🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

M3

Year:

1993

Chassis Code:

E36

Engine Code:

S50B30

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The BMW M3 (E36) represented a significant evolution for BMW's legendary M division, offering a blend of refined luxury and exhilarating performance, establishing itself as a benchmark sports sedan/coupe in its era.

Competitors:

Competed with performance variants of cars like the Mercedes-Benz C-Class AMG, Audi S4, and Porsche 911 (depending on specific comparison).

Performance Focus:

High-revving inline-six engine, advanced suspension tuning, potent braking system, driver-focused cockpit.

Manual Value:

Provides essential, factory-accurate information for maintaining and repairing the iconic E36 M3, crucial for preserving its performance and value.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Scope:

Complete factory service and repair

Applicable Styles:

All styles covered (e.g., coupe)

Estimated Pages:

Hundreds (printable in entirety or by section)

Type:

Factory Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Downloadable PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Engine mechanical, cooling system, lubrication system, fuel system, ignition system, emissions control system

Transmission:

Manual transmission (Getrag 265/5 or similar), clutch system, drivetrain, driveshaft, differential

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension, steering system, wheel alignment

Brakes:

Front and rear brake systems, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), brake fluid

Electrical:

Battery, charging system, starter, lighting system, instrument cluster, infotainment (basic), wiring diagrams

Bodywork:

Body panels, doors, windows, bumpers, interior trim, exterior trim

HVAC:

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes

Repair:

Component removal and installation, engine rebuild, transmission overhaul, brake caliper replacement, suspension component renewal

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic procedures for common faults, electrical system diagnostics

Specifications:

Torque specifications, clearances, tolerances, fluid capacities

Depth:

Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to in-depth diagnostics and complete component overhauls

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Quality:

High-resolution, designed for clear printing of all pages or selected sections

Binding:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Quality:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

S50B30US (US-spec) or S50B30 (Euro-spec)

Displacement:

2,990 cc (3.0 liters) for S50B30US; 2,990 cc (3.0 liters) for S50B30 (Euro)

Configuration:

Naturally aspirated inline 6-cylinder

Bore X Stroke:

86 mm x 85.8 mm (US-spec)

Compression Ratio:

10.0:1 (US-spec)

Horsepower Us Spec:

240 hp @ 6000 rpm

Torque Us Spec:

225 lb-ft @ 4700 rpm

Horsepower Euro Spec:

286 hp @ 7000 rpm (S50B30 Euro)

Torque Euro Spec:

236 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm (S50B30 Euro)

Fuel Delivery:

Bosch Motronic 3.3 (US-spec) or similar fuel injection system

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane or higher)

Ignition System:

Distributorless ignition (DIS) with coil-on-plug or coil pack, BMW Ignition System (DISA)

Valvetrain:

Dual Overhead Camshafts (DOHC), 4 valves per cylinder, VANOS (Variable Valve Timing)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-speed manual transmission

Transmission Model:

Getrag 265/5

Transmission Type:

4-speed automatic (less common/desirable for M3 variant)

Clutch Type:

Hydraulically operated single dry-plate clutch

Final Drive Ratio:

3.15:1 (typical for manual transmission)

Manual Transmission Fluid:

BMW recommends specific manual transmission fluid (e.g., SAE 75W-90 GL-4/GL-5 synthetic gear oil)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 174.5 inches (4432 mm)

Width:

Approx. 67.3 inches (1710 mm)

Height:

Approx. 53.1 inches (1350 mm)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 106.1 inches (2695 mm)

Front Track:

Approx. 57.4 inches (1458 mm)

Rear Track:

Approx. 57.5 inches (1460 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3,250 - 3,350 lbs (1475 - 1520 kg)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Varies by region and specifications

Trunk Capacity:

Approx. 11.0 - 12.0 cu ft (subject to variation)

Wheel Size:

17 x 7.5 (front), 17 x 8.5 (rear) (typical)

Bolt Pattern:

5 x 120 mm

Tire Size:

235/40ZR17 (front), 255/35ZR17 (rear) (typical)

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Performance:

NHTSA and IIHS ratings for the E36 chassis are generally good for the era, but specific M3 data may vary. The manual will detail safety system construction and repair.

