🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: BMW Model: M3 Year: 2004 Chassis Code: E46 Body Style: Coupe 👋 Introduction Market Position Positioning: The BMW M3 (E46) represented the pinnacle of performance in its class, directly competing with cars like the Mercedes-Benz C55 AMG and Audi RS4. Competitive Analysis Competitors: Mercedes-Benz C55 AMG, Audi RS4 (B5/B6), Porsche 911 Carrera. Key Features Engine Performance: Renowned for its high-revving S54 inline-six engine and exceptional handling characteristics. Driving Dynamics: Exceptional balance, responsive steering, and sophisticated M-tuned suspension contribute to its legendary driving experience. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Engine: Yes Transmission: Yes Drivetrain: Yes Suspension: Yes Brakes: Yes Steering: Yes Electrical System: Yes Body And Frame: Yes Interior: Yes HVAC: Yes Fuel System: Yes Exhaust System: Yes Cooling System: Yes Ignition System: Yes Emission Controls: Yes Troubleshooting: Yes Page Count Pages: Approximately 2000+ Manual Type Type: Service Repair Workshop Manual Language Language: English Format Format: Digital (PDF) 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine Management: Full diagnostics, sensor testing, DME (Digital Motor Electronics) operation, VANOS system, ignition timing, fuel injection control, idle speed control. Powertrain Control: Detailed information on engine control unit (ECU) integration with transmission, ABS, and DSC systems. Chassis Systems: Comprehensive coverage of Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), and steering system components and diagnostics. Comfort Systems: Operation and repair of automatic climate control, power accessories, seats, and advanced interior electronics. Procedures Included Preventative Maintenance: Detailed schedules for oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, coolant flushes, brake fluid replacement, and inspections. Diagnostic Procedures: Step-by-step troubleshooting guides for common and complex faults, using OBD-II codes and live data analysis. Engine Rebuilding: Complete overhaul procedures for the S54 engine, including torque specifications, clearances, and assembly sequences. Transmission Repair: Service and repair for both the Getrag 6-speed manual transmission and the SMG (Sequential Manual Gearbox) system, including clutch replacement and hydraulic system bleeding. Brake System Overhaul: Detailed instructions for brake pad and rotor replacement, caliper service, hydraulic line repair, and ABS/DSC module diagnostics. Electrical Troubleshooting: Wiring diagrams, component testing, fuse box layouts, and diagnostics for body control modules (BCM) and comfort electronics. Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including advanced diagnostics and electrical schematics. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Format: Searchable PDF Print Quality Quality: High-resolution, clear diagrams and text Binding Type Binding: N/A (Digital Format) Paper Type Paper: N/A (Digital Format) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Code: S54B32 Engine Type: Naturally Aspirated Inline-6 Displacement: 3.2 Liters (3246 cc) Bore X Stroke: 87.0 mm x 91.0 mm Compression Ratio: 11.5:1 Horsepower: 333 hp @ 7900 rpm Torque: 262 lb-ft @ 4900 rpm Performance Redline: 8000 rpm Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with individual throttle bodies Fuel Type: Premium Unleaded (91+ Octane) Engine Management Dme Model: MS43 🔧 Transmission Standard Type: Getrag 420G 6-Speed Manual Optional Type: SMG (Sequential Manual Gearbox) II Features Gear Ratios Manual: 3.07, 2.10, 1.44, 1.24, 1.00, 0.83 (Final Drive: 3.62) Clutch Type: Hydraulically actuated single dry plate Smg Features Smg Operation: Electro-hydraulic clutch actuation with driver-selectable shift modes (e.g., Sport, Sport+) and paddle shifters. 