🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

M3

Year:

2005

Chassis Code:

E46

Engine Code:

S54

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The 2005 BMW M3 (E46) represented the pinnacle of compact performance sedans and coupes of its era, targeting driving enthusiasts seeking a blend of everyday usability and track-ready capability.

Competitors:

Competed directly with cars like the Mercedes-Benz C55 AMG, Audi RS4 (B5 generation), and Porsche 911 (996).

Performance Focus:

High-revving naturally aspirated S54 engine, motorsport-derived chassis tuning, precise steering, powerful brakes.

Driving Experience:

Renowned for its driver-centric cockpit, communicative steering, and engaging handling characteristics, often described as one of the last 'analog' M cars.

Audience:

Automotive enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, and owners seeking to maintain or restore their E46 M3 to factory specifications.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage:

Comprehensive service and repair for the 2005 BMW M3 (E46).

Page Count:

Estimated 1500-2000+ pages (typical for a full factory service manual).

Manual Type:

Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital Download (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine (S54), cooling system, exhaust system, fuel system, ignition system, lubrication system.

Drivetrain:

SMG (Sequential Manual Gearbox) and Manual transmissions, clutch system, drive shafts, differentials, axles.

Chassis:

Suspension (front and rear), steering system, braking system (including ABS and DSC), wheels and tires.

Electrical:

Engine management system, body electronics, lighting, instrumentation, infotainment, comfort systems, wiring diagrams.

Bodywork:

Body panels, doors, windows, interior trim, heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC).

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, fluid level checks and top-offs, brake pad replacement.

Engine Repair:

Head gasket replacement, piston and ring inspection/replacement, camshaft and valvetrain service, engine assembly/disassembly.

Transmission Repair:

Clutch replacement, SMG hydraulic system service, gearbox rebuilds, differential service.

Suspension Steering:

Shock absorber/strut replacement, control arm bushings, tie rod ends, power steering pump and rack service.

Brake Service:

Brake pad and rotor replacement, caliper service, brake fluid flush and bleeding, ABS/DSC component testing.

Electrical Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting of electrical faults, component testing (sensors, actuators), diagnostic connector usage, wiring harness repair.

Body Repair:

Panel replacement, door mechanism adjustment, glass replacement, HVAC system diagnosis and repair.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic flowcharts, symptom-based troubleshooting guides for common issues.

Depth:

In-depth, factory-level detail covering disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly of all major vehicle systems.

Diagnostics:

Advanced diagnostic procedures, including use of BMW proprietary diagnostic tools (e.g., DIS, ISTA) and interpretation of fault codes.

Specifications:

Torque specifications, clearances, tolerances, and diagnostic parameters for all components and systems.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Searchability:

Searchable text for quick access to information.

Print Quality:

High-resolution scans suitable for printing key sections or the entire manual.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Naturally Aspirated Inline-6

Engine Code:

S54B32

Displacement:

3.2 Liters (3246 cc)

Bore X Stroke:

87.0 mm x 91.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

11.5:1

Valvetrain:

DOHC 4 valves per cylinder with Double VANOS (variable intake and exhaust camshaft timing) and BMW's Valvetronic system (on later models, though not on the E46 M3 S54).

Horsepower:

333 hp @ 7900 rpm

Torque:

262 lb-ft @ 4900 rpm

Redline:

8000 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with individual throttle bodies.

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ octane recommended)

Oil Type:

SAE 10W-60 (BMW recommended synthetic)

Oil Capacity:

7.5 Liters (7.9 US Quarts)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

6-Speed Manual Transmission (Getrag 420G)

Transmission Type:

6-Speed Sequential Manual Gearbox (SMG II)

Smg Features:

Formula 1-inspired paddle shifters, adjustable shift characteristics (e.g., Sport mode).

