Positioning:
High-performance sports sedan, targeting enthusiasts and performance-oriented drivers.
Competitors:
Audi RS4, Mercedes-Benz C55 AMG, Porsche 911 (996 generation).
Performance Focus:
Naturally aspirated S54 inline-6 engine, legendary handling dynamics, M-tuned suspension and brakes.
Driver Experience:
Driver-centric cockpit, communicative steering, powerful M differential.
Audience:
BMW enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, professional technicians specializing in BMW vehicles.
Engine:
S54 Engine: Maintenance, overhaul, diagnostics, timing, VANOS system
Transmission:
SMG (Sequential Manual Gearbox) and Manual Transmissions: Operation, repair, clutch, hydraulics, driveshafts
Drivetrain:
Differential, axles, wheel bearings, lubrication
Suspension:
Front and Rear Suspension: Control arms, bushings, springs, dampers, steering components, alignment
Brakes:
ABS, DSC, Brake hydraulics, calipers, pads, rotors, bleeding procedures
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, lighting, ignition, starter, charging system, ECU diagnostics
Comfort Systems:
HVAC, climate control, power windows, locks, mirrors, seats, sunroof
Body:
Body panels, doors, bumpers, interior trim, glass replacement
Diagnostics:
OBD-II, DTC codes, troubleshooting procedures, diagnostic tool usage
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, fluid checks and flushes
Engine Repair:
Head gasket replacement, piston ring service, valve adjustment, bearing replacement
Transmission Repair:
Clutch replacement, SMG hydraulic unit service, gearbox rebuild
Suspension And Steering:
Bushings replacement, shock absorber installation, steering rack overhaul
Brake System Overhaul:
Caliper rebuilding, ABS module diagnostics, brake fluid flush and replacement
Electrical Diagnostics And Repair:
Troubleshooting wiring harnesses, component replacement (alternator, starter, ECU), sensor diagnostics
Body And Interior:
Panel alignment, weatherstripping replacement, interior trim repair
Troubleshooting Guides:
Fault code interpretation and resolution steps
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of BMW-specific tools
Depth:
Comprehensive: From basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostics and component-level repair.
Configuration:
Inline 6-cylinder, Naturally Aspirated
Displacement:
3.2 Liters (3246 cc)
Horsepower:
333 hp @ 7900 rpm
Torque:
262 lb-ft @ 4900 rpm
Bore X Stroke:
87.0 mm x 91.0 mm
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Multi-Point Fuel Injection (SFI), individual throttle bodies
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ Octane)
ECU:
MS43 DME (Digital Motor Electronics)
Valve Train:
Double Overhead Camshafts (DOHC), 4 valves per cylinder, Double VANOS
NHTSA Front Impact:
Not explicitly rated by NHTSA for this year/model, but generally excellent for its class.
Traction Control:
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), M Dynamic Mode (MDM)
Braking System:
ABS, Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD), Dynamic Brake Control (DBC)
Airbags:
Front dual-stage airbags, Front side airbags, Front and rear head protection system (Side Curtain Airbags)
Chassis:
Reinforced chassis structure, crumple zones
Headlights:
Xenon Adaptive Headlights (Optional)
Oil Change:
Variable service interval indicator (CBS), typically 10,000-15,000 miles or annually.
Insp 1 Service:
Comprehensive inspection and service, includes spark plugs, filters, valve check, and fluid replacement (approx. 30,000 miles).
Insp 2 Service:
More intensive service, often includes brake fluid flush, differential fluid, and transmission fluid (approx. 60,000 miles).
Engine Oil:
BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) approved synthetic oil, SAE 0W-40 or 5W-40. Capacity: 6.9 liters (7.3 US quarts).
Coolant:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48). 50/50 mix with distilled water. Capacity: Approx. 9.5 liters.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4, BMW recommendation is often a high-performance DOT 4 or DOT 4 LV. Capacity: Approx. 1 liter.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
MTF LT-2 (BMW Part # 83 22 0 309 031). Capacity: Approx. 1.5 liters.
Transmission Fluid Smg:
Pentosin CHF 11S (BMW Part # 83 29 0 429 576) for hydraulic system. Transmission fluid: MTF LT-2. Capacity: Hydraulic accumulator ~0.3L, Gearbox ~1.3L.
Differential Fluid:
BMW Hypoid Gear Oil G1 (SAE 75W-90). BMW Part # 83 22 2 365 982. Capacity: Approx. 1.25 liters.
Rod Bearings:
Common wear issue, especially on earlier models; requires timely inspection and potential replacement.
Vanos System:
Solenoids can fail, leading to rough idle or loss of power. Seals can also degrade.
Subframe Mounts:
Cracks can develop in the chassis around the rear subframe mounting points.
Cooling System:
Plastic coolant expansion tank can become brittle and leak; water pump and thermostat also prone to failure.
Smg Pump:
SMG hydraulic pump can fail, leading to shift issues.