🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

Z3 Roadster/Coupe

Chassis Code:

E36/7 (Roadster) / E36/8 (Coupe)

Product Name Variant:

3 Series Z3 Roadster/Coupe M Roadster/Coupe

Model Year Referenced In Manual:

1999

Bmw Chassis Codes:

E36/7, E36/8

Engine Codes Likely Covered:

M44B19 (1.9L), M50B25/M52B25 (2.5L), M52B28 (2.8L), S50B30/S52B32 (M variants)

👋 Introduction

Target Audience:

BMW Z3 Roadster and Coupe owners, independent repair shops, DIY enthusiasts with basic mechanical aptitude.

Advantage:

Provides factory-level technical data and repair procedures, rivaling or exceeding the scope of third-party repair manuals. Empowers users to perform complex tasks, potentially saving significant costs compared to dealership labor.

Comprehensiveness:

Covers a vast array of electrical, mechanical, and diagnostic systems specific to the E36/7 and E36/8 Z3 models.

Visual Aids:

Features illustrations, diagrams, and 'depth illustrations' for clearer understanding of procedures.

Usability:

Structured for ease of understanding, even for individuals with limited prior automotive knowledge, provided they possess basic mechanical skills.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Full vehicle repair and maintenance

Specific Systems Listed:

Engine Control System, Charging System, Starting System, Electronic Transmission Control, Supplemental Restraint System (SRS), ABS/Slip Control, Power Mirrors, Central Locking, Power Windows, Power Seats, Heated Seats, Power Sunroof, Horn, Wiper/Washer System, Headlight Washers, Windshield Washer Jet Heaters, Instrument Cluster, Multi-Function Clock, Light Switch, Headlights/Fog Lights, Turn/Hazard Lights, Park/Tail/Underhood Lights, License Plate/Luggage Compartment Lights, Backup Lights, Brake Lights, Interior Lights, Glove Box/Cassette Box/Ashtray Lights/Charging Socket, Crash Control Module, Park/Ventilation (HKR), Rear Window Defogger, Integrated Climate Regulation, Radio/CD Player, Radio/Hi-Fi, Cellular Telephone, Cruise Control, Anti-Theft System, On-Board Computer.

Estimated Page Count:

Extensive (Likely 1000+ pages based on listed sections)

Type:

Factory-level Repair Manual / Service Manual

Language:

English (inferred from product description)

Format:

Digital (PDF implied by typical sales of such manuals, though not explicitly stated)

📖 Manual Coverage

Electrical Systems:

Comprehensive coverage of power distribution, fuses, ground distribution, data link connector, engine management, charging, starting, transmission control, SRS, ABS, comfort features (mirrors, locks, windows, seats, HVAC, audio), lighting, security, and on-board computer systems.

Mechanical Systems:

Detailed explanations for engine, transmission, and chassis components are implied by the scope of a full repair manual, although specific sections are not listed in the provided content. Engine control system details suggest in-depth mechanical and electrical interaction.

Diagnostic Procedures:

Includes procedures for engine control, charging, starting, transmission control, ABS, and other electronic modules. Mentions 'Data Link' and 'Engine Control System' indicating diagnostic connector use and troubleshooting.

Repair Procedures:

Covers front-to-back repairs with step-by-step explanations, illustrations, and diagrams for all systems listed. Explicitly states 'all the necesarry needed instructions for all the repairs'.

Maintenance Procedures:

Implied by the availability of technical specifications, fuse charts, power distribution, and component locations for servicing.

Depth:

High. Aimed at garage/workshop use with detailed illustrations, diagrams, and technical specifications, suitable for users with basic mechanical knowledge to perform safety and easy servicing.

Diagnostic Tools Referenced:

Implied use of BMW proprietary diagnostic tools and software via the Data Link connector.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

PDF (presumed)

Quality:

High-resolution digital reproduction of original factory documentation, ensuring clarity of diagrams and text.

Binding:

N/A (Digital format)

Type:

N/A (Digital format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options 1999 E36 7 E36 8:

Likely includes 1.9L (M44B19), 2.5L (M50B25/M52B25), 2.8L (M52B28). M variants (M Roadster/Coupe) would have S50B30 or S52B32 engines.

