🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

M3

Model Code:

E46

Year:

1998

Generation Code:

E46

Chassis Code:

E46

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The ultimate performance coupe/sedan of its era, representing BMW's commitment to driving dynamics and engineering excellence.

Target Enthusiast:

Performance-oriented drivers seeking track-capable vehicles with luxury appointments.

Competitors:

Porsche 911, Mercedes-Benz C36 AMG, Audi S4

Performance Focus:

High-revving inline-six engine, precise handling, balanced chassis, M-tuned suspension and braking systems.

Engineering Philosophy:

Driver-centric design, functional aerodynamics, lightweight construction principles.

Authenticity:

Vehicle-specific and dealer-equivalent information, not generic.

Completeness:

Comprehensive coverage of all models and all repairs A-Z.

📋 Manual Details

Models Covered:

All 1998 BMW M3 E46 Models

Repairs Covered:

A-Z (All Repairs)

Estimated Page Count:

Approx. 1500-2000 (typical for comprehensive service manuals of this era)

Type:

Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (likely PDF, given typical sales for modern reproduction)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Detailed diagnostics, overhaul, timing, cooling, lubrication, fuel injection, ignition, emissions control

Transmission:

Manual and Automatic transmission service, repair, overhaul, clutch, gearshift mechanisms

Drivetrain:

Driveshafts, differentials, axles, wheel bearings

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, bushings, alignment

Steering:

Power steering system, steering rack, linkage, steering column

Brakes:

Front and rear brake systems (disc), ABS, brake fluid, hydraulic lines, calipers, rotors

Electrical System:

Battery, charging system, starter, lighting, ignition system, wiring diagrams, fuse/relay locations, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs)

Body And Chassis:

Body panels, doors, windows, sunroof, interior trim, chassis components, corrosion protection

HVAC:

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning system service, recharge, component replacement

Interior:

Seats, dashboard, trim panels, airbags

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs

Troubleshooting:

Systematic diagnostic procedures, fault finding, symptom analysis, wiring diagram interpretation

Repair:

Component removal, installation, adjustment, rebuilding, calibration

Diagnostics:

Engine management systems, ABS diagnostics, electronic control unit (ECU) diagnosis

Depth Level:

Comprehensive: Covers basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including advanced electrical diagnostics and component-level repair.

Target Audience:

Professional technicians, experienced DIY enthusiasts

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

PDF

Searchable Text:

Yes (typical for professionally scanned/created digital manuals)

Printable:

Yes

Image Resolution:

High-resolution scans/reproductions ensuring clarity of diagrams and text

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

S50B32 (Euro Spec M3, often associated with E36, but E46 M3 for 1998 would typically be S54B32. Clarification might be needed if this manual specifically covers the earlier E36 M3 S50B32 for a 1998 model year, which is unlikely for an E46 designation. Assuming this refers to the E46 M3 launch period).

Engine Type:

Naturally Aspirated Inline 6-Cylinder, Double VANOS

Displacement:

3.2 Liters (3201 cc)

Horsepower:

321 hp @ 7400 rpm (Euro Spec)

Torque:

350 Nm (258 lb-ft) @ 3250 rpm (Euro Spec)

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with individual throttle bodies

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ Octane)

ECU:

Bosch Motronic M5.2 (or similar)

🔧 Transmission

Type:

6-Speed Manual Transmission (Getrag 420G)

Type:

5-Speed SMG (Sequential Manual Gearbox) - Optional

Clutch Type:

Hydraulically actuated single-plate dry clutch

Differential:

Limited-Slip Differential (LSD) - Standard

📐 Dimensions

Coupe Length:

4488 mm (176.7 in)

Coupe Width:

1739 mm (68.5 in)

Coupe Height:

1372 mm (54.0 in)

Wheelbase:

2700 mm (106.3 in)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1510 kg (3329 lbs) for Coupe

Gross Weight:

Approx. 1940 kg (4277 lbs)

Trunk Volume:

Approx. 410 Liters (14.5 cu ft)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Ratings:

Not explicitly rated by NHTSA for this specific year/model in the same way modern vehicles are, but known for robust construction.

Traction Control:

Automatic Stability Control (ASC) or Automatic Stability Control + Traction (ASC+T)

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) - Standard

Airbags:

Frontal airbags for driver and passenger, optional side airbags

Seatbelts:

Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pretensioners

Chassis Construction:

Reinforced safety cell, crumple zones

💡 Technology Features

Head Unit:

BMW Business CD or Professional CD systems, potentially with optional navigation.

Speaker System:

Harmon Kardon premium sound system was a common option.

Parking Sensors:

Rear Park Distance Control (PDC) was available as an option.

Bluetooth:

Generally not integrated natively in 1998 models; aftermarket solutions are common.

Headlights:

Projector-style headlights (xenon HID optional).

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

BMW Condition Based Service (CBS) system, typically around 10,000-15,000 miles or annually, whichever comes first.

Major Service Interval:

Inspection II service typically around 60,000 miles, involving spark plug replacement, differential fluid change, transmission fluid change, coolant flush, and extensive checks.

Engine Oil Type:

BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) approved synthetic oil, typically 5W-30 or 0W-40 depending on climate and specific model recommendations.

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 6.5 liters (6.9 US quarts)

Coolant Type:

BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 ethylene glycol based)

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 4 High Performance

Transmission Fluid Type Manual:

BMW MTF LT-2 (or equivalent high-quality synthetic manual transmission fluid)

Transmission Fluid Type Smg:

BMW ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid) compatible with SMG systems

Differential Fluid Type:

BMW SAF-XJ (or equivalent synthetic hypoid gear oil) with friction modifier if specified.

Rod Bearings:

Premature wear on connecting rod bearings is a known concern in S54 engines, especially with early or inadequate maintenance.

Subframe Mounts:

Cracking or separation of the rear subframe mounting points can occur due to stress.

Vanos System:

VANOS (Variable Valve Timing) solenoid issues or sealing ring degradation can lead to rough idle and loss of power.

Cooling System:

Plastic coolant expansion tanks can become brittle and crack over time.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw M Division:

BMW M GmbH (formerly BMW Motorsport GmbH) is renowned for creating high-performance variants of BMW production cars.

E46 Generation Intro:

The E46 generation of the 3 Series was introduced in 1998. The M3 variant typically followed later in the generation's lifecycle. If this manual is for a 1998 model year E46 M3, it signifies an early production model.

M3 Philosophy:

The M3 is the pinnacle of the 3 Series line, focusing on enhanced engine power, sharper handling, and distinctive M styling.

E46 M3 Production Years:

2000-2006 (typical E46 M3 production. 1998 is an early year for the E46 platform, and M3 variants often launch later).

Manufacturing Location:

Germany (primarily Regensburg plant)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver 10Best:

The E46 M3, while launched later, often received accolades similar to its predecessors, with BMW M cars consistently recognized for performance and handling.

Sport Auto Test Results:

Consistently lauded by European automotive publications for its track capabilities and driving feel.

Emission Standards:

Meets prevailing emissions standards for the target market at the time of production (e.g., Euro 3).