Vehicle Segment:
High-performance sports coupe/convertible
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, professional mechanics, owners seeking in-depth maintenance and repair knowledge
Key Competitors:
Porsche 911, Mercedes-Benz C-Class AMG, Audi S4, Chevrolet Corvette
Performance Focus:
Track-tuned performance, powerful naturally aspirated engine, sharp handling
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides detailed, manufacturer-level information for servicing and repairing a complex performance vehicle
Engine:
Full engine overhaul, diagnostics, fuel injection, ignition, cooling, lubrication, timing systems
Transmission:
SMG (Sequential Manual Gearbox) and manual transmission repair, clutch, gearbox internals, hydraulics
Drivetrain:
Differential, driveshafts, wheel bearings, axle components
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, struts, springs, bushings, alignment specifications
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), DSC (Dynamic Stability Control), hydraulic and mechanical components
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, linkage, column
Electrical:
Complete wiring diagrams, ECU (Engine Control Unit) functions, sensors, lighting, starter, alternator, battery, comfort systems
Body:
Body panels, doors, windows, bumpers, convertible top mechanism (if applicable), interior trim
HVAC:
Climate control system, refrigerant, compressor, blower motor, actuators
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, fault code interpretation, diagnostic procedures using BMW's ISTA system principles
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, fluid checks and replacements, brake pad/rotor replacement
Repair:
Engine rebuild, transmission overhaul, suspension component replacement, electrical component repair, bodywork repair
Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step diagnostic routines for common and complex issues
Installation:
Component replacement and installation procedures
Calibration:
Steering angle sensor, throttle body, ABS/DSC module calibration
Depth:
Professional Technician Level, covering diagnostics, complex repairs, and rebuilds
Engine Type:
Inline-6 Cylinder, Naturally Aspirated
Displacement:
3.2 Liters (3246 cc)
Valvetrain:
DOHC, 24 Valves (4 per cylinder), Double VANOS
Horsepower:
333 hp @ 7900 rpm
Torque:
262 lb-ft @ 4900 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic fuel injection (Bosch Motronic ME7.2)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded (91+ Octane Recommended)
Compression Ratio:
11.5:1
Transmission Type:
6-speed Manual Transmission (Getrag 420G)
Transmission Type:
SMG II (Sequential Manual Gearbox)
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically actuated single-plate dry clutch
Final Drive Ratio:
3.62:1 (Standard)
Gear Ratios Manual:
1st: 4.23, 2nd: 2.50, 3rd: 1.67, 4th: 1.23, 5th: 1.00, 6th: 0.83
NHTSA Front Impact:
4/5 Stars
IIHS Side Impact:
Acceptable
Traction Control:
ASC (Automatic Stability Control), DSC (Dynamic Stability Control)
Braking System:
ABS, M Sport Brakes (larger rotors, multi-piston calipers)
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags, front side-impact airbags
Body Structure:
Reinforced safety cage, crumple zones
Head Unit:
Professional CD Player with optional navigation system (MKIII)
Audio System:
Harmon Kardon premium sound system (optional)
Stability Control:
DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) with MDM (M Dynamic Mode) for increased performance thresholds
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control
Auxiliary Input:
No standard auxiliary input, often retrofitted
Oil Change Interval:
Every 15,000 miles or 12 months, or as indicated by the Condition Based Service (CBS) system.
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 2 years
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-4 years
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically around 60,000 miles (check manual for specific variant)
Engine Oil:
BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) 5W-30 or 0W-40 synthetic oil. Capacity: 7.0 Liters (7.4 US Quarts)
Transmission Fluid Manual:
MTF LT-2 (BMW part number 83 22 0 397 244)
Transmission Fluid Smg:
Pentosin CHF 11S hydraulic fluid
Differential Fluid:
SAF-XJ or SAE 75W-140 (BMW part number 83 22 0 397 245)
Coolant:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48) mixed 50/50 with distilled water
Rod Bearings:
Premature wear is a well-documented concern on the S54 engine, requiring proactive replacement.
Vanos System:
Solenoid wear and pump failures can lead to rough idle and power loss.
Throttle Bodies:
Individual throttle body (ITB) seals can degrade, causing vacuum leaks and idle issues.
Subframe Mounts:
Cracking or separation of rear subframe mounting points is a common structural issue.
Bmw M Division:
BMW's M Division is renowned for creating high-performance versions of standard BMW models, emphasizing racing technology and driving dynamics.
E46 M3 Development:
The E46 M3 was a significant evolution, featuring a bespoke, high-revving S54 engine, a sophisticated chassis, and advanced electronics compared to previous M3 generations.
Production Years:
2000-2006
Manufacturing Location:
Regensburg, Germany
