Segment:
High-performance luxury sports coupe/sedan
Philosophy:
The M3 represents BMW's pinnacle of motorsport-derived engineering for road use, balancing performance, handling, and daily drivability.
Competitors:
Audi S4, Mercedes-Benz C32 AMG, Porsche 911 Carrera (depending on specific era and variant)
Driving Dynamics:
Renowned for its balanced chassis, precise steering, and responsive engine, offering a highly engaging driving experience.
Engine Technology:
High-revving naturally aspirated inline-six engine with advanced technologies for its time.
Performance Enhancements:
M-specific aerodynamic components, suspension tuning, and braking systems.
Manual Type:
Workshop Service Manual / Repair Manual
Applicable Years:
1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005
Powertrain:
Engine, Drivetrain, Transmission, Differential, Axles
Chassis:
Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering, Brakes (ABS, DSC)
Electrical:
Engine Control Unit (ECU), Body Control Module (BCM), Lighting, Audio, HVAC Electronics, Instrument Cluster, Power Accessories
Body And Interior:
Body Panels, Doors, Seats, Trim, Restraint Systems (Airbags)
Maintenance:
Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Spark Plugs, Coolant Service, Brake Fluid Flush, Differential Fluid Change, Inspection Procedures
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting Guides, Fault Code Interpretation, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) related to DME, ABS, SRS, etc.
Repair:
Engine Overhaul, Transmission Rebuild, Suspension Component Replacement, Brake System Repair, Electrical Component Repair, Bodywork Repair
Installation:
Component Installation Procedures, Adjustment Procedures
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering detailed repair procedures, specifications, and diagnostic information for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts.
File Type:
PDF (Portable Document Format)
Searchability:
Likely searchable text, enabling quick navigation and information retrieval. Image quality is typically high for clear diagrams.
Printability:
Printable, allowing users to print specific sections or the entire manual for offline use.
Binding:
N/A (Digital PDF format)
Paper Quality:
N/A (Digital PDF format)
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated, Inline 6-Cylinder, DOHC, 24 Valves
Displacement:
3.2 Liters (3246 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
87.0 mm x 91.0 mm
Horsepower Us Spec:
333 hp @ 7900 rpm
Torque Us Spec:
262 lb-ft (355 Nm) @ 4900 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Multi-Point Fuel Injection (SMPI) with individual throttle bodies
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ Octane Recommended)
ECU:
MS43 / MS45 Digital Motor Electronics (DME)
Valve Train:
Double VANOS (Variable Valve Timing) on intake and exhaust camshafts
Transmission Type Coupe Sedan:
Getrag 420G 6-Speed Manual Transmission
Transmission Type Convertible:
SMG (Sequential Manual Gearbox) II - 6-Speed Automated Manual
Clutch Type:
Hydraulic, single-plate dry clutch
Differential:
Limited-Slip Differential (M Variable Lock)
Coupe Length:
approx. 4492 mm (176.8 in)
Coupe Width:
approx. 1777 mm (69.9 in)
Coupe Height:
approx. 1370 mm (53.9 in)
Wheelbase:
approx. 2760 mm (108.7 in)
Curb Weight Manual:
approx. 1570 kg (3461 lbs)
Curb Weight Smg:
approx. 1575 kg (3472 lbs)
NHTSA Front Impact:
4-Star (Driver), 4-Star (Passenger) for E46 Coupe models (may vary slightly by year/specific testing)
Traction Control:
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), M-Traction Control
Braking System:
4-wheel vented and cross-drilled disc brakes with ABS and Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD)
Airbags:
Front airbags, front side-impact airbags
Structure:
Reinforced body structure, crumple zones
Navigation System:
Optional BMW Professional navigation system with CD-ROM based maps. Features may vary by year and options.
Audio System:
Standard BMW Business CD or optional BMW Professional CD/radio. Harman Kardon surround sound system often available as an option.
Parking Sensors:
Optional Park Distance Control (PDC) for front and rear.
Phone Integration:
Optional Bluetooth preparation and cradle for mobile phones.
Oil Change Interval:
Variable Service Interval Indicator (VSI) based on driving conditions. Typically around 10,000-15,000 miles or annually, whichever comes first. Consult manual for specific conditions.
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 2 years (recommended)
Coolant Service:
Initial service around 4 years, then every 2 years. Refer to manual for exact details.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically around 60,000 miles, but consult manual for S54 specifications.
Engine Oil Type:
BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) approved synthetic oil. Viscosity: 0W-40 or 5W-40. Capacity: Approx. 6.5 liters (6.9 US quarts) with filter change.
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 ethylene glycol based). Mix 50/50 with distilled water. Capacity: Approx. 8.0 liters (8.5 US quarts).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 (preferably DOT 4 HP or Super DOT 4)
Transmission Fluid Manual:
MTF-LT-2 (BMW part number 83 22 0 396 706) or equivalent GL-4 rated fluid. Capacity: Approx. 1.3 liters (1.4 US quarts).
Differential Fluid Type:
SAF-XJ (BMW part number 83 22 2 330 572) or equivalent synthetic 75W-140 LS (Limited Slip) fluid. Capacity: Approx. 1.5 liters (1.6 US quarts).
Rod Bearings:
Potential for wear on connecting rod bearings, especially in earlier models or those with less-than-ideal maintenance. The manual will detail inspection and replacement procedures.
Subframe Mounts:
Cracking or separation of the rear subframe mounting points due to stress. The manual will cover inspection and reinforcement/repair procedures.
Coolant Pipes:
Brittle plastic coolant pipes (e.g., expansion tank, thermostat housing) can crack. The manual will provide replacement steps.
Vanos System:
Wear in the VANOS system (solenoids, seals) can lead to rough idle or performance issues. The manual offers diagnostic and repair strategies.
Bmw M Division:
BMW M GmbH (formerly BMW Motorsport GmbH) is dedicated to high-performance vehicles derived from BMW's road cars.
Previous Generations:
E21 M3, E30 M3 (iconic), E36 M3 (first inline-six M3)
E46 M3 Introduction:
Introduced in 2000 for the 2001 model year, replacing the E36 M3.
Body Styles:
Coupe, Convertible
Production Period:
2000-2006
Production Locations:
Regensburg, Germany
Total Production E46 M3:
Approximately 85,762 units worldwide (Coupe & Convertible combined)
Automobile Magazine Al $',:
Automobile Magazine's 'All-Star' award for performance and handling.
Car And Driver Best:
Frequently listed among Car and Driver's '10Best' lists for its class and performance segment.
World Performance Car:
Recognized globally for its exceptional performance credentials and track-bred engineering.
