๐ท๏ธ Basic Information Identification Make: BMW Model: M3 Year: 2000 Chassis Code: E46 Codes Engine Code: S54B32 ๐ Introduction Market Position Segment: Performance Compact Executive Sedan/Coupe Usp: High-revving naturally aspirated inline-six engine, exceptional handling, driver-focused experience Competitive Analysis Key Competitors: Mercedes-Benz C43 AMG, Audi S4, Porsche 911 (996 generation) Key Features Performance Highlight: 3.2L S54 inline-six engine with individual throttle bodies Handling Highlight: M-tuned suspension, limited-slip differential, precise steering feedback Design: Aggressive aerodynamic enhancements, distinctive M-specific styling cues ๐ Manual Details Coverage Areas Primary Coverage: Mechanical, Electrical, Bodywork, Diagnostics Additional Coverage: Maintenance, Repair Procedures, Troubleshooting, Wiring Diagrams Page Count Estimated Page Count: 1500+ Manual Type Type: Service Repair Manual Language Language: English Format Format: PDF Download ๐ Manual Coverage Systems Covered Powertrain: Engine (S54B32), Cooling System, Fuel System, Exhaust System, Drivetrain Chassis: Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Brake System (ABS/DSC) Electrical: Engine Management (DME), Body Control Module (BCM), Lighting, Instrumentation, Infotainment, Comfort Systems Body: Body Panels, Doors, Windows, Seats, Interior Trim Procedures Included Maintenance: Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Spark Plug Service, Belt Inspection/Replacement, Fluid Checks/Changes Diagnostics: Troubleshooting Charts, Fault Code Interpretation, Component Testing Repair: Engine Rebuild, Transmission Repair, Suspension Component Replacement, Brake Caliper Overhaul, Electrical Component Diagnosis and Replacement Special Procedures: VANOS System Service, SMG Transmission (if equipped) Diagnosis and Repair, Convertible Top Mechanism (if applicable) Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive; includes detailed specifications, torque values, diagnostic procedures, and rebuild instructions Target Audience: Professional Technicians, Experienced DIY Mechanics ๐ Manual Specifications File Format Quality: High-Resolution Scans, Searchable Text Print Quality Printability: Printable Pages Binding Type Binding Type: N/A (Digital Download) Paper Type Paper Type: N/A (Digital Download) โ๏ธ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Type: Naturally Aspirated Inline-6 Displacement: 3246 cc (3.2 Liters) Performance Horsepower: 333 hp @ 7900 rpm Torque: 262 lb-ft @ 4900 rpm Redline: 8000 rpm Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with Individual Throttle Bodies (ITBs) Fuel Type: Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ Octane) Engine Management Dme System: Bosch Motronic M5.2 or ME7.2 (depending on market/production date) Timing System: Double VANOS (Variable Valve Timing) ๐ง Transmission Standard Type: 6-Speed Manual (Getrag Type D) Optional Type: 6-Speed SMG (Sequential Manual Gearbox) - Optional Features Clutch Type: Hydraulically Actuated Single Plate Clutch Differential: M Variable Lock Differential (Limited Slip) Fluid Specifications Manual Transmission Fluid: BMW MTF LT-2 or equivalent (e.g., Pentosin MTF 2.1) Smg Transmission Fluid: BMW MTL (Manual Transmission Fluid) or CHF 11S (Hydraulic Fluid for SMG Pump) ๐ Dimensions Exterior Length: 177.5 inches (4509 mm) Width: 70.1 inches (1780 mm) Height: 54.2 inches (1377 mm) Wheelbase: 107.4 inches (2729 mm) Weights Curb Weight: Approximately 3430 - 3595 lbs (1556 - 1631 kg), depending on options Gross Vehicle Weight Rating: Approximately 4475 lbs (2030 kg) Cargo Trunk Volume: 11.0 cubic feet (311 Liters) ๐ก๏ธ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Front Impact: 4/5 Stars (Driver/Passenger) IIHS Side Impact: Acceptable (varies by specific test conditions) Active Features ABS: Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) Traction Control: Standard Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) Passive Features Airbags: Frontal Driver and Passenger Airbags, Side Impact Airbags Seatbelts: 3-point Inertia-Reel Seatbelts with Pretensioners Chassis Stiffness: Reinforced Body Structure, Crumple Zones ๐ก Technology Features Infotainment Head Unit: BMW Business CD or Professional CD/RDS (optional navigation available). Audio System: Standard 6-speaker system, optional Harman Kardon premium audio. Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Standard cruise control. Parking Sensors: Optional Park Distance Control (PDC). Connectivity Bluetooth: Optional Bluetooth connectivity with phone preparation. Instrumentation M Specific Gauges: Unique M instrument cluster with oil temperature gauge, M logo, and 180 mph speedometer. ๐ง Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Typically every 7,500 - 10,000 miles or annually, based on condition monitoring (CBS - Condition Based Service). Spark Plug Replacement: Approx. 60,000 miles (refer to manual for specific spark plug type and torque). Coolant Flush: Every 2-4 years or 30,000-50,000 miles. Fluid Specifications Engine Oil Specification: BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) Approved Synthetic Oil, SAE 0W-40 or 5W-40 recommended. Engine Oil Capacity: 6.9 US quarts (6.5 Liters) with filter change. Coolant Specification: BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48) or equivalent, mixed 50/50 with distilled water. Brake Fluid Specification: DOT 4 (BMW high-performance brake fluid recommended). Known Issues Rod Bearings: Potential wear on connecting rod bearings, especially in early models or cars driven hard without proper warm-up. Manual covers inspection and replacement procedures. Vanos Seals: Degradation of VANOS piston ring seals can lead to low oil pressure at idle and reduced performance. Manual details diagnostic steps and seal replacement. Subframe Mounts: Cracking or separation of the rear subframe mounting points due to chassis stress. Manual provides inspection guidelines and reinforcement procedures. Smg Pump Failure: SMG hydraulic pump failure can lead to gear selection issues. Manual covers SMG system diagnostics and pump replacement. Throttle Actuator Motors: Failure of individual throttle body actuator motors can cause rough idling or loss of power. Manual covers diagnostic and replacement of these units. ๐...
Potential wear on connecting rod bearings, especially in early models or cars driven hard without proper warm-up. Manual covers inspection and replacement procedures.
Vanos Seals:
Degradation of VANOS piston ring seals can lead to low oil pressure at idle and reduced performance. Manual details diagnostic steps and seal replacement.
Subframe Mounts:
Cracking or separation of the rear subframe mounting points due to chassis stress. Manual provides inspection guidelines and reinforcement procedures.
Smg Pump Failure:
SMG hydraulic pump failure can lead to gear selection issues. Manual covers SMG system diagnostics and pump replacement.
Throttle Actuator Motors:
Failure of individual throttle body actuator motors can cause rough idling or loss of power. Manual covers diagnostic and replacement of these units.
๐ Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Bmw M Division:
BMW M GmbH (Motorsport division) established for performance vehicle development.
Model Evolution
E46 M3 Introduction:
Launched in 2000 for the 2001 model year, replacing the E36 M3.
Engine Development:
The S54 engine was a significant upgrade, renowned for its high-revving nature and motorsport-derived technology.
Production
Production Years:
2000-2006
Manufacturing Location:
Regensburg, Germany
๐ Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Car And Driver Best:
Car and Driver 10Best list multiple times during its production run.
Motortrend Performance:
Praised by automotive journalists for its performance and handling characteristics.
Ratings
Driving Dynamics:
Consistently rated highly for handling, braking, and driver engagement.