🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

M3

Year:

2003

Chassis Code:

E46

Engine Code:

S54B32

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The 2003 BMW M3 (E46) represents the pinnacle of the 3 Series performance in its generation, positioned as a high-performance luxury sports coupe/convertible, directly competing with vehicles like the Mercedes-Benz C55 AMG and Audi RS4.

Competitive Analysis:

The E46 M3 was lauded for its exceptional handling, powerful naturally aspirated engine, and driver-focused experience, setting a benchmark for its segment. Its sophisticated engineering and motorsport heritage provided a strong competitive advantage.

Key Features:

High-revving S54 inline-six engine, bespoke M chassis tuning, available SMG (Sequential Manual Gearbox) or 6-speed manual transmission, distinctive M styling cues, advanced aerodynamic elements, and a premium interior.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

Operation, maintenance, safety, features, emergency procedures, basic troubleshooting

Page Count:

~200-250 pages (estimated for a typical owner's manual of this era)

Manual Type:

Owner's Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Printed Book

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine, transmission, brakes, steering, suspension, climate control, electrical system, lighting, infotainment, safety systems, vehicle exterior and interior features, instrumentation, warnings, fluid levels, tire pressure monitoring

Procedures Included:

Starting the engine, driving techniques, parking, using climate control, operating lights and wipers, checking fluid levels, inflating tires, using the key and remote, understanding warning lights and messages, basic emergency procedures (e.g., tire change, jump starting), fuel filler flap operation, seat and steering wheel adjustment

Technical Depth:

General user operation and basic maintenance guidance. Does not cover detailed repair procedures or advanced diagnostics, which would be found in a workshop or service manual.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

N/A (Printed Book)

Print Quality:

Professional, high-quality printing typical of BMW owner's manuals

Binding Type:

Stapled or Perfect Bound (typical for owner's manuals)

Paper Type:

Durable, glossy or semi-gloss paper stock

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Naturally Aspirated Inline 6-cylinder

Engine Displacement:

3.2 Liters (3246 cc)

Horsepower:

333 hp @ 7900 rpm

Torque:

262 lb-ft @ 4900 rpm

Fuel Injection:

Sequential Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with individual throttle bodies

Engine Features:

Double VANOS (variable valve timing), M high-performance engine management, magnesium alloy crankcase

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Standard:

6-Speed Manual Transmission

Transmission Type Optional:

6-Speed SMG III (Sequential Manual Gearbox)

Transmission Features:

M differential lock, driver-selectable driving modes (on SMG)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

177.7 inches (Coupe) / 177.1 inches (Convertible)

Width:

70.1 inches

Height:

54.5 inches (Coupe) / 54.3 inches (Convertible)

Wheelbase:

107.4 inches

Seating Capacity:

4

Trunk Volume:

11.0 cu ft (Coupe)

Curb Weight:

~3430 lbs (Coupe Manual) / ~3620 lbs (Convertible Manual)

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5x120

Front Tire Size:

225/40R18

Rear Tire Size:

255/40R18

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Rating:

4 Stars

IIHS Side Impact Rating:

Good

Active Features:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) with M Dynamic Mode, traction control

Passive Features:

Front airbags, front side-impact airbags, front seatbelt pre-tensioners, rollover protection (Convertible), reinforced safety cell

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

BMW Professional Radio/Cassette/CD system with optional navigation system (MKIV).

Display:

Central LCD display for radio, navigation, and vehicle settings.

Driver Assistance Features:

Park Distance Control (PDC), Cruise Control.

Connectivity:

Optional CD changer, Bluetooth preparation (Tele Aid/BMW Assist).

Lighting Features:

Xenon Adaptive Headlights (optional), angel eye daytime running lights.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 7,500 to 10,000 miles or annually, or as indicated by the car's Condition Based Service (CBS) system.

Brake Fluid Change:

Every 2 years

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 60,000 miles

Engine Oil Type:

BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) approved synthetic oil, typically 0W-40 or 5W-40

Coolant Type:

BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 or equivalent)

Transmission Fluid Type Manual:

BMW MTF LT-2 (or equivalent GL-4/GL-5 rated manual transmission fluid)

Transmission Fluid Type Smg:

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

Differential Fluid Type:

BMW Hypoid Gear Oil G2 (or equivalent SAE 75W-140 GL-5)

Known Issues:

Rod bearing wear (especially on early S54 engines, requiring proactive replacement), VANOS system issues (solenoids, pump, seals), subframe cracking (due to chassis stress), cooling system failures (water pump, thermostat, expansion tank), VANOS oil feed line issues.

Inspections:

Regular inspection of cooling hoses, belts, brake pads and rotors, tire wear, and exhaust system integrity.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

BMW's M division is renowned for its motorsport heritage and dedication to creating the ultimate driving machines, with a long history of successful racing and road-going performance cars.

Model Evolution:

The E46 M3 is the fourth generation of the M3, succeeding the acclaimed E36 M3. It represented a significant leap in engine technology and chassis dynamics, solidifying the M3's reputation.

Production Years:

2000-2006 (E46 M3)

Manufacturing Locations:

Regensburg, Germany

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

Consistently praised by automotive journalists for its driving dynamics and performance, often featured in 'best of' lists for sports cars.