🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: BMW Model: M3 Year: 1999 Codes Chassis Code: E36 Engine Code: S50B32 (Euro) 👋 Introduction Market Position Segment: High-performance compact executive sports sedan/coupe Target Audience: Enthusiasts, performance drivers, BMW owners seeking detailed repair and maintenance knowledge Competitive Analysis Key Competitors: Porsche 911 (996), Mercedes-Benz C43 AMG, Audi S4 (B5) Key Features Unique Selling Points: Renowned inline-six engine, exceptional handling dynamics, driver-focused cockpit, motorsport pedigree 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Primary Regions: Global (with specific emphasis on markets where the E36 M3 was sold) Market Specific Notes: May contain variations for North American (S50B30US) and European (S50B32) engine specifications. Page Count Estimated Pages: 1000+ Manual Type Type: Service and Repair Workshop Manual Language Language: English Format Format: Digital (likely PDF, though physical versions existed) 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Powertrain: Engine Mechanical, Fuel System, Ignition System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Exhaust System, Engine Management (DME), Transmission (Manual and Automatic), Clutch, Driveshaft, Axles, Differential Chassis: Suspension (Front and Rear), Steering System, Braking System (ABS), Wheels and Tires Electrical: Body Electrical Systems, Lighting, Instrumentation, Wiper/Washer Systems, Audio System, Power Accessories, Battery, Alternator, Starter, Engine Control Unit (ECU), DME Diagnostics Body And Interior: Body Panels, Doors, Windows, Seats, Interior Trim, Body Sealing, Crash Structures Procedures Included Maintenance: Routine Inspections, Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Spark Plug Replacement, Belt Replacement, Fluid Checks and Changes Diagnostics: Troubleshooting Guides, Fault Code Interpretation, Component Testing, Electrical Schematics Repair: Engine Overhaul, Transmission Rebuild, Suspension Component Replacement, Brake Caliper Rebuild, Electrical Component Repair, Body Panel Repair Disassembly And Assembly: Step-by-step instructions for component removal and installation with torque specifications Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive (from basic scheduled maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, advanced diagnostics, and electrical troubleshooting) 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Type: PDF (typically) Searchability: Searchable text content for quick information retrieval Print Quality Image Resolution: High-resolution diagrams and photographs suitable for printing Binding Type Binding: N/A (for digital format) Paper Type Paper Quality: N/A (for digital format) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Name: S50B32 (European Specification) Engine Type: Naturally Aspirated Inline-6 Cylinder Displacement: 3.2 Liters (3201 cc) Bore X Stroke: 86.4 mm x 91.0 mm Compression Ratio: 11.3:1 Valvetrain: DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder, Double VANOS (Variable Valve Timing) Performance Horsepower Ps: 321 PS @ 7400 rpm Horsepower Hp: 316 hp @ 7400 rpm Torque Nm: 350 Nm @ 3250 rpm Torque Lb-Ft: 258 lb-ft @ 3250 rpm Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI) Fuel Type: Premium Unleaded Gasoline (RON 98/95) Engine Management Dme Model: Bosch Motronic M5.2 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type: Getrag 420G 6-Speed Manual Transmission Optional Transmission Type: ZF 5HP30 4-Speed Automatic Transmission (less common for M3) Features Clutch Type: Hydraulically actuated single-plate dry clutch Differential: Limited-Slip Differential (LSD), 25% Lock-up 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: 4423 mm (174.1 in) Width: 1719 mm (67.7 in) Height: 1373 mm (54.1 in) Wheelbase: 2700 mm (106.3 in) Front Track: 1447 mm (57.0 in) Rear Track: 1472 mm (57.9 in) Weights Curb Weight: 1515 kg (3340 lbs) - Manual Transmission Gross Vehicle Weight: 1900 kg (4189 lbs) Towing Capacity: Not Recommended 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Frontal Crash Test: 4-star driver, 4-star passenger (for E36 chassis) Active Features Braking System: Four-wheel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Ventilated front and rear disc brakes Traction Control: Automatic Stability Control (ASC+T) - Optional/Standard on some markets Passive Features Airbags: Driver and front passenger airbags Seatbelts: Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pretensioners Body Structure: Reinforced safety cage, crumple zones 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: BMW Bavaria C Business/Professional (optional RDS radio, CD player, cassette player). Quality aftermarket head units are common upgrades. Navigation: Optional BMW Navigation System (CD-ROM based) Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Standard or optional depending on market and trim. Connectivity Telecommunications: Optional early mobile phone integration (handset and cradle). 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Typically every 15,000 km (9,300 miles) or 12 months, whichever comes first (depending on driving conditions and oil used). Consult specific manual for BMW's Condition Based Service (CBS) system if applicable for the specific VIN. Spark Plug Replacement: Every 60,000 km (37,000 miles) or as per CBS recommendations. Use correct NGK or equivalent spark plugs. Coolant Flush: Every 2 years or as recommended by BMW. Use BMW Blue Coolant (G48). Fluid Specifications Engine Oil Specification: BMW Longlife-98 (LL-98) or equivalent synthetic oil, e.g., SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 (check manual for exact viscosity based on climate). Engine Oil Capacity: 6.5 Liters (6.9 US Quarts) Transmission Fluid Manual: BMW MTF LT-2 (or equivalent high-quality manual transmission fluid, e.g., Pentosin, Castrol) Transmission Fluid Automatic: ZF Lifeguardfluid 5 (or equivalent) Brake Fluid: DOT 4 Coolant: BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48) - Ethylene Glycol based Known Issues Vanos System: Wear in the VANOS seals (O-rings) leading to low-end torque loss and characteristic rattling on startup. Repair kits are available....