🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

M3

Year:

1994

Chassis Code:

E36

Engine Code:

S50B30

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Performance Sedan / Coupe

Target Audience:

Enthusiast owners, DIY mechanics, professional technicians

Key Competitors:

Porsche 911 (993), Mercedes-Benz C36 AMG, Chevrolet Camaro Z28, Ford Mustang Cobra

Performance Focus:

High-revving inline-six engine, agile handling, motorsport heritage

Manual Value Proposition:

Empowers owners to maintain and repair their M3, preserving performance and value

Diy Benefit:

Cost savings on labor, assurance of quality work

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Focus:

Comprehensive Service and Repair

Estimated Page Count:

1000+

Type:

Factory Service Manual (FSM) / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital Download (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Yes (complete overhaul, timing, valvetrain, cooling, lubrication)

Engine Electrical:

Yes (ECU, ignition, sensors, wiring diagrams, diagnostics)

Fuel System:

Yes (injection system, fuel pump, injectors, pressure regulator)

Transmission:

Yes (manual transmission service, clutch, gearbox overhaul)

Drivetrain:

Yes (rear differential, driveshafts, CV joints)

Suspension:

Yes (front and rear suspension, alignment, components)

Brakes:

Yes (ABS, hydraulic system, calipers, rotors, fluid)

Steering:

Yes (power steering system, steering rack, linkage)

Electrical System Lighting:

Yes (headlights, taillights, interior lighting, fuses, relays)

HVAC:

Yes (climate control, AC system, heater core, blower motor)

Body And Chassis:

Yes (body panels, doors, interior trim, structural components)

Safety Systems:

Yes (airbags, seatbelts, SRS system)

Maintenance Scheduled:

Yes (oil changes, filter replacements, spark plugs, fluid checks)

Troubleshooting:

Yes (diagnostic procedures, common fault finding)

Repair Component Level:

Yes (engine rebuild, transmission overhaul, suspension component replacement)

Diagnostics Electronic:

Yes (OBD-I diagnosis, sensor testing, actuator testing)

Installation Replacement:

Yes (major component replacement, accessory installation)

Specifications Torque:

Yes (detailed torque specifications for all fasteners)

Wiring Diagrams:

Yes (comprehensive electrical schematics)

Depth Level:

Expert / Professional

Detail Level:

Detailed step-by-step instructions with diagrams and illustrations

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

PDF

Searchability:

Searchable text content

Printability:

Printable pages

Illustration Quality:

High-resolution diagrams and images

Binding Style:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Name:

S50B30

Engine Type:

Naturally Aspirated Inline-6 (DOHC, 24 Valves)

Displacement Cc:

2990

Displacement Cu In:

182.4

Horsepower Ps:

286

Horsepower Hp:

282

Torque Nm:

320

Torque Lb Ft:

236

Redline Rpm:

7200

Fuel Delivery:

Bosch Motronic M3.3 Engine Management System with Sequential Fuel Injection

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Premium (91+ Octane)

Ignition System:

Distributorless Ignition (Dual Spark Plugs per Cylinder)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-Speed Manual Getrag 265/5

Transmission Type:

None (Manual Only)

Gear Ratios:

Specified in manual (e.g., 3.72 / 2.14 / 1.42 / 1.00 / 0.81)

Manual Transmission Fluid:

BMW approved synthetic gear oil (e.g., Castrol SAF-XJ 75W-140 or equivalent)

📐 Dimensions

Length Mm:

4433

Width Mm:

1710

Height Mm:

1350

Wheelbase Mm:

2700

Curb Weight Kg:

1460

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Kg:

1900

Front Tire Size:

235/40 ZR17

Rear Tire Size:

235/40 ZR17

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5x120

Wheel Offset:

ET41 Front, ET41 Rear (typical)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Rating Driver Front Impact:

Not explicitly rated by NHTSA for this specific year/model in modern standards.

IIHS Rating:

Not explicitly rated by IIHS for this specific year/model.

ABS:

Yes (Bosch ABS III)

Traction Control:

Yes (ASC+T - Automatic Stability Control and Traction)

Airbags:

Driver and Front Passenger Airbags

Seatbelts:

3-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pretensioners

Rollover Protection:

Reinforced A-pillars and roof structure

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

BMW Business CD or BMW Professional CD, optional amplifier

Climate Control:

Manual or optional Automatic Climate Control (ACC)

Cruise Control:

Standard

Connectivity Options:

Limited by era; typically basic radio connectivity. Aftermarket options available.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

7,500-10,000 miles or 12 months (whichever comes first), refer to manual for exact conditions

Spark Plug Replacement:

Approx. 30,000-60,000 miles (depending on plug type, e.g., original NGK BKR6EK)

Coolant Flush:

Every 2 years or as per manual recommendations

Brake Fluid Flush:

Every 2 years

Engine Oil Type:

Synthetic SAE 5W-30 or 0W-30 (BMW Longlife-98 or API SG/SH)

Coolant Type:

BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based with corrosion inhibitors

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 4 (e.g., Pentosin DOT 4 LV or ATE DOT 4)

Rod Bearings:

Potential for wear, especially in higher-mileage or hard-driven examples. Manual will detail inspection and replacement procedures.

Cooling System:

Plastic coolant expansion tank can become brittle and crack. Water pump and thermostat are also common replacement items.

Vanos System:

Variable Valve Timing (VANOS) solenoids and seals can fail, leading to rough idle and power loss. Manual covers diagnosis and repair.

Rear Main Seal:

Can develop leaks. Replacement requires transmission removal.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Motorsport Division:

Established legacy of performance and racing pedigree

E30 M3 Legacy:

Successor to the iconic E30 M3, built on the E36 platform

E36 M3 Development:

Developed to offer a more refined and technologically advanced M car compared to its predecessor.

Production Years:

1992-1999 (E36 M3)

1994 Specifics:

Early production year of the E36 M3. Sourced from specific European market specifications (often referred to as Euro spec in enthusiast circles, though this specific manual likely covers the US market variant as well).

Manufacturing Location:

Germany (primarily Regensburg)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver 10Best:

BMW M3 (E36 generation) was a Car and Driver 10Best winner multiple times, including potentially for the 1995 model year (representing the first US-market M3).

Enthusiast Reputation:

Highly regarded for its driving dynamics, balanced chassis, and potent engine.