🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

M3

Generation:

E46

Model Years Covered:

2001-2006

Specific Model Year In Title:

2004

Vehicle Chassis Code:

E46

Engine Code Primary:

S54B32

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Performance Sports Coupe/Convertible

Target Audience:

Enthusiast drivers, performance car owners, professional technicians

Key Competitors Era:

Porsche 911 (996), Chevrolet Corvette (C5), Mercedes-Benz C-Class AMG (W203), Audi RS4 (B5)

Engine Type:

High-revving naturally aspirated inline-6 (S54)

Performance Focus:

Track-tuned suspension, powerful brakes, responsive steering, aerodynamic enhancements

Manual Advantage:

Vehicle-specific data ensures accuracy and efficiency for maintenance and repairs, avoiding generic guesswork

Authenticity:

Represents the exact information used by authorized BMW service centers

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Scope:

All Models & All Repairs A-Z

Region Applicability:

Global (with potential regional variations for specific components)

Repair Type:

Maintenance, Service, Repair, Diagnostics, Troubleshooting

Estimated Page Count:

Over 1000 pages (typical for full factory service manuals)

Manual Classification:

Factory Service Manual (FSM) / Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (likely PDF)

Searchability:

Searchable text (typical for digital FSMs)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain Engine:

S54 3.2L Naturally Aspirated Inline-6 Engine (including VANOS, throttle bodies, cooling, exhaust, fuel injection, ignition, lubrication, engine mechanicals, engine management system/DME)

Powertrain Transmission:

6-speed Manual Transmission (Getrag 420G), SMG (Sequential Manual Gearbox) Automated Manual Transmission (optional)

Drivetrain:

Limited-Slip Differential (M Variable Lock Differential), driveshafts, axles

Chassis Suspension:

Front McPherson strut with dual pivot, Rear multi-link suspension, M-specific tuning, bushings, shock absorbers, springs, anti-roll bars

Chassis Steering:

Hydraulic power steering, steering rack, steering column, steering angle sensor

Brakes:

Front and rear disc brakes, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), DSC (Dynamic Stability Control), brake fluid specifications, bleeding procedures, caliper servicing

Electrical System:

12V battery system, alternator, starter motor, wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, lighting system (headlights, taillights, interior lights), horn

Body Exterior:

Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, M-specific aerodynamic components, sunroof, mirrors, trim pieces

Body Interior:

Seats, dashboard, center console, door panels, headliner, HVAC system, airbags, seat belts, interior trim

Climate Control:

Automatic climate control, A/C system components, refrigerant, servicing, cabin air filter replacement

Infotainment Audio:

BMW Professional Radio, optional navigation system (MK4), speaker system, antenna

Safety Systems:

Airbags (front, side), seat belt pretensioners, DSC (Dynamic Stability Control), ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), traction control

Routine Maintenance:

Oil change, filter replacement (oil, air, cabin), spark plug replacement, coolant flush, brake fluid flush, differential fluid change, transmission fluid change

Engine Repair:

Head gasket replacement, piston and connecting rod service, camshaft timing, VANOS system repair, throttle body synchronization, idle control valve service, oil pan removal/installation

Transmission Repair:

Clutch replacement, transmission overhaul (manual and SMG), SMG hydraulic unit servicing, gear selector mechanism repair

Suspension Steering Repair:

Shock absorber replacement, spring replacement, control arm bushing replacement, ball joint replacement, tie rod end replacement, power steering pump replacement, steering rack rebuild/replacement

Brake System Repair:

Brake pad and rotor replacement, brake caliper service, brake line replacement, ABS sensor replacement, DSC module troubleshooting

Electrical Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting electrical faults using wiring diagrams, sensor testing, actuator testing, ECU diagnostics, battery testing, charging system testing

Body Repair:

Panel alignment, door hinge adjustment, window regulator repair, bumper repair/replacement, trim removal/installation

Climate Control Repair:

A/C system recharge, compressor replacement, evaporator/heater core replacement, blower motor replacement

Diagnostic Procedures:

On-board diagnostics (OBD-II), reading trouble codes, live data analysis, component testing with diagnostic tools (e.g., ISTA/D, INPA)

Special Tools:

Identification and usage of BMW-specific special tools required for certain procedures (e.g., VANOS compressor, flywheel locking tool)

Depth Of Information:

Comprehensive (covers everything from basic fluid changes to complete engine and transmission rebuilds)

Diagnostic Capability:

Advanced diagnostics, including troubleshooting complex electronic systems and engine management

Rebuild Procedures:

Detailed procedures for engine and transmission disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly

Torque Specifications:

Precise torque specifications for all fasteners and critical components

Wiring Diagrams:

Full electrical system wiring diagrams with detailed component identification

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

PDF

Image Resolution:

High-resolution (suitable for clear viewing of diagrams and photos)

Digital Binding:

N/A (Digital format)

Digital Paper Type:

N/A (Digital format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Name:

S54

Engine Configuration:

Inline 6-cylinder

Displacement:

3.2 Liters (3246 cc)

Bore X Stroke:

87.0 mm x 91.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

11.5:1

Valvetrain:

DOHC (Dual Overhead Camshafts), 24 valves, Double VANOS (variable valve timing)

Horsepower Us Spec:

333 hp @ 7900 rpm

Torque Us Spec:

262 lb-ft (355 Nm) @ 4900 rpm

Redline:

8000 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

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

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 AKI or higher recommended)

Engine Control Unit:

Bosch Motronic (specific model may vary, e.g., MS43/MS45)

Oil Type Specification:

BMW Longlife-01 (e.g., Castrol SYNTEC 0W-30 or equivalent)

