Segment:
Performance Compact Executive Sedan/Coupe
Usp:
High-revving naturally aspirated inline-six engine, exceptional handling, driver-focused experience
Key Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz C43 AMG, Audi S4, Porsche 911 (996 generation)
Performance Highlight:
3.2L S54 inline-six engine with individual throttle bodies
Handling Highlight:
M-tuned suspension, limited-slip differential, precise steering feedback
Design:
Aggressive aerodynamic enhancements, distinctive M-specific styling cues
Primary Coverage:
Mechanical, Electrical, Bodywork, Diagnostics
Additional Coverage:
Maintenance, Repair Procedures, Troubleshooting, Wiring Diagrams
Estimated Page Count:
1500+
Type:
Service Repair Manual
Powertrain:
Engine (S54B32), Cooling System, Fuel System, Exhaust System, Drivetrain
Chassis:
Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Brake System (ABS/DSC)
Electrical:
Engine Management (DME), Body Control Module (BCM), Lighting, Instrumentation, Infotainment, Comfort Systems
Body:
Body Panels, Doors, Windows, Seats, Interior Trim
Maintenance:
Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Spark Plug Service, Belt Inspection/Replacement, Fluid Checks/Changes
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting Charts, Fault Code Interpretation, Component Testing
Repair:
Engine Rebuild, Transmission Repair, Suspension Component Replacement, Brake Caliper Overhaul, Electrical Component Diagnosis and Replacement
Special Procedures:
VANOS System Service, SMG Transmission (if equipped) Diagnosis and Repair, Convertible Top Mechanism (if applicable)
Depth:
Comprehensive; includes detailed specifications, torque values, diagnostic procedures, and rebuild instructions
Target Audience:
Professional Technicians, Experienced DIY Mechanics
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated Inline-6
Displacement:
3246 cc (3.2 Liters)
Horsepower:
333 hp @ 7900 rpm
Torque:
262 lb-ft @ 4900 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with Individual Throttle Bodies (ITBs)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ Octane)
Dme System:
Bosch Motronic M5.2 or ME7.2 (depending on market/production date)
Timing System:
Double VANOS (Variable Valve Timing)
Type:
6-Speed Manual (Getrag Type D)
Type:
6-Speed SMG (Sequential Manual Gearbox) - Optional
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically Actuated Single Plate Clutch
Differential:
M Variable Lock Differential (Limited Slip)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
BMW MTF LT-2 or equivalent (e.g., Pentosin MTF 2.1)
Smg Transmission Fluid:
BMW MTL (Manual Transmission Fluid) or CHF 11S (Hydraulic Fluid for SMG Pump)
Length:
177.5 inches (4509 mm)
Width:
70.1 inches (1780 mm)
Height:
54.2 inches (1377 mm)
Wheelbase:
107.4 inches (2729 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approximately 3430 - 3595 lbs (1556 - 1631 kg), depending on options
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approximately 4475 lbs (2030 kg)
Trunk Volume:
11.0 cubic feet (311 Liters)
NHTSA Front Impact:
4/5 Stars (Driver/Passenger)
IIHS Side Impact:
Acceptable (varies by specific test conditions)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Standard Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)
Airbags:
Frontal Driver and Passenger Airbags, Side Impact Airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point Inertia-Reel Seatbelts with Pretensioners
Chassis Stiffness:
Reinforced Body Structure, Crumple Zones
Head Unit:
BMW Business CD or Professional CD/RDS (optional navigation available).
Audio System:
Standard 6-speaker system, optional Harman Kardon premium audio.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control.
Parking Sensors:
Optional Park Distance Control (PDC).
Bluetooth:
Optional Bluetooth connectivity with phone preparation.
M Specific Gauges:
Unique M instrument cluster with oil temperature gauge, M logo, and 180 mph speedometer.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 7,500 - 10,000 miles or annually, based on condition monitoring (CBS - Condition Based Service).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approx. 60,000 miles (refer to manual for specific spark plug type and torque).
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-4 years or 30,000-50,000 miles.
Engine Oil Specification:
BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) Approved Synthetic Oil, SAE 0W-40 or 5W-40 recommended.
Engine Oil Capacity:
6.9 US quarts (6.5 Liters) with filter change.
Coolant Specification:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48) or equivalent, mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 4 (BMW high-performance brake fluid recommended).
Rod Bearings:
Potential wear on connecting rod bearings, especially in early models or cars driven hard without proper warm-up. Manual covers inspection and replacement procedures.
Vanos Seals:
Degradation of VANOS piston ring seals can lead to low oil pressure at idle and reduced performance. Manual details diagnostic steps and seal replacement.
Subframe Mounts:
Cracking or separation of the rear subframe mounting points due to chassis stress. Manual provides inspection guidelines and reinforcement procedures.
Smg Pump Failure:
SMG hydraulic pump failure can lead to gear selection issues. Manual covers SMG system diagnostics and pump replacement.
Throttle Actuator Motors:
Failure of individual throttle body actuator motors can cause rough idling or loss of power. Manual covers diagnostic and replacement of these units.
Bmw M Division:
BMW M GmbH (Motorsport division) established for performance vehicle development.
E46 M3 Introduction:
Launched in 2000 for the 2001 model year, replacing the E36 M3.
Engine Development:
The S54 engine was a significant upgrade, renowned for its high-revving nature and motorsport-derived technology.
Production Years:
2000-2006
Manufacturing Location:
Regensburg, Germany
Car And Driver Best:
Car and Driver 10Best list multiple times during its production run.
Motortrend Performance:
Praised by automotive journalists for its performance and handling characteristics.
Driving Dynamics:
Consistently rated highly for handling, braking, and driver engagement.
