🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

M3

Year:

2001

Chassis Code:

E46

Engine Code:

S54

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The 2001 BMW M3 (E46) was a high-performance variant of the popular 3 Series coupe, positioned as a halo car for BMW's motorsport division, targeting driving enthusiasts seeking track-capable performance and luxury.

Competitors:

Competed against other performance coupes of its era, such as the Porsche 911 Carrera, Mercedes-Benz C43 AMG, Audi RS4 (B5), and Chevrolet Corvette.

Performance Focus:

The E46 M3 is celebrated for its powerful naturally aspirated S54 engine, sophisticated chassis dynamics, and driver-focused interior.

Handling:

Renowned for its balanced weight distribution, precise steering, and sophisticated multi-link suspension system, offering exceptional handling characteristics.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage:

Comprehensive repair and service procedures for the 2001 BMW M3 (E46).

Page Count:

Likely several hundred pages, typical for a full factory service manual. Exact count unavailable from provided description.

Type:

Repair Service Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Service:

Detailed diagnostics, repair, and overhaul procedures for the S54 inline-six engine, including VANOS, lubrication, cooling, and exhaust systems.

Transmission Service:

Procedures for manual transmission (SMG and standard) repair, clutch replacement, and gearbox diagnostics.

Suspension Steering:

Front and rear suspension component repair, alignment procedures, power steering system service, and steering rack diagnosis.

Brakes System:

Brake system diagnostics, repair, ABS system troubleshooting, and brake fluid service.

Electrical System:

Wiring diagrams, component testing, diagnostic procedures for ECUs, sensors, lighting, and comfort electronics.

Body Chassis:

Body panel repair, door and latch mechanisms, convertible top systems (if applicable), and chassis component replacement.

Climate Control:

HVAC system diagnostics, refrigerant service, climate control unit repair.

Scheduled Maintenance:

Detailed maintenance schedules for oil changes, filter replacements, inspections, and fluid flushes.

Troubleshooting Guides:

Diagnostic flowcharts and symptom-based troubleshooting for common and uncommon issues.

Engine Rebuild:

Complete engine disassembly, inspection, measurement, and reassembly procedures.

Component Replacement:

Step-by-step instructions for replacing key components like spark plugs, ignition coils, fuel injectors, and sensors.

Diagnostic Tools:

Information on using BMW's diagnostic software (e.g., ISTA/D) and common OBD-II tools.

Depth:

Designed for professional technicians, offering in-depth mechanical, electrical, and diagnostic information, suitable for complex repairs and advanced diagnostics.

📊 Manual Specifications

Quality:

Assumed high-resolution, searchable PDF for professional use. Details on print quality are specific to the download source.

Print Quality:

N/A (Digital Download)

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

S54B32 - Naturally Aspirated Inline-6

Displacement:

3.2 Liters (3246 cc)

Horsepower:

333 hp @ 7900 rpm

Torque:

262 lb-ft @ 4900 rpm

Redline:

8000 rpm

Injection Type:

Electronic Multi-Point Fuel Injection (Bosch Motronic ME7.2)

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded (91+ Octane Recommended)

Valvetrain:

Dual Overhead Camshafts (DOHC), 24 Valves, Double VANOS (variable valve timing on intake and exhaust camshafts).

🔧 Transmission

Type:

6-Speed Manual Transmission

Type:

SMG II (Sequential Manual Gearbox) with paddle shifters

Clutch:

Hydraulically actuated single-plate dry clutch.

Gear Ratios Manual:

Specific ratios available in manual transmission section of the manual.

Smg Features:

Variable shift points, launch control, Sport mode with faster shifts.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

177.4 in (4506 mm)

Width:

71.5 in (1816 mm)

Height:

54.5 in (1384 mm)

Wheelbase:

107.4 in (2727 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3,450 - 3,550 lbs (1565 - 1610 kg), depending on transmission and options.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact:

Not specifically rated, but BMW vehicles of this era generally performed well in front impacts.

Traction Control:

ASC+T (Automatic Stability Control and Traction)

Stability Control:

Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)

Braking System:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with ventilated front and rear discs.

Airbags:

Front airbags for driver and passenger, optional side-impact airbags.

Body Structure:

Reinforced chassis and safety cell design.

💡 Technology Features

Navigation:

Optional BMW Professional Navigation System with CD-ROM based maps.

Audio System:

Standard BMW Business CD player, optional Harman Kardon premium sound system.

Parking Sensors:

Optional rear park distance control (PDC).

Cellular:

Optional integrated mobile phone preparation with Bluetooth (on later models or optional upgrades).

Headlights:

Xenon Adaptive Headlights for improved night vision and cornering illumination.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change:

Typically every 7,500-10,000 miles or as indicated by the Condition Based Service (CBS) system. Refer to manual for exact intervals and oil type.

Spark Plugs:

Recommended replacement around 60,000 miles, or based on condition.

Coolant Flush:

Every 2-3 years or 30,000-50,000 miles. BMW Blue coolant recommended.

Engine Oil:

BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) synthetic oil, typically SAE 0W-40 or 5W-30. Consult manual for specific grade. Capacity approx. 6.5 liters.

Transmission Fluid Manual:

Specific manual transmission fluid (MTF) required. Refer to manual for part number and specification (e.g., Pentosin MTF LT-2 or equivalent).

Transmission Fluid Smg:

Specific hydraulic fluid for SMG pump and clutch actuators. Refer to manual for part number.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 4 low viscosity brake fluid.

Coolant:

BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 ethylene glycol based). Mixture 50/50 with distilled water. Capacity approx. 9.5 liters.

Rod Bearings:

Increased wear on rod bearings, particularly under high-performance driving, is a common concern. Early detection and replacement are advised.

Vanos System:

Issues with the VANOS solenoid or pump can lead to rough idle, power loss, and codes related to camshaft timing.

Subframe Mounts:

Cracking or separation of subframe mounting points can occur due to stress, leading to suspension issues.

Throttle Actuators:

Electronic throttle actuators can fail, causing limp mode or erratic throttle response.

Oil Pump Drive:

The oil pump drive splines on the crankshaft can wear, leading to a sudden loss of oil pressure. Requires crank pulley removal and inspection.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Motorsport:

The M division has a long history of creating high-performance versions of BMW production cars, dating back to the BMW 3.0 CSL and M1.

E46 M3 Generation:

The E46 M3 replaced the E36 M3, marking a significant advancement in power, technology, and chassis dynamics.

Production Years:

2000-2006

Manufacturing Location:

Regensburg, Germany

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver Best:

Consistently ranked on Car and Driver's '10Best' list in its segment for multiple years, highlighting its performance and handling.

Motor Trend Award:

Often praised by automotive publications for its exhilarating driving experience and engineering.

Euro Spec:

Meets or exceeds European safety and emissions standards for its model year.