Market Segment:
High-performance luxury sports sedan/coupe.
Key Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG, Audi RS4, Cadillac CTS-V, Lexus IS-F.
Performance Focus:
Renowned for its naturally aspirated inline-six engine, sharp handling, and driver-centric experience.
Manual Value:
Indispensable resource for owners and independent mechanics seeking to maintain and repair this iconic M car.
Powertrain:
Engine (S54), Transmission (SMG/Manual), Differential, Driveshafts, Axles.
Chassis:
Suspension (Front/Rear), Steering, Brakes (ABS/DSC), Wheels, Tires.
Electrical:
ECU, Wiring Diagrams, Lighting, Instruments, Audio, Climate Control, Power Accessories, Immobilizer.
Body And Interior:
Body Panels, Doors, Seats, HVAC System, Trim, Safety Restraints (Airbags).
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, inspections.
Repair:
Engine rebuilds, transmission overhaul, suspension component replacement, brake caliper service, electrical component troubleshooting and replacement.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides for common symptoms, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), specific component testing procedures.
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers routine maintenance, detailed component disassembly/reassembly, advanced diagnostic procedures, torque specifications, and system schematics.
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated Inline-6 (I6)
Displacement:
3.2 Liters (3246 cc)
Valvetrain:
DOHC, 24 Valves (Double VANOS, M Power Coated Camshafts)
Bore X Stroke:
87.0 mm x 91.0 mm
Horsepower:
333 hp @ 7900 rpm
Torque:
262 lb-ft (355 Nm) @ 4900 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (Bosch Motronic ME7.2)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded (91+ Octane)
Oil Capacity:
6.5 Liters (6.9 US Quarts)
Coolant Capacity:
8.0 Liters (8.5 US Quarts)
Transmission Type:
6-speed Manual Transmission (Getrag 420G)
Transmission Type:
6-speed Sequential M Gearbox (SMG II)
Clutch Type:
Hydraulic, Single Plate Dry Clutch
Gear Ratios Manual:
1st: 4.23, 2nd: 2.50, 3rd: 1.67, 4th: 1.24, 5th: 1.00, 6th: 0.83
Differential:
Limited Slip Differential (M Variable Lock)
Manual Transmission Fluid Type:
BMW MTF LT-2 (or equivalent)
Smg Transmission Fluid Type:
Pentosin CHF 11S
NHTSA Front Impact:
4/5 Stars (Driver/Passenger)
ABS:
Standard (ABS with Brake Assist)
Traction Control:
Standard (DSC - Dynamic Stability Control, with MDM - M Dynamic Mode)
Airbags:
Frontal airbags for driver and front passenger, side-impact airbags.
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia-reel seat belts with pretensioners.
Body Structure:
Reinforced safety cell and energy-absorbing crumple zones.
Head Unit:
BMW Professional CD Player with optional navigation system (MKIV).
Audio System:
Standard 6-speaker system, optional Harman Kardon premium audio.
Stability Control:
DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) with MDM (M Dynamic Mode) for a less intrusive electronic intervention.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control.
Auxiliary Input:
Optional auxiliary audio input port.
Throttle System:
Drive-by-wire electronic throttle control system.
Oil Change Interval:
Variable Service Interval (CBS) system, typically 7,500-10,000 miles or annually, depending on driving conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approximately 60,000 miles (refer to manual for specific S54 recommendations).
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 2 years (regardless of mileage).
Engine Oil Spec:
BMW High Performance SAE 5W-30 Synthetic (e.g., BMW Ultimate Engine Oil or equivalent API SN, ACEA C3).
Coolant Spec:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48), 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Spec:
DOT 4 High Performance Brake Fluid.
Rod Bearings:
Prone to wear if oil is neglected or if the engine is consistently driven hard at high RPM without proper warm-up. Inspection and potential replacement are critical maintenance items for high-mileage examples.
Oil Vanos Hoses:
VANOS (Variable Valve Timing) system can develop leaks from seals and hoses, affecting performance and fuel economy. Rebuild kits are available.
Subframe Mounts:
Rear subframe mounting points can crack due to the high torque and stress. Reinforcement kits are recommended for track use.
Bmw Motorsport:
BMW M GmbH is renowned for its high-performance automotive division, established in 1972.
E46 M3 Introduction:
The E46 M3 debuted in 2000 as the successor to the E36 M3, representing a significant leap in performance and technology.
Key Innovations E46 M3:
Introduced the S54 engine, M Variable Lock differential, and optional SMG II transmission.
Production Years:
2000-2006 (E46 M3)
Manufacturing Location:
Regensburg, Germany
