🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

M3

Chassis Code:

E46

Model Year:

1999

Engine Code:

S50B32 (Euro spec) / S52B32 (US spec)

👋 Introduction

Segment:

High-performance luxury sports coupe/convertible.

Target Audience:

Enthusiast drivers, owners seeking to maintain their vehicle's performance and longevity, automotive workshops.

Competitors 1999:

Porsche 911 (996), Mercedes-Benz C43 AMG, Audi S4 (B5).

Performance Focus:

Emphasizes the unique performance tuning and motorsport heritage of the M division.

Precision Engineering:

Highlights BMW's renowned engineering for handling, braking, and engine responsiveness.

Dv Manual Advantage:

Distinguishes itself from generic manuals by providing vehicle-specific, dealership-level technical data and procedures.

📋 Manual Details

All Models Trims:

Yes, covers all E46 M3 models and trims available in 1999.

Repair Scope:

A-Z (All repairs from minor maintenance to major overhauls).

Estimated Pages:

Approximately 1500-2000 pages (typical for comprehensive factory-level manuals).

Type:

Factory Authorized Service and Repair Manual (Exact same as used by dealership technicians).

Language:

English

Format:

Likely a comprehensive printed manual, potentially available in digital (PDF) format for specific editions.

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine assembly, disassembly, cylinder head, valve train, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel delivery, intake, exhaust.

Engine Management:

Engine Control Unit (ECU) operation, sensors (MAF, O2, crank, cam), actuators, ignition system, fuel injection system, emissions control systems (DME, VANOS).

Transmission Drivetrain:

Manual transmission (Getrag 420G), clutch system, driveshafts, differential, half-shafts, driveline components.

Brakes:

Front and rear brake systems (discs, calipers, pads), ABS, DSC (Dynamic Stability Control), parking brake, brake fluid specifications.

Suspension Steering:

Front and rear suspension components (struts, shock absorbers, control arms, bushings), steering system (rack and pinion, power steering), wheel alignment specifications.

Electrical Electronics:

Wiring diagrams, fuse box locations, relay functions, starter, alternator, battery, lighting systems (headlights, taillights, interior), body control modules (BCM), instrument cluster.

Climate Control:

HVAC system, refrigerant type and charge, compressor, evaporator, condenser, heater core, climate control module.

Body Chassis:

Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, interior trim, body sealing, corrosion protection, chassis rigidity.

Safety Systems:

Airbag system, seatbelt pre-tensioners, crash sensor locations, safety restraint system (SRS) diagnostics.

Exhaust System:

Exhaust manifold, catalytic converters, mufflers, oxygen sensors, emissions testing procedures.

Fuel System:

Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel filter, fuel lines, pressure regulator, fuel injectors.

Wheels Tires:

Wheel specifications, tire pressure recommendations, tire changing procedures.

Preventative Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements (oil, air, cabin, fuel), spark plug replacement, coolant flush, brake fluid flush, differential fluid change, transmission fluid change.

Diagnostics Troubleshooting:

Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon faults, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation.

Engine Repair:

Engine rebuilds, head gasket replacement, piston and ring replacement, bearing replacement, timing chain/belt replacement, VANOS system repair.

Transmission Repair:

Transmission overhaul, clutch replacement, seal replacement, synchronizer repair, torque converter replacement (if applicable for later models/automatics not covered here).

Brake System Repair:

Brake pad and rotor replacement, caliper overhaul, brake line replacement, bleeding procedures, ABS/DSC component replacement and bleeding.

Suspension Steering Repair:

Shock absorber/strut replacement, control arm replacement, bushing replacement, ball joint replacement, power steering pump and rack repair.

Electrical Diagnostics Repair:

Wiring harness repair, component testing, sensor replacement, module programming/coding (requiring specific BMW tools), lighting system repair.

Bodywork Restoration:

Panel alignment, door hinge adjustment, bumper cover replacement, interior trim installation, weatherstripping replacement.

Depth:

Complete, in-depth coverage suitable for professional technicians and highly skilled DIY enthusiasts.

Diagnostic Tools:

References specific BMW diagnostic tools and procedures (e.g., DIS, ISTA, GT1) for advanced diagnostics and module coding.

Torque Specifications:

Detailed torque specifications for all fasteners and critical components.

Schematics Diagrams:

Comprehensive electrical schematics and system diagrams.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

If digital, typically PDF. High resolution for clarity of diagrams and text. Searchable text is a significant advantage.

Print Quality:

High-quality paper, durable binding, clear printing of text and diagrams. Expect professional OEM-level print quality.

Binding Type:

Likely perfect bound or saddle-stitched for printed versions, designed for durability in a workshop environment.

Paper Type:

Durable, possibly coated paper to resist workshop grease and smudging. Pages are usually thicker than standard consumer manuals.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Naturally Aspirated Inline-6 (S50B32 Euro / S52B32 US).

Displacement Euro:

3.2 Liters (3201 cc).

Displacement Us:

3.2 Liters (3246 cc).

Horsepower Euro:

321 hp (236 kW) at 7400 rpm.

