Description:
The E46 M3 represented the pinnacle of BMW's performance sedan and coupe offerings for its generation, known for its track-focused engineering and driver engagement.
Key Rivals:
Porsche 911 Carrera, Mercedes-Benz C32 AMG, Audi RS4 (B5 and B7 generations)
Performance Focus:
High-revving naturally aspirated inline-six engine, balanced chassis, advanced suspension geometry.
Driver Centric Design:
Driver-oriented cockpit, responsive steering, robust braking system.
Applicable Years:
1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005
Specific Regions Covered:
Global (primarily North American and European specifications likely)
Estimated Pages:
Extensive (typical for professional repair manuals, likely 1000+ pages)
Type:
Repair and Service Manual
Completeness:
Comprehensive (covers all major systems and components)
Clarity:
Technical English
Searchability:
Text-searchable (allows for quick lookup of specific terms)
Printability:
Printable (allows for hard copy reference)
Powertrain:
Engine (S54B32), Transmission (Manual and SMG), Drivetrain, Differential
Chassis:
Suspension (front & rear), Steering, Brakes (ABS, DSC), Wheels, Tires
Electrical:
Engine Management, Lighting, Instrumentation, Body Electronics, Comfort Systems (HVAC, Seats), Audio System, Navigation
Body:
Body Panels, Interior Trim, Exterior Trim, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Convertible Top (if applicable)
Maintenance:
Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Spark Plug Replacement, Coolant Flush, Brake Pad/Rotor Replacement, Belt Inspection/Replacement
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic Procedures, Fault Code Interpretation, Component Testing
Repair:
Engine Rebuild, Transmission Overhaul, Suspension Component Replacement, Brake System Repair, Electrical Component Repair
Installation:
Component Installation and Removal (e.g., starter, alternator, clutch)
Depth:
Professional Level (detailed diagnostic procedures, component-specific torque values, electrical schematics, overhaul instructions)
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated Inline-6 Cylinder
Displacement:
3.2 Liters (3246 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
87.0 mm x 91.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
11.5:1
Horsepower:
333 hp @ 7900 rpm
Torque:
262 lb-ft @ 4900 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (SFI), Individual Throttle Bodies (ITBs)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ Octane)
ECU Type:
Siemens MS43 (early production) / MS45 (later production)
Type:
Getrag 420G 6-Speed Manual Transmission
Type:
SMG II (Sequential Manual Gearbox)
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically Actuated Single Plate Clutch
Final Drive Ratio:
3.62:1 (standard)
Limited Slip Differential:
Standard M Differential (40% lock)
NHTSA Front Impact:
4-star (Driver), 4-star (Passenger)
IIHS Side Impact:
Good (for vehicles of similar design era)
Stability Control:
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)
Traction Control:
Automatic Stability Control and Traction (ASC+T)
Braking System:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), M Dynamic Brake Control (M DBC)
Airbags:
Frontal airbags (driver and passenger), Side-impact airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pretensioners and force limiters
Body Structure:
Reinforced safety cage, crumple zones
Navigation:
Optional BMW Professional Navigation System (MKIV unit)
Audio System:
Optional Harman Kardon Sound System, CD player, cassette player.
Parking Sensors:
Optional Park Distance Control (PDC)
Bluetooth:
Optional BMW Assist with Bluetooth functionality (early iteration)
Oil Change:
Variable Service Interval Indicator (CBS) system; typically every 10,000-15,000 miles or annually, depending on driving conditions. Consult manual for specific triggers.
Inspection I:
Around 30,000 miles (comprehensive inspection and fluid checks)
Inspection Ii:
Around 60,000 miles (more in-depth inspection, including spark plugs, differential fluid, transmission fluid)
Engine Oil:
BMW LL-01 Approved Synthetic Oil, SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40. Capacity: 6.5 liters (approx. 6.9 US quarts).
Coolant:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48), mixed 50/50 with distilled water. Capacity: approx. 9.5 liters.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 (BMW recommends their own branded fluid, e.g., Pentosin Super DOT 4)
Transmission Fluid Manual:
BMW MTF LT-2 (Manual Transmission Fluid) or equivalent. Capacity: 1.5 liters.
Transmission Fluid Smg:
Pentosin CHF 11S or BMW P/N 81 22 9 407 015 (Hydraulic Fluid). Capacity: 1.5 liters (system).
Differential Fluid:
BMW Hypoid Gear Oil G2 (SAE 75W-90) or equivalent. Capacity: 1.0 liter.
Rod Bearings:
Crucial maintenance item: S54 engine's connecting rod bearings are prone to wear and failure, requiring proactive inspection and replacement. This is a common and well-documented issue.
Vanos:
Variable valve timing system (VANOS) can experience issues with seals, solenoids, and the pump, affecting performance and drivability.
Subframe:
Rear subframe mounting points can crack or fatigue due to the high stresses experienced by the E46 chassis, especially under spirited driving.
Cooling System:
Plastic components in the cooling system (e.g., expansion tank, water pump impeller) can become brittle and fail.
Smg Pump:
SMG hydraulic pump failure is a common issue, leading to loss of gear selection.
Recommended Type:
NGK BKR6EQUP (Iridium)
Oem Part Number:
13711405294
Oem Part Number:
11421740027
Bmw M Division:
BMW M GmbH (formerly BMW Motorsport GmbH) is renowned for its high-performance vehicles derived from BMW's production car line.
E46 M3 Introduction:
Launched in 2000 for the 2001 model year, replacing the E36 M3.
E46 M3 Facelift:
Updated with LCI (Life Cycle Impulse) changes for the 2004 model year, including updated headlights, taillights, and interior trim.
Production Period:
2000-2006
Production Variants:
Coupe, Convertible, CSL (Coupe Sport Lightweight - limited production)
