Category:
Performance Sports Coupe/Sedan
Segment:
Premium Performance Sedan/Coupe
Competitors:
Porsche 911, Chevrolet Corvette (C4), Nissan 300ZX, Toyota Supra (Mk IV), Ford Mustang Cobra
Performance Focus:
Enhanced engine performance, sport-tuned suspension, aerodynamic enhancements, performance-oriented interior
Driver Engagement:
Precise handling, communicative steering, powerful braking, driver-centric cockpit
Covered Years:
1992, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998
Type:
Workshop Service Manual (WSM)
Format:
Digital (likely PDF, searchable)
Engine:
Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, emissions control, engine management (DME)
Transmission:
Manual and Automatic transmission systems, clutch, driveshafts, differential
Chassis And Body:
Suspension (front and rear), steering, brakes (ABS, DSC), wheels and tires, body panels, doors, windows, interior trim
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, lighting, instruments, audio system, HVAC controls, power accessories, starting and charging system, DME diagnostics
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, belt replacement
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, fault code interpretation (OBD-I/OBD-II depending on year), diagnostic procedures for all major systems
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major components and systems, including engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, suspension component replacement, electrical component repair
Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearance measurements, diagnostic values, component testing procedures
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic routine maintenance to complete engine and drivetrain overhauls and advanced electrical diagnostics
Searchability:
Searchable text for quick information retrieval
Clarity:
High-resolution diagrams, clear text, professional layout
Binding:
Not Applicable (Digital Format)
Paper:
Not Applicable (Digital Format)
Coverage Scope:
This is a comprehensive Workshop Service Manual (WSM), distinct from an owner's manual or repair manual for specific systems. It aims to cover all aspects of repair and maintenance.
Engine Code Usdm:
S50B30US
Engine Code Eudm:
S50B30 / S50B32
Displacement Usdm:
3.0 L (2990 cc)
Displacement Eudm:
3.0 L (2990 cc) / 3.2 L (3201 cc)
Horsepower Usdm:
240 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque Usdm:
225 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm
Horsepower Eudm:
286 hp @ 7000 rpm (S50B30) / 321 hp @ 7400 rpm (S50B32)
Torque Eudm:
236 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm (S50B30) / 258 lb-ft @ 3750 rpm (S50B32)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (Bosch Motronic DME)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ Octane)
Configuration:
Inline 6-cylinder
NHTSA Rating:
Not Rated (Vehicle manufactured before comprehensive NHTSA rating system)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Optional ASC+T (Automatic Stability Control and Traction)
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pretensioners
Audio System:
Optional premium sound systems (e.g., Harmon Kardon), cassette player, CD changer (optional).
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control.
Climate Control:
Manual or optional automatic climate control (AUC).
Communication:
Optional car phone integration.
Oil Change:
Every 7,500-10,000 miles (12,000-16,000 km) or annually, depending on driving conditions. Check specific manual.
Spark Plugs:
Typically every 60,000 miles (96,000 km), depending on plug type (e.g., platinum, iridium).
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-3 years or 30,000-50,000 miles (48,000-80,000 km).
Engine Oil:
BMW recommends synthetic oil, e.g., Castrol EDGE Professional OE 5W-30 or equivalent meeting BMW Longlife-01 specifications. Capacity ~6.5 liters (6.9 quarts).
Coolant:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48) mixed with distilled water, 50/50 ratio.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
BMW MTF LT-2 or equivalent, 1.5-1.7 liters.
Transmission Fluid Auto:
ATF Dexron III or equivalent, ~1.3 liters for torque converter drain/fill, ~7.5 liters for complete refill.
Differential Fluid:
BMW Hypoid Axle Oil G2 (or SAE 75W-90 GL-5) for LSD. Capacity ~1.1 liters.
Cooling System:
Plastic expansion tank can become brittle and crack; water pump impeller can degrade; hose failures.
Suspension:
Front control arm bushings (RTABs) wear out, leading to vague steering; shock absorber failure; rear subframe mounting points can crack.
Engine:
VANOS (Variable Valve Timing) solenoid or seal failure; oil pan gasket leaks; spark plug well seals.
Electrical:
Window regulators can fail; HVAC blower motor resistors; door lock actuators; ABS/ASC sensor issues.
Bmw Motorsport:
BMW M GmbH (formerly BMW Motorsport GmbH) established for racing and high-performance road vehicles.
E36 M3 Introduction:
The E36 M3 was introduced in Europe in 1992 and in North America in 1994. It represented a significant step in performance from its predecessor, the E30 M3.
Engine Variations:
The US-spec M3 (S50B30US) had a different engine with less power due to emissions regulations compared to the European S50B30 and S50B32 engines.
Production Years:
1992-1999 (global), 1995-1998 (US Market)
Body Styles:
Coupe (most common), Sedan, Convertible