Oil Capacity With Filter:

Approx. 6.5 Liters (6.9 US Quarts)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Standard:

6-speed Manual

Transmission Model Standard:

Getrag 420G

Transmission Type Optional:

SMG (Sequential Manual Gearbox) Automated Manual

Transmission Model Optional:

SMG Drivelogic

Clutch Type:

Hydraulically operated, single dry plate (manual)

Gear Ratios:

Specific ratios for 1st through 6th gear and reverse are detailed in the manual

Transmission Fluid Manual:

Pentosin MTF LT-2 or equivalent (specific BMW P/N usually required)

Transmission Fluid Smg:

Pentosin CHF 11S (for hydraulic system) and specific ATF for gearbox

📐 Dimensions

Length:

177.1 inches (4498 mm)

Width:

71.5 inches (1816 mm)

Height:

53.7 inches (1365 mm)

Wheelbase:

107.5 inches (2731 mm)

Front Track:

58.2 inches (1478 mm)

Rear Track:

58.8 inches (1493 mm)

Curb Weight Manual:

Approx. 3,415 lbs (1,550 kg)

Curb Weight Smg:

Approx. 3,527 lbs (1,600 kg)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approx. 4,500 lbs (2,041 kg)

Weight Distribution:

Near 50/50 front/rear (typical for M cars)

Trunk Volume:

Approx. 11.5 cubic feet (326 liters)

Standard Wheel Size:

18x8.0 front, 18x9.0 rear

Optional Wheel Size:

19x8.0 front, 19x9.5 rear

Standard Tire Size:

225/40R18 front, 255/35R18 rear

Optional Tire Size:

225/40R19 front, 255/35R19 rear

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5x120 mm

Center Bore:

72.5 mm

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Crash Test Rating:

4 Stars (for E46 Coupe)

IIHS Front Crash Test Rating:

Good (for E46 Coupe)

Stability Control:

DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) with MDM (M Dynamic Mode)

Traction Control:

ASC+T (Automatic Stability Control + Traction)

Antilock Brakes:

ABS (Anti-lock Braking System)

Airbags:

Front airbags (driver and passenger), optional front side-impact airbags

Seat Belts:

3-point inertia-reel seat belts with pre-tensioners and force limiters

Rollover Protection:

Pop-up roll bar system (for Convertible model)

💡 Technology Features

Head Unit:

BMW Business CD RDS, BMW Professional CD RDS (optional)

Navigation System:

Optional BMW Navigation System (MK4 DVD-based)

Audio System:

Standard 6-speaker system, optional Harman Kardon Logic 7 surround sound system

Traction Control:

ASC+T, M Dynamic Mode (MDM) within DSC

Parking Assistance:

Optional rear park distance control (PDC)

Bluetooth:

Optional Bluetooth preparation with telematics module

Auxiliary Input:

Optional auxiliary audio input (may require specific adapter)

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 10,000-15,000 miles or annually, as indicated by the Condition Based Service (CBS) system. Manual will detail specific CBS logic and manual reset procedures.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Typically around 60,000 miles (NGK BKR6EQUP or similar specified)

Air Filter Replacement:

As needed, or at major service intervals (e.g., 30,000 miles). Manual specifies inspection criteria.

Cabin Filter Replacement:

Typically every 15,000-30,000 miles or annually. Manual provides access and replacement steps.

Brake Fluid Flush:

Every 2 years (DOT 4 Low Viscosity recommended)

Coolant Flush:

BMW Blue Coolant, typically every 4-5 years or as specified by CBS.

Engine Oil Spec:

BMW Longlife-01 (e.g., 0W-30 synthetic)

Coolant Spec:

BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 ethylene glycol based)

Brake Fluid Spec:

DOT 4 LV (Low Viscosity)

Power Steering Fluid Spec:

Pentosin CHF 11S or CHF 202

Rod Bearings:

Wear of connecting rod bearings, particularly in high-mileage or hard-driven examples. Manual details inspection and replacement procedures.

S54 Vanos:

Potential issues with the VANOS solenoid or pump, leading to rough idle or power loss. Manual provides diagnostic steps and repair instructions.

Subframe Cracks:

Cracking of the rear subframe mounting points, especially in earlier E46 models. The manual would cover inspection points.

Cooling System:

Water pump failure, thermostat issues, radiator leaks are common wear items. Manual details replacement and flushing.

Smg Actuator:

SMG hydraulic system can develop leaks or actuator issues. Manual addresses troubleshooting and repair.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Motorsport Division:

BMW M GmbH (formerly BMW Motorsport) legacy of performance engineering

E46 M3 Introduction:

Introduced in 2000 (model year 2001) as a successor to the E36 M3

E46 M3 Variants:

Coupe, Convertible, CSL (Coupe Sport Lightweight - limited edition)

E46 M3 Facelift:

Minor cosmetic updates (e.g., redesigned headlights/taillights) for model year 2004

Production Years:

2000-2006

Manufacturing Location:

Regensburg Plant, Germany

Total Production Units Approx:

~36,000 Coupe + ~7,000 Convertible (excluding CSL)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver 10Best:

Car and Driver 10Best list multiple times during its production run

Motor Trend Car Of The Year:

Nominated and highly regarded by MotorTrend and other automotive publications

Performance Car Awards:

Consistently praised for its driving dynamics and performance by automotive critics worldwide.

User Satisfaction Ratings:

Generally high user satisfaction for performance and build quality, though maintenance costs are a factor.

Emission Standards:

Compliant with relevant emissions standards for its model year (e.g., Euro 3/4, EPA)