Market Position:
High-performance luxury sports sedan/coupe/convertible, positioned as a driver-focused vehicle with track-capable performance and premium amenities. Competes with vehicles like the Audi S4, Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG, and Cadillac CTS-V.
Competitive Analysis:
The 2008 M3 (E90/E92/E93 generation) represented a significant evolution, particularly with its high-revving V8 engine, a departure from the inline-six of its predecessors. Its focus on chassis dynamics, precise steering, and potent braking set it apart in a segment increasingly adopting turbocharging. This manual provides the essential technical data for maintaining and repairing this specialized performance machine.
Key Features:
S65 V8 Engine, Adaptive M Suspension, M Differential Lock, High-Performance Braking System, M Sport Seats, Optional M-DCT Dual-Clutch Transmission, Advanced Electronics for Chassis Control
Coverage Areas:
Engine, Drivetrain, Chassis, Electrical Systems, Body, HVAC, Emissions, Troubleshooting, Diagnostics, Maintenance Schedules, Specifications
Page Count:
Comprehensive (exact digital count not specified, but extensive for official software)
Manual Type:
Official Service and Repair Manual Software
Format:
Digital Software (likely downloadable or web-based access)
Systems Covered:
Engine Mechanical, Engine Management (DME), Fuel System, Ignition System, Exhaust System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Driveline (Manual & DCT Transmissions), Clutch, Driveshafts, Differential, Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Braking System (ABS, DSC), Wheels & Tires, Electrical System (Charging, Starting, Lighting, Body Electronics, Infotainment), Climate Control (HVAC), Safety Systems (Airbags, Seatbelts), Body & Frame, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs)
Procedures Included:
Scheduled Maintenance, Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Brake Pad/Rotor Replacement, Suspension Component Replacement, Steering System Repair, Engine Component Diagnosis and Repair (e.g., VANOS, Valvetronic, Ignition Coils), Fuel System Diagnosis and Repair, Transmission Servicing and Repair (including DCT clutch pack replacement), Differential Fluid Service, Cooling System Service, Electrical System Troubleshooting, Wiring Diagrams, Diagnostic Procedures, Component Testing, Lubrication Points, Torque Specifications, Resetting Service Indicators
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive: From basic routine maintenance and fluid checks to in-depth diagnostic procedures, component-level repair, and complete system overhauls. Includes detailed technical specifications, tolerances, and troubleshooting trees.
Primary Engine:
S65 V8 (Naturally Aspirated)
Displacement:
3999 cc (4.0 Liters)
Bore X Stroke:
92 mm x 75.2 mm
Compression Ratio:
12.0:1
Horsepower:
414 hp @ 8300 rpm
Torque:
295 lb-ft @ 3900 rpm
Fuel Injection:
Sequential Electronic Fuel Injection (Bosch Motronic MED9.2.1 or similar)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)
Fuel Pressure:
Approx. 5 bar (72.5 psi) (refer to manual for specific value)
Standard Transmission:
6-Speed Manual Transmission (Getrag GS6-37BZ)
Optional Transmission:
7-Speed M Double Clutch Transmission (M-DCT)
M Dct Features:
Drivelogic control with multiple shift programs (automatic and manual modes), launch control, hill start assist.
Transmission Fluid Type Manual:
BMW MTF LT-2 or equivalent (e.g., Pentosin MTF2)
Transmission Fluid Type Dct:
BMW DCTF-1 or equivalent (specific formulation)
Length:
Sedan: 4580 mm (180.3 in), Coupe/Convertible: 4612 mm (181.6 in)
Width:
Sedan: 1780 mm (70.1 in), Coupe/Convertible: 1780 mm (70.1 in)
Height:
Sedan: 1420 mm (55.9 in), Coupe: 1380 mm (54.3 in), Convertible: 1390 mm (54.7 in)
Wheelbase:
Sedan: 2760 mm (108.7 in), Coupe/Convertible: 2761 mm (108.7 in)
Curb Weight:
Varies by body style and transmission; approx. 3600 - 3800 lbs (1630 - 1725 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Refer to vehicle's VIN plate or manual for specific GVWR
NHTSA Front Crash Rating:
5-Star (Likely for Sedan, verification needed for Coupe/Convertible)
IIHS Front Crash Rating:
Good (Likely for Sedan, verification needed for Coupe/Convertible)
Active Features:
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Traction Control System (TCS), Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD), Cornering Brake Control (CBC), Optional Adaptive M Suspension, Active Steering (on some models)
Passive Features:
Front Airbags, Side Airbags (integrated into seat), Head Protection System (HPS) Air Curtains, Three-point Inertial-reel Seatbelts with Pretensioners, ISOFIX Child Seat Anchors, Crumple Zones
Infotainment System:
iDrive System (with optional navigation, enhanced Bluetooth, and USB audio interface)
Audio System:
Standard HiFi System, optional Logic7 Surround Sound System
Driver Assistance:
Park Distance Control (PDC), Rain-sensing Wipers, Automatic Headlights, Adaptive Xenon Headlights, Cruise Control (standard), Optional Comfort Access System
Connectivity:
Bluetooth Hands-Free Connectivity (with music streaming on some configurations), Optional USB Audio Interface
Oil Service Interval:
Typically every 15,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first, or based on Condition Based Service (CBS) system monitoring.
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 2 years (recommended, regardless of mileage)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Refer to manual, typically around 60,000 miles for iridium plugs.
Coolant Flush:
BMW Blue Coolant, typically replaced at major service intervals or as indicated by CBS.
Engine Oil Specification:
BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) or BMW Longlife-04 (LL-04) approved synthetic oil. Viscosity typically 0W-40 or 5W-40. Engine oil capacity: ~8.5 Liters (9 US Quarts) with filter change.
Coolant Specification:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48)
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 4 HIGH PERFORMANCE
Known Issues:
Rod Bearing Wear (critical for S65 V8, especially on early models or those driven hard without proper warm-up/cool-down), Valve Cover Gasket Leaks, Throttle Actuator Control (TAC) issues, Oil Pan Gasket Leaks, Fuel Pump Failures, EDC (Electronic Damper Control) System Faults, Water Pump Impeller Failure (plastic impeller)
Brand Heritage:
BMW, Bayerische Motoren Werke AG, has a rich history in motorsport and performance vehicle engineering dating back to the early 20th century. The 'M' division, established in 1972, is responsible for BMW's high-performance automotive products.
Model Evolution:
The M3 model line began in 1986. The E90/E92/E93 generation (2008-2013) marked a significant shift with the introduction of the S65 V8 engine and the availability of the M-DCT transmission, representing a new era of M3 performance.
Production Years For Generation:
2008-2013
Assembly Locations:
Regensburg, Germany
Recognitions:
Car and Driver 10Best Trucks and SUVs (various BMW models have received this award, indicating brand strength in performance and quality). The E92 M3 was widely praised by automotive media for its driving dynamics and engine.
Ratings:
Consistently received high ratings for performance, handling, and engine from automotive publications like MotorTrend, Car and Driver, and Road & Track.