Manual Transmission Fluid:

BMW MTF LT-2 or equivalent (e.g., Red Line MTL 70W80 GL-4)

Smg Transmission Fluid:

Pentosin CHF 11S (Hydraulic Fluid)

📐 Dimensions

Coupe Length:

4488 mm (176.7 in)

Coupe Width:

1781 mm (70.1 in)

Coupe Height:

1373 mm (54.1 in)

Convertible Length:

4488 mm (176.7 in)

Convertible Width:

1781 mm (70.1 in)

Convertible Height:

1367 mm (53.8 in)

Wheelbase:

2760 mm (108.7 in)

Curb Weight Coupe:

Approx. 1570 kg (3461 lbs)

Curb Weight Convertible:

Approx. 1770 kg (3902 lbs)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approx. 1980 kg (4365 lbs)

Trunk Volume Coupe:

430 Liters (15.2 cu ft)

Trunk Volume Convertible:

300 Liters (10.6 cu ft) with roof up, less with roof down.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact:

4 Stars (Driver), 4 Stars (Passenger)

IIHS Side Impact:

Good (for models with side airbags, which were optional)

Traction Control:

Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) - Advanced traction and stability management.

Braking System:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), performance brake calipers and vented discs.

Airbags:

Front airbags, optional front side-impact airbags, optional rollover protection for convertibles.

Seatbelts:

Three-point inertia-reel seat belts with pre-tensioners and force limiters.

Chassis Structure:

Reinforced passenger cell with crumple zones.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Harman Kardon premium audio system was a popular option, often with a CD player and radio. Navigation system also available.

Climate Control:

Automatic climate control with cabin microfilter.

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control.

Parking Sensors:

Rear Park Distance Control (PDC) was an optional feature.

Telematics:

BMW Assist was an optional telematics system offering features like emergency services and roadside assistance.

Headlights:

Xenon Adaptive Headlights were a significant technology for the era, providing better illumination around curves.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

BMW Condition Based Service (CBS) system will indicate service needs, typically around 10,000-15,000 miles or annually.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Around 60,000 miles, depending on driving conditions and plug type (e.g., NGK BKR6EQUP).

Brake Fluid Flush:

Every 2 years, regardless of mileage.

Coolant Flush:

BMW Blue Coolant (G48), typically every 4-5 years or as indicated by CBS.

Coolant Type:

BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48).

Power Steering Fluid:

Pentosin CHF 11S (same as SMG fluid).

Differential Fluid:

BMW Hypoid Gear Oil G2 (or equivalent SAE 75W-90 synthetic GL-5).

Rod Bearings:

One of the most significant known issues for the S54 engine is bearing wear (rod bearings). The manual will provide inspection procedures and torque specs for replacement.

Subframe Cracks:

Cracking of the rear subframe mounting points is a common concern in E46 models, especially M3s due to higher stresses. The manual may detail inspection and reinforcement procedures.

Smg Pump:

The SMG hydraulic pump can fail, leading to shifting issues. The manual covers its operation, testing, and replacement.

Oil Consumption:

The S54 engine can consume oil. The manual details checking oil levels and potential causes.

📚 Vehicle History

Heritage Summary:

BMW's M division has a rich history dating back to the 1970s, focused on creating high-performance versions of BMW's standard production cars, often with motorsport roots.

E46 M3 Generation:

The E46 M3, launched for the 2001 model year, replaced the E36 M3. It represented a significant leap in performance and technology, inheriting the S54 engine from the European E46 M3 CSL.

Variants:

Available as a Coupe and Convertible. A special edition M3 CSL (Coupe Sport Lightweight) was also produced for European markets, featuring significant weight reduction and performance upgrades.

Production Years:

2000-2006 (for the E46 M3 generation).

Manufacturing Location:

Regensburg, Germany

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver Best 10:

The BMW M3 (E46) was a frequent recipient of Car and Driver's '10Best' awards during its production run, recognized for its exceptional performance and handling.

Motortrend Performance:

Praised by automotive publications like MotorTrend for its potent engine and balanced chassis.

Enthusiast Reputation:

Widely regarded by enthusiasts as one of the greatest M cars ever produced, often cited as a benchmark for driver engagement.

European Standards:

Met all relevant European automotive standards for safety and emissions during its production.