🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

M3

Year:

2003

Body Style:

Convertible

Chassis Code:

E46

Engine Code:

S54

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The 2003 BMW M3 Convertible (E46 generation) represented the pinnacle of performance and luxury in the compact executive sports convertible segment, targeting enthusiasts seeking exhilarating driving dynamics with open-air motoring.

Competitors:

Competed directly with vehicles like the Mercedes-Benz CLK AMG Convertible, Audi S4 Convertible, and Porsche Boxster S, often differentiating itself with its high-revving naturally aspirated engine and balanced chassis.

Performance Highlights:

Renowned for its potent S54 engine, precise steering feel, sophisticated M Differential, and engaging driving experience. The convertible offered the added pleasure of open-top driving.

📋 Manual Details

Systems Covered:

Vehicle operation, safety systems, infotainment, climate control, maintenance, troubleshooting, basic diagnostics, convertible top operation, driving dynamics.

Page Count:

Approximately 350 pages (estimated for a typical BMW owner's manual of this era).

Manual Type:

Owner's Manual / User Guide

Language:

English

Format:

Printed booklet

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Detailed explanations of the S54 engine's features, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel system, and ignition system at an operational level.

Chassis:

Coverage of steering, suspension (including M-specific tuning), braking system (ABS, DSC), and wheel/tire information.

Electrical Systems:

Operation of lighting, instrument cluster, warning indicators, power accessories, and the iDrive infotainment system.

Convertible Top:

Comprehensive instructions for operating and maintaining the power-operated soft top, including manual operation in case of failure.

Routine Maintenance:

Guidance on checking fluid levels (oil, coolant, brake fluid, washer fluid), tire pressure, and general inspections.

Troubleshooting:

Explanation of dashboard warning lights and messages, with basic advice on potential causes and recommended actions.

Safety Features:

Explanation of seatbelt usage, airbag systems, child seat installation, and the function of driver assistance systems like DSC.

Depth:

Focuses on driver operation, understanding vehicle features, and basic owner-level maintenance and troubleshooting. Not a service or repair manual.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

Printed

Print Quality:

Standard OEM quality, typically good readability with diagrams and illustrations.

Binding Type:

Stapled or perfect bound booklet

Paper Type:

Durable, coated paper stock suitable for automotive use.

⚙️ 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, Double VANOS

Horsepower:

333 hp @ 7900 rpm

Torque:

262 lb-ft @ 4900 rpm

Redline:

8000 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Sequential Multi-Point Fuel Injection (SFI)

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ octane recommended)

Engine Management:

Bosch Motronic ME7.2

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

6-Speed Manual

Transmission Type:

6-Speed SMG (Sequential Manual Gearbox) Drivelogic

Clutch:

Hydraulic, single-plate dry clutch

Differential:

M Variable Lock Differential (M-VLD)

Smg Drivelogic:

Allows manual shifting via paddle shifters or gear selector, with selectable shift programs for comfort or performance.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

177.7 inches (4513 mm)

Width:

71.5 inches (1815 mm)

Height:

53.3 inches (1354 mm)

Wheelbase:

107.3 inches (2727 mm)

Front Track:

61.0 inches (1550 mm)

Rear Track:

61.0 inches (1550 mm)

Seating Capacity:

4

Trunk Volume:

11.2 cu ft (with top up)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3800-3950 lbs (depending on transmission)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact:

4/5 stars (driver/passenger)

NHTSA Side Impact:

4/5 stars (front/rear passenger)

Traction Control:

Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) with M Dynamic Mode

Braking System:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist

Limited Slip Differential:

M Variable Lock Differential (M-VLD)

Airbags:

Front airbags, side-impact airbags, rollover protection system.

Seatbelts:

3-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pretensioners and force limiters.

Convertible Safety:

Reinforced A-pillars and integrated rollover protection bars behind the rear seats.

💡 Technology Features

System:

BMW iDrive infotainment system (first generation), featuring a central control knob and screen for navigation, audio, climate, and vehicle settings.

Audio System:

Available Harman Kardon premium audio system with CD player and optional satellite radio.

Stability Control:

DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) with M Dynamic Mode for enhanced traction and agility.

Parking Assist:

Optional rear parking sensors (Park Distance Control).

Bluetooth:

Optional Bluetooth interface for hands-free calling.

Navigation:

Optional factory navigation system.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

BMW Condition Based Service (CBS) system typically recommends oil changes based on driving conditions, but a general guideline is every 7,500-10,000 miles or annually. Refer to the manual for specific CBS triggers.

Brake Fluid Flush:

Every 2 years, regardless of mileage.

Coolant Flush:

BMW typically recommends Long Life Coolant. Intervals vary, but generally around 30,000-60,000 miles or as indicated by the CBS.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Approximately every 60,000 miles (refer to manual for specific S54 plugs).

Engine Oil:

SAE 10W-60 Synthetic (BMW High Performance Oil or equivalent approved by BMW M).

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 6.9 US quarts (6.5 liters)

Coolant:

BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 specification) or equivalent.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 4 Low Viscosity (LV) Brake Fluid (e.g., Pentosin DOT 4 LV).

Transmission Fluid Manual:

BMW MTF LT-2 (or equivalent).

Transmission Fluid Smg:

Pentosin CHF 11S or CHF 7.1 (for hydraulic system).

Differential Fluid:

BMW Hypoid Gear Oil G3 or equivalent.

Rod Bearings:

One of the most widely discussed potential issues on the S54 engine. Premature wear can occur, especially with aggressive driving or inadequate maintenance. Regular oil changes with the correct viscosity are critical. Many owners opt for upgraded rod bearings as a preventative measure.

Subframe Mounts:

Cracking or separation of the rear subframe mounting points can occur due to the high stresses placed on the chassis, particularly in hard driving. This requires inspection and potential reinforcement.

Vanos:

The Double VANOS system can experience issues with solenoids or seals, leading to rough idle, loss of power, or check engine lights. Rebuild kits are available.

Throttle Actuators:

The electronic throttle actuators can sometimes fail, affecting engine response and causing drivability issues. Diagnosis often involves checking for specific fault codes.

Convertible Top Hydraulics:

Potential leaks or failures in the hydraulic system that operates the soft top. This can lead to slow operation or the top not functioning correctly.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw M Division:

BMW M GmbH (formerly BMW Motorsport) is the high-performance division of BMW, renowned for creating motorsport-derived vehicles with enhanced performance, handling, and braking.

E46 M3 Introduction:

The E46 M3 was introduced in 2000 as the successor to the E36 M3. The Convertible variant followed shortly after, offering the same high-performance capabilities in an open-top format.

E46 M3 Convertible:

The E46 M3 Convertible was produced from 2001 to 2006, featuring a power-operated soft top and a structurally reinforced chassis to compensate for the lack of a fixed roof.

Production Years:

2001-2006 (E46 M3 Convertible)

Manufacturing Location:

Regensburg, Germany

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver તિહાસિક:

The E46 M3, in both Coupe and Convertible forms, was a frequent recipient of '10Best' awards from publications like Car and Driver during its production run, recognized for its exceptional performance and driving dynamics.