Positioning:
The BMW M3 (E46) represents the pinnacle of performance and handling for its era, making it a highly sought-after sports sedan/coupe. This manual targets owners and enthusiasts who wish to maintain, repair, and optimize their high-performance vehicle.
Competitors:
Competed directly with performance variants of the Mercedes-Benz C-Class (C32 AMG, C55 AMG) and Audi S4 (B5/B6 generation). The E46 M3 distinguished itself with its naturally aspirated S54 engine and superior chassis dynamics.
Manual Value Proposition:
Empowers owners to perform complex repairs and maintenance, saving significant costs associated with dealership service while ensuring factory-correct procedures are followed. Critical for preserving the value and performance of a modern classic.
Engine Mechanical:
Complete engine overhaul, diagnosis, repair, timing, lubrication, cooling systems, cylinder head, block assembly, piston and connecting rod assemblies, crankshaft.
Engine Management:
Fuel injection, ignition system, electronic engine control (DME), emission control systems, sensors and actuators, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).
Transmission Manual:
Clutch, gearbox overhaul, repair, maintenance, gear shift mechanism, lubrication.
Transmission Automatic:
Automatic transmission (SMG option for M3) diagnosis, repair, maintenance, valve body, torque converter, cooling.
Drivetrain:
Driveshafts, universal joints, differential, limited-slip differential (LSD) on M3, rear axle assembly, wheel bearings.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, struts, shock absorbers, control arms, bushings, springs, anti-roll bars, alignment procedures, M-specific suspension tuning.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, steering column, steering angle sensor.
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, brake fluid, master cylinder, brake calipers, rotors, brake pads, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), DSC (Dynamic Stability Control), parking brake, bleeding procedures.
Electrical System:
Battery, alternator, starter motor, wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, lighting systems, charging system.
Body And Chassis:
Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, interior trim, structural components, corrosion protection, body repair procedures.
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system, climate control, refrigerant, compressor, evaporator, heater core.
Interior Systems:
Seats, airbags, seatbelts, interior trim removal and installation, power windows, power locks, central locking.
Procedures Included:
Preventative maintenance, scheduled maintenance, routine inspections, troubleshooting guides, diagnostic procedures, component removal and installation, complete rebuilds, torque specifications for all fasteners.
Depth:
Comprehensive (factory-level detail for DIY and professional mechanics).
Length:
4.58m (Coupe), 4.49m (Convertible)
Height:
1.37m (Coupe), 1.38m (Convertible)
Curb Weight:
approx. 1570 kg (Coupe), approx. 1655 kg (Convertible)
Wheel Size:
18-inch (standard), 19-inch (optional)
Tire Size Front:
225/40 R18 (18-inch), 225/40 R19 (19-inch)
Tire Size Rear:
255/35 R18 (18-inch), 255/35 R19 (19-inch)
Oil Change:
Variable Service Interval Indicator (Condition-Based Service - CBS), typically around 10,000-15,000 miles or annually. Manual recommends checking oil level regularly.
Brake Fluid:
Every 2 years
Spark Plugs:
Typically every 60,000 miles (refer to manual for specific type)
Engine Oil:
BMW Longlife-01 (e.g., Castrol Edge Professional BMW LL01 5W-30)
Coolant:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 ethylene glycol based)
Transmission Fluid Manual:
MTF LT-2 (Gear oil for 6-speed manual)
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
ATF LT-3 (for SMG II)
Differential Fluid:
SAF-XJ (or equivalent high-performance synthetic gear oil with limited-slip additive)
Rod Bearings:
A common concern for high-mileage S54 engines, leading to potential bearing wear. The manual provides inspection and replacement procedures.
Vanos:
VANOS system (variable camshaft timing) can develop issues with solenoids or seals, impacting performance. Manual covers diagnosis and repair.
Subframe Mounts:
Weak points in the E46 chassis where the rear subframe mounts can crack. The manual details inspection points.
Throttle Actuators:
Individual throttle bodies and their actuators can require maintenance or replacement. Manual covers calibration and diagnosis.
Filter Oil Part Number:
e.g., Mann-Filter HU 816 X, Mahle KL 146
Filter Air Part Number:
e.g., Mann-Filter C 35 145/1
Bmw Motorsport:
BMW M GmbH (formerly M Motorsport) has a rich history in motorsport and performance vehicle development, dating back to the 1970s. The M3 lineage is iconic, starting with the E30 M3.
E46 M3 Introduction:
The E46 M3 was introduced in 2000, succeeding the highly acclaimed E36 M3. It marked a significant evolution in performance, technology, and design, aiming to capture a broader audience of performance car enthusiasts.
Production Years:
2000-2006
Production Variants:
Coupe (E46/2), Convertible (E46/3), special editions like M3 CSL (Coupe Sport Lightweight)
