Market Segment:
High-performance compact executive sports sedan/coupe.
Key Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz C-Class AMG, Audi S4, Porsche 911 (Carrera).
Driving Dynamics:
Renowned for exceptional handling, steering feel, and balanced chassis.
Engine Performance:
Naturally aspirated inline-six engine known for its linear power delivery and high revving nature.
Design Iconography:
Widely considered one of the most iconic M cars, praised for its aggressive yet understated styling.
Manual Value:
Essential for owners and independent workshops seeking to maintain and repair this precise German performance machine.
Engine Mechanical:
Complete overhaul, diagnostics, timing, lubrication, cooling
Engine Management:
Fuel injection, ignition system, emissions control, ECU diagnostics
Transmission Manual:
Removal, installation, overhaul, shift mechanism
Transmission Automatic:
Removal, installation, overhaul, valve body, electronic controls
Drivetrain:
Driveshaft, differential, axles, wheel bearings
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension, struts, shocks, springs, control arms, bushings
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, column, alignment
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, ABS, DSC, brake pads, rotors, calipers, fluid service
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system, starter, alternator, lighting, wiring diagrams
Body And Chassis:
Body panels, doors, windows, sunroof, interior trim, corrosion protection
Heating Ventilation And Air Conditioning HVAC:
Component testing, refrigerant service, climate control unit
Infotainment And Navigation:
Radio, CD player, navigation system (if applicable), speaker system
Safety Systems:
Airbags, seatbelt pre-tensioners, seatbelt mechanisms
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, fluid checks
Scheduled Maintenance:
Brake service, coolant flush, differential fluid change, transmission fluid change
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues, fault code interpretation
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component replacement and repair
Diagnostic Testing:
Procedures for testing sensors, actuators, and control modules
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed electrical schematics for all systems
Torque Specifications:
Precise torque values for all critical fasteners
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds.
Diagnostic Tools:
Information relevant for use with BMW ISTA/D (Inpa) and other diagnostic tools.
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated Inline-6 (Straight-Six)
Displacement:
3.2 Liters (3246 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
87.0 mm x 91.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
11.5:1
Valvetrain:
DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder, Double VANOS (Variable Valve Timing)
Horsepower:
333 hp @ 7900 RPM
Torque:
262 lb-ft (355 Nm) @ 4900 RPM
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Multi-Point Fuel Injection (Bosch Motronic ME7.2)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded (91+ Octane)
Throttle Body:
Individual throttle bodies (ITBs) for superior throttle response.
NHTSA Front Impact:
Not explicitly rated for 2005, but E46 platform generally performed well.
IIHS Side Impact:
Not explicitly rated for 2005, but E46 platform generally performed well.
Traction Control:
Automatic Stability Control + Traction (ASC+T) standard, Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) available.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) standard.
Brake Assist:
Brake Force Display (BFD) standard.
Airbags:
Frontal airbags, front side-impact airbags.
Seatbelts:
Three-point inertia-reel seat belts with front force limiters and pre-tensioners.
Rollover Protection:
Reinforced A-pillars and B-pillars.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 - 10,000 miles or annually, depending on driving conditions (check manual for specific recommendation).
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 2 years (BMW recommends DOT 4).
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-4 years or as per inspection. BMW Blue coolant specified.
Transmission Fluid Change Manual:
BMW typically lists as 'lifetime' but recommends inspection and change every 60,000-100,000 miles.
Transmission Fluid Change Automatic Smg:
BMW typically lists as 'lifetime' but recommends inspection and change every 60,000-100,000 miles.
Differential Fluid Change:
Every 50,000 - 60,000 miles. BMW recommends specific gear oil.
Spark Plugs:
Replace every 60,000 miles (NGK BKR6EQUP recommended).
Engine Oil:
SAE 5W-30 or 0W-40, BMW Longlife-01 approved (e.g., Castrol Edge Professional OE).
Coolant:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48) - 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 High Performance Brake Fluid.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
Pentosin MTF LT-2 or equivalent.
Transmission Fluid Automatic Smg:
Pentosin ATF-1 or BMW P/N 83 22 0 024 359.
Differential Fluid:
BMW Hypoid Gear Oil G2 (API GL-5) or equivalent (e.g., Pentosin Gear Oil).
Rod Bearings:
Increased wear is a common concern in high-mileage S54 engines; manual covers inspection and replacement.
Subframe Cracks:
Cracking of the rear subframe mounting points; manual includes inspection points.
Throttle Actuators:
Potential failure of the electronic throttle actuators; manual provides diagnostics.
Crankshaft Hub Bolt:
Failure of the crankshaft hub bolt, leading to timing chain issues; manual covers inspection and correct torque procedures.
Car And Driver 10 Best:
Frequently named to Car and Driver's 10Best lists during its production run.
Motor Trend Car Of The Year:
Nominated and recognized for its performance credentials.
Performance Magazine Reviews:
Consistently lauded by automotive press for its driving dynamics, engine, and track capability.
Manual Quality Assurance:
Produced to meet BMW's exacting standards for technical documentation.