🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: BMW Model: M3 Year: 1995 Codes Chassis Code: E36 👋 Introduction Market Position Positioning: The ultimate driver's car of its era, positioned as a high-performance, track-capable homologation special Competitive Analysis Competitors: Porsche 911 (993), Chevrolet Corvette (C4), Nissan 300ZX (Z32), Toyota Supra (MkIV), Mitsubishi 3000GT VR-4 Key Features Performance Focus: Emphasizes handling, braking, and engine power delivery Chassis Tuning: Stiffer springs, performance dampers, thicker anti-roll bars, revised suspension geometry compared to standard E36 models Aerodynamics: Unique front and rear bumpers, side skirts, and spoilers for improved downforce and cooling Interior Appointments: Sport seats, M steering wheel, M gear knob, M door sill plates 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Coverage Scope: Complete factory service and repair Styles Covered: All styles of the 1995 BMW M3 Page Count Estimated Pages: Hundreds of pages Manual Type Type: Factory Service Repair Manual Language Language: English Format Format: Downloadable PDF 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine System: Detailed diagnostics, repair, and overhaul of the S50B30/S50B32 engine (depending on market variant) Engine Management: DME (Digital Motor Electronics) system, sensor diagnostics, fuel injection, ignition timing Fuel System: Fuel pump, injectors, pressure regulator, fuel tank, lines, testing procedures Exhaust System: Catalytic converter, muffler, exhaust manifold, diagnostics and repair Cooling System: Radiator, water pump, thermostat, hoses, fan assembly, coolant specifications Lubrication System: Oil pump, oil pan, oil filter, oil specifications, oil change procedures Transmission System Manual: Getrag 5-speed manual transmission (S5D 310Z), clutch operation, fluid specifications, overhaul Transmission System Automatic: ZF 4-speed automatic transmission (optional, e.g., 4HP22), fluid type, operation, diagnostics Drivetrain System: Driveshafts, CV joints, differential, rear axle assembly, lubrication Suspension System: Front and rear suspension components, control arms, springs, dampers, bushings, alignment specifications Steering System: Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, fluid type, troubleshooting Brake System: Front and rear disc brakes, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), brake fluid specifications, bleeding procedures, rotor and pad replacement Electrical System: Wiring diagrams, battery, alternator, starter motor, lighting system, fuses, relays Instrument Panel: Gauges, warning lights, functionality, repair HVAC System: Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning system, refrigerant types, component troubleshooting Body Panels: Hood, doors, fenders, bumpers, alignment, repair Interior Trim: Seats, dashboard, door panels, headliner, removal and installation Body Hardware: Door handles, locks, windows, regulators, seals Procedures Included Maintenance Procedures: Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, tune-ups Diagnostic Procedures: Troubleshooting charts, symptom-based diagnostics, fault code interpretation Repair Procedures: Step-by-step instructions for component replacement and repair Rebuilding Procedures: Engine and transmission overhaul procedures Adjustment Procedures: Valve adjustments, idle speed settings, alignment adjustments Installation Procedures: Component installation, accessory fitting Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to full engine rebuilds and complex electrical diagnostics Diagnostic Tools: Information relevant to using factory diagnostic tools (e.g., DIS, GT1) 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Format: PDF Print Quality Quality: High-resolution, suitable for printing entire manual or individual pages Binding Type Binding: N/A (Digital PDF format) Paper Type Paper: N/A (Digital PDF format) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Code: S50B30 (US/Canada), S50B32 (Europe/ROW - check specific market for 1995 model) Engine Type: Naturally Aspirated Inline-6 (I6) Displacement Us: 2990 cc (3.0 Liters) Displacement Eu: 3201 cc (3.2 Liters) Bore Us: 86 mm Stroke Us: 85.8 mm Bore Eu: 86.4 mm Stroke Eu: 91 mm Compression Ratio Us: 10.5:1 Compression Ratio Eu: 11.3:1 Performance Horsepower Us: 240 hp @ 6000 rpm Torque Us: 225 lb-ft @ 4700 rpm Horsepower Eu: 321 hp @ 7400 rpm Torque Eu: 258 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Multi-point fuel injection (Bosch Motronic) Fuel Type: Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended) 🔧 Transmission Standard Type Standard: Getrag 5-speed Manual Transmission (Type S5D 310Z) Optional Type Optional: ZF 4-speed Automatic Transmission (e.g., 4HP22EH) Features Clutch Type: Hydraulically actuated single dry plate clutch Differential: Limited-Slip Differential (LSD) standard 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: 174.5 inches (4432 mm) Width: 69.1 inches (1755 mm) Height: 53.6 inches (1362 mm) Wheelbase: 106.1 inches (2695 mm) Front Track: 57.7 inches (1465 mm) Rear Track: 58.3 inches (1480 mm) Weights Curb Weight: Approx. 3250-3350 lbs (1474-1519 kg) Gvw Rating: Approx. 4255 lbs (1930 kg) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings Niosh Ratings: N/A (Not a primary focus for NHTSA crash data of this era in detailed breakdown) Active Features ABS: Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) Traction Control: Optional Automatic Stability Control (ASC+T) on some models Passive Features Airbags: Driver and front passenger airbags Seatbelts: Three-point seatbelts with front pretensioners Body Structure: Reinforced passenger cell, crumple zones 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: BMW Business CD or optional Hi-Fi sound system, with cassette player and AM/FM radio Display: Central information display (MID) for car functions and OBC (On-Board Computer) Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Standard cruise control Parking Sensors: Not typically factory-equipped on this model year Connectivity Bluetooth: Not factory-equipped; aftermarket solutions available Usb Ports: Not factory-equipped 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval:...
SAE 75W-90 Synthetic Hypoid Gear Oil (often specific BMW fluid for LSD)
Known Issues
Vanos System:
Vanos (Variable Valve Timing) unit seals can degrade, leading to rough idle and power loss. Rebuild kits are available.
Subframe Mounts:
Rear subframe mounting points can crack or tear due to stress, especially on track-driven cars. Reinforcement kits exist.
Cooling System Components:
Plastic coolant expansion tanks can become brittle and crack. Water pump and thermostat housings can leak.
Head Gasket:
While generally robust, head gasket failures can occur, often due to overheating or improper maintenance.
Needle Bearing Failure:
Driveshaft center support bearing needle bearing can fail, causing vibrations.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Heritage Emphasis:
BMW's long-standing reputation for building driver-focused, performance-oriented vehicles
Model Evolution
E36 M3 Introduction:
The E36 M3 was introduced in 1992 (Europe) and 1994 (North America) as a successor to the E30 M3
1995 Updates:
The 1995 model year represents a significant iteration of the E36 M3, particularly with the introduction of the larger 3.2L S50B32 engine in European markets, while North America received the 3.0L S50B30
Production
Production Period:
E36 M3 produced from 1992 to 1999
Manufacturing Locations:
Germany (Munich, Regensburg)
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Car And Driver 10Best:
The E36 M3 (as a model line) was a multi-time recipient of Car and Driver's '10Best' list, recognized for its performance and value.
Ratings
Performance Reputation:
Consistently lauded by automotive press for its excellent handling, powerful engine, and engaging driving dynamics.