Vehicle Segment:
Performance Sedan / Compact Executive Sports Sedan
Key Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz C-Class AMG, Audi S4, Lexus IS300 (though less direct competitor in performance)
Performance Focus:
High-revving naturally aspirated inline-six engine, rear-wheel drive, balanced chassis, driver-focused cockpit
Manual Value Proposition:
Enables owners to maintain and repair a complex performance vehicle, saving on dealership costs and preserving vehicle integrity
Engine Systems:
S54B32 Engine mechanicals, fuel injection (DME), ignition, cooling, lubrication, exhaust
Drivetrain Systems:
SMG (Sequential Manual Gearbox) / Manual Transmission, Clutch, Driveshafts, Differential, Axles
Chassis Systems:
Suspension (front/rear), Steering, Brakes (ABS/DSC), Wheels, Tires
Electrical Systems:
Body Control Module (BCM), Engine Control Unit (ECU), Instrument Cluster, Lighting, HVAC controls, Power accessories, Audio system, Navigation
Body And Interior:
Body panels, Doors, Windows, Seats, Trim, Convertible roof (if applicable to Sedan variant coverage)
Maintenance Procedures:
Oil changes, Filter replacements, Spark plug service, Coolant flush, Brake fluid replacement, Inspection schedules
Repair Procedures:
Engine rebuilds, Transmission overhaul, Suspension component replacement, Brake system repair, Electrical diagnostics and repair, Bodywork repair
Troubleshooting Diagnostics:
Fault code interpretation, Component testing, Diagnostic procedures for common issues
Technical Data Tables:
Torque specifications, Component clearances, Electrical resistance values, Fluid capacities
Depth Of Coverage:
Detailed, from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including diagnostic procedures and wiring diagrams
PDF Features:
Searchable text, hyperlinked table of contents, zoomable images and diagrams
Image Resolution:
High-resolution for clear visibility of diagrams and exploded views
Binding Style:
Digital (PDF) - Not applicable for printed binding
Paper Quality:
Digital (PDF) - Not applicable for paper type
Engine Configuration:
Inline 6-cylinder
Displacement:
3.2 Liters (3246 cc)
Aspiration:
Naturally Aspirated
Valvetrain:
DOHC, 24 Valves, Double VANOS
Horsepower Us Spec:
333 hp @ 7900 rpm
Torque Us Spec:
262 lb-ft @ 4900 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Electronic Fuel Injection (DME MS43/MS45)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded (91+ Octane)
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48)
Transmission Type Standard:
6-Speed Manual Transmission (Getrag 420G)
Transmission Type Optional:
6-Speed Sequential Manual Gearbox (SMG II)
Clutch Type:
Hydraulic, Single-Plate Dry Clutch
Manual Transmission Fluid:
MTF-LT-2 (or equivalent API GL-4 75W-90)
Smg Fluid:
Pentosin CHF 11S Hydraulic Fluid
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
4-Star
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
4-Star
Traction Control:
Automatic Stability Control (ASC+T) / Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)
Anti Lock Brakes:
Standard (ABS)
Airbags:
Frontal airbags, Side airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia-reel seatbelts with front pretensioners
Audio System:
Standard BMW Business CD or optional BMW Professional CD/Navigation systems.
Navigation System:
Optional MKIV navigation system with CD-ROM maps.
Parking Sensors:
Optional rear parking sensors (Park Distance Control - PDC)
Phone Integration:
Optional Bluetooth hands-free interface and telematics systems.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 7,500-10,000 miles or 12-24 months, depending on driving conditions. Extended Life Oil (e.g., Castrol TWS/Edge Professional 10W-60) is often recommended for M cars.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles (refer to manual for specific plug type and gap)
Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 2-3 years or 30,000 miles
Engine Oil Specification:
BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) certified oil, commonly 10W-60 (e.g., Castrol Edge Professional TWS) for S54 engine performance and longevity. Consult manual for exact OEM spec.
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 4 (BMW recommends DOT 4 High Performance)
Power Steering Fluid:
Pentosin CHF 11S (or equivalent)
Rod Bearings:
Wear on connecting rod bearings is a known concern on S54 engines, especially in earlier models or with infrequent oil changes. Regular inspection and proper oil are crucial.
Vanos System:
Potential issues with VANOS solenoids, seals, or pump can lead to rough idling or power loss. Manual covers diagnostic and repair procedures.
Smg Gearbox:
SMG hydraulic pump and accumulator can fail. Gear selection issues or error messages may occur. Manual details SMG system diagnostics.
Subframe Mounts:
Cracking of the rear subframe mounting points is a documented issue on E46 chassis, requiring reinforcement. Manual may cover inspection and repair.
Bmw Performance Legacy:
Long history of producing driver-focused, performance-oriented vehicles, particularly with inline-six engines.
E46 Platform:
The E46 generation of the 3 Series represented a significant evolution in design, technology, and driving dynamics over its predecessor (E36).
M3 Introduction:
The E46 M3 was introduced in 2000 as the high-performance variant, building on the M division's expertise.
Production Period:
E46 M3 production: 2000-2006 (Coupe and Convertible), Sedan variant was not an official M3 model from the factory in most markets. This manual likely covers conversions or specific regional sedan variants if applicable.
