For all E46 M3 Owners!!

[lflaco]

M3 buddies!! Here is some really good info i found in refference to our E46 M3. Most of this stuff we already knew, but..... As most M3 owners always have questions, here are some tools you can take with you along the way. Also, I ordered a module that will allow you to close the windows with your key, just like when you open them with the key from a distance, and also when you use your high beam with Fog lights, this module will allow the fogs to stay on while you high beaming!!! In other words, GET OUT THE WAY!!!!!! Here are some things you don’t know about your M3, Please no comments from couch mechanics unless you know what you talking about!



1. Performance
1.1. Sport Mode/DSC
1.1.1. On the Competition Package M3 (code ZCP) the button on the steering wheel is "M Track Mode". It is a tuned down version of the DSC that allows higher tolerances before kicking in. It is a nice alternative to turning off the DSC which seems to kill engine power any time I take off from a light quickly
1.1.2. If you want to really enjoy your M, hold the DSC button down for greater than 5 seconds, and let her fly. There is no interference from the computer, so you can take off as quick as you want and accidentally burn some rubber at the same time. Have fun. Clarification: On ZCP cars, the only way you will ever COMPLETELY disable traction control is to hold the DSC button greater than 5 seconds. If you just tap it, it only partially disables the traction control (only applies brakes but no power loss). I believe this is another difference between ZCP and standard M's.
1.1.3. The gas pedal is normally mapped (fuel flow vs pedal travel) using the sport button, with kind of a logarithmic curve, so that the fuel applied for a given amount of pedal push is initially less (helps smoothness around town), but at the endpoint, is still able to reach full throttle, because the curve gets steeper as the pedal approaches the end of its travel (think of it like a quarter-pipe ramp). By contrast, with sport mode on, the mapping is more linear, so that half pedal travel gives you half throttle (and so on), but full throttle is still at full pedal travel (pedal to the floor), not, as you have suggested, halfway to the floor.
1.1.4. Hold DSC button in for more than 20 sec, DSC sign goes off and cannot be turned back on again unless car is restarted, car goes into service mode, can be dynoed up to redline and all electronic systems are off

1.2. Fun Facts
1.2.1. If you use higher octane fuel up to 96, it will advance your timing by 2 degrees or so I'm told.
1.2.2. At a certain higher RPM the ac compressor turns off if your running the ac to give more power to the car.
1.2.3. I didn't know that I could embarrass gas guzzling V8's off the line, and still get 25 mpg on the freeway!
1.2.4. Regardless of whether you have SMG or not, if you hold the gas down while on the highway, you can make flashing blue lights appear behind you!
1.2.5. Also something that I noticed on my 6speed manual, is that if you are driving fast or revving the engine and start downshifting the car protects 1st gear so you wont engage it by accident at hi rpm's. When RPMs and speed are low enough it allows you to shift down. This is because 1st gear doesn't have synchro's so you must rev-match the engine to engage 1st gear.

1.3. SMG Models
1.3.1.1. On SMG M3s, feathering your throttle when stopped can bring RPMs up to about 3k without engaging clutch. Then mash pedal to drop clutch. Not recommended but fun.
1.3.1.2. In SMG cars you can hold the left (downshift) paddle when on an incline and the car will hold steady so you dont roll back into the car behind you. When on a steep incline and stopped, you hold in the downshift paddle for a few seconds, and the revs will increase to about 1300 rpm. Then release it, and the revs will hold, until you let off the brake and give it a little gas.
1.3.1.3. On SMG m3s, aggressive driving will result in automatic throttle blips on down shifts...the same can be produced by hitting the throttle on downshift thus allowing the driver to determine the throttle blip rpm amount when down shifting.
1.3.1.4. With SMG in auto u can down shift by tapping the acceleration pedal. and I think it is also learning your driving.
1.3.1.5. Most handy item to note here (IMHO). In S mode on SMG, lights on tach will light up in an increased fashion when it is best to shift. This starts at about 7.5k and increases until redline. Best shift is in this range. I am still trying to figure out exactly when! Be careful, watch the road! The shift lights, while useful, are something of a novelty and I wouldn't get too accustomed to watching them when you're pushing deep into the rev band. They actually start at 4,500 rpm ... at 8,000 rpm you'll see red, which is not a good thing. The system won't allow you to blow your motor, but piston speeds north of 7,600 rpm or so are really in the extreme range, and you don't want to spend very much time there if you value your motor.
1.3.1.6. They originally put this into the owners manuals but later took it out, I dont blame them. This will allow you to rev up and hold the rev's until you drop the shift knob. It then dumps all power to the wheels. Sweet for racing. Computer only allows it to be done 7 times per clutch pack (if I’m not mistaken) for SMG trans only: increase your shift timing to the fastest setting (all bars) then turn off your traction control. Then increase shift timing one more time - this puts you in launch control. I take no responsibility for your inability to drive or control your car. this is no joke. if you dont know what your doing... then dont do it at all.
1.3.1.7. You can shift into gear if the hood is open, but the gear indicator will keep flashing. I found that out one day driving home...I later found out the hood wasn't completely closed.
1.3.1.8. If you shift the SMG gear from 1 to 0 or N with the car accelerating (or with the gas pressed), it will not disengage until you lift the gas.


