🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

M3

Year:

2001

Chassis Code:

E46

Engine Code:

S54B32

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The 2001 BMW M3 (E46) represents the pinnacle of BMW's performance sedan offerings for its era, a highly sought-after performance homologation model aimed at driving enthusiasts and track use.

Competitors:

Competed directly with performance coupes and sedans like the Porsche 911, Mercedes-Benz C-Class AMG, Audi S4, and Chevrolet Corvette.

Performance Focus:

Renowned for its sublime handling, powerful naturally aspirated engine, and driver-focused cockpit.

Handling:

Exceptional chassis tuning, limited-slip differential, and performance-oriented suspension components contribute to its legendary driving dynamics.

Engine Technology:

Features the iconic S54 inline-six engine with individual throttle bodies and Double VANOS for broad power delivery.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage:

Full Service and Repair

Page Count:

Estimated 1500+ pages (typical for comprehensive BMW M manuals)

Manual Type:

Service Repair Manual (SRM)

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Complete engine overhaul, diagnosis, lubrication, cooling, fuel injection, ignition, emissions, exhaust, timing, VANOS system

Transmission:

Manual gearbox (SMG optional) removal, installation, overhaul, clutch, driveshafts, differential

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension, steering system, alignment, wheel bearings, shock absorbers, springs

Brakes:

Front and rear brake systems (including M Sport brakes), ABS, DSC, hydraulic lines, calipers, rotors, pads, parking brake

Electrical:

Complete wiring diagrams, fuse box layouts, lighting, starter, alternator, battery, power windows, locks, mirrors, climate control, infotainment system, ECU diagnostics

Bodywork:

Body panel removal and installation, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, interior trim, glass, convertible top (if applicable)

Climate Control:

HVAC system diagnosis and repair, refrigerant service, blower motor, evaporator, condenser

Wheels Tires:

Wheel specifications, tire pressure monitoring, balancing, rotation

Maintenance:

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

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic procedures for all major systems, fault code interpretation, common problem identification and solutions

Repair:

Step-by-step repair instructions for components and systems, component replacement, adjustments

Rebuild:

Detailed instructions for engine and transmission rebuilds, including torque specifications and assembly sequences

Diagnostics:

Advanced diagnostic procedures utilizing BMW's proprietary diagnostic tools (e.g., DIS, ISTA), sensor testing, actuator testing

Depth:

Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic maintenance and fluid changes to complete engine/transmission overhauls and advanced electrical system diagnostics.

📊 Manual Specifications

Searchable PDF:

Yes, highly searchable text for quick information retrieval.

Image Resolution:

High-resolution images, diagrams, and schematics for clarity.

Binding:

N/A (Digital PDF)

Paper Quality:

N/A (Digital PDF)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Naturally Aspirated Inline-6 Cylinder

Displacement:

3.2 Liters (3246 cc)

Bore X Stroke:

87.0 mm x 91.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

11.5:1

Valve Train:

DOHC, 24 Valves, Double VANOS

Horsepower:

333 hp @ 7900 rpm (European Spec), 333 hp @ 7900 rpm (US Spec)

Torque:

262 lb-ft (355 Nm) @ 4900 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Sequential Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI) with individual throttle bodies

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ Octane)

ECU:

Bosch Motronic MS 43.0

🔧 Transmission

Type:

Getrag 420G 6-Speed Manual

Type:

SMG II (Sequential Manual Gearbox) Electro-Hydraulic Automated Manual

Differential:

Limited Slip Differential (LSD) with 25% locking action

Manual Transmission Fluid:

BMW recommends BMW Synthetic Oil MTF LT-1 or MTF LT-2 (equivalent to Esso/Mobil ATF LT 71141, Castrol BOT 328, or similar)

Differential Fluid:

BMW recommends BMW Hypoid Gear Oil G2 (API GL-5, SAE 75W-140)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

177.4 inches (4505 mm)

Width:

71.5 inches (1815 mm)

Height:

53.4 inches (1356 mm)

Wheelbase:

107.4 inches (2729 mm)

Front Track:

58.7 inches (1491 mm)

Rear Track:

59.0 inches (1498 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3,330 - 3,500 lbs (1510 - 1588 kg) depending on transmission and options

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approx. 4,409 lbs (2000 kg)

Trunk Volume:

11.2 cubic feet (317 liters)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact:

Not explicitly rated for 2001 models, but known for robust safety cage and airbag systems.

