🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: BMW Model: M3 Coupe Model Code: E46 Year: 2004 Codes Engine Code Primary: S54B32 👋 Introduction Market Position Market Segment: High-performance luxury sports coupe. Brand Philosophy: Sheer Driving Pleasure (Freude am Fahren). Competitive Analysis Key Competitors: Porsche 911 Carrera, Mercedes-Benz C55 AMG, Audi RS4 (B5/B7). Key Features Performance Focus: Engineered for track-inspired performance, driver engagement, and premium luxury. Design Language: Iconic E46 M design with distinctive M-specific bodywork, wider track, and aerodynamic enhancements. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Manual Type: Owner's, Maintenance, Service, and Basic Repair Manual Language: English Format: PDF (Digital Download) Page Count Estimated Page Count: Approximately 400-600 pages (typical for this model's documentation) Format File Format Details: Searchable PDF format, allowing for quick access to information via keywords. Optimised for digital viewing and printing. 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine System: Comprehensive coverage of the S54 inline-6 engine, including maintenance, diagnostics, and minor repairs. Drivetrain System: Manual and SMG (Sequential Manual Gearbox) transmission operation, maintenance, and common issues. Suspension Steering: Detailed information on front and rear suspension components, steering system, and wheel alignment procedures. Braking System: Front and rear brake system service, fluid replacement, pad and rotor replacement procedures. Electrical System: Coverage of the electrical system, including battery, alternator, starter, lighting, fuses, relays, and basic diagnostic troubleshooting. Body Exterior: Body panel adjustments, door and lock mechanisms, exterior trim, and basic body repair guidance. Interior Trim: Information on interior trim removal and installation, seat adjustments, and HVAC system controls. Procedures Included Scheduled Maintenance: Detailed breakdown of routine maintenance tasks and recommended service intervals. Fluid Checks Replacements: Procedures for checking and replacing engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid, and transmission fluid. Filter Replacements: Instructions for replacing oil, air, cabin, and fuel filters. Troubleshooting Diagnostics: Guidance on identifying and resolving common operational issues and dashboard warning lights. Component Replacement: Step-by-step instructions for replacing common wear-and-tear items like spark plugs, belts, and battery. Technical Depth Depth Level: Comprehensive: Covers owner operation, routine maintenance, basic to intermediate repairs, and diagnostic guidance. Diagnostics Coverage: Includes basic diagnostic procedures for common issues, but advanced electronic diagnostics may require specialized BMW ISTA/D software. ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Type: Naturally Aspirated Inline 6-Cylinder (S54B32) Displacement: 3.2 Liters (3246 cc) Performance Horsepower: 333 hp @ 7900 rpm Torque: 262 lb-ft @ 4900 rpm Redline: 8000 rpm Compression Ratio: 11.0:1 Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Sequential Electronic Fuel Injection (SEFI) Fuel Type: Premium Unleaded (91+ Octane Recommended) Engine Management Engine Control Unit: Bosch Motronic MSS54HP 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type Std: 6-Speed Manual Transmission Optional Transmission Type Opt: 6-Speed SMG II (Sequential Manual Gearbox) Features Clutch Type: Hydraulically Actuated Single Dry Plate Clutch (Manual), Electro-hydraulic Clutch Actuation (SMG) Limited Slip Differential: Standard M Differential Lock (40% Lock-up) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: 177.1 inches (4498 mm) Width: 70.1 inches (1780 mm) Height: 54.1 inches (1374 mm) Wheelbase: 107.4 inches (2729 mm) Front Track: 60.0 inches (1524 mm) Rear Track: 59.4 inches (1508 mm) Weights Curb Weight: Approx. 3,400 - 3,500 lbs (1542 - 1588 kg) depending on options Gross Vehicle Weight Rating: Approx. 4,400 lbs (1996 kg) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Front Impact: 4-Star Driver, 5-Star Passenger (for E46 Coupe) IIHS Side Impact: Good (for E46 Coupe) Active Features Traction Control: Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) with M Dynamic Mode (MDM) ABS: Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) Brake Assist: Brake Assist (BA) Passive Features Airbags: Driver and front passenger airbags, front side-impact airbags. Seatbelts: 3-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pretensioners and force limiters. Structure: Reinforced chassis and safety cage construction. 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Head Unit Options: BMW Business CD, BMW Professional CD, and optional Navigation systems. Audio System: Standard 6-speaker system, optional Harman Kardon premium audio. Driver Assistance Parking Sensors: Optional rear Park Distance Control (PDC). Connectivity Bluetooth Integration: Optional Bluetooth hands-free connectivity was available via an add-on module or integrated into later navigation systems. Features Sport Seats: Standard M sport seats with enhanced bolstering and electric adjustments. Climate Control: Automatic climate control with cabin microfilter. Cruise Control: Standard cruise control. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: BMW Condition Based Service (CBS) typically indicates oil service every 10,000-15,000 miles or annually, whichever comes first. Major Service Interval: Inspection II typically scheduled around 60,000 miles, includes spark plugs, valve adjustment (critical for S54), and thorough checks. Brake Fluid Interval: Every 2 years, regardless of mileage. Coolant Interval: Typically every 4 years or 100,000 miles, depending on coolant type. Fluid Specifications Engine Oil Type: BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) approved synthetic oil, typically 0W-40 or 5W-40. Engine Oil Capacity: 6.5 US quarts (6.2 Liters) with filter change. Coolant Type: BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48, Ethylene Glycol based). Brake Fluid Type: DOT 4 High Performance. Transmission Fluid Manual: BMW MTF-LT-2 or equivalent (e.g., Pentosin MTF 2). Transmission Fluid Smg: Pentosin CHF 11S Hydraulic Fluid. Known Issues Rod...