Segment:
Performance Compact Executive Convertible
Usp:
Renowned for its driving dynamics, powerful inline-six engines, and motorsport heritage.
Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz C36 AMG, Porsche 968 Convertible, Audi S4 Cabriolet (later models)
Performance Orientation:
M-tuned suspension, powerful S50 engine, M-specific aerodynamic enhancements
Convertible Design:
Electrically operated soft-top, reinforced chassis for open-air driving
Purpose:
To provide comprehensive diagnostic, repair, and maintenance information for the BMW M3 Convertible E36
Applicable Years:
1992, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998
Regions Covered:
Global (including specific considerations for US-spec models)
Type:
Workshop Service Repair Manual
Format:
Downloadable Digital Format (PDF)
Engine:
Engine mechanical, engine management, lubrication, cooling, fuel system, exhaust system, intake system
Transmission:
Manual and Automatic Transmission (Getrag 6-speed / ZF 5-speed), clutch, driveshaft, differentials
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, steering, wheel alignment
Brakes:
Hydraulic brake system, ABS, parking brake, brake pad/rotor replacement, caliper service
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, ECU, lighting, starting and charging system, ignition system, instrumentation, power accessories
Bodywork:
Exterior body panels, convertible top mechanism, interior trim, doors, windows, bumpers
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system
Safety Systems:
Airbag system (if equipped), seat belts
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, fluid checks and changes
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, fault code interpretation (OBD-I/OBD-II dependent on model year), symptom-based diagnostics
Repair:
Engine rebuild, transmission overhaul, brake caliper replacement, suspension arm replacement, electrical component repair
Component Replacement:
Detailed instructions for replacing major and minor components across all vehicle systems
Adjustments:
Valve adjustments, clutch adjustment, idle speed control adjustment
Depth:
Comprehensive from basic routine maintenance to in-depth engine and transmission overhauls and advanced electrical system troubleshooting
Target Audience:
Professional automotive technicians and experienced DIY enthusiasts
File Type:
PDF (Portable Document Format)
Searchability:
Text-searchable (OCR processed for efficient information retrieval)
Resolution:
High-resolution scans ensuring clarity of diagrams and text
Usability:
Printable for physical reference, viewable on various devices
Binding:
N/A (Digital Download)
Paper:
N/A (Digital Download)
Engine Type Euro:
S50B30 (3.0L) and S50B32 (3.2L) DOHC Inline-6 with VANOS
Engine Type Us:
S50B30US (3.0L) DOHC Inline-6 with VANOS (detuned version of Euro S50)
Horsepower Euro 3.0:
286 PS (282 hp) @ 7000 rpm
Torque Euro 3.0:
320 Nm (236 lb-ft) @ 3600 rpm
Horsepower Euro 3.2:
321 PS (317 hp) @ 7400 rpm
Torque Euro 3.2:
350 Nm (258 lb-ft) @ 3250 rpm
Horsepower Us:
240 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque Us:
225 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point fuel injection (Bosch Motronic DME)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ octane)
ECU Type:
Bosch Motronic M3.3 (early) / M3.10 (late Euro), DME 3.3 / 3.3.1 (US-spec)
Type:
Getrag Type D 6-speed manual transmission (Euro models)
Type:
ZF 4HP30 4-speed automatic transmission (Available on some US-spec and Euro models)
Clutch:
Hydraulically operated single dry plate clutch
Gear Ratios 6Mt:
Specific ratios vary by model year and market; refer to manual for detailed specifications.
Differential:
Limited-slip differential (standard on M3)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
BMW recommends specific synthetic gear oil (e.g., Castrol TAF-X or equivalent, check manual for exact specs and API rating)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
ZF lifeguard fluid (e.g., Lifeguardfluid 5, check manual for exact specs)
Length:
Approx. 4433 mm (174.5 in)
Width:
Approx. 1710 mm (67.3 in)
Height:
Approx. 1337 mm (52.6 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2700 mm (106.3 in)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1650-1750 kg (3638-3858 lbs) depending on spec and equipment
NHTSA:
Era-specific safety ratings; consult NHTSA archives for detailed crash test data.
Traction Control:
ASC+T (Automatic Stability Control + Traction) available on some models
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (standard)
Airbags:
Driver and passenger airbags standard on later models, optional on earlier
Rollover Protection:
Automatic pop-up roll bars behind rear headrests (standard on convertible)
Head Unit:
Aftermarket head units are common replacements for original BMW Business or Professional CD players.
Audio System:
Optional Hi-Fi sound system with amplifier and upgraded speakers.
Cruise Control:
Standard feature on most models.
OBD:
OBD-I diagnostics for earlier models, transitioning to OBD-II for later years.
Oil Change:
Typically every 7,500-10,000 miles (12,000-16,000 km) or annually, depending on driving conditions (refer to manual for specific recommendations).
Spark Plugs:
Platinum or Iridium spark plugs, typically every 60,000 miles (100,000 km) (check manual for specific type and interval).
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-4 years or as per manual recommendation.
Engine Oil:
Synthetic 5W-30 or 5W-40 recommended (check manual for exact BMW LL-XX specification and capacity of approx. 6.5 liters).
Coolant:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48) or equivalent, mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 synthetic brake fluid.
Engine Mounts:
Worn engine mounts can cause vibration and rough idling.
Cooling System:
Plastic coolant expansion tank and water pump can degrade over time, leading to leaks.
Vanos:
Vanos system (Variable Valve Timing) can develop seal leaks, affecting performance and idle quality.
Rear Subframe:
Cracks can develop in the rear subframe mounting points due to stress; reinforcement is often recommended.
Convertible Top:
Hydraulic system leaks, fabric wear, and electrical faults in the top operation are common.
Motorsport Legacy:
BMW M GmbH's lineage of performance-tuned vehicles with extensive motorsport experience.
E36 Platform:
Built on the E36 3 Series platform, introduced in the early 1990s.
M3 Development:
Evolved from the European M3 with the S50 engine, with US models receiving a derivative S50B30US engine due to emissions regulations.
Production Period:
1992-1999 (Convertible production primarily 1994-1998)