IIHS Side Impact:

Not explicitly rated for 2001 models, but chassis construction is solid.

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

Dsc:

Standard Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), often referred to as traction control.

Asc:

Available Automatic Stability Control (ASC) on earlier E46 models, integrated into DSC on M3.

Airbags:

Driver and front passenger airbags, side-impact airbags (optional/standard depending on market).

Seatbelts:

Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pretensioners and force limiters.

Chassis:

Reinforced safety cell, crumple zones.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Standard premium audio system, often with CD player and optional Harman Kardon upgrade. Features RDS radio and possibly cassette player.

Navigation:

Optional BMW Business or Professional navigation system available, often with CD-ROM maps.

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control system.

Parking Sensors:

Optional rear parking sensors (Park Distance Control - PDC).

Telematics:

Optional BMW Assist telematics system for emergency services and remote diagnostics (service may be discontinued).

Automatic Climate Control:

Standard automatic climate control with individual temperature and air distribution settings.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 7,500 - 10,000 miles (12,000 - 16,000 km) or as indicated by the Condition Based Service (CBS) system, or annually. Consult the manual for exact intervals based on driving conditions.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Typically every 60,000 miles (100,000 km) for iridium spark plugs. Consult manual for specific plug type and interval.

Brake Fluid Flush:

Every 2 years, regardless of mileage.

Coolant Flush:

Every 2-4 years or as recommended by BMW.

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 0W-40 or 5W-40 Synthetic engine oil meeting BMW LL-01 specification (e.g., Castrol Edge, Mobil 1).

Engine Oil Capacity:

6.5 Liters (6.9 US Quarts) - including filter.

Coolant Type:

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

Power Steering Fluid:

Pentosin CHF 11S or CHF 202 hydraulic fluid.

Rod Bearings:

Wear of connecting rod bearings is a well-documented issue, especially in early models or those driven hard without proper warm-up. The manual will detail inspection and replacement procedures.

Vanos System:

Potential issues with the Double VANOS solenoid seals and pump can lead to rough idle, loss of power, and diagnostic trouble codes.

Rear Subframe Mounts:

Cracking or separation of rear subframe mounting points can occur due to stress. Inspection and reinforcement are crucial.

Crankshaft Hub:

The crankshaft hub can potentially loosen, leading to timing issues. The manual will cover inspection and torque procedures.

Smg Pump:

The SMG hydraulic pump can be a failure point, leading to shifting issues. The manual will provide diagnostic and repair steps.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw M Division:

BMW M GmbH (formerly BMW Motorsport GmbH) has a long history of creating high-performance vehicles, starting with the iconic M1 and continuing through legendary models like the M5 and M3.

E46 M3 Introduction:

The E46 M3 was introduced in 2000 for the 2001 model year, replacing the highly successful E36 M3. It was a significant leap forward in performance and technology.

E46 M3 Variants:

Available as a Coupe and Convertible. Special editions like the M3 CSL (Coupe Sport Lightweight) were later introduced.

Production Years:

2000-2006 (for the E46 M3 generation)

Manufacturing Location:

Regensburg, Germany

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Performance Awards:

Consistently lauded by automotive publications (e.g., Car and Driver, MotorTrend) for its performance, handling, and driver engagement during its production run.

Car And Driver 10 Best:

The E46 M3 was a frequent recipient of '10 Best' awards from Car and Driver.

Engine Design:

The S54 engine was recognized for its engineering excellence, particularly its high specific output and responsiveness.