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: 177.7 inches (4516 mm) Width: 68.7 inches (1745 mm) Height: 53.0 inches (1346 mm) Wheelbase: 107.4 inches (2729 mm) Front Track: 58.8 inches (1494 mm) Rear Track: 59.0 inches (1499 mm) Wheel Bolt Pattern: 5x120 Tire Size Front: 225/40R18 Tire Size Rear: 255/35R18 Weights Curb Weight: Approximately 3450 lbs (1565 kg) for manual; 3595 lbs (1631 kg) for SMG 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Driver Side Front Impact: 4/5 Stars NHTSA Passenger Side Front Impact: 4/5 Stars IIHS Moderate Overlap Front: Good Active Features Traction Control: Automatic Stability Control (ASC+T) Stability Control: Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) Braking System: Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) Passive Features Airbags: Driver and front passenger airbags, side-impact airbags. Seatbelts: 3-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pretensioners and force limiters. 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Optional Harman Kardon premium audio system, standard BMW Business/Professional CD players. Navigation: Optional MKIV navigation system with CD-ROM based maps. Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Standard cruise control. Connectivity Phone Integration: Optional Bluetooth hands-free interface. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Typically 7,500-10,000 miles or as indicated by the Condition Based Service (CBS) system, but often recommended more frequently by enthusiasts (e.g., 5,000 miles). Spark Plug Replacement: Around 60,000 miles, using specific NGK spark plugs. Coolant Flush: Every 2-3 years or 30,000 miles. Brake Fluid Flush: Every 2 years, regardless of mileage. Fluid Specifications Engine Oil: BMW High Performance Synthetic SAE 0W-30 or 0W-40 (e.g., Castrol EDGE Professional OE BMW Longlife-01 or equivalent). Coolant: BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant with corrosion inhibitors, mixed 50/50 with distilled water. Brake Fluid: DOT 4 High Performance brake fluid. Transmission Fluid Manual: Pentosin MTF LT-2 or equivalent synthetic manual...
The BMW M3 (E46) represented the pinnacle of performance in its class, directly competing with cars like the Mercedes-Benz C55 AMG and Audi RS4.
Competitive Analysis
Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz C55 AMG, Audi RS4 (B5/B6), Porsche 911 Carrera.
Key Features
Engine Performance:
Renowned for its high-revving S54 inline-six engine and exceptional handling characteristics.
Driving Dynamics:
Exceptional balance, responsive steering, and sophisticated M-tuned suspension contribute to its legendary driving experience.
📋 Manual Details
Coverage Areas
Engine:
Yes
Transmission:
Yes
Drivetrain:
Yes
Suspension:
Yes
Brakes:
Yes
Steering:
Yes
Electrical System:
Yes
Body And Frame:
Yes
Interior:
Yes
HVAC:
Yes
Fuel System:
Yes
Exhaust System:
Yes
Cooling System:
Yes
Ignition System:
Yes
Emission Controls:
Yes
Troubleshooting:
Yes
Page Count
Pages:
Approximately 2000+
Manual Type
Type:
Service Repair Workshop Manual
Language
Language:
English
Format
Format:
Digital (PDF)
📖 Manual Coverage
Systems Covered
Engine Management:
Full diagnostics, sensor testing, DME (Digital Motor Electronics) operation, VANOS system, ignition timing, fuel injection control, idle speed control.
Powertrain Control:
Detailed information on engine control unit (ECU) integration with transmission, ABS, and DSC systems.
Chassis Systems:
Comprehensive coverage of Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), and steering system components and diagnostics.
Comfort Systems:
Operation and repair of automatic climate control, power accessories, seats, and advanced interior electronics.
Procedures Included
Preventative Maintenance:
Detailed schedules for oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, coolant flushes, brake fluid replacement, and inspections.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Step-by-step troubleshooting guides for common and complex faults, using OBD-II codes and live data analysis.
Engine Rebuilding:
Complete overhaul procedures for the S54 engine, including torque specifications, clearances, and assembly sequences.
Transmission Repair:
Service and repair for both the Getrag 6-speed manual transmission and the SMG (Sequential Manual Gearbox) system, including clutch replacement and hydraulic system bleeding.
Brake System Overhaul:
Detailed instructions for brake pad and rotor replacement, caliper service, hydraulic line repair, and ABS/DSC module diagnostics.
Electrical Troubleshooting:
Wiring diagrams, component testing, fuse box layouts, and diagnostics for body control modules (BCM) and comfort electronics.
Technical Depth
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including advanced diagnostics and electrical schematics.
