🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: BMW Model: M3 Year: 2006 Generation Chassis Code: E46 Codes Engine Code Primary: S54 👋 Introduction Market Position Positioning: High-performance luxury sports coupe/convertible, targeting driving enthusiasts Competitive Analysis Competitors: Porsche 911 Carrera, Mercedes-Benz C55 AMG, Audi RS4 (B7) Key Features Usp: Naturally aspirated S54 inline-six engine, exceptional handling, driver-focused cockpit, motorsport heritage 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Major Systems: Engine, Drivetrain, Suspension, Brakes, Electrical, HVAC, Bodywork, Diagnostics Page Count Estimated Pages: 1500+ Manual Type Type: Official Service and Repair Manual Software Language Language: English Format Format: Software (likely PDF or proprietary digital format) 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Powertrain: S54 Engine, SMG/Manual Transmission, Differential, Driveshafts Chassis: Front/Rear Suspension, Steering System, Brake System (including DSC/ABS) Electrical: Complete Wiring Diagrams, ECU Functions, Lighting, Instrumentation, Comfort Systems Procedures Included Maintenance: Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Spark Plugs, Coolant Flush, Belt Replacement Repair: Engine Rebuild, Transmission Overhaul, Suspension Component Replacement, Brake Service, Electrical Component Diagnosis and Replacement Diagnostics: Troubleshooting guides, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Fault finding procedures, Wiring harness testing Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive; covers basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including electronic diagnostics 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Compatibility: Windows PC Compatible Print Quality Printability: Printable pages with high-resolution diagrams and text Binding Type Binding: N/A (Software) Paper Type Paper Type: N/A (Software) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Type: Naturally Aspirated Inline 6-Cylinder Engine Code: S54B32 Displacement: 3.2 Liters (3246 cc) Performance Horsepower: 333 hp @ 7900 rpm Torque: 262 lb-ft @ 4900 rpm Redline: 8000 rpm Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Multi-point Fuel Injection (Bosch Motronic MED7.1.1) Fuel Type: Premium Unleaded (91+ Octane) Engine Management Throttle System: Individual Throttle Bodies (ITBs) 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type: 6-Speed Manual Transmission (Getrag 420G) Optional Transmission Type: 6-Speed Sequential M Gearbox (SMG II) Features Clutch Type Manual: Hydraulic, Single Dry Plate Clutch Type Smg: Hydraulic, Single Dry Plate with Electro-hydraulic Actuation 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: 177.7 inches (4515 mm) Width: 71.5 inches (1815 mm) Height: 53.7 inches (1364 mm) Wheelbase: 107.5 inches (2730 mm) Weights Curb Weight Coupe Manual: 3572 lbs (1620 kg) Curb Weight Convertible Smg: 3957 lbs (1795 kg) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Front Impact: 5-Star IIHS Frontal Offset: Good Active Features Traction Control: M Differential Lock, Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) Braking System: 4-Wheel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist Passive Features Airbags: Frontal airbags, Side airbags Rollover Protection: Pop-up roll bars (Convertible) 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Head Unit: BMW Professional Navigation System (Optional), Business CD Player Audio System: Harmon Kardon premium audio system (Optional) Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Standard cruise control, Adaptive cruise control not available Connectivity Auxiliary Input: Standard auxiliary audio input Bluetooth: Optional Bluetooth mobile interface 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Variable; typically every 7,500-15,000 miles or annually, based on CBS (Condition Based Service) system Major Service Interval: Inspection I (Minor Service) and Inspection II (Major Service) at ~30,000 and ~60,000 mile intervals respectively, though CBS adapts this. Fluid Specifications Engine Oil: SAE 0W-40 Synthetic (BMW High Performance Motor Oil LL-01 approved) Coolant: BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 formulation), 50/50 mix with distilled water Brake Fluid: DOT 4 (BMW recommends DOT 4 HP or equivalent) Transmission Fluid Manual: SAE 75W-90 Synthetic Gear Oil (BMW Manual Transmission Fluid MTF LT-2 or equivalent) Transmission Fluid Smg: Pentosin CHF 11S Hydraulic Fluid Differential Fluid: SAE 75W-140 Synthetic Hypoid Gear Oil (BMW Limited Slip Differential Oil SAF-XJ or equivalent) Known Issues Rod Bearings: Premature wear of rod bearings due to design/manufacturing tolerances, especially in early models or under hard use. Requires inspection and potential replacement. Subframe Mounts: Cracking or separation of the rear subframe mounting points from the chassis due to stress. Requires reinforcement or repair. Throttle Actuators: Failure of the electronic throttle actuators (drive-by-wire system) can cause rough idling or loss of power. Vanos: Potential issues with the VANOS (Variable Valve Timing) system, including solenoids or seals, leading to performance degradation. 📚 Vehicle History Brand Heritage Bmw Motorsport: Built on a legacy of motorsport success, particularly in touring car racing Model Evolution E46 M3 Introduction: Introduced in 2000 as the successor to the E36 M3, featuring a significantly more powerful engine and advanced chassis dynamics. Production Production Years: 2000-2006 Manufacturing Location: Regensburg, Germany 🏆 Awards & Recognition Recognitions Car And Driver Awards: Car and Driver 10Best list multiple times during its production run Performance Magazine Awards: Consistently lauded by automotive publications for its driving dynamics and engine performance