Vehicle Segment:
High-performance luxury compact executive car.
Positioning:
The pinnacle of BMW's M division engineering for the 3 Series line, known for its track-bred performance and everyday usability.
Key Rivals:
Audi RS4, Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG, Cadillac CTS-V.
Engine:
Naturally aspirated V8 engine, a rare and celebrated feature in its segment.
Performance:
Exceptional power delivery, handling dynamics, and braking capabilities.
Technology:
Advanced electronics for performance management and driver assistance.
Manual Utility:
Provides factory-accurate information essential for maintaining the high-performance nature of the M3.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Comprehensive diagnostic procedures for all major systems.
Electrical Systems:
In-depth coverage of electrical diagrams, component testing, and troubleshooting.
Engine Mechanical:
Detailed engine mechanical repairs, including disassembly, reassembly, and specifications.
Engine Management:
Engine control unit (ECU) diagnostics, sensor testing, and fuel system calibration.
Exhaust System:
Repair and replacement procedures for exhaust components and catalytic converters.
Fuel System:
Fuel injection system diagnostics, pump testing, and injector servicing.
Heating Ventilation Air Conditioning:
HVAC system diagnostics, refrigerant handling, and component replacement.
Manual Transmission:
Repair and overhaul procedures for the 6-speed manual gearbox.
Automatic Transmission:
Diagnostic and repair procedures for the M-DCT (Dual Clutch Transmission).
Suspension:
Detailed procedures for suspension component inspection, repair, and alignment.
Steering:
Power steering system diagnostics and repair, including hydraulic and electric components.
Brakes:
Brake system diagnostics, pad/rotor replacement, caliper servicing, and ABS/DSC troubleshooting.
Body And Frame:
Body panel repair, corrosion protection, and structural component information.
Body Electrical:
Power windows, locks, mirrors, lighting, and interior component electrical diagnostics.
Interior:
Trim panel removal, seat adjustment, and interior component repair.
Safety Systems:
Airbag system diagnostics, seatbelt mechanisms, and related safety features.
Troubleshooting Guides:
Comprehensive troubleshooting charts based on symptom identification.
Estimated Pages:
Over 5,000 pages (typical for comprehensive OEM service manuals).
Type:
Official Factory Service Manual (FSM) / Repair Manual
Format:
Software/Digital (PDF or proprietary software)
All Major Systems:
All mechanical, electrical, body, and diagnostic systems.
Engine And Drivetrain:
Engine, transmission, differential, driveshafts, and axles.
Chassis And Body:
Suspension, steering, brakes, chassis structure, and exterior/interior bodywork.
Electronics And Comfort:
ECU, sensors, infotainment, climate control, lighting, power accessories.
Preventative Maintenance:
Detailed schedules and procedures for all scheduled maintenance items.
Routine Repairs:
Step-by-step instructions for common repairs like brake jobs, fluid changes, and component replacements.
Major Overhauls:
Complete procedures for engine and transmission rebuilds, including torque specifications and tolerances.
Diagnostics And Troubleshooting:
Systematic approaches to identifying and resolving faults using diagnostic tools and symptom analysis.
Electrical Troubleshooting:
Wiring diagrams, component testing procedures, and troubleshooting flowcharts.
Component Replacement:
Detailed instructions for replacing virtually every component on the vehicle.
Special Tools And Equipment:
Identification and usage instructions for BMW-specific tools.
Depth Level:
Factory-level diagnostic and repair information.
Diagnostics:
Advanced diagnostics, including fault code interpretation and ECU parameter analysis.
Repair Instructions:
Detailed, illustrated step-by-step repair procedures.
Schematics:
Comprehensive electrical schematics and hydraulic diagrams.
Specifications And Tolerances:
Precise technical data for all components and procedures.
File Type:
Digital (likely PDF or executable software with searchable content).
Searchability:
Full text search capability for quick access to information.
Quality:
High-resolution diagrams and clear text, suitable for printing individual pages or sections.
