🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: BMW Model: M3 Generation: E46 Codes Chassis Code: E46 Engine Codes Covered: S54 👋 Introduction Market Position Vehicle Segment: High-performance sports coupe/sedan Target Audience: Enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, professional technicians Competitive Analysis Key Competitors Era: Porsche 911, Mercedes-Benz C-Class AMG, Audi S4 Key Features M Division Focus: Engineered for maximum performance and driving dynamics Manual Purpose: Empower owners and technicians with detailed repair and maintenance knowledge 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Model Years Covered: 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005 Regions Covered: Global (All Markets) Page Count Estimated Page Count: 1500+ Manual Type Manual Type: Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual Language Language: English Format Format: Digital Download (PDF) 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine Mechanical: Full overhaul and component-level repair Engine Management: DME, VANOS, ignition, fuel injection, emissions Transmission Manual: Clutch, gearbox, driveline, shifter Transmission Automatic: SMG (Sequential Manual Gearbox) operation and repair Brakes: Hydraulic system, ABS, DSC, calipers, rotors, lines Suspension: Front and rear struts, control arms, subframes, bushings Steering: Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods Electrical: Wiring diagrams, components, diagnostic procedures HVAC: Climate control, compressor, evaporator, heater core Body: Body panels, doors, windows, convertible top (if applicable) Interior: Trim, seats, airbags, dashboard components Procedures Included Preventive Maintenance: Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plugs, belts Troubleshooting: Diagnostic fault codes (DTCs), symptom-based diagnosis Repair Procedures: Step-by-step instructions for all major components Diagnostics: Electrical system diagnostics, sensor testing Rebuilds: Engine and transmission component rebuilds Adjustments: Valve adjustments, clutch adjustments Technical Depth Depth Of Information: Comprehensive, factory-level detail Diagnostic Coverage: Advanced diagnostics including component testing and wiring schematics Torque Specifications: Detailed torque values for all fasteners Special Tools: Identification and usage of BMW-specific special tools 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Type: PDF Searchability: Searchable text Printability: Printable pages Print Quality Image Resolution: High-resolution diagrams and illustrations Binding Type Binding: N/A (Digital Download) Paper Type Paper Quality: N/A (Digital Download) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Model: S54B32 Engine Type: Naturally aspirated, inline-6 cylinder Displacement: 3.2 liters (3246 cc) Bore X Stroke: 87 mm x 91 mm Compression Ratio: 11.5:1 Performance Horsepower Us Spec: 333 hp @ 7900 rpm Torque Us Spec: 262 lb-ft @ 4900 rpm Redline: 8000 rpm Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) Fuel Type: Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended) Throttle Body: Individual throttle bodies (ITBs) for each cylinder Engine Management Engine Control Unit: Bosch Motronic Variable Valve Timing: Double VANOS (Variable Valve Timing) 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type Standard: 6-speed Manual Transmission (Getrag 420G) Optional Transmission Type Optional: 6-speed Sequential Manual Gearbox (SMG II) Features Clutch Type: Hydraulically operated, single dry plate Drivetrain: Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) Differential: Limited-Slip Differential (LSD) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length Coupe: 177.4 inches (4506 mm) Length Convertible: 177.4 inches (4506 mm) Width: 70.1 inches (1780 mm) Height Coupe: 53.7 inches (1365 mm) Height Convertible: 53.6 inches (1362 mm) Wheelbase: 107.4 inches (2727 mm) Front Track: 58.3 inches (1481 mm) Rear Track: 58.5 inches (1486 mm) Weights Curb Weight Coupe: 3415 lbs (1549 kg) Curb Weight Convertible: 3748 lbs (1700 kg) Gross Vehicle Weight Rating: 4586 lbs (2080 kg) Wheel Bolt Pattern: 5x120 mm Wheel Size Standard: 18x8.0 front, 18x8.5 rear Tire Size Standard: 225/40R18 front, 255/35R18 rear 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Front Impact: 4-star (driver), 4-star (passenger) IIHS Front Offset: Good Active Features Traction Control: Automatic Stability Control (ASC) / Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) Anti Lock Brakes: Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) Brake Assist: Yes (Dynamic Brake Control) Passive Features Airbags: Frontal airbags, front side-impact airbags Seat Belts: 3-point inertia-reel with pre-tensioners and force limiters Rollover Protection: Pop-up roll bars (Convertible models) 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Head Unit Options: BMW Business CD, BMW Professional RDS CD, optional navigation system Speaker System: Harman Kardon audio system available on some models Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Standard Parking Assistance: Optional rear parking sensors Connectivity Bluetooth: Optional BMW Assist system Usb Aux: Not standard, aftermarket solutions available 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Every 15,000 miles or 12 months (or as indicated by vehicle's Condition Based Service system) Air Filter Replacement: Every 30,000 miles Cabin Filter Replacement: Every 15,000 miles or 12 months Spark Plug Replacement: Every 60,000 miles Coolant Flush: Every 30,000 miles or 24 months Fluid Specifications Engine Oil Type: BMW Longlife-01 (LL-01) Synthetic 0W-40 or 5W-40 Engine Oil Capacity: 6.9 US quarts (6.5 liters) with filter change Coolant Type: BMW Blue Coolant (G48 Ethylene Glycol) Transmission Fluid Manual: BMW MTF LT-2 or equivalent Transmission Fluid Automatic Smg: Pentosin CHF 11S (Hydraulic Fluid for SMG pump and actuator) Brake Fluid Type: DOT 4 High Performance Differential Fluid Type: BMW SAF-XJ or equivalent (75W-140 synthetic) Known Issues Rod Bearings: Wear/failure of rod bearings, especially at higher mileage or with aggressive driving Vanos System: Solenoid failures, rattling noise, loss of low-end torque Subframe Mounts: Cracking...