🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

M3

Generation:

F80

Model Code:

F80

Production Years:

2014-2020

Design Era:

2010s

👋 Introduction

Market Segment:

High-performance compact executive sports sedan.

Primary Competitors:

Audi RS4, Mercedes-AMG C63, Porsche Macan GTS, Cadillac ATS-V, Lexus RC F.

Performance Focus:

Renowned for its potent engine, agile handling, and driver-focused cockpit. Represents the pinnacle of BMW's M division engineering in its class.

Chassis Design:

Utilizes the CLAR platform, shared with the M4 Coupe, contributing to a rigid and lightweight structure.

Aerodynamics:

Incorporates M-specific aerodynamic elements for enhanced stability and downforce, including a distinctive front bumper, side skirts, and rear diffuser.

📋 Manual Details

Covered Systems:

Engine, Drivetrain, Suspension, Brakes, Electrical, Body, Chassis, HVAC, Infotainment, Powertrain Control, Emission Control, Safety Systems, Diagnostics, Maintenance Procedures, Repair Procedures, Troubleshooting, Component Removal/Installation

Estimated Page Count:

Extensive (digital model, actual page count not applicable, but represents comprehensive data)

Manual Type:

3D Model Data / Digital Reference (not a traditional paper manual)

Language:

N/A (3D model data, visual and structural information)

File Format:

.blend

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain Coverage:

Detailed representation of the S55 twin-turbocharged inline-6 engine, including cylinder head, block, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, turbochargers, intercoolers, and exhaust manifolds. Covers engine management sensors and actuators.

Drivetrain Coverage:

Visual representation of the M-DCT (M Double Clutch Transmission) or the optional 6-speed manual transmission, including gearbox components, differential, driveshafts, and M Active Differential.

Suspension Coverage:

Detailed modeling of front and rear suspension components, including adaptive M suspension, control arms, subframes, springs, dampers, and anti-roll bars.

Braking System Coverage:

Representation of the M Carbon Ceramic brakes (optional) or M Compound brakes, including calipers, rotors, and brake lines.

Electrical System Coverage:

Conceptual representation of major electrical components, wiring harnesses (visual approximations), and control modules.

Maintenance Procedures Representation:

Visual breakdown of components requiring regular maintenance, such as oil filter, air filter, spark plugs, and coolant system. Allows for virtual inspection of accessibility.

Repair Procedures Representation:

Component-level visualization for understanding disassembly and reassembly sequences. Useful for visualizing the order of operations for common repairs.

Diagnostic Procedures Representation:

Facilitates understanding of component locations for diagnostic purposes. Can be used in conjunction with diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) to identify faulty parts.

Technical Depth:

High (detailed 3D geometry of all major components, enabling precise understanding of assembly and spatial relationships)

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

.blend

Print Quality Capability:

High resolution renders possible (dependent on user's Blender skills and rendering setup)

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital file)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital file)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

S55B30

Engine Type:

3.0L Twin-Turbocharged Inline-6 (S55)

Aspiration:

Twin-Turbocharged

Bore X Stroke:

84.0 mm x 89.6 mm

Compression Ratio:

10.2:1

Valve Train:

DOHC, 24 valves with Valvetronic and Double VANOS

Horsepower Standard:

425 hp @ 5,500–7,300 rpm

Horsepower Competition Package:

444 hp @ 5,500–7,300 rpm

Torque Standard:

406 lb-ft @ 1,850–5,500 rpm

Torque Competition Package:

406 lb-ft @ 1,850–5,500 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Direct Injection (High-Pressure)

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ Octane Recommended)

Engine Control Unit ECU:

Bosch Motronic (specific model varies by year)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

7-speed M-Double Clutch Transmission (M-DCT)

Transmission Type:

6-speed M Manual Transmission

M Dct Features:

Drivelogic with adjustable shifting characteristics (S1-S7), Launch Control, Synchro Rev Match (on manual).

M Dct 1St Gear:

4.775

M Dct 7Th Gear:

0.855

Manual 1St Gear:

4.111

Manual 6Th Gear:

0.839

M Dct Fluid Type:

BMW M DCT Fluid (e.g., P/N 83 22 2 148 578 or equivalent)

M Dct Fluid Capacity:

Approximately 8.5 liters

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

110.7 inches (2812 mm)

Length:

182.5 inches (4637 mm)

Width:

73.5 inches (1868 mm)

Height:

56.7 inches (1441 mm)

Front Track:

61.7 inches (1568 mm)

Rear Track:

62.8 inches (1595 mm)

Front Headroom:

39.1 inches (993 mm)

Rear Headroom:

37.3 inches (947 mm)

Trunk Volume:

11.0 cubic feet (311 liters)

Curb Weight M Dct:

3,532 lbs (1602 kg)

Curb Weight Manual:

3,459 lbs (1569 kg)

Standard Wheel Size:

18-inch front, 19-inch rear (forged alloy)

Optional Wheel Size:

19-inch front and rear (Competition Package)

Standard Tire Size Front:

255/40R18

Standard Tire Size Rear:

275/40R18

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5x120

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Overall Rating:

Not specifically rated as a distinct M model; derivative of 3 Series Sedan (typically 5-star overall for 3 Series)

IIHS Top Safety Pick:

Dependent on specific model year and options; 3 Series Sedan often receives good ratings.

