Covered Years:
1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002
Estimated Page Count:
Extensive (Detailed digital manual covering all procedures)
Type:
Complete Workshop Service Repair Manual
Delivery Format:
Digital Download (PDF)
Engine:
All gasoline engines (e.g., M44, M52, M54)
Transmission:
Manual (Getrag) and Automatic (Steptronic/Tiptronic)
Drivetrain:
Rear-wheel drive (RWD), Differential, Axles
Suspension:
Front struts, Rear multi-link, Springs, Dampers, Bushings
Brakes:
ABS, Hydraulic system, Calipers, Rotors, Pads, Parking brake
Steering:
Power steering system, Steering rack, Column
Electrical:
Battery, Charging system, Ignition, Lighting, Wipers, Horn, Power windows, Locks, Seats, Convertible top operation
HVAC:
Air conditioning, Heating, Ventilation, Climate control
Fuel System:
Fuel tank, Pump, Lines, Injectors, DME (Digital Motor Electronics)
Exhaust System:
Manifolds, Catalytic converters, Mufflers, Pipes
Body And Chassis:
Body panels, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Bumpers, Frame
Convertible Top:
Hydraulic system, Motors, Switches, Fabric maintenance
Maintenance:
Oil changes, Filter replacements, Fluid checks and changes, Spark plug replacement, Belt inspection and replacement, Brake service
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic codes, Symptom-based troubleshooting, Electrical system faults
Repair:
Engine component repair/replacement, Transmission overhaul, Suspension component replacement, Brake caliper/rotor replacement, Electrical component repair
Overhaul:
Engine rebuild, Transmission rebuild
Installation:
Accessory installation, Component upgrades
Depth:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to full engine/transmission rebuilds and complex electrical diagnostics)
Length Roadster:
approx. 163.1 inches (4143 mm)
Width Roadster:
approx. 68.9 inches (1750 mm)
Height Roadster:
approx. 51.2 inches (1300 mm)
Wheelbase:
approx. 94.5 inches (2400 mm)
Trunk Capacity Roadster:
approx. 5.4 cu ft (153 L)
Curb Weight Range:
approx. 2900 - 3300 lbs (1315 - 1497 kg)
Oil Change Interval:
BMW Condition Based Service (CBS) system, typically around 10,000-15,000 miles or as indicated by the vehicle.
Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 2 years or 30,000 miles (BMW Blue Coolant)
Brake Fluid Flush Interval:
Every 2 years (DOT 4)
Engine Oil Spec:
SAE 5W-30, 5W-40 or 10W-40 (depending on climate and engine, consult manual/sticker). BMW Longlife-01 or LL-04 approved oils recommended.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
G50 (or equivalent) gear oil
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
ATF Dexron III or Dexron VI (consult manual for exact type)
Power Steering Fluid:
Pentosin CHF 11S or BMW PSF
Common Problems Suspension:
Front control arm bushings (FCABs) wear, rear subframe mount issues, VANOS (Variable Valve Timing) solenoid leaks/failure on some engines
Common Problems Electrical:
Window regulator failures, convertible top microswitch issues, headlight condensation
Common Problems Engine:
Oil leaks (valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket), coolant expansion tank cracks, ignition coil failures
Common Problems Chassis:
Rust on floor pans, rear quarter panels, and rocker panels.
Bmw Legacy:
Long history of producing sporty, driver-focused vehicles with excellent engineering.
Z3 Introduction:
Introduced in 1995 as a 1996 model year vehicle. Successor to the BMW Z1, a niche roadster.
Z3 Coupe Introduction:
Introduced in 1998, based on the Z3 roadster platform, featuring a distinctive 'clown shoe' styling.
Production Location:
Spartanburg, South Carolina, USA
Production Years:
1995-2002