🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

M3

Body Style:

Convertible

Year:

2005

Generation Code:

E46

Chassis Code:

E46

Engine Code:

S54

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

High-performance luxury sports convertible, positioned as a premium offering in the segment, competing with cars like the Mercedes-Benz CLK AMG and Audi S4 Cabriolet.

Competitors:

Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class (e.g., CLK500 Cabriolet), Audi A4/S4 Cabriolet, Porsche Boxster S, Chevrolet Corvette Convertible.

Performance Focus:

Renowned for its potent engine, precise handling, and driver-focused cockpit.

Convertible Experience:

Designed for open-air driving pleasure with a power-operated soft top and a robust chassis to mitigate cowl shake.

Iconic Status:

The E46 M3 is considered a modern classic and a benchmark for performance coupes and convertibles.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Vehicle Operation, Maintenance, and Safety

Secondary Coverage:

Infotainment, Climate Control, Convertible Top Operation

Estimated Page Count:

Approx. 300-400 pages (typical for this model year and scope)

Type:

Owner's Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Printed Booklet

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine operation, cooling system basics, fuel system basics, exhaust system basics

Transmission:

SMG (Sequential Manual Gearbox) operation, clutch engagement, gear selection

Chassis:

Steering system operation, suspension system basics, brake system operation (ABS, DSC)

Electrical:

Lighting system, instrument cluster, warning indicators, battery care, fuse box locations

Body And Convertible:

Convertible top operation and care, doors, windows, mirrors, seats, interior trim

Climate Control:

Automatic climate control operation, A/C system, heater

Infotainment:

Radio operation, CD player, navigation system basics (if equipped), speaker system

Basic Maintenance:

Checking fluid levels (oil, coolant, brake fluid, windshield washer fluid), tire pressure checks, light bulb replacement, wiper blade replacement

Safety Features:

Seatbelt usage, airbag system explanation, child seat installation recommendations, emergency procedures

Operation Guides:

Starting the engine, driving techniques (especially SMG), parking brake, fuel filling, convertible top operation

Troubleshooting:

Explanation of dashboard warning lights, basic system malfunctions, contact information for service

Depth:

Consumer-level understanding, focusing on safe and proper operation and routine checks. Does not include in-depth repair diagnostics or component-level disassembly.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format Details:

N/A (Printed)

Quality:

High-quality paper with clear text and diagrams, typical for OEM BMW publications.

Binding:

Stapled or Perfect Bound Booklet

Paper:

Durable, glossy or semi-gloss paper stock

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Name:

S54B32

Engine Type:

Naturally Aspirated Inline-6

Displacement:

3.2 Liters (3246 cc)

Bore X Stroke:

87.0 mm x 91.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

11.5:1

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 (91+ Octane)

Engine Management:

DME (Digital Motor Electronics) MS43 or MS45 depending on market/specifics

🔧 Transmission

Type:

6-Speed Manual Transmission (Getrag 420G)

Type:

6-Speed SMG (Sequential Manual Gearbox) Drivelogic

Smg Modes:

Drivelogic with multiple shift programs (e.g., Sport, Normal) and manual shift paddles.

Clutch:

Single dry plate clutch (manual), dual mass flywheel.

Manual Gearbox Fluid:

BMW recommends MTF LT-2 (or equivalent) - 1.7 liters

Smg Hydraulic Fluid:

Hydraulic fluid specific to SMG system (check manual for exact type and capacity)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

176.7 inches (4488 mm)

Width:

71.5 inches (1816 mm)

Height:

53.5 inches (1359 mm)

Wheelbase:

107.4 inches (2729 mm)

Front Track:

59.2 inches (1504 mm)

Rear Track:

59.7 inches (1516 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3700-3850 lbs (1678-1746 kg) depending on transmission and options

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:

Approx. 4600 lbs (2087 kg)

Trunk Volume:

Approx. 11.2 cu ft (with top up); Significantly reduced with top down

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Crash:

5-Star (for coupe models, convertible likely similar but may vary slightly)

IIHS Side Impact:

Good (for coupe models)

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System

Dsc:

Dynamic Stability Control (also includes DTC - Dynamic Traction Control)

Traction Control:

Integrated with DSC

Airbags:

Frontal airbags, front side-impact airbags integrated into seats, roll-over protection system (pop-up roll bars).

Seatbelts:

3-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pre-tensioners and force limiters

Convertible Safety:

Reinforced A-pillars, integrated roll-over protection system.

💡 Technology Features

Head Unit:

BMW Business CD or Professional CD/RDS audio system, with optional navigation system (CCC generation).

Speakers:

Typically 10-speaker HiFi system, with optional Harman Kardon surround sound.

Connectivity:

Optional Bluetooth hands-free interface (requiring a separate cradle or adapter for some phones).

Parking Sensors:

Optional Park Distance Control (PDC) for front and rear.

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control functionality.

Climate Control:

Automatic climate control with pollen filter.

Seats:

Sport seats with lumbar support, optional heated seats, power adjustment with memory.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Variable Service Indicator (VSI) system. Typically recommended every 10,000-15,000 miles or 12-24 months, but consult the manual for the specific trigger.

Brake Fluid Flush:

Every 2 years, regardless of mileage.

Engine Air Filter:

Inspect every 30,000 miles; replace as needed based on inspection.

Cabin Air Filter:

Recommended replacement every 15,000-30,000 miles or annually, depending on environment.

Spark Plugs:

Typically at 60,000-100,000 miles depending on type (e.g., platinum or iridium).

Coolant Change:

Initial change at 4 years, then every 2 years thereafter (or refer to VSI).

Engine Oil Type:

BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) approved synthetic oil, viscosity typically 0W-40 or 5W-30. Consult manual for exact specification.

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 6.5 liters (6.9 US quarts)

Coolant Type:

BMW Blue coolant (G48) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based antifreeze with corrosion inhibitors.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 4 High Performance

Rod Bearings:

Premature wear of connecting rod bearings is a known concern for high-mileage S54 engines, especially if oil changes were neglected. Regular inspection and potential replacement are advisable for peace of mind.

Subframe Mounts:

Cracking or separation of the rear subframe mounting points due to stress on the chassis. Regular inspection is recommended.

Vanos System:

The VANOS (Variable Valve Timing) system can develop issues with seals or solenoids, leading to rough idle or power loss. Typically requires specialized diagnosis and repair.

Smg Hydraulic Pump:

The SMG hydraulic pump can fail, leading to shifting issues or inability to engage gears. Requires specialized service.

Convertible Top Hydraulics:

Leaking hydraulic lines or pump failure can affect convertible top operation. Proper care and avoiding forcing the top are important.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Motorsport Division:

BMW M GmbH (formerly BMW Motorsport GmbH) has a rich heritage in motorsport, translating race-bred technology into road-going performance vehicles.

M3 Lineage:

The M3 nameplate originated with the E30 M3 in the mid-1980s, establishing a reputation for exceptional driving dynamics. The E46 M3 is the third generation of the M3.

E46 Platform:

The E46 chassis was introduced in 1998 for the 3 Series. The M3 variant was launched in 2000 for the 2001 model year, with the convertible following shortly after.

Production Years:

2000-2006 (E46 M3)

Manufacturing Location:

Regensburg, Germany

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver 10Best:

The E46 M3 was a consistent recipient of Car and Driver's '10Best' award during its production run, solidifying its reputation.

Road And Track:

Highly praised by automotive journalists for its driving dynamics and performance.