🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: BMW Model: M3 Convertible Year: 2002 Chassis Code: E46 Body Style: Convertible Trim Level: M3 Codes Engine Code: S54B32 👋 Introduction Market Position Segment: High-performance luxury grand tourer convertible Target Audience: Enthusiasts seeking a blend of performance, luxury, and open-air driving experience Competitive Analysis Key Competitors: Mercedes-Benz SLK/SL, Porsche Boxster/911 Carrera Cabriolet, Audi TT Roadster Key Features Performance Focus: Naturally aspirated inline-six engine, M-tuned chassis, advanced electronic aids Convertible Functionality: Power-operated soft top with advanced insulation and automated operation Driver Experience: Direct steering feedback, balanced handling, engaging driving dynamics 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Primary Coverage: 2002 BMW M3 Convertible Additional Coverage: General M3 (E46) systems applicable to convertible variant Page Count Estimated Pages: Approx. 300-400 pages (typical for this era and model) Manual Type Type: Owner's Manual Language Language: English Format Format: Printed Booklet 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Powertrain: Engine, cooling system, fuel system, exhaust system Drivetrain: Transmission, differential, drive shafts, limited-slip differential (M Variable Lock) Chassis: Suspension (front/rear), steering, brakes (ABS, DSC, M Servotronic) Electrical: Battery, charging system, lighting, instrumentation, power accessories, convertible top system Body And Interior: Body panels, doors, seats, climate control, infotainment system, safety restraints Procedures Included Operation: Vehicle start/stop, gear selection, convertible top operation, climate control usage Maintenance: Fluid level checks, tire pressure, wiper blade replacement, bulb replacement Troubleshooting: Warning lights, basic diagnostics, emergency procedures Safety: Seatbelt usage, airbag system information, child seat installation guidance Technical Depth Depth: Owner-level operations and basic maintenance; does not cover detailed repair procedures or diagnostics typically found in a workshop manual. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Digital Format: N/A (Printed) Print Quality Quality: Original factory print quality Binding Type Binding: Stapled or perfect bound booklet Paper Type Paper: Durable, coated paper stock suitable for automotive environment ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Type: Naturally Aspirated Inline-6 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 Performance Horsepower: 333 hp (248 kW) @ 7900 rpm Torque: 262 lb-ft (355 Nm) @ 4900 rpm Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Sequential Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI) with individual throttle bodies Fuel Type: Premium Unleaded (91 octane or higher recommended) 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type: 6-Speed Manual Optional Transmission Type: 6-Speed SMG (Sequential Manual Gearbox) with Drivelogic Features Clutch Type: Hydraulically actuated single-plate clutch Differential: M Variable Lock differential (0-100% lock-up) Gear Ratios Manual: 1st: 4.235, 2nd: 2.531, 3rd: 1.670, 4th: 1.232, 5th: 1.000, 6th: 0.828, Reverse: 3.728 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: 178.2 inches (4526 mm) Width: 71.5 inches (1816 mm) Height: 53.1 inches (1349 mm) Wheelbase: 107.4 inches (2729 mm) Front Track: 61.2 inches (1555 mm) Rear Track: 61.8 inches (1569 mm) Interior Front Headroom: 39.7 inches (1008 mm) Front Legroom: 41.7 inches (1059 mm) Cargo Trunk Volume: 11.0 cubic feet (312 Liters) with top up; reduced with top down Weights Curb Weight: Approx. 3814 lbs (1729 kg) Manual; Approx. 3858 lbs (1749 kg) SMG 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Front Impact: Not specifically rated for M3 Convertible, but E46 Coupe received 4/5 stars for driver/passenger. IIHS Side Impact: Not specifically rated for M3 Convertible. Active Features Traction Control: Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) with M Dynamic Mode ABS: Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) Stability Control: DSC with M Dynamic Mode for enhanced performance driving Passive Features Airbags: Frontal airbags, side airbags (head/thorax) Rollover Protection: Pop-up roll bars behind headrests (deploy automatically) Seatbelts: 3-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pretensioners and force limiters 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Harman Kardon premium sound system with CD player, AM/FM stereo Navigation: Optional BMW Professional Navigation system with MKIV unit Driver Assistance Parking Assist: Optional Rear Park Distance Control (PDC) Connectivity Phone Integration: Optional Bluetooth hands-free system 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change: BMW Condition Based Service (CBS) system; typically around 10,000-15,000 miles or as indicated by the vehicle. Brake Fluid Flush: Every 2 years (recommended) Coolant Change: First change at 4 years/50,000 miles, then every 2 years/30,000 miles (BMW Blue coolant) Spark Plug Replacement: Approx. 60,000 miles (depending on plug type) Fluid Specifications Engine Oil: SAE 10W-60 Synthetic (BMW M TwinPower Turbo Engine Oil recommended, e.g., Castrol EDGE Professional H) | Capacity: 6.9 Liters (7.3 US Quarts) Coolant: BMW Blue Long-Life Coolant (G48) | Capacity: Approx. 10 Liters (10.6 US Quarts) Brake Fluid: DOT 4 High Performance Synthetic Brake Fluid Transmission Fluid Manual: SAE 75W-90 Synthetic Gear Oil (BMW recommends specific fluid, e.g., Pentosin MTF LT-2) | Capacity: Approx. 1.3 Liters (1.4 US Quarts) Transmission Fluid Smg: BMW ATF (Dexron III equivalent or specific Pentosin hydraulic fluid for SMG pump) Differential Fluid: SAE 75W-140 Synthetic Gear Oil (BMW recommends specific fluid, e.g., Pentosin) | Capacity: Approx. 1.2 Liters (1.3 US Quarts) Known Issues Rod Bearings: S54 engine is known for potential wear of rod bearings, especially in earlier models...