🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

M3

Year:

1999

Chassis Code:

E36

Engine Code Primary:

S50B32

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The 1999 BMW M3 (E36) represented the pinnacle of performance and engineering in its class, a driver-focused sports sedan/coupe that blended everyday usability with track-capable dynamics.

Competitors:

Competed against vehicles like the Porsche 911 (996), Chevrolet Corvette (C5), and high-performance iterations of the Mercedes-Benz C-Class and Audi S4.

Engine Highlight:

The S50B32 US-specification engine, a robust 3.2-liter inline-six, was celebrated for its smooth power delivery and distinctive engine note.

Chassis Highlight:

Renowned for its balanced chassis, precise steering, and sophisticated multi-link rear suspension, providing exceptional handling characteristics.

Performance Focus:

Designed with driver engagement as a priority, featuring a driver-oriented cockpit and a strong emphasis on mechanical feedback.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Focus:

Repair and Service

Target Audience:

Professional Technicians & Advanced DIY Enthusiasts

Estimated Pages:

1500+

Type:

Factory Repair Manual / Service Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

S50B32 (3.2L Inline-6, DOHC, 24-valve, VANOS), including diagnostics, overhaul, cooling, lubrication, fuel delivery, ignition, emissions.

Transmission:

Getrag 420G 6-Speed Manual Transmission, clutch system, driveline, differential.

Suspension:

Front strut suspension (McPherson), rear multi-link suspension, springs, dampers, control arms, bushings, wheel bearings.

Brakes:

Front and rear disc brakes, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), EBD (Electronic Brake-force Distribution), brake fluid, lines, calipers, pads, rotors.

Steering:

Hydraulic power steering system, steering rack, column, linkage.

Electrical:

Complete wiring diagrams, battery, alternator, starter, lighting systems, power windows, locks, mirrors, wipers, horn, fuse box, relays, ECU (Engine Control Unit) diagnostics.

Body And Chassis:

Body panel removal and installation, structural repairs, interior trim, glass, bumpers, aerodynamics, chassis lubrication points.

HVAC:

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system, refrigerant, compressor, evaporator, condenser, controls.

Fuel System:

Fuel tank, pump, injectors, fuel pressure regulator, evaporative emissions control.

Exhaust System:

Exhaust manifolds, catalytic converter, mufflers, pipes, oxygen sensors.

Maintenance:

Routine service checks, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, brake fluid flush, coolant flush, belt inspection/replacement.

Repair:

Engine component overhaul (e.g., head gasket, pistons, connecting rods), transmission rebuild, suspension component replacement, brake caliper rebuild, electrical component repair.

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting guides for common issues, fault code interpretation (OBD-II), testing procedures for sensors and actuators, wiring continuity testing.

Troubleshooting:

Step-by-step diagnostic trees for drivability issues, starting problems, electrical faults, HVAC malfunctions.

Torque Specifications:

Detailed torque values for all critical fasteners across all systems.

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering everything from basic fluid changes to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic strategies.

📊 Manual Specifications

Searchability:

Searchable text within PDF for quick access to information.

Printability:

Printable pages for workshop use.

Image Resolution:

High-resolution diagrams, illustrations, and photographs.

Binding:

N/A (PDF Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (PDF Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

S50B32 (US-spec)

Configuration:

3.2-liter (3201 cc) Inline-6 Cylinder

Valvetrain:

DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft), 4 valves per cylinder

Bore X Stroke:

86.4 mm x 91.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

10.5:1

Timing System:

Double VANOS (Variable Valve Timing for intake and exhaust camshafts)

Horsepower:

240 hp @ 6000 rpm

Torque:

236 lb-ft (320 Nm) @ 3800 rpm

Injection:

Bosch Motronic M5.2 Engine Management System with Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded (91 octane or higher recommended)

Coolant Capacity:

Approx. 8.5 liters (8.9 US quarts) with heating system

Oil Capacity:

Approx. 6.5 liters (6.9 US quarts) with filter change

Recommended Oil Viscosity:

SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 (BMW Longlife-98 specification)

Spark Plugs:

NGK BKR6EK (or equivalent)

🔧 Transmission

Type:

Getrag 420G 6-Speed Manual Transmission

Clutch Type:

Hydraulically actuated single dry plate clutch

Transmission Fluid Capacity:

