🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: BMW Model: M3 Chassis Code: E36 Model Year: 1999 Codes Platform Generation: E36 👋 Introduction Market Position Positioning: The E36 M3 represented the pinnacle of BMW's performance sedan and coupe offerings in the late 1990s, a direct competitor to vehicles like the Porsche 911 (996 generation) and high-performance Mercedes-Benz models. Competitive Analysis Competitors: Primary competitors included the Porsche 911, Chevrolet Corvette, Mercedes-Benz C-Class AMG, and Audi S4. The E36 M3 was lauded for its superior handling dynamics and driver engagement. Key Features Performance Focus: Engineered for track-inspired performance, featuring a potent inline-six engine, M-tuned suspension, and aerodynamic enhancements. Driver Experience: Renowned for its communicative steering, balanced chassis, and direct driver feedback, making it a purist's sports car. Utility: Offered in coupe, convertible, and (in some markets) sedan body styles, providing a blend of M-performance with everyday usability. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Models Covered: All 1999 BMW M3 E36 models Repair Scope: All repairs A-Z Page Count Estimated Page Count: Approx. 1500-2000 (typical for comprehensive dealership manuals of this era) Manual Type Type: Factory Service Manual (FSM) / Repair Manual Language Language: English Format Format: Print (assumed, typical for dealership manuals) 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine: S50B32 (US Spec) / S52B32 (Euro Spec), including lubrication, cooling, fuel injection, ignition, emissions control, engine management, and rebuild procedures. Transmission: Getrag 420G 6-speed manual, clutch system, shift linkage, driveline, differential, axle shafts. Brakes: Front: Ventilated discs, M-specific calipers. Rear: Ventilated discs. ABS system, hydraulic system, parking brake. Suspension: Front: MacPherson struts, M-tuned components, anti-roll bar. Rear: Multi-link independent suspension, M-tuned components, anti-roll bar. Steering: Hydraulic power steering, steering rack, steering column. Electrical: Complete vehicle electrical system, wiring diagrams, charging system (alternator, battery), starting system, lighting, instrumentation, comfort electronics, DME (Digital Motor Electronics) diagnostics. Body And Chassis: Body structure, exterior panels, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, interior trim, glass, seals, body repair, corrosion prevention. HVAC: Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system (HVAC), refrigerant system, climate control unit. Safety Systems: Airbags, seatbelt pretensioners, seatbelt systems. Procedures Included Maintenance: Routine maintenance, scheduled servicing, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement. Troubleshooting: Systematic diagnostic procedures for all major vehicle systems, fault code interpretation, symptom-based troubleshooting. Repair: Detailed step-by-step repair procedures for all components, including engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, brake caliper replacement, suspension component renewal, electrical system diagnosis and repair. Installation: Procedures for installing genuine BMW M performance parts and common aftermarket upgrades (where applicable to dealership service). Diagnostics: On-board diagnostics (OBD-II) interpretation, DME specific diagnostic routines, use of BMW diagnostic tools (e.g., GT1, DIS). Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive; covers everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed electrical schematics and diagnostic procedures. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Format Details: Physical book format, designed for workshop use. High-quality paper, durable binding. Print Quality Quality: Professional, high-resolution printing with clear diagrams and illustrations. Binding Type Binding: Stapled, perfect bound, or spiral bound (common for FSMs to lay flat). Paper Type Paper: Durable, heavy-weight paper suitable for workshop environments. ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Code Us: S50B32 (US-spec, 3.2L inline-6) Engine Code Euro: S50B32 (Euro-spec, 3.2L inline-6) or S52B32 (US-spec, 3.2L inline-6 for later 1999 models) Displacement: 3.2 liters (3201 cc) Performance Horsepower Us Spec: 240 hp @ 6000 rpm (S50B32 US) Horsepower Euro Spec: 321 hp @ 7400 rpm (S50B32 Euro) Torque Us Spec: 236 lb-ft @ 3800 rpm (S50B32 US) Torque Euro Spec: 258 lb-ft @ 3250 rpm (S50B32 Euro) Fuel System Induction: Sequential Multi-Point Fuel Injection (S M PFI) with individual throttle bodies (ITBs) on Euro spec. Fuel Type: Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher) Engine Management Dme Type: MS41.0 or MS42 for 1999 models 🔧 Transmission Standard Type: Getrag 420G 6-speed manual transmission Optional Type: None (M3 E36 was exclusively manual) Features Differential: Limited-Slip Differential (LSD) standard Clutch: Hydraulically operated single-plate clutch 📐 Dimensions Exterior Coupe Length: 174.5 inches (4432 mm) Coupe Width: 67.5 inches (1715 mm) Coupe Height: 53.6 inches (1362 mm) Convertible Length: 175.0 inches (4445 mm) Convertible Width: 67.5 inches (1715 mm) Convertible Height: 53.3 inches (1354 mm) Wheelbase: 104.5 inches (2654 mm) Weights Curb Weight Coupe Manual: 3274 lbs (1485 kg) Curb Weight Convertible Manual: 3549 lbs (1610 kg) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Front Impact: Not explicitly rated for 1999; based on contemporary vehicle safety standards for the era. IIHS Side Impact: Not explicitly rated for 1999; based on contemporary vehicle safety standards for the era. Active Features ABS: Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) Traction Control: Optional (ASC+T - Automatic Stability Control and Traction) Passive Features Airbags: Driver and passenger front airbags Seatbelts: 3-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pretensioners 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Optional BMW Business CD or Professional RDS radio with CD player, Nakamichi or Harman Kardon premium sound system...