Vehicle Class:
Compact Executive Sports Coupe/Convertible
Target Audience:
Enthusiast drivers seeking high performance, advanced engineering, and a premium driving experience.
Key Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz C-Class AMG, Audi S4, Porsche 911 Carrera (in certain aspects), Chevrolet Corvette.
Performance Focus:
Naturally aspirated S54 engine, rear-wheel drive, advanced chassis dynamics, driver-focused cockpit.
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides in-depth, manufacturer-level technical information essential for maintaining and repairing the high-performance M3, empowering owners and independent mechanics.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, cylinder head, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, timing system (VANOS), lubrication system, cooling system, fuel system (injection, pumps, injectors).
Engine Electrical:
Ignition system, ECU (DME), sensors (crankshaft, camshaft, MAP, MAF, O2, knock), starter, alternator, battery, wiring diagrams.
Transmission Drivetrain:
Clutch system, gearbox (manual), driveshafts, differential, axle shafts.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems (discs, calipers, pads), ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), DSC (Dynamic Stability Control), brake lines, hydraulic systems.
Suspension Steering:
Front and rear suspension components (struts, shock absorbers, control arms, bushings), steering rack, power steering system, wheel alignment specifications.
Electrical Electronics:
Body control modules (BCM), lighting systems (headlights, taillights), power windows, central locking, instrument cluster, HVAC controls, audio system, SRS (Supplemental Restraint System - Airbags).
Body Chassis:
Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, chassis components, corrosion protection, interior trim removal.
Maintenance:
Oil and filter changes, air filter replacement, spark plug replacement, coolant flush, brake fluid flush, differential fluid change, transmission fluid change, belt inspection and replacement.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for engine performance, electrical faults, HVAC issues, braking system malfunctions, starting problems, using diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).
Repair:
Engine rebuilds, cylinder head gasket replacement, clutch replacement, transmission overhaul, brake caliper replacement, suspension component replacement, sensor replacement, fuel pump replacement, alternator replacement.
Diagnostics:
Step-by-step diagnostic flowcharts, interpretation of fault codes, wiring diagram analysis, testing of electrical components.
Specifications:
Torque specifications for all fasteners, fluid capacities, engine timing specifications, valve clearances, emissions data.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering from routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including detailed electrical diagnostics and bodywork repair.
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
Valvetrain:
DOHC, 24 Valves (4 per cylinder), Double VANOS (Variable Valve Timing)
Horsepower:
333 hp @ 7900 rpm (US Spec), 343 hp @ 7900 rpm (Euro Spec)
Torque:
262 lb-ft @ 4900 rpm (US Spec), 269 lb-ft @ 4900 rpm (Euro Spec)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (Bosch Motronic ME7.2)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ Octane)
Oil Type Spec:
SAE 10W-60 BMW M TwinPower Turbo (or equivalent spec)
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 6.5 liters (6.9 US quarts)
NHTSA Front Impact:
4/5 Stars (for similar E46 models, specific M3 ratings may vary by market/year)
IIHS Side Impact:
Good (for similar E46 models)
Stability Control:
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) with M Dynamic Mode (MDM)
Traction Control:
Automatic Stability Control and Traction (ASC+T) (may be integrated with DSC)
Braking System:
ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), Brake Assist
Airbags:
Frontal airbags (driver and passenger), side airbags (front occupants), rollover protection (convertible).
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia reel seatbelts with pretensioners and force limiters.
Chassis Structure:
Reinforced body structure, crumple zones.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000-15,000 miles or 12-24 months, depending on driving conditions and oil quality (refer to specific manual for exact guidance).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Around 60,000 miles, depending on plug type (e.g., NGK BKR6EQUP or equivalent).
Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 2-3 years or 30,000 miles.
Brake Fluid Flush Interval:
Every 2 years.
Engine Oil Specification:
SAE 10W-60 BMW M TwinPower Turbo (or API SJ/SL, ACEA A3/B3 or A3/B4 specification with appropriate viscosity)
Coolant Specification:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (Ethylene Glycol based, mixed 50/50 with distilled water)
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 4 (High Performance)
Power Steering Fluid Specification:
ATF Dexron III (or CHF 11S for specific components, consult manual for precision)
Rod Bearings:
Potential wear of main and connecting rod bearings, particularly on high-mileage or poorly maintained examples. The manual will detail inspection and replacement procedures.
Vanos System:
Solenoid wear, O-ring degradation, and potential issues with the hydraulic pump or seals can affect VANOS performance. The manual provides diagnostic and repair steps.
Subframe Mounts:
Cracking or separation of the rear subframe mounting points due to the stresses of M3 power. The manual will cover inspection and repair of these critical areas.
Smd Accelerator Actuator:
Early models had issues with the drive-by-wire throttle actuator, though later revisions and fixes are covered in service bulletins. The manual will detail its operation and troubleshooting.
Bmw Motorsport Division:
BMW M GmbH (formerly BMW Motorsport GmbH) is renowned for creating high-performance versions of BMW production vehicles.
E46 M3 Predecessors:
Followed the successful E36 M3, incorporating significant upgrades in engine technology and chassis dynamics.
E46 M3 Development:
Developed by BMW M, featuring a bespoke engine (S54), M-tuned suspension, and distinctive M styling cues.
Special Editions:
Includes the limited production M3 CSL (Coupe Sport Lightweight) with unique enhancements.
Production Period:
2000-2006 (for E46 M3, though manual covers 1999-2005 specifically for service relevance).
Manufacturing Location:
Regensburg, Germany
