🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: BMW Model: M3 Year: 2004 Generation: E46 M3 Codes Chassis Code: E46 Engine Code: S54 👋 Introduction Market Position Segment: High-performance compact executive car (Sports Coupe/Convertible) Competitive Analysis Competitors: Porsche 911 Carrera, Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG, Audi RS4 Key Features Performance Focus: Engineered for track-day capability and spirited driving Driver Engagement: Emphasis on driver feedback, balanced chassis, and powerful naturally aspirated engine 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Coverage Scope: Comprehensive repair, service, and maintenance Page Count Estimated Pages: 1500+ Manual Type Type: Factory Service Manual (FSM) / Workshop Manual Language Language: English Format Format: Downloadable Digital Format (PDF) 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Powertrain: Engine (S54), Driveline, Transmission (SMG/Manual), Differentials, Axles Chassis: Suspension (Front/Rear), Steering, Brakes (ABS/DSC), Wheels & Tires Electrical: Engine Control Unit (ECU), Lighting, HVAC Controls, Infotainment, Body Electronics, SRS (Airbag) Body: Body Panels, Doors, Glass, Interior Trim, Convertible Top (if applicable) Procedures Included Diagnostics: Troubleshooting guides, fault code interpretation, diagnostic tool procedures Maintenance: Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, inspections Repair: Component removal and installation, sub-assembly repairs, adjustments Overhaul: Engine rebuild procedures, transmission overhaul, differential rebuilding Technical Depth Depth: Detailed step-by-step instructions, torque specifications, special tool requirements, wiring diagrams, schematics 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Format Details: Searchable PDF, printable pages, high-resolution diagrams Print Quality Quality: Digital reproduction of original factory documentation Binding Type Binding: Not Applicable (Digital Download) Paper Type Paper: Not Applicable (Digital Download) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Type: Inline 6-cylinder, Naturally Aspirated Displacement: 3.2 Liters (3246 cc) Engine Code: S54B32 Performance Horsepower: 333 hp @ 7900 rpm Torque: 262 lb-ft (355 Nm) @ 4900 rpm Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), Individual Throttle Bodies (ITBs) Engine Features Valvetrain: Dual Overhead Camshafts (DOHC), 24 Valves, VANOS (Variable Valve Timing) 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type: 6-speed Manual Transmission (Getrag 420G) Optional Transmission Type: 6-speed SMG II (Sequential Manual Gearbox) with Drivelogic Features Clutch: Hydraulic clutch actuation Drivetrain Drivetrain: Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) Differential Differential Type: Limited-Slip Differential (LSD) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Coupe Length: 177.5 inches (4508 mm) Coupe Width: 71.5 inches (1816 mm) Coupe Height: 53.1 inches (1349 mm) Convertible Height: 53.7 inches (1364 mm) Wheelbase: 107.4 inches (2729 mm) Weights Curb Weight Coupe: 3415 lbs (1550 kg) Curb Weight Convertible: 3704 lbs (1680 kg) Cargo Trunk Volume Coupe: 11.1 cu ft (314 L) Wheels Tires Wheel Size Front: 18x8.0 inches Wheel Size Rear: 18x9.0 inches Tire Size Front: 225/40 R18 Tire Size Rear: 255/35 R18 Bolt Pattern: 5x120 mm 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Front Impact: Not Rated / Not Tested IIHS Side Impact: Good Active Features Stability Control: Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) Traction Control: M-Dynamic Traction Control (MDTC) Braking: Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD) Passive Features Airbags: Front airbags, Side airbags, Optional Head airbags Seatbelts: 3-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pretensioners Rollover Protection: Pop-up roll bars (Convertible) 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Navigation: Optional BMW Professional Navigation System Audio: Harmon Kardon audio system (optional) Driver Assistance Parking Sensors: Optional Park Distance Control (PDC) Connectivity Bluetooth: Optional Bluetooth phone integration Comfort Features Climate Control: Automatic Climate Control 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change: BMW Condition Based Service (CBS) system, typically 10,000-15,000 miles or as indicated by vehicle. Spark Plugs: Approx. 60,000 miles Coolant Flush: Every 2-3 years or 30,000-50,000 miles Brake Fluid Flush: Every 2 years Fluid Specifications Engine Oil Type: SAE 10W-60 Synthetic (BMW High Performance Engine Oil HT) Engine Oil Capacity: 8.0 Liters (8.5 US Quarts) with filter Coolant Type: BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 ethylene glycol based) Transmission Fluid Manual: SAE 75W-90 Synthetic Gear Oil Transmission Fluid Smg: ATF Dexron III or equivalent (specific to hydraulic system) Differential Fluid: SAE 75W-140 Synthetic Gear Oil (LS) Known Issues Rod Bearings: Premature wear on connecting rod bearings is a common and significant concern, especially on earlier models. Recommended replacement with upgraded bearings. Throttle Actuators: Failure of the electronic throttle actuators can lead to limp mode or engine performance issues. Subframe Mounts: Cracking or separation of rear subframe mounting points due to stress. Vanos Seals: Degradation of VANOS seals can cause rough idle and performance loss. 📚 Vehicle History Brand Heritage Bmw Motorsport: BMW M GmbH division legacy of motorsport success Model Evolution E46 Generation: Fourth generation of the BMW 3 Series, with the M3 being the high-performance variant. S54 Engine Heritage: Evolution of the S38 engine used in the E36 M3, with a focus on higher revving and power. Production Production Years: 2000-2006 (E46 M3) Manufacturing Location: Regensburg, Germany 🏆 Awards & Recognition Recognitions Car And Driver Best: Car and Driver's 10Best list multiple times. Motor Trend Comparison: Consistently ranked highly in performance car comparisons of its era.