🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

M3 Convertible

Year:

2004

Chassis Code:

E46

Generation:

E46 M3 Convertible

Bodystyle:

Convertible

Engine Code:

S54B32

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The 2004 BMW M3 Convertible (E46) represented the pinnacle of performance and luxury in the compact executive sports convertible segment. It was a halo model for BMW, known for its motorsport heritage and driver-focused engineering.

Competitors:

Competed directly with high-performance convertibles such as the Mercedes-Benz SLK AMG, Audi S4 Cabriolet, Porsche Boxster S, and Chevrolet Corvette Convertible.

Features:

High-revving naturally aspirated inline-six engine, advanced suspension tuning, optional SMG II automated manual transmission, sophisticated convertible roof mechanism, premium interior materials, extensive customization options.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Type:

Owner's Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Printed Booklet

Page Count:

Approximately 250-300 pages (typical for this era and model)

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems:

Vehicle operation, safety features, basic maintenance, controls and instruments, infotainment system, climate control, convertible top operation, emergency procedures, troubleshooting basic issues.

Specific Systems:

Includes detailed operation for HVAC system, power windows, power seats, convertible top (hydraulic and electrical components of operation), lighting system, instrument cluster and warning indicators, central locking, and onboard computer functions.

Procedures:

Starting and driving, using the iDrive system (if equipped), adjusting seats and mirrors, operating lights and wipers, refuelling, checking fluid levels (oil, coolant, washer fluid), tire pressure checks, changing a flat tire, basic warning light interpretation, locking/unlocking doors, operating the convertible top.

Specific Procedures:

Guidance on proper break-in procedure for new vehicles, using the convertible top's manual override in case of failure, checking tire pressure monitoring system (if equipped), understanding the Condition Based Service (CBS) system indicators, proper vehicle jacking points and tire change procedure.

Depth:

Focuses on user operation and basic owner-level maintenance, not in-depth mechanical repairs or diagnostics. It provides 'how-to' guidance for everyday use and care.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

Physical Printed Document

Quality:

Professional, high-quality print with clear text and diagrams.

Binding:

Saddle-stitched or perfect bound (typical for owner's manuals).

Paper:

Durable, glossy or semi-gloss paper stock suitable for automotive manuals.

Completeness:

This is a comprehensive owner's manual, covering all standard features and operations for the 2004 BMW M3 Convertible. It does not cover mechanical repairs or advanced diagnostics; for that, a separate BMW Service Manual would be required.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Naturally Aspirated Inline 6-cylinder

Displacement:

3.2 Liters (3246 cc)

Engine Code:

S54B32

Horsepower:

333 bhp @ 7,900 rpm

Torque:

262 lb-ft @ 4,900 rpm

Redline:

8,000 rpm

Acceleration 0 60:

Approximately 4.5 - 5.0 seconds (depending on transmission and driver skill)

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with individual throttle bodies

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane or higher)

Valvetrain:

DOHC (Dual Overhead Camshafts), 4 valves per cylinder, Double VANOS (Variable Valve Timing) on both intake and exhaust camshafts, electronically controlled individual throttle bodies.

🔧 Transmission

Type:

6-Speed Manual Transmission

Type:

SMG II (Sequential Manual Gearbox) with paddle shifters

Clutch:

Hydraulically actuated, single-plate dry clutch (for manual transmission)

Smg Modes:

Sport, Comfort, and Sequential modes with adjustable shift speeds.

Differential:

M Variable Differential Lock (hydraulically controlled limited-slip differential).

📐 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)

Track Width Front:

61.5 inches (1562 mm)

Track Width Rear:

60.8 inches (1545 mm)

Seating Capacity:

4

Trunk Volume:

Approximately 10.7 cu ft (with top up)

Curb Weight:

Approximately 3,814 lbs (1,730 kg) for manual, 3,891 lbs (1,765 kg) for SMG

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approximately 4,740 lbs (2,150 kg)

Wheel Size:

18x8.0 front, 18x9.5 rear (standard); 19x8.0 front, 19x9.5 rear (optional)

Tire Size Standard:

225/40R18 front, 255/35R18 rear

🛡️ Safety Features

Niosht:

Not specifically rated by NHTSA for this specific model year/variant, but E46 platform generally performed well in contemporary crash tests.

Features:

Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), Traction Control System (ASC+T), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Xenon headlights (optional).

Features:

Front airbags, front side-impact airbags, rollover protection system (pop-up roll bars behind headrests), reinforced A-pillars, three-point seat belts with pre-tensioners.

Brake System:

Power-assisted disc brakes with ABS. Front: Vented discs, 13.6 inches. Rear: Vented discs, 13.1 inches.

💡 Technology Features

System:

BMW Professional Radio or optional Navigation system with CD player. Features include AM/FM radio, CD playback, potentially optional satellite radio and CD changer. iDrive system was introduced later in the E46 lifecycle but may be present in some later 2004 models.

Display:

Central information display, often in the dashboard or on the navigation screen (if equipped).

Features:

Cruise control, parking distance sensors (optional), rain-sensing wipers (optional), automatic climate control.

Features:

Onboard computer, potentially Bluetooth connectivity (via aftermarket solutions or specific options packages), basic telematics.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change:

BMW Condition Based Service (CBS) system, typically around 10,000-15,000 miles or as indicated by the vehicle's computer. Consult manual for specific recommendations.

Major Service:

Inspect valve clearance (every 30,000-60,000 miles), spark plugs, air filter, fuel filter, brake fluid flush (every 2 years), coolant flush (every 2-4 years).

Engine Oil:

BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) approved synthetic oil, typically 5W-30 or 0W-40. Capacity: ~6.5 liters (6.9 US quarts). Consult manual for exact viscosity based on climate.

Coolant:

BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 formulation), mixed 50/50 with distilled water. Capacity: ~8.5 liters.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 4 High Performance Brake Fluid.

Transmission Fluid Manual:

BMW Synchromesh Fluid (e.g., MTF LT-2 or LT-3). Capacity: ~1.4 liters.

Transmission Fluid Smg:

Hydraulic fluid for SMG system, consult specific BMW fluid part numbers (e.g., Pentosin CHF 11S or equivalent).

Differential Fluid:

BMW Hypoid Gear Oil SAE 75W-90 (e.g., SAF-XJ or equivalent). Capacity: ~1.5 liters.

Power Steering Fluid:

BMW Power Steering Fluid (specific type, consult manual for P/N, typically mineral oil based).

Issues:

Rod bearing wear (especially in early models or hard-driven cars), VANOS system issues (solenoids, seals), subframe cracking (reinforcement recommended), VANOS oil pump drive (slipper failure), throttle actuator issues (for SMG), VANOS oil line failure, oil leaks from valve cover gasket and oil pan gasket.

Subframe Cracking:

The rear subframe mounting points on the chassis can crack over time due to the high torque and stiff chassis. Reinforcement kits are available and recommended for proactive maintenance.

📚 Vehicle History

Heritage:

BMW's M Division has a storied history in motorsport, translating its racing expertise into high-performance road vehicles. The M3 badge signifies the ultimate expression of the 3 Series platform.

Evolution:

The E46 M3, launched in 2000, succeeded the highly acclaimed E36 M3. It was a significant leap forward in performance, technology, and design, retaining the beloved inline-six engine formula.

Production Years:

E46 M3 Convertible produced from 2001-2006.

Manufacturing Location:

Munich, Germany

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Awards:

Car and Driver's 10Best list multiple times for the E46 M3 generation, World Performance Car of the Year, and numerous positive reviews from automotive publications praising its handling, engine, and overall driving dynamics.