Horsepower Us:

240 hp (177 kW) at 6000 rpm (detuned for US emissions).

Torque Euro:

350 Nm (258 lb-ft) at 3250 rpm.

Torque Us:

320 Nm (236 lb-ft) at 3800 rpm.

Redline:

7600 rpm (Euro) / 7000 rpm (US).

Fuel Delivery:

Sequential Multi-Point Fuel Injection (S50B32) / Multi-Point Fuel Injection (S52B32).

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane or higher recommended).

Valvetrain Design:

Double Overhead Camshafts (DOHC), 4 valves per cylinder.

Variable Timing:

Double VANOS (Variable Valve Timing) on intake and exhaust camshafts.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

6-Speed Manual (Getrag 420G).

Transmission Type:

5-Speed SMG (Sequential Manual Gearbox) was available on later E46 M3 models, but not typically for the 1999 model year. Clarification may be needed depending on specific regional availability for '99.

Clutch Type:

Hydraulically actuated single-plate dry clutch.

Differential:

Limited-Slip Differential (LSD) with 25% lock-up.

📐 Dimensions

Coupe Length:

Approx. 4488 mm (176.7 in).

Coupe Width:

Approx. 1781 mm (70.1 in).

Coupe Height:

Approx. 1373 mm (54.1 in).

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2700 mm (106.3 in).

Curb Weight Coupe:

Approx. 1570 kg (3461 lbs).

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Typically around 2000 kg (4400 lbs), check specific vehicle placard.

Trunk Volume:

Approx. 420 Liters (14.8 cu ft).

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Crash Test:

Specific 1999 ratings are often not available, but the E46 platform generally performed well for its era. Refer to the manual for specific structural safety information.

Stability Control:

Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) standard.

Traction Control:

Automatic Stability Control + Traction (ASC+T) or its successor depending on exact build date.

Braking System:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) standard.

Airbags:

Front airbags for driver and passenger, optional side airbags.

Seatbelts:

3-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pretensioners.

Body Structure:

Reinforced safety cell, crumple zones, side impact protection beams.

💡 Technology Features

Head Unit:

BMW Business CD or Professional CD/RDS radio, with optional navigation system (MK III).

Audio System:

Standard 6-speaker system, optional Harman Kardon premium audio.

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control functionality.

Oem Diagnostics:

Requires BMW's proprietary diagnostic software (e.g., DIS, GT1) and interfaces for full functionality, as detailed in the manual.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

BMW Condition Based Service (CBS) system typically indicates oil changes every 10,000-15,000 miles or annually, but frequent track use may necessitate shorter intervals. Manual will detail specific recommendations.

Inspection Ii Interval:

Typically around 60,000 miles, a comprehensive service including spark plugs, differential fluid, and detailed inspection.

Engine Oil:

BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) or equivalent synthetic oil, typically 5W-30 or 0W-40. Manual will specify exact BMW PN and grade.

Coolant:

BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 ethylene glycol based), 50/50 mix with distilled water. Manual will specify BMW PN.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 4 High Performance Brake Fluid. Manual will specify BMW PN and change interval.

Transmission Fluid Manual:

BMW MTF LT-2 (Manual Transmission Fluid) or equivalent. Capacity around 1.5 liters. Manual will specify BMW PN.

Differential Fluid:

BMW Hypoid Gear Oil LS SAE 75W-140 (LS indicates Limited Slip). Manual will specify BMW PN and capacity.

Rod Bearings:

A known potential issue on high-mileage S54 engines (which succeeded the S50/S52 in the E46 M3). Manual will cover inspection and replacement procedures, but this is a wear item to be aware of.

Subframe Mounts:

Reinforcement kits are available for the rear subframe mounting points due to potential cracking over time under stress. Manual will detail the subframe removal and repair/reinforcement procedures.

Oil Pan Gasket:

Can develop leaks over time. Manual covers replacement.

Vanos System:

VANOS seals and solenoids can wear, affecting performance. Manual provides diagnostic and repair steps.

Cooling System:

Plastic components like the expansion tank and water pump can become brittle and fail. Manual covers replacement and bleeding procedures.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw History:

BMW's long-standing reputation for performance driving dynamics, engineering excellence, and luxury.

E46 M3 Introduction:

The E46 M3, while conceptually a successor to the E36 M3, was a significant leap forward in performance and technology. The 1999 model year represents the very beginning of the E46 generation, though the M3 variant often had a later introduction than the standard E46 models. *Correction: The E46 M3 was introduced for the 2001 model year in most markets. A 1999 E46 M3 would be highly unusual or a specific early production unit for testing/press. The manual likely covers the full E46 M3 range starting from its actual market introduction, typically 2000/2001.*

E46 Platform:

The E46 chassis was a significant redesign from the E36, featuring improved rigidity, a more refined suspension, and modern styling.

Production Years:

E46 M3 production ran from 2000/2001 to 2006.

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily Regensburg, Germany.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver 습니까:

Car and Driver's '10Best' list multiple times during its production run.

Motortrend 습니까:

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