🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

M3

Generation:

E36

Model Year:

1998

Chassis Code:

E36

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The 1998 BMW M3 E36 was a high-performance variant of the E36 3 Series, positioned as a premium sport sedan/coupe offering exceptional driving dynamics and track-capable performance for its era.

Competitors:

Key competitors included the Porsche 911 (996), Chevrolet Corvette (C5), Nissan 300ZX, and higher-trim versions of the Mercedes-Benz C-Class and Audi A4.

Distinguishing Features:

Renowned for its inline-six engine, balanced chassis, driver-focused interior, and track-ready performance capabilities.

Value:

This manual is invaluable for owners and independent mechanics seeking to perform maintenance, diagnostics, and repairs to dealership standards. Its vehicle-specific nature ensures accuracy and efficiency, avoiding generic advice.

📋 Manual Details

Model Variants:

All 1998 BMW M3 E36 Coupe, Convertible, and Sedan models

Region:

North America, Europe (likely, as it's a primary market for M3)

Estimated Page Count:

1000-1500 (typical for a comprehensive dealership manual covering all repairs A-Z)

Type:

Factory Service Manual (FSM) / Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Likely Printed Paper; often also available as a searchable PDF digital version for dealership use.

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

S50B32 (US Spec) and S50B30 (Euro Spec) engine diagnostics, overhaul, lubrication, cooling system, fuel system, emission control systems, engine management (DME).

Transmission:

Getrag 420G 6-speed manual transmission service, clutch assembly, driveshaft, differential service.

Brakes:

Front and rear disc brake systems (likely M-specific larger brakes), ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) diagnostics and repair, parking brake.

Suspension:

Front struts, rear multi-link suspension (SLA geometry), shock absorbers, springs, control arms, bushings, steering system (power steering, tie rods, steering rack).

Electrical:

Complete wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, lighting systems (headlights, taillights, interior), ignition system, charging system (alternator, starter), power accessories (windows, locks, mirrors), instrumentation, diagnostic port (OBD-II).

Body:

Exterior body panels, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, interior trim, seats, HVAC system (heating, ventilation, air conditioning), body control module (BCM).

Chassis:

Frame and unibody construction, structural components, subframes, mounting points.

Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements (oil, air, fuel), spark plug replacement, coolant flushes, brake fluid changes, belt inspections/replacement.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic procedures for all major systems, fault code interpretation, symptom-based troubleshooting guides.

Repair:

Engine rebuild procedures, transmission overhaul, suspension component replacement, brake caliper/rotor replacement, electrical component repair/replacement, body panel repair.

Installation:

Component replacement procedures for all major parts, calibration procedures where applicable.

Depth:

Comprehensive: Covers basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, advanced diagnostics, and electrical system troubleshooting.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

Likely searchable PDF; potentially scanned non-searchable images depending on origin.

Print Quality:

Professional printing; clear diagrams, legible text.

Binding:

Typically perfect bound or comb bound for ease of use in a workshop environment.

Paper Type:

Durable, semi-gloss paper suitable for workshop conditions.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

S50B32 (North America) / S50B30 (Europe)

Engine Type:

Naturally Aspirated Inline 6-Cylinder, Dual Overhead Camshafts (DOHC), 24 Valves

Displacement Us:

3.2 Liters (3152 cc)

Displacement Eu:

3.0 Liters (2990 cc)

Horsepower Us:

240 hp @ 6000 rpm

Torque Us:

225 lb-ft @ 3800 rpm

Horsepower Eu:

321 hp @ 7400 rpm

Torque Eu:

258 lb-ft @ 3250 rpm

Fuel Injection:

Bosch Motronic M5.2 fuel injection and engine management

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ octane)

Coolant Type:

BMW Blue Long-Life Coolant (G48 ethylene glycol based) or equivalent.

Oil Type:

SAE 5W-30 or 0W-30 Synthetic Engine Oil meeting BMW LL-01 specifications (check manual for exact prior spec).

