climate Control
Cooling System:
Radiator, Water Pump, Thermostat, Hoses
Fuel System:
Fuel Pump, Injectors, Fuel Lines, Evaporative Emissions
Exhaust System:
Exhaust Manifolds, Catalytic Converters, Mufflers
Climate Control:
HVAC System, AC Compressor, Heater Core
Diagnostic Troubleshooting:
Fault Codes, Symptom-Based Troubleshooting Guides
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance, Oil Changes, Filter Replacements
Repair:
Component Replacement, Rebuild Procedures
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting Electrical and Mechanical Issues
Tune Ups:
Ignition System, Fuel System Adjustments
Inspections:
Pre-Purchase Inspections, Routine Checks
Calibration:
Sensor Calibration, Throttle Body Alignment
Disassembly Assembly:
Step-by-step guides for component removal and installation
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive: From basic maintenance to full engine rebuilds and complex electrical diagnostics
Diagnostic Tools:
Information relevant to BMW's ISTA/D and other professional diagnostic tools
Torque Specifications:
Detailed torque values for all critical fasteners
Clearances Tolerances:
Specifications for critical component clearances and tolerances
Engine Type:
Inline 6-Cylinder, Naturally Aspirated, High-Performance
Displacement:
3.2 Liters (3246 cc)
Horsepower:
333 hp @ 7900 rpm
Torque:
262 lb-ft (355 Nm) @ 4900 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (Bosch Motronic ME7.2)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded (91+ octane recommended)
Valvetrain:
DOHC, 24 Valves, Double VANOS
Induction:
Individual Throttle Bodies (ITBs)
Cooling:
Water-cooled, cross-flow radiator
Lubrication:
Wet sump, high-performance oil pump
Transmission Type Standard:
6-Speed Manual (Getrag 420G)
Transmission Type Optional:
6-Speed Sequential Manual Gearbox (SMG II)
Clutch Type:
Hydraulic, single-plate dry clutch
Final Drive Ratio:
3.62:1 (with 255/40ZR18 rear tires)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
BMW recommends MTF-LT-1 or MTF-LT-2 (Equivalent: Pentosin MTF 2)
Smg Transmission Fluid:
Pentosin CHF 11S (Hydraulic fluid for SMG pump & actuators)
NHTSA Front Impact:
4/5 stars (Driver/Passenger)
Traction Control:
Automatic Stability Control (ASC+T) standard
Stability Control:
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) standard
Brake Assist:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Limited Slip Differential:
M Variable Lock Rear Differential
Airbags:
Front dual-stage airbags, Front side-impact airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia-reel seat belts with pretensioners
Rollover Protection:
Reinforced A-pillars and body structure
Oil Change Interval:
BMW Condition Based Service (CBS) system; typically 10,000-15,000 miles or annually
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 2 years (regardless of mileage)
Coolant Flush:
BMW recommends every 4 years or 100,000 miles initially, then more frequently
Spark Plugs:
Replace every 60,000 miles (e.g., NGK BKR6EQUP or equivalent)
Engine Oil Type:
BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) approved synthetic oil, typically 5W-30 or 5W-40.
Engine Oil Capacity:
6.5 Liters (6.9 US Quarts) with filter
Coolant:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant Concentrate (G48), mixed 50/50 with distilled water
Power Steering Fluid:
Pentosin CHF 11S (also used in SMG system)
Rod Bearings:
Potential for wear, especially in early models; manual addresses inspection and replacement.
Subframe Mounts:
Cracking/reinforcement needed for rear subframe mounting points; manual covers inspection and repair procedures.
Oil Pump Drive:
Potential for wear on the oil pump spline; manual provides details on checking.
Vanos System:
Solenoid issues and seal wear can affect performance; manual covers diagnosis and repair.
Bmw Performance Division:
BMW M GmbH legacy of motorsport and high-performance vehicles
E46 Generation Introduction:
E46 M3 introduced in 2000 for the 2001 model year, with the 2002 model year being a key production year.
E46 M3 Variants:
Coupe (2-door) and Convertible (4-door) body styles
Production Period:
2000-2006
Manufacturing Location:
Regensburg, Germany
