Segment:
Performance Luxury Convertible
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts and owners seeking to maintain or repair their E36 M3 Convertible.
Competitors:
Porsche 911 Carrera (964/993), Mercedes-Benz SL (R129), Chevrolet Corvette (C4).
Unique Selling Points:
Iconic inline-6 S-series engine, legendary M-tuning, exceptional handling, rear-wheel drive dynamics, convertible body style.
Primary Coverage:
Mechanical and electrical systems of the BMW M3 Convertible (E36).
Secondary Coverage:
Maintenance schedules, diagnostic procedures, troubleshooting, and component replacement.
Type:
Comprehensive Service and Repair Manual
Format:
Digital PDF (Instant Download)
Engine:
Complete overhaul, diagnosis, and repair of the S50/S52 inline-6 engines, including valvetrain, cooling, lubrication, fuel injection, and emissions.
Transmission:
Manual (Getrag 260/5, Getrag 260/6) and automatic (ZF 4HP22) transmission service, repair, and overhaul, including clutch, driveshafts, and differentials.
Suspension Steering:
Front and rear suspension systems (MacPherson struts front, multi-link rear), steering rack, power steering pump, and alignment procedures.
Brakes:
Front and rear disc brake systems, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) diagnosis and repair, brake fluid flushing, and component replacement.
Electrical:
Complete wiring diagrams, component testing, fuse/relay identification, starter, alternator, battery service, lighting systems, and instrument cluster.
Body Interior:
Convertible top mechanism (hydraulic and electrical components), body panel removal/installation, interior trim, seats, and HVAC system.
Diagnostics:
On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-I/OBD-II) system usage, fault code retrieval and interpretation, and common diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).
Routine Maintenance:
Oil and filter changes, air filter replacement, spark plug replacement, fluid checks and top-offs, belt inspection and replacement.
Component Replacement:
Engine mounts, exhaust system, cooling system components (radiator, thermostat, water pump), fuel pump, starter motor, alternator.
Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step diagnostic guides for common issues such as starting problems, rough idling, overheating, electrical failures, and braking issues.
Rebuilds:
Detailed procedures for engine and transmission overhauls, including torque specifications and assembly sequences.
Depth:
Covers basic to advanced repair and diagnostic procedures, suitable for both DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics.
Engine Code:
S50B30US (US-spec early), S52B30US (US-spec later)
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated Inline-6 Cylinder, Dual Overhead Camshafts (DOHC), 24 Valves.
Displacement:
2990cc (S50B30US), 2979cc (S52B30US)
Horsepower:
240 hp @ 6000 rpm (S50B30US), 240 hp @ 6000 rpm (S52B30US)
Torque:
225 lb-ft @ 4750 rpm (S50B30US), 236 lb-ft @ 3800 rpm (S52B30US)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (Bosch Motronic M3.3 / M3.7)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane or higher)
Transmission Type:
5-speed Manual (Getrag 260/5, 260/6)
Transmission Type:
4-speed Automatic (ZF 4HP22 EH)
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically Actuated Single Dry Plate
Differential:
Limited Slip Differential (LSD) optional on some models, standard on later M3s.
NHTSA Front Impact:
Not specifically rated for this convertible variant; E36 coupe received good ratings.
ABS:
Standard (Bosch ABS III)
Traction Control:
Optional (ASC+T - Automatic Stability Control and Traction)
Airbags:
Driver and Passenger front airbags.
Rollover Protection:
Pop-up roll bar system integrated behind rear headrests (deploying on sensing potential rollover).
Audio System:
BMW Business CD or Bavaria C Professional RDS cassette/CD players. Premium sound system options available.
Climate Control:
Manual or automatic climate control (ECC - Electronic Climate Control) with A/C.
Parking Sensors:
Not available from factory.
Bluetooth:
Not available from factory.
Oil Change:
Every 7,500 to 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first, using BMW LL-01 approved synthetic oil.
Coolant Flush:
Every 2 years or 30,000 miles.
Spark Plugs:
Inspect every 30,000 miles, replace every 60,000 miles (depending on plug type).
Engine Oil:
SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 Synthetic, BMW LL-01 specification recommended (e.g., Castrol EDGE Professional OE 5W-30).
Coolant:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant with corrosion inhibitors.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 or DOT 5.1.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
Pentosin MTF LT-1 or LT-2, or equivalent GL-4 75W-90 gear oil.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron III/VI or ZF TE-ML 11B/14A specification.
Engine Cooling System:
Plastic expansion tanks can crack, leading to coolant leaks. Water pump failure is also common.
Vanos:
The Variable Valve Timing (VANOS) system can develop issues with its solenoid seals and rattle, causing rough idling or power loss.
Rear Subframe Mounts:
Reinforcement of the rear subframe mounting points is often necessary due to stress cracks developing in the chassis.
Convertible Top:
Hydraulic leaks, motor failures, and wear on the fabric or seals of the convertible top mechanism.
Oil Pan Gasket:
Leaking oil pan gaskets are common due to age and heat.
Bmw M Division:
BMW M GmbH is renowned for its high-performance automotive division, creating iconic vehicles for motorsport and street use.
E36 Platform:
The E36 generation replaced the E30 and introduced significant advancements in chassis dynamics, comfort, and technology.
M3 Introduction:
The E36 M3 was introduced in 1992 in Europe with a 3.0L engine, followed by the US-spec 3.0L (S50B30US) in 1994, and the 3.2L (S52B30US) in 1996.
Production Years:
1992-1998 (E36 M3 Convertible)
Manufacturing Locations:
Germany (primarily Munich)