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
Format:
Searchable PDF
Print Quality
Quality:
High-resolution, clear diagrams and text
Binding Type
Binding:
N/A (Digital Format)
Paper Type
Paper:
N/A (Digital Format)
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine Code:
S54B32
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated Inline-6
Displacement:
3.2 Liters (3246 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
87.0 mm x 91.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
11.5:1
Horsepower:
333 hp @ 7900 rpm
Torque:
262 lb-ft @ 4900 rpm
Performance
Redline:
8000 rpm
Fuel System
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with individual throttle bodies
Electro-hydraulic clutch actuation with driver-selectable shift modes (e.g., Sport, Sport+) and paddle shifters.
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
177.7 inches (4516 mm)
Width:
68.7 inches (1745 mm)
Height:
53.0 inches (1346 mm)
Wheelbase:
107.4 inches (2729 mm)
Front Track:
58.8 inches (1494 mm)
Rear Track:
59.0 inches (1499 mm)
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
5x120
Tire Size Front:
225/40R18
Tire Size Rear:
255/35R18
Weights
Curb Weight:
Approximately 3450 lbs (1565 kg) for manual; 3595 lbs (1631 kg) for SMG
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Driver Side Front Impact:
4/5 Stars
NHTSA Passenger Side Front Impact:
4/5 Stars
IIHS Moderate Overlap Front:
Good
Active Features
Traction Control:
Automatic Stability Control (ASC+T)
Stability Control:
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)
Braking System:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD)
Passive Features
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags, side-impact airbags.
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pretensioners and force limiters.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Optional Harman Kardon premium audio system, standard BMW Business/Professional CD players.
Navigation:
Optional MKIV navigation system with CD-ROM based maps.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control.
Connectivity
Phone Integration:
Optional Bluetooth hands-free interface.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 7,500-10,000 miles or as indicated by the Condition Based Service (CBS) system, but often recommended more frequently by enthusiasts (e.g., 5,000 miles).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Around 60,000 miles, using specific NGK spark plugs.
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-3 years or 30,000 miles.
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 2 years, regardless of mileage.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil:
BMW High Performance Synthetic SAE 0W-30 or 0W-40 (e.g., Castrol EDGE Professional OE BMW Longlife-01 or equivalent).
Coolant:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant with corrosion inhibitors, mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 High Performance brake fluid.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
Pentosin MTF LT-2 or equivalent synthetic manual transmission fluid.
Transmission Fluid Smg:
Pentosin CHF 11S hydraulic fluid.
Differential Fluid:
BMW Hypoid Gear Oil G2 (SAE 75W-90) or equivalent GL-5 synthetic gear oil.
Known Issues
Rod Bearings:
Increased risk of bearing wear due to design, requiring proactive replacement or inspection, especially in high-mileage or hard-driven examples.
Vanos System:
Potential failure of the VANOS (Variable Valve Timing) solenoid seals or pump can lead to rough idle, power loss, and engine codes.
S54 Oil Slurry:
Risk of oil sludge buildup in the oil pump pickup tube if oil changes are neglected or if the engine is consistently driven hard without proper warm-up.
Subframe Mounts:
Cracking of the rear subframe mounting points due to stress, requiring reinforcement or repair.
Cooling System Components:
Water pump impeller can disintegrate, and plastic coolant expansion tanks can become brittle and crack over time.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Bmw M Division:
BMW M GmbH has a storied history of producing high-performance versions of BMW production cars, dating back to the iconic M1.
Model Evolution
E46 M3 Generation:
The E46 M3, produced from 2000 to 2006, succeeded the E36 M3 and was renowned for its sophisticated chassis and potent S54 engine.
Production
Production Years E46 M3:
2000-2006
Production Variants:
Coupe, Convertible, and special editions like the M3 CSL (Coupe Sport Lightweight).
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Car And Driver 10Best:
Car and Driver 10Best list for 2001, 2002, 2003, and 2004.
Motortrend Performance Car Of The Year:
Runner-up for MotorTrend's Performance Car of the Year.
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