2. Cold Weather/Starting
2.1. Not all Ms came equipped with the CSF (lucky for me mine did). The ones who got this and didnt want it, There is not a way to fully disable it. Here is what it does,
Cold Start Function: Turn your car on during a cold start enables the car not to start, disable this function by turning your key back in the off position and restart the car, car will start up.. Note if your car doesnt start up after the second time Something is wrong with your CSF
2.2. If you wait before taking off and listen closely, about 45 sec or so after starting the car, you will hear a slight buzzing sound (some sort of re-mapping going on, not sure). If you then proceed, the car will run smoothly when you first take off. So, this is what I do, always let idle 45sec or so till I hear that before taking off. If I don’t wait (I have an '05 coupe 6 spd.), my car will tend to "cough" and run rough, "buck" a little, coming out of the garage for a bit when the car is cold (i.e. with most or all of the temp lights illuminated overnight).
2.3. My rear window defroster automatically comes on at start-up when the outside temp is below 3˚C. The dash display also goes to outside temp, flashes and beeps any time (while driving) it's below 3˚C.
2.4. Spray nozzles are heated as well as mirrors. wiper nozzles, door locks, and mirrors are all heated. Door locks heat when the car is off...to prevent the locks from freezing so you can get in...may be based on OA temp
2.5. The rearview mirrors are heated. I think it's a standard feature for all cars (according to my window sticker).


3. Interior Lighting
3.1. The light pattern on the test gauge shows an E46 3-series sedan
3.2. Pathway or "Follow Me" lighting is engaged by turning off car, taking keys from ignition, and then pulling back on the high beam stalk. Headlights will stay on about a minute after.
3.3. The dome lights can be disabled by holding down the main dome light switch for about 10 seconds. Holding the switch for the same amount of time will enable it again.
3.4. The red lights are more of a "filler" light for driving, and I wouldn't consider them part of dome lighting. I don't know how to disable them. They can be dimmed, however, but all the other dash lights will be dimmed at the same time.
3.5. The dimming option for Ms with navigations can be set from the 'Settings' menu on your navigation screen.
3.6. The nice thing the M3 does is turn off the lights before the battery dies if you leave the car door open.
3.7. At night when you have your lights on, the numbers on the shifter light up. (if you have a manual)
3.8. The sensor next to the headlight switch is for detecting lighting condition for the instrument and navigation, if you put your finger on the sensor at daylight, you will see it dimmed. Or if you put a flashlight and shine it during nighttime, it will be come brighter.

4. Exterior Lighting
4.1. When parked keys out of the ignition, and lights off. Move the turn signal stock up or down and the parking lights on the corresponding side will illuminate. These are called standing lights as referenced in the manual and draw very little voltage. I know a few people that have left them on all night when parked on the side of the street.
4.2. After removing key from ignition if you flash your high beams your lights will stay on for about a minute.
4.3. If you are in an accident the hazard lights automatically come on.... My bro just went thru a bad 360 spin and a flip totaling his car
4.4. When using the "Automatic" mode for your headlights, you can override and get the lights to come on during the day by hitting the Fog Light button. This comes in handy if you want the lights on and don't want to switch to the "On" setting which could result in a battery test if you don't remember to turn it off.
4.5. Another feature you can have is Day time running lights activated at the dealer or deactivated if you want to.
4.6. The headlight washer will run once every 5 times when you wash your windshield with the headlight on.
4.7. How about the way that the washer fluid reservoir pulls up near the passenger side headlight so you can easily access the bulbs. This is helpful when replacing the bulbs otherwise it'd be one heck of a fit.