Typical Hp Range Non M:

115 hp (1.9L) to 193 hp (2.8L)

Typical Hp Range M Variants:

240 hp (S50B30 US spec) to 321 hp (S50B32 Euro spec)

Type:

Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI), likely with Bosch Motronic engine management system.

Engine Management Coverage:

Detailed coverage of Engine Control System, including sensors, actuators, and diagnostic parameters.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-speed Manual (Getrag 260/5, 260/6, or ZF S5D series depending on engine)

Transmission Type:

4-speed Automatic (ZF 4HP22, likely)

Electronic Control:

Manual mentions 'Electronic transmission control,' indicating coverage for automatic transmission electronic modules and diagnostics.

📐 Dimensions

Body Styles:

2-door Roadster, 2-door Coupe

Curb Weight Range:

Approximately 2,800 - 3,300 lbs (1270 - 1500 kg) depending on engine and body style.

🛡️ Safety Features

IIHS Crash Test Results:

Good in front offset, marginal/acceptable in side impact for its era. Specific ratings vary by test year and vehicle configuration.

Traction Control:

Often referred to as 'ASC+T' (Automatic Stability Control + Traction) on some models, coverage implied under 'Slip control ABS'.

Braking System:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is explicitly mentioned.

Airbags:

'Supplement restraint system' (SRS) coverage indicates airbag system details.

Body Structure:

Reinforced chassis for a convertible, contributing to structural rigidity and crash safety.

💡 Technology Features

Audio Systems:

Various BMW Professional RDS radios, CD players, and optional Hi-Fi sound systems are covered, including wiring and component locations.

Cruise Control:

Explicitly mentioned as 'Cruise Control tempomat', indicating coverage of its operation and components.

Cellular Telephone:

Includes information on the integrated cellular telephone system, likely referring to early BMW hands-free kits.

Climate Control:

Covers 'Integrated climate regulation' and 'Park, ventilation with HKR' (Heated Climate Regulation), suggesting detailed HVAC system diagnostics and operation.

On Board Computer:

Detailed coverage of the 'On Board Computer' functions and integration.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change:

Typically every 7,500-10,000 miles or annually, under BMW's Condition Based Service (CBS) system which would be detailed in a complete manual.

Spark Plugs:

Approximately every 60,000 miles, depending on engine variant and plug type.

Engine Oil:

BMW Longlife-01 or Longlife-04 synthetic oils, viscosity typically 5W-30 or 0W-40 (e.g., Castrol Syntec or Edge). Specifics depend on engine.

Coolant:

BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48), mixed 50/50 with distilled water.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 4.

Transmission Fluid Manual:

GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil, specific viscosity recommended (e.g., Red Line MTL 75W-90).

Transmission Fluid Auto:

ZF Lifeguardfluid 5 (LF-5) or equivalent for 4HP22 transmissions.

Common Problems General:

Oil leaks (valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket), cooling system issues (water pump, thermostat, radiator), VANOS issues (on 6-cylinder engines), subframe mounting point reinforcement (especially for M models), door seal wear, electrical gremlins (window regulators, convertible top mechanisms).

Suspension Components:

Worn bushings, ball joints, and shock absorbers are common wear items.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Philosophy:

BMW's reputation for building sporty, driver-focused cars with advanced engineering and high-quality components.

Z3 Development:

Developed by BMW Technik GmbH, the Z3 was BMW's first mass-produced roadster since the 507. It leveraged the E36 3 Series platform, offering a blend of classic roadster styling with modern BMW engineering. The Coupe variant was a more niche, design-led offering with increased structural rigidity.

Production Period:

1995–2002 (Z3 Roadster), 1998–2002 (Z3 Coupe)

Manufacturing Location:

Spartanburg, South Carolina, USA

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver Best 10:

The Z3 was often featured on Car and Driver's '10Best' lists in its earlier years, particularly for its handling and driving dynamics.

Driving Dynamics:

Widely praised by automotive journalists for its balanced chassis, responsive steering, and engaging driving experience, especially in 6-cylinder and M variants.