🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

M3

Year:

2002

Chassis Code:

E46

Engine Code:

S54

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The E46 M3 represents BMW's pinnacle of inline-six performance in the early 2000s, a halo car designed for track-focused driving and enthusiast owners. This manual caters to those who demand the highest level of precision and detail for maintaining and repairing this iconic vehicle.

Competitors:

Competes with performance coupes like the Porsche 911 Carrera (996), Mercedes-Benz C32 AMG, and Audi RS4 (B5/B6). The M3 distinguished itself with its naturally aspirated, high-revving engine and legendary handling characteristics.

Features:

Official licensing ensures accuracy and completeness. Digital format provides quick access, searchability, and portability compared to traditional print manuals. Covers all major mechanical and electrical systems specific to the M3 variant.

📋 Manual Details

Systems Covered:

Engine, Drivetrain, Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Electrical Systems, HVAC, Bodywork, Interior, Diagnostics, Maintenance Schedules, Troubleshooting

Estimated Pages:

1500+

Type:

Service and Repair Manual Software

Language:

English

Format:

Digital Software (likely PDF or proprietary executable)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Complete disassembly, inspection, and reassembly of the S54B32 engine, including VANOS system, lubrication, cooling, and fuel delivery.

Drivetrain:

SMG (Sequential Manual Gearbox) and manual transmission service, differential, driveshafts, and clutch replacement.

Suspension Steering:

Front and rear suspension components, steering rack, power steering system, wheel alignment specifications.

Brakes:

Brake system diagnosis, ABS, DSC, brake pad and rotor replacement, brake fluid specifications, caliper service.

Electrical Diagnostics:

Detailed wiring diagrams, component location, troubleshooting procedures for Engine Control Unit (ECU), body control modules (BCM), lighting, and infotainment.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug servicing, coolant flushes, brake fluid flushes.

Component Replacement:

Head gasket, water pump, thermostat, fuel injectors, ignition coils, alternator, starter motor.

Troubleshooting Guides:

Systematic diagnostic trees for common drivability issues, electrical faults, and performance problems.

Special Tools:

Identification and usage of specialized BMW tools required for specific repairs.

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering everything from basic fluid changes to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including advanced diagnostics and ECU reprogramming procedures.

📊 Manual Specifications

Software Type:

Digital Manual (likely PDF or proprietary software with search functionality)

Quality:

High-resolution, digitally rendered for clarity on screen. Printable pages if software supports it.

Binding:

N/A (Digital)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Model:

S54B32

Engine Type:

Naturally Aspirated Inline-6

Displacement:

3.2 Liters (3246 cc)

Bore X Stroke:

87.0 mm x 91.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

11.5:1

Horsepower:

333 hp @ 7900 rpm

Torque:

262 lb-ft @ 4900 rpm

Redline:

8000 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Sequential Electronic Fuel Injection (SEFI) with individual throttle bodies (ITBs)

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ octane recommended)

ECU Type:

MS43 (Motronic)

🔧 Transmission

Type:

6-speed manual transmission (Getrag 420G)

Type:

SMG II (Sequential Manual Gearbox) electro-hydraulically controlled automated manual transmission

Clutch Type:

Self-adjusting single-plate dry clutch

Manual Transmission Fluid:

BMW recommends BMW MTF LT-2 (or equivalent like Red Line D4 ATF for certain applications, consult manual for specifics)

Smg Hydraulic Fluid:

Pentosin CHF 11S

📐 Dimensions

Length:

176.7 inches (4488 mm)

Width:

71.5 inches (1816 mm)

Height:

54.4 inches (1382 mm)

Wheelbase:

107.4 inches (2728 mm)

Seating Capacity:

4

Trunk Volume:

11.2 cu ft (317 L)

Curb Weight:

Approximately 3,400 - 3,550 lbs (1542 - 1610 kg) depending on transmission

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

N/A (typically not a user-serviceable spec in manuals of this type)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact:

4-star

NHTSA Side Impact:

4-star

Traction Control:

Automatic Stability Control (ASC) / Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)

Brake Assist:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

Electronic Brake Force Distribution:

Integrated with ABS/DSC

Airbags:

Frontal airbags, front side-impact airbags

Seatbelts:

3-point inertia-reel seat belts with pretensioners

💡 Technology Features

Navigation:

Optional BMW Professional Navigation system available with CD-ROM based maps.

Audio:

BMW Business CD or Professional CD/Cassette, optional Harman Kardon sound system.

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control system.

Parking Assistance:

Optional rear park distance control (PDC) sensors.

Phone Integration:

Optional Bluetooth preparation with integrated hands-free system.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

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

Inspection Ii Interval:

Approximately every 30,000 miles, involving more comprehensive checks and fluid changes (e.g., spark plugs, differential fluid, transmission fluid).

Engine Oil Spec:

BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) approved synthetic oil, SAE 0W-40 or 5W-40 recommended. Consult manual for precise viscosity based on climate.

Coolant Spec:

BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 formulation), a 50/50 mix with distilled water.

Brake Fluid Spec:

DOT 4 High Performance brake fluid (BMW recommends DOT 4 HP).

Rod Bearings:

A well-documented potential issue for S54 engines; the manual will detail inspection and replacement procedures for these critical components.

Vanos System:

Wear and tear on the VANOS (Variable Valve Timing) system can lead to a loss of power or rough idle. The manual covers diagnosis and repair.

Subframe Mounts:

Cracking or separation of rear subframe mounting points can occur; the manual will detail inspection methods and reinforcement procedures.

Oil Filter:

Mann-Filter HU 816 x, Mahle KL 146, or OEM BMW 11 42 7 835 245

Air Filter:

Mann-Filter C 35149/1, K&N 33-2052, or OEM BMW 13 72 1 434 023

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw M Division:

BMW M GmbH (formerly BMW Motorsport GmbH) is renowned for its high-performance vehicles, translating motorsport expertise into road cars. The M3 lineage is a cornerstone of this heritage.

E46 M3 Introduction:

The E46 M3 was introduced in 2000 for the 2001 model year, succeeding the E36 M3. The 2002 model year marked its debut in key markets like North America.

E46 M3 Specialty:

The E46 M3 is celebrated for its naturally aspirated S54 engine, considered by many to be the last of its kind, offering a sublime driving experience characterized by its linear power delivery and intoxicating sound.

Production Period:

2000-2006 (E46 M3)

Manufacturing Location:

Regensburg, Germany

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver તિહાસિક:

Car and Driver's 10Best list multiple times during its production run, solidifying its status as a benchmark sports coupe.

Performance Reviews:

Universally praised by automotive journalists for its exhilarating engine, razor-sharp handling, and communicative steering, cementing its legacy as one of the greatest M cars.

Manual Licensing:

Officially licensed product, indicating it is sanctioned and approved by BMW, ensuring accuracy and adherence to manufacturer specifications.