5. Locks/Alarms
5.1. Pressing the lock button once on the remote locks all doors and activate the alarm. Pressing it again a second time will deactivate the motion sensor inside the car while still keeping all doors locked and alarm on. The top red doom light will come on again. Useful if dog is left in the car while you need to make a quick run.
5.2. Roll down your windows, get out of the car and lock the car. Once the car alarm is armed, put you hand inside the car via the open window and the motion will trigger the alarm. It takes about 30-45 seconds for it to arm. It is not instantaneous. Also, if you don't want the interior sensor to arm, just hit the lock button twice when you lock the car and the alarm is armed sans sensor.
5.3. I had the stealer program BOTH doors to unlock/lock at the same time. I didn't like having to hit the button twice all the time to unlock the door for my girl.
5.4. If your parked with the engine off, and u have the key in the ignition - and the door open = There is a warning beeping. But if you take the key out and re-insert it -- the beeping stops. small detail - but I like it - especially when I'm cleaning the car and want tunes with the doors open.
5.5. For those with the factory alarm. You can arm the alarm with the passenger door, trunk and hood open as long as the Driver’s door is closed. So for example, if you have a lot of things to get out your trunk, and cant arm the car and hold your things that you have in the trunk and closing the trunk, you can pop the trunk, turn off your car, get out, close the driver door and arm the alarm and get your things out the trunk. Once you close the trunk the alarm will arm itself.
5.6. When you go to get valet parking, you should give the valet the plastic key that is inside your glove box, or inside where you keep your manuals and radio code. Never keep info about yourself in the glove box. Reason: if you give the valet the real key, he could dip the key in oil, make a copy, get your address from your registration/insurance papers in the glove box, and in a few days or less, someone will walk right up to your car in your drive way, unlock it, and drive off. The valet key still unlocks the doors, just not your glove box... and you can't drive off with a fake M3 key, There is still a chip in the plastic key for the ignition authorization. Also, you don't need a key to get inside an M3, just need one to start it. Hammer and screwdriver work just fine on the door, hence the Key Fob delete being so popular. Keeping this key in your car is a BAD idea, A member here had his car broken into and while the thief was looking for jewelry find the key and off he went to total it.
5.7. Just discovered something today while I was at lunch hitting a few golf balls. I didn't know that If you lock the glove box the only way that you can open the trunk is with the key. When the glove box is locked the release pad doesn't operate. Neither does the truck release next to the hood release. I just wanted to lock my wallet in the glove box because I was leaving the top down. I thought to myself " Oh great the trunk is broke how am I going to get my clubs out "
5.8. If you are adding gas and lock the doors to go pay, and then place gas nozzle away, you are not able to fully close gas door because doors are locked. I though mine was frozen because it was so cold out and turned out that I had my doors lock which included the small gas door.
5.9. Instead of having the function that unlocks the drivers door on the first press of the remote button and "unlock" the rest of the car upon the second press (called selective unlocking) you can have another function instead called "Entrance Aid". Which means if you hit unlock twice within 5 sec it will drop the drivers window all the way down as you open the door, then rolls it back up again when you've closed the door. This is especially useful if someone has parked too close to your drivers door as it makes being able to get into the car so much easier when the windows not there. This option is obviously for two door models only.
5.10. I found about a month after buying my car that the second push of the remote not only unlocks the passenger door but also enables the finger pressure sensor so you can open (unlatch) the trunk lid just by lifting at the sensor.