Traction Control:

M Dynamic Mode (MDM) within DSC (Dynamic Stability Control), allowing for increased wheel slip.

Electronic Stability Control:

Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) with M Dynamic Mode

Braking Assistance:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Brake Assist, Cornering Brake Control (CBC).

Airbags:

Front, front-side, and head airbags.

Seatbelts:

3-point inertia-reel seat belts with automatic tensioners.

Optional Driver Assistance:

Active Driving Assistant (includes Frontal Collision Warning, Pedestrian Warning, City Collision Mitigation, Lane Departure Warning).

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

BMW iDrive System (version varies by year, typically iDrive 5.0 or 6.0).

Display Size:

Central information display typically 8.8 inches, optional larger displays available.

Navigation:

Optional Professional Navigation System.

Audio System:

Standard Hi-Fi system, optional Harman Kardon surround sound system.

Adaptive Cruise Control:

Optional, often bundled with Active Driving Assistant.

Parking Assistance:

Optional Parking Assistant, rearview camera, front and rear parking sensors.

Bluetooth:

Standard Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling and audio streaming.

Usb Ports:

USB interface for media playback and device charging.

Smartphone Integration:

Optional Apple CarPlay integration available on later models.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 10,000 miles or 12 months, or as indicated by the vehicle's Condition Based Service (CBS) system.

Brake Fluid Change Interval:

Every 2 years, regardless of mileage.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Around 60,000 miles (may vary based on driving style and fuel quality).

Air Filter Replacement:

Typically every 30,000 miles, or more frequently in dusty conditions.

Coolant Change Interval:

BMW recommends long-life coolant; typically the first change is at 100,000 miles, then every 50,000-60,000 miles thereafter.

Engine Oil Specification:

BMW Longlife-04 (LL-04) or BMW Longlife-12 FE (depending on regional market and specific engine variant), typically SAE 0W-30 or 0W-40 synthetic oil.

Engine Oil Capacity:

6.5 liters (6.9 US quarts) with filter change.

Coolant Specification:

BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 or similar G-series coolant).

Power Steering Fluid:

Hydraulic power steering fluid (specific type if applicable, some models may have electric power steering without fluid).

Rod Bearing Wear:

Early S55 engines (particularly 2014-2016 models) were known for potential rod bearing wear due to oil clearance issues. Regular oil changes with proper spec oil are crucial.

Turbocharger Issues:

Some instances of turbocharger wastegate rattle or failure have been reported. Monitoring turbo boost pressure and wastegate actuation is important.

Carbon Build Up:

Direct injection engines can develop carbon buildup on intake valves. Periodic cleaning via walnut blasting or similar methods may be necessary.

Clutch Wear:

Aggressive driving can lead to accelerated clutch wear on manual transmission models. DCT clutches also have a finite lifespan.

Differential Service:

The M Active Differential requires its own specialized fluid and periodic checks/changes.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw M Division Legacy:

BMW M GmbH (formerly BMW Motorsport GmbH) is BMW's division responsible for high-performance cars. The M3 is a celebrated lineage dating back to the E30 M3 (1986), representing the ultimate expression of BMW's driving dynamics.

M3 Generations Prior:

E30 (1986-1991), E36 (1992-1999), E46 (2000-2006), E90/E92/E93 (2007-2013).

F80 Introduction:

The F80 M3 marked a significant shift from naturally aspirated V8 engines (E90/E92/E93 M3) to a powerful, turbocharged inline-6 engine, shared with the F82 M4.

Manufacturing Location:

BMW Plant Munich, Germany.

Production Volume:

Significant global sales, positioning it as a key model in the performance sedan market.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver 10Best:

The F80 M3 was frequently featured on Car and Driver's 10Best lists during its production run, recognized for its performance and handling.

Motor Trend Car Of The Year:

While not winning the overall award, the 3 Series platform upon which the M3 is based has been recognized by MotorTrend.

Desempeño General:

Consistently praised by automotive journalists for its balance of performance, usability, and track-day capability.