Binding:
Not Applicable (Digital Format)
Paper:
Not Applicable (Digital Format)
Engine Type:
4.0L Naturally Aspirated V8
Displacement:
3999 cc (243.9 cu in)
Bore X Stroke:
92.0 mm x 75.2 mm
Compression Ratio:
12.0:1
Horsepower:
414 hp (309 kW) @ 8,300 rpm
Torque:
295 lb-ft (400 Nm) @ 3,900 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Direct Injection (EDI) with individual throttle bodies
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ Octane Recommended)
Configuration:
DOHC, 32 valves (4 valves per cylinder)
Features:
Double VANOS (variable valve timing)
Length:
E90 Sedan: 188.0 in (4776 mm) / E92 Coupe: 181.8 in (4618 mm) / E93 Convertible: 182.1 in (4626 mm)
Width:
E90/E92: 71.5 in (1816 mm) / E93: 71.7 in (1821 mm)
Height:
E90: 56.2 in (1427 mm) / E92: 54.5 in (1384 mm) / E93: 55.1 in (1400 mm)
Wheelbase:
E90/E92: 108.0 in (2745 mm) / E93: 108.0 in (2745 mm)
Curb Weight:
E90: ~3,800 lbs (1724 kg) / E92: ~3,700 lbs (1678 kg) / E93: ~4,100 lbs (1860 kg)
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
5x120
Wheel Size:
Standard: 18-inch, Optional: 19-inch
Tire Sizes:
Front: 255/40R18 or 255/35R19, Rear: 275/40R18 or 275/35R19 (typical)
NHTSA Rating:
Generally good ratings across categories, with some variations based on body style. Specific 2012 M3 ratings may vary.
Traction Control:
Dynamic Traction Control (DTC), Dynamic Stability Control (DSC).
Braking:
High-performance M compound brakes, optional Carbon Ceramic Brakes.
Stability Control:
M Dynamic Mode (MDM) offering extended traction control limits.
Airbags:
Front, side-impact, and head airbags.
Seatbelts:
Three-point inertia-reel seat belts with pretensioners and force limiters.
Chassis Structure:
Reinforced body structure for occupant protection.
System Name:
iDrive (Professional or Business Navigation System).
Features:
Navigation, Radio, CD/DVD player, Auxiliary input, Bluetooth connectivity.
Adaptive Headlights:
Available Xenon Adaptive Headlights that swivel with steering input.
Parking Assist:
Optional Parking Distance Control (PDC) sensors and rearview camera.
Bluetooth:
Standard Bluetooth hands-free calling and audio streaming.
Usb Interface:
Optional USB/Auxiliary input for media playback and device charging.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 15,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first, as indicated by the vehicle's Condition Based Service (CBS) system.
Brake Fluid Flush:
Recommended every 2 years, regardless of mileage.
Coolant Flush:
BMW recommends long-life coolant; often serviced based on CBS or every 4-5 years.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically around 60,000 miles.
Engine Oil:
BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) approved synthetic oil, typically 5W-30 or 0W-40 depending on ambient temperature. Check manual for precise spec.
Coolant:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
MTF LT-3 (BMW part number 83 22 0 396 706) or equivalent.
Transmission Fluid M Dct:
DCTF-1 (BMW part number 83 22 2 148 578 or 83 22 2 148 579) or equivalent.
Differential Fluid:
SAF-XJ or SAF-XOS (BMW part number 83 22 2 365 988 or similar).
Rod Bearings:
A well-documented issue on the S65 engine, particularly in earlier models or under hard use. Early detection and replacement are recommended.
Throttle Actuators:
Potential for failure of individual throttle body actuators, leading to rough running or performance issues.
Valve Stem Seals:
Can degrade over time, leading to oil consumption and blue smoke on startup.
Idrive Controller:
Occasional issues with the iDrive controller responsiveness or functionality.
Power Steering Pump:
Early models could experience pump failures, though this became less common in later E9x M3s.
Bmw M Division:
The M division has a rich motorsport heritage, translating road-going performance technologies into production vehicles.
E90 M3 Introduction:
The E90/E92/E93 M3 generation marked a significant shift with the introduction of the S65 V8 engine, replacing the legendary inline-six of its predecessors.
Engine Development:
The S65 V8 was based on the S85 V10 engine found in the E60 M5/E63 M6, showcasing BMW's commitment to naturally aspirated V8 performance.
Production Years:
2007-2013 (for the E90/E92/E93 generation).
Manufacturing Plant:
Regensburg, Germany.
Ward Auto 10 Best Engines:
The S65 V8 engine was a multiple recipient of the prestigious Ward's 10 Best Engines award.
Performance Car Of The Year:
The E90/E92/E93 M3 received numerous 'Performance Car of the Year' accolades from automotive publications globally.
Driving Dynamics:
Consistently praised for its exceptional handling, steering feel, and driver engagement.
Oem Certification:
This manual is officially licensed and produced by BMW, ensuring the highest level of accuracy and completeness.