I just got a 2003 M3 with the SMG transmission. This is after having an E36 5speed M3 for 6 years. I'm loving the new ride. Still getting used to the SMG.

What is the best way to launch the car with the SMG?

An article in Canidian Driver discribes one technique:

"Further, if the driver chooses the highest DriveLogic setting and turns off the DSC (Dynamic Stability Control), the SMG shift times "match the sporting performance of a true race car," reports BMW. In this situation, the driver can make use of what's called the "acceleration assistant". By pushing the gear lever forwards and keeping it in that position while stopped, and then pressing the gas pedal to the floor, the engine will rev to the "optimum" starting speed. The driver releases the gear lever, and the M3 accelerates "with optimally controlled slip". BMW says this function is unique to the M3."

I don't see this in the owners manual and have not tried it yet. Has anyone used this technique? Any other method for getting a fast launch? Is it best just to floor it in first? I see some 13.0 1/4 times for stock M3s with the SMG listed in DragTimes, so I know you can get a good launch with this transmission.

hold the gear stick in down gear, and accelerate, when u wanna launch let go of the stick :)

http://forums.bimmerforums.com/forum/searchbt.php?search=launch+control&order=1&user=&scope=4&cat=1&frm=68

Everything you want to know about SMG and launch control.

I was talking to my bud whose friend owns an SMG E46 M3, and he was told that if he uses the launch feature more than 5 times, that it would void the warranty on the transmission. True or not?

I was talking to my bud whose friend owns an SMG E46 M3, and he was told that if he uses the launch feature more than 5 times, that it would void the warranty on the transmission. True or not?
Not

Not
Glad to hear!