Positioning:
The 2001 BMW M3 (E46 generation) represents the pinnacle of performance for the 3 Series line, targeting driving enthusiasts seeking a blend of track-capable dynamics and everyday usability. It competes with other high-performance sports sedans and coupes of its era.
Competitors:
Porsche 911 (996 generation), Mercedes-Benz C32 AMG (W203), Audi S4 (B5/B6 generation), Chevrolet Corvette (C5).
Performance Focus:
Naturally aspirated S54 inline-six engine, sophisticated chassis tuning, driver-focused interior, optional SMG transmission.
Engine:
Detailed diagnostics, repair, overhaul, lubrication, cooling system, fuel injection, ignition, emissions control
Transmission:
Manual and SMG (Sequential Manual Gearbox) service, repair, clutch, flywheel, driveshafts, differentials
Chassis And Body:
Suspension (front and rear axle), steering system, braking system (ABS, DSC), bodywork, interior trim, climate control
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, fuse box locations, lighting, starter, alternator, battery, instrument cluster, onboard electronics, DME (Digital Motor Electronics)
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, brake fluid flush, coolant service, valve adjustment
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), common fault identification, electrical system diagnostics
Repair:
Component removal and installation, engine rebuild procedures, transmission overhaul, suspension component replacement, brake system repair
Specifications:
Torque specifications for all fasteners, fluid capacities, component tolerances, alignment specifications
Depth:
Comprehensive; covers routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including electrical diagnostics and body repair.
Engine Type:
Inline-6, Naturally Aspirated
Displacement:
3.2 Liters (3246 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
87.0 mm x 91.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
11.5:1
Valvetrain:
DOHC, 24 valves (4 valves per cylinder), Double VANOS (variable camshaft timing)
Horsepower:
333 hp @ 7900 rpm (US spec)
Torque:
262 lb-ft @ 4900 rpm (US spec)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), Individual Throttle Bodies (ITBs)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)
Type:
6-Speed Manual Transmission
Type:
SMG II (Sequential Manual Gearbox) with paddle shifters
Clutch:
Hydraulically actuated, single-plate dry clutch
Differential:
Limited-slip differential (LSD)
Length:
Approx. 178.9 inches (4545 mm)
Width:
Approx. 70.1 inches (1780 mm)
Height:
Approx. 54.4 inches (1381 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 107.5 inches (2730 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3315 lbs (1503 kg) for manual, 3375 lbs (1531 kg) for SMG
NHTSA Frontal Impact:
Not explicitly rated by NHTSA for this specific M3 generation, but generally performed well in contemporary tests for BMW.
Traction Control:
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), Automatic Stability Control and Traction (ASC+T)
Braking System:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), front ventilated discs, rear solid discs (M-specific tuning)
Airbags:
Front dual-stage airbags, front side-impact airbags
Seatbelts:
Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pretensioners and force limiters
Audio System:
Optional Harman Kardon premium audio system, CD player, AM/FM radio. Navigation system was also available.
Stability Control:
Advanced DSC system with M-tuned settings for performance driving. M Mode button on the steering wheel to adjust settings.
Auxiliary Input:
Limited by contemporary standards; typically no standard aux input or Bluetooth. Aftermarket solutions are common.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 7,500-10,000 miles or as indicated by the car's Condition Based Service (CBS) system, with a recommended 12-month interval regardless of mileage.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Around 60,000 miles, depending on driving conditions and plug type.
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 2 years.
Coolant Service:
BMW recommends a coolant flush and refill approximately every 4 years or 100,000 miles, though some prefer to do it sooner.
Valve Adjustment:
Recommended periodically, particularly if engine performance changes or if unusual valve train noise is present. The S54 engine has adjustable valves.
Engine Oil:
BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) approved synthetic oil, typically 5W-30 or 0W-40 depending on climate. Check owner's manual for specific viscosity.
Coolant:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 ethylene glycol based) mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 Low Viscosity (LV) Brake Fluid.
Transmission Fluid:
Manual: ATF Dexron III or equivalent. SMG: Pentosin CHF 11S hydraulic fluid.
Differential Fluid:
BMW Hypoid Gear Oil G2 (SAE 75W-90 GL-5).
Rod Bearings:
A well-documented issue in the S54 engine. Early E46 M3s are known to have undersized rod bearings that can fail prematurely, especially under hard driving or with insufficient maintenance. The manual will detail inspection and replacement procedures.
Subframe Mounts:
Cracking of the rear subframe mounting points in the chassis is common due to the high forces generated by the M3's suspension and powertrain. The manual will provide reinforcement and repair guidance.
Oil Pump Drive:
The hex bolt connecting the oil pump to the engine can loosen, leading to oil starvation. Regular checking and proper torque are crucial.
Throttle Actuators:
Failure of the electronic throttle actuators (for the individual throttle bodies) can cause rough idling, poor acceleration, and limp mode. The manual covers diagnosis and replacement.
Heritage:
BMW's M Division (Motorsport) has a storied history of producing high-performance variants of their standard road cars, dating back to the 1970s with the M1 and M535i.
E46 M3 Introduction:
The E46 M3 was introduced in 2000 for the 2001 model year, succeeding the E36 M3. It was a significant evolution in terms of engine technology, chassis dynamics, and driver engagement.
E46 M3 Variants:
Available as a coupe and convertible. Key options included the SMG II transmission and various M sport packages.
Production Years:
2001-2006
Manufacturing Location:
Regensburg, Germany
Car And Driver 10 Best:
The E46 M3 was a frequent recipient of Car and Driver's '10Best' list, praising its performance and handling.
Motor Trend Car Of The Year:
While not winning Car of the Year, it was consistently reviewed as a class leader and benchmark.
Performance Reviews:
Universally praised for its engaging driving experience, communicative steering, and powerful, rev-happy engine.