6. Interior Controls/Facts
6.1. You can scan to the next station by holding the preset up or down buttons on the steering wheel.
6.2. The a/c vents inside the dash move around every time you start the car to prevent it from getting stuck on one position. Rasp starts at around 4000 to 4500 rpm.
6.3. Your airbag light will come on and stay on if you unplug your seat connector for any reason. Even with the key out of the ignition. Love that feature.
6.4. On your glove box portable light socket you can insert a cable sold at the dealer to add an additional electrical outlet.
6.5. There's a rechargeable flashlight in the glove box
6.6. Press and hold "FM" or "AM" to initiate AUTOSTORE (FMA, AMA)
6.7. Different EQ settings are stored for each mode: Radio, CD, CD-Changer, AUX
6.8. There's space under your front seats for both a first aid kit and a fire extinguisher (BMW OEM)
6.9. After exiting the car with the keys in hand, you can press the radio power button and it will come on, auto shut-off after 20 min. That way if people are in the car while your in the store, they can still listen to the radio.
6.10. On stock radios that play MP3s, the disk change button changes the MP3 folders.
6.11. If you want to display your odometer reading without inserting the key, press the trip reset button and the display will illuminate for a few seconds.
6.12. If you turn the ignition to have the lights on. And hold the Sel button on the Computer for about 10 seconds then you can enter the service menu. From there you have about 5 things you can adjust. Not sure what all the options are but if someone else knows then maybe they can list. I was able to adjust the stereo volume (when the car drives) and also get the names of the radio stations to appear on screen (if they are broadcasted from the station).
6.13. Did you know that the "A w circle round it" on A/C Controls sets your system to "auto-detect". If the car detects an outside odor, the system automatically changes to internal recycle then back again. Wonder if it can be reprogrammed to detect internal odors? It is part of the Recirc system that detects odors, particulate mater and other environmental contaminants and switches to Recirc to protect you.
6.14. There is a place under your seat to store 8 track tapes.
6.15. Just noticed that I have 2 small speakers/tweeters behind the rear view mirror. The rain sensor is in the rear view mirror mount, facing the glass. I believe the vents he is referring to are on the light panel behind the mirror on the roof of the car, with the sunroof/home link controls. I believe those are either mics for the phone or temp sensors for the climate control (although I believe those are in the box behind the sunroof.
6.16. I found a coin holder about a year later while sitting in traffic. Your coin holder is also kind of "crushproof". If you leave it up, then decide to put the armrest down, and your arm on top of that, the coin holder will not break under the weight of your arm, because the coin holder is connected to a very flexible spring
6.17. Oh and apparently if you program your seats, mirrors, dash display and radio station to your favorite positions the key will remember it when you push the store memory button (1), if you give your second (spare key) to your wife or partner (you have to be brave or stupid!) and let them adjust the seat and everything else to how they like it and store in another memory position other then yours (2) again the key will remember it. Now if you were the last one to drive the car, everything is set for you position (1) and your wife unlocks the door the car will automatically adjust everything to position number 2 and visa versa when you unlock the car with the master key it all go's back to your memory position! Very cool stuff!
6.18. The audio tone controls can be set separately for each "mode"--FM, CD, Aux, Sirius. The treble and bass settings will be retained and the radio will "remember" your preferences for that particular mode.
6.19. If you have the Business radio, you can get program your PTY key into a MUTE key
6.20. There is a sun sensor in the middle of the air vent (for windshield) right below the windshield (a rectangular black block, you will see it from the outside of the car) and will run most of the air from the front air vent if the sun is shining.
6.21. The windshield wiper will not run again if you leave it at the on position when you turn off your car. You need to put it back to the off and then on again in order to turn it on again.
6.22. The handle that was on the side of the front seat can also used to stop the seat beat to go back to the pillar, so that you can access the seatbelt easier. But sometimes, the buckle keep hitting the handle and make some noise which is kind of annoying.
6.23. If you guys have the Aux input install, when you are in the AUX mode, you can use the Program keys (P1, P2, ... P6) to control the application volume from the input. That's for some MP3 player that has a lower wattage output from the line-out.
6.24. The back ash tray pops up and out if you slide the cover all the way down. This is where i place my wheel lock.

