🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

M3

Chassis Code:

E46

Model Year:

2002

Engine Code Primary:

S54B32

👋 Introduction

Segment:

High-Performance Luxury Coupe/Convertible

Key Selling Points:

Legendary inline-six engine, superior handling dynamics, motorsport-derived technology, driver-focused cockpit.

Primary Competitors:

Porsche 911 (996 generation), Mercedes-Benz C32 AMG, Audi S4 (B5/B6).

Vehicle Philosophy:

Motorsport DNA engineered for the road, ultimate driving machine ethos.

📋 Manual Details

Market Scope:

Global (North American and European specifications typically included)

Estimated Page Count:

1500-2500 (typical for comprehensive factory service manuals)

Type:

Official Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Likely PDF or Digital Download (as sold by this vendor), original may have been print

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine (S54B32), Driveline, Transmission (SMG & Manual), Differential, Axles, Cooling System, Fuel System, Exhaust System

Chassis:

Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Brakes (ABS, DSC, Handbrake), Wheels & Tires

Electrical:

Engine Management (DME), Body Control Module (BCM), Infotainment, Lighting, Instrumentation, SRS Airbag System, Power Accessories, Wiring Diagrams

Body And Interior:

Body Panels, Doors, Windows, Seats, HVAC, Trim, Convertible Top (if applicable)

Maintenance:

Scheduled Maintenance, Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Spark Plugs, Coolant Flush, Brake Fluid Flush, Belt Replacement

Repair:

Engine Overhaul, Transmission Rebuild, Suspension Component Replacement, Brake System Repair, Electrical Component Diagnosis and Replacement, Body Panel Repair

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting Flowcharts, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Sensor Testing, Actuator Testing, Common Fault Finding

Depth:

Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic fluid checks to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic procedures and specifications.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

Likely PDF with search functionality and selectable text for ease of use.

Digital Quality:

High resolution, clear diagrams and text, suitable for printing specific sections.

Original Binding:

Likely spiral-bound or perfect-bound for ease of lay-flat use in a workshop environment.

Original Paper:

Heavy-duty, often glossy or satin-finish paper to withstand workshop conditions and display diagrams clearly.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Naturally Aspirated Inline 6-Cylinder

Engine Code:

S54B32

Displacement:

3.2 Liters (3246 cc)

Bore X Stroke:

87.0 mm x 91.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

11.5:1

Redline:

8000 RPM

Horsepower:

333 hp @ 7900 rpm

Torque:

262 lb-ft (355 Nm) @ 4900 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Sequential Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI) with Individual Throttle Bodies (ITBs)

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 AKI or higher recommended)

Oil Capacity:

6.7 Liters (7.1 US Quarts) - check manual for exact spec

Recommended Oil Viscosity:

SAE 10W-60 Synthetic (BMW recommends Castrol TWS Motor Oil for S54)

Coolant Capacity:

Approx. 8.0 Liters (8.5 US Quarts) - check manual for exact spec

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Std:

6-Speed Manual Getrag 420G

Transmission Type Opt:

6-Speed Sequential Manual Gearbox (SMG II)

Clutch Type:

Hydraulically actuated single dry plate (Manual), Electro-hydraulic automated clutch (SMG)

Manual Transmission Fluid:

MTF LT-2 (or equivalent GL-4 rated synthetic)

Smg Transmission Fluid:

Pentosin CHF 11S (Hydraulic Fluid)

Differential Fluid:

SAE 75W-140 Synthetic Hypoid Gear Oil (API GL-5)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

177.5 inches (4508 mm)

Width:

71.5 inches (1815 mm)

Height:

53.4 inches (1356 mm) - Coupe

Wheelbase:

107.4 inches (2729 mm)

Front Track:

59.7 inches (1516 mm)

Rear Track:

59.9 inches (1521 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3420-3580 lbs (1551-1624 kg) - depending on transmission and options

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approx. 4430 lbs (2010 kg)

Trunk Volume:

11.0 cu ft (312 Liters) - Coupe

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver:

4/5 Stars

NHTSA Frontal Impact Passenger:

4/5 Stars

IIHS Frontal Offset:

Good

Traction Control:

Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)

Braking System:

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

Limited Slip Differential:

M Variable Lock Differential

Airbags:

Frontal airbags (driver/passenger), Side airbags (front)

Seatbelts:

3-point inertia-reel seat belts with pretensioners and force limiters

💡 Technology Features

Head Unit:

BMW Professional Radio/CD system or optional Navigation system.

Audio System:

Standard 10-speaker system or optional Harman Kardon premium sound.

Stability Control:

Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) with M Dynamic Mode (MDM) for increased wheel slip.

Cruise Control:

Standard electronic cruise control.

Parking Assistance:

Optional Rear Park Distance Control (PDC).

Phone Integration:

Optional Bluetooth hands-free interface or BMW Assist.

Gauge Cluster:

M-specific instrument cluster with oil temperature gauge, voltmeter, and larger tachometer with integrated oil pressure light. Speedometer calibrated to 180 mph.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

BMW Condition Based Service (CBS) system typically recommends every 10,000-15,000 miles or annually, whichever comes first. S54 engines can benefit from more frequent changes if driven hard. Check manual for specifics.

Major Service Intervals:

Inspection I (approx. 30,000 miles), Inspection II (approx. 60,000 miles) - includes valve adjustment, spark plugs, etc. Specifics are crucial and detailed in the manual.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 4 (or BMW Super DOT 4)

Power Steering Fluid:

Pentosin CHF 11S (same as SMG fluid, but check manual for specific reservoir)

Coolant Type:

BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 ethylene glycol based)

Rod Bearings:

A well-documented potential failure point on early S54 engines due to wear on the rod bearings. Early detection and replacement are critical. Manual will detail inspection procedures.

Vanos System:

The variable valve timing system (VANOS) can develop leaks or solenoids can fail. Manual will cover diagnosis and repair.

Subframe Mounts:

Cracking or separation of the rear subframe mounting points is common on E46 chassis, particularly under hard use. Manual will show reinforcement points if applicable.

Throttle Actuators:

Failure of the individual throttle body actuators can lead to rough running or loss of power. Manual will detail testing and replacement.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw M Division:

Founded in 1972, BMW M GmbH (formerly BMW Motorsport GmbH) is dedicated to high-performance vehicles, drawing heavily from motorsport experience.

E46 M3 Introduction:

The E46 M3 was introduced in 2000 as the successor to the E36 M3, representing a significant technological leap.

S54 Engine Origin:

The S54 engine is a derivative of the S50 engine used in earlier European M3 models, heavily revised with individual throttle bodies and a higher redline.

Production Years E46 M3:

2000-2006

Production Locations:

Regensburg Plant, 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.

Motor Trend Performance Car Of The Year:

While not explicitly winning Performance Car of the Year in 2002, it was a strong contender and benchmark vehicle.

Enthusiast Reviews:

Universally praised by automotive journalists and enthusiasts for its driving dynamics, engine performance, and chassis tuning.