Approx. 1.6 liters (1.7 US quarts)

Transmission Fluid Specification:

BMW MTF-LT-1 (or equivalent manual transmission fluid, e.g., Pentosin MTF 2)

Type:

N/A (only manual offered for 1999 M3)

Differential:

Limited-Slip Differential (LSD) standard on M3 models

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Coupe: 4434 mm (174.6 in), Sedan: 4434 mm (174.6 in)

Width:

Coupe: 1711 mm (67.4 in), Sedan: 1711 mm (67.4 in)

Height:

Coupe: 1350 mm (53.1 in), Sedan: 1377 mm (54.2 in)

Wheelbase:

2700 mm (106.3 in)

Curb Weight:

Coupe: Approx. 1510 kg (3329 lbs), Sedan: Approx. 1525 kg (3362 lbs)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Typically around 1950 kg (4299 lbs)

Trunk Volume:

Coupe: Approx. 400 liters (14.1 cu ft), Sedan: Approx. 400 liters (14.1 cu ft)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Ratings:

N/A (Vehicle not independently crash-tested by NHTSA in this era as per current standards. BMW's internal safety engineering standards were high for the time.)

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

Traction Control:

Standard ASC+T (Automatic Stability Control + Traction)

Airbags:

Driver and front passenger airbags

Seatbelts:

3-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pretensioners

Body Structure:

Reinforced safety cage, crumple zones front and rear.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

BMW Business/Professional RDS radio with cassette player. Optional CD changer. Basic speaker system with optional Hi-Fi upgrades.

Climate Control:

Manual or optional Automatic Climate Control (ACC) with recirculation, pollen filter, and temperature/fan speed regulation.

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control system.

Onboard Computer:

BMW On-Board Computer providing fuel economy, range, average speed, and service interval status.

Connectivity Features:

N/A (No integrated Bluetooth or USB connectivity in the modern sense. Phone integration via optional BMW hands-free kits was available).

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 7,500 to 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first, depending on driving conditions (refer to On-Board Computer 'Service Due' indicator).

Inspection Interval:

BMW Inspections I and II typically at 30,000 and 60,000 miles respectively (or as indicated by the service indicator).

Coolant Flush Interval:

Every 2-3 years or 30,000 miles.

Brake Fluid Flush Interval:

Every 2 years, regardless of mileage.

Engine Oil Spec:

BMW Longlife-98 specification (e.g., Castrol Syntec 5W-40 or BMW High Performance SAE 5W-40)

Coolant Spec:

BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 ethylene glycol-based)

Brake Fluid Spec:

DOT 4

Power Steering Fluid Spec:

Pentosin CHF 11S (Green) or CHF 7.1 (depending on VIN sequence and original fill)

Common Wear Items:

Cooling system components (water pump, thermostat, hoses, expansion tank), VANOS solenoids, driveshaft flex discs (guibos), front control arm bushings, rear shock mounts.

Engine Specific:

VANOS rattle on cold start (often indicative of worn seals or accumulator), oil filter housing gasket leaks, potential for cracked exhaust manifolds.

Electrical Common:

Window regulator failures, seat heater failures, glove box latch failure, sagging headliner.

Chassis Common:

Subframe mounting points can rust/crack over time, requiring reinforcement.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Performance Division:

BMW M GmbH (Motorsport) has a long and storied history of creating high-performance versions of standard BMW models, dating back to the M1 supercar and the iconic M535i.

E36 M3 Introduction:

The E36 M3 was introduced in 1992 in Europe with a 3.0L S50 engine. The US-spec M3 arrived in 1995 with a detuned 3.0L S50 engine, which was replaced by the larger 3.2L S50B32 engine for the 1996 model year onwards, including the 1999 model.

E36 Generation End:

The E36 generation concluded in 1999, making the 1999 model year the final iteration for this chassis.

Production Years:

1992-1999 (globally), 1995-1999 (US-spec)

Manufacturing Locations:

Germany (Munich, Regensburg)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver 10Best:

The E36 M3, in various iterations, was a multiple recipient of Car and Driver's '10Best' list during its production run, a testament to its performance and value.

Motor Trend Performance:

Widely praised by automotive journalists for its exceptional handling, powerful inline-six engine, and overall driving dynamics.