Oil Capacity:

Approximately 6.5 Liters (6.9 US Quarts)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

Getrag 420G 6-Speed Manual

Optional Transmission:

None offered for the 1998 M3 E36; the 6-speed manual was standard.

Clutch:

Hydraulically operated single dry plate clutch.

Fluid Type:

BMW MTF LT-1 or LT-2, or equivalent high-quality manual transmission fluid (check manual for specific part numbers).

Differential Type:

Limited-Slip Differential (LSD) often standard on M3 models.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 174.5 inches (Coupe), 174.6 inches (Sedan), 175.3 inches (Convertible)

Width:

Approx. 68.5 inches

Height:

Approx. 53.6 inches (Coupe), 54.1 inches (Sedan), 53.7 inches (Convertible)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3250 - 3400 lbs depending on body style

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5x120mm

Standard Wheel Size:

17 x 7.5 (front), 17 x 8.5 (rear) (Style 24 'M Contour' or similar)

Standard Tire Size:

225/45R17 (front), 245/40R17 (rear) (e.g., Michelin Pilot Sport)

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Results:

IIHS and NHTSA data for E36 chassis typically showed good frontal and side impact protection for its era. Specific M3 ratings should be confirmed.

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

Traction Control:

Automatic Stability Control (ASC+T) often standard or optional.

Airbags:

Driver and passenger front airbags.

Seatbelts:

Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pretensioners.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Likely a BMW Business CD or Professional CD radio with basic AM/FM, CD playback, and optional CD changer. Digital displays for climate control and trip computer.

Driver Assistance Features:

Limited by modern standards; primarily focused on the driving experience. Features include ASC+T (Traction Control), ABS, and potentially cruise control.

Connectivity Features:

Basic antenna for radio. No modern Bluetooth or USB connectivity; likely an optional trunk-mounted CD changer.

OBD Standard:

OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics II) compliant, allowing for reading of fault codes via a diagnostic connector.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 7,500-10,000 miles or annually, whichever comes first, using synthetic oil. The car's onboard computer (service indicator) will also prompt for service.

Coolant Change Interval:

Every 2-3 years or as indicated by the service indicator. Flush and refill with correct BMW coolant.

Brake Fluid Change Interval:

Every 2 years, regardless of mileage, due to moisture absorption.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Typically around 60,000 miles for platinum-tipped plugs. Check manual for specific OEM recommendation.

Power Steering Fluid:

BMW CHF 11S or Pentosin hydraulic fluid.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 4 brake fluid.

Common Issues:

VANOS (Variable Valve Timing) system solenoid failure or seal wear, cooling system component failure (plastic expansion tank, water pump, thermostat), subframe mounting point fatigue/cracking, VANOS oil leaks, R&P wear, strut mount failure.

Oil Filter:

Mann-Filter HU 833 x, Mahle OC 212, Bosch 0 986 452 045 (example OEM equivalent)

Air Filter:

Mann-Filter C 35176, K&N 33-2034 (example OEM equivalent)

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Heritage:

BMW has a long-standing reputation for producing driver-focused, sporty vehicles with excellent engineering and performance, particularly with its M division models.

E36 M3 Evolution:

The E36 M3, introduced in 1992 (Europe) and 1995 (North America), represented a significant evolution in the M3 lineage, moving towards a more refined yet still potent performance package. The 1998 model year often featured the updated S50 engine in North America, bridging the gap to the E46 M3.

Production Period:

E36 M3 produced from 1992 to 1999 (Europe), 1995 to 1999 (North America).

Manufacturing Location:

Germany (primarily Regensburg, Germany)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Automotive Journalism Awards:

The E36 M3, as part of the E36 generation, received widespread acclaim from automotive publications like Car and Driver, MotorTrend, and Road & Track for its handling, performance, and value as a sports car.

Performance Awards:

Consistently ranked on '10Best' lists and praised for its track capability and everyday usability.