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

Traction Control:

Optional ASC+T (Automatic Stability Control and Traction) available on some models.

Airbags:

Driver's side airbag, optional passenger airbag available on later models or specific markets.

Seatbelts:

3-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pre-tensioners

Body Structure:

Reinforced chassis and crumple zones inherent to BMW's design philosophy.

💡 Technology Features

Radio System:

BMW Business or Professional CD/Cassette players. Speaker systems varied. Manual covers basic electrical for head unit and speakers.

Instrument Cluster:

Analog gauges for speed, tachometer, fuel, and temperature. Onboard computer (OBC) on some models for diagnostics and trip information. Manual details cluster removal and diagnostics.

Cruise Control:

Standard electronically controlled cruise control.

Telematics:

No advanced telematics or smartphone integration found in 1993 models. Basic car phone options might have been available aftermarket or dealer-installed.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles or as indicated by the vehicle's Condition Based Service (CBS) system, or annually. The manual will provide exact intervals and oil life monitoring reset procedures.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Generally around 30,000 - 60,000 miles, depending on spark plug type and wear. Manual specifies exact type and interval.

Coolant Flush:

Typically every 2-3 years or 30,000-50,000 miles. Manual provides specific coolant type and bleeding procedures.

Engine Oil:

BMW Longlife-98 (LL-98) or LL-01 approved synthetic oil, viscosity typically 0W-40 or 5W-30. Consult manual for precise specification.

Coolant:

BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant or equivalent silicate-free, ethylene glycol-based coolant (50/50 mix with distilled water).

Brake Fluid:

DOT 4 or DOT 4 Plus brake fluid.

Power Steering Fluid:

BMW Power Steering Fluid (Pentosin CHF 11S or equivalent).

Vanos Problems:

Early VANOS units (especially on S50B30US) could develop issues with seals and solenoids, leading to rough idle, loss of low-end torque, or stalling. Manual details diagnosis and repair of VANOS system.

Cooling System:

Plastic expansion tanks, water pumps, and radiator end tanks can become brittle and crack. Regular inspection and replacement of plastic components are recommended. Manual covers system flush and replacement procedures.

Subframe Mounts:

The rear subframe mounting points can fatigue and crack the chassis sheet metal over time due to the stresses of performance driving. Manual provides procedures for reinforcing and repairing these areas.

Hesitation Or Misfires:

Can be attributed to ignition coil packs, spark plug wires, fuel injectors, or vacuum leaks. Manual assists in diagnosing these issues.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw M Division:

The M3 designation signifies BMW's motorsport heritage, translating racing technology into a road-legal performance car. The E36 M3 is part of this illustrious lineage.

E36 Generation:

The E36 M3, launched in 1992 (for the 1993 model year in North America), was the second generation of the M3. It evolved from the E30 M3, moving towards a more refined and powerful GT-style performance car.

Engine Difference:

The US-spec S50B30US engine was a detuned version of the European S50B30 due to emissions regulations, featuring a shorter stroke and different cylinder head. The Euro-spec S50B30 and later S50B32 engines were more potent.

Production Years:

1992-1999 (E36 M3)

Manufacturing Locations:

Germany (primarily Munich and Regensburg)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Automotive Press Awards:

The E36 M3 was consistently praised by automotive journalists for its handling, engine characteristics, and overall performance, often featuring in 'best of' lists for sports cars and performance sedans of its era.

Performance Rankings:

Considered a benchmark for its class, often outperforming competitors in track tests and spirited driving evaluations. The manual is key to maintaining this benchmark performance.

Technical Certification:

This manual represents the official factory documentation, providing the definitive technical specifications and procedures as certified by BMW for the 1993 M3.