7. Navigation/Car Phone Interior Controls
7.1. For those of you who have Car phones - you can press & hold (until you hear a beep) the talk button on the steering wheel and just talk.. Or Alternatively, those with GPS Nav .. press the talk button and hold it till the beep and say: "MAP" ... the roadmap should then appear on your screen.
7.2. Another thing you should try, is changing the GPS language to German... its amazing how much hearing a German woman speak softly to you whilst guiding you is such a turn-on when you're driving in a German muscle car like the M3!
7.3. "MODE" button (on NAV) is actually a rocker switch. Press either side--pressing the middle can sometimes not work
7.4. Navigation commands can be spoken. For a complete list of commands check your BT/Phone manual.
7.5. Also in the MKIII Nav system with a 4:3 screen we actually have a tape deck behind our screen, so bust out all those old cassettes from the 80s to get that realistic "tape hiss".
7.6. For those with Nav. If you go to settings mode and hold down the menu button for a few seconds you get a bunch of technical options. I think you have to have ignition to on position.
7.7. Also, if you have OEM Sirius satellite radio and navigation, you can not access the tone controls unless the Sirius mode is showing on the display. (This is EXTREMELY annoying.) If the screen shows "On-board computer", "navigation", "settings", etc. while satellite radio is playing, you must switch to "Sirius" before you can change tone controls.
7.8. If you have factory fitted Nav / TV you can have a AV input into your video module for a DVD player or such like. This means you can view it on the front screen, but did you know that the video module also has additional options that aren't being used such as another output for a secondary screen (which I believe is white plug pins 11 & 2 for video output and 1 & 10 for audio output.) Reverse camera video input (which I believe is white plug pins 13 & 14) but this input needs to be triggered by grounding pin 17 on the blue plug (reverse gear input). I am currently working on fitting a switch at or next to the head light switch which will activate the reverse light trigger but am fitting a night vision camera to the front of the car instead like the system on the newer vehicles (it just wont have the functionality of the newer system.)
7.9. If you have Bluetooth fitted (option 644), voice control (SES) is laying dormant in the Bluetooth control unit! If you return the car to the dealer and beg a little they can go into coding, retro fit ULF and tell the car that Bluetooth has just been fitted and this activates the required software as long as they use coding version 44. You can also order a booklet from them giving you the extra voice commands that saying "Help" doesn't tell you. For instance you can say "map", "scale, kilometers" (to zoom in or out of the Sat Nav map),"parking" (this gives you a list of local parking lots), "petrol station" for a list of local petrol stations etc. Unfortunately it appears this will not work on '06 on vehicles as version 44 is not compatible with newer cars software level.
7.10. Navigation feature: The when coming up on a turn, the dashboard LCD between tach and speedometer begin to count down distance until turn.

8. Exterior Facts
8.1. Xenon headlights aim/calibrate every time you start the car, you can see it level up and down
8.2. You can flip the trunk liner to use the non-slip surface on top, instead of the carpet surface.
8.3. If you turn your trunk key hole horizontally it puts your car in Valet mode so you can’t open the trunk from inside the car.
8.4. For SMG cars, the pump pressurizing the hydraulic clutch makes a weird noise.
8.5. I was looking at my OEM Brake Calipers the other day. They have little ///M Logos on them.
8.6. There is a hook molded into the black plastic pull-handle at the rear of the trunk floor mat. It hooks on to the top lip of the trunk opening to hold the mat up and out of the way while you are getting your air pump out.
8.7. M3's have the same wheel lug bolt pattern as GM cars
8.8. In the trunk to the right, the plastic tray perfectly hold a box of golf balls. Stupid I know but it just fits right!
8.9. Was working under my car yesterday and noticed that "M3" is embossed on the front plastic skid plate. I think this is to let people know what you are driving when you are flying your car rather than driving.
8.10. E46 M3 bumper (not the bumper trim/plastic piece that is painted) is carbon fiber while other E46 3 series models are steel. A good deal of e46 M3 cars have an aluminum bumper instead of the carbon fiber. I think it depends on the production year. This is based on what a reputable local body shop showed me. It's Kevlar, not CF. still cool though
8.11. You need to change the cartridge of the M-Mobility kit every 3 years.
8.12. there's an M3 logo on the inside of the wheel well. The M3 logo on the inside of the fender is to differentiate it from the "regular" fender liner, so the factory doesn't install the wrong one.
8.13. The gas tank cover has an embossed E46 M3 on it.
8.14. The underside cover/venturi has an embossed M3 on it.



9. Mirrors – Lots of confusion on this one. I could use some help concentrating the point here.
9.1. When the car is in reverse you can set the passenger side mirror angled downward so you can see the curb - from then on, whenever you shift into reverse, the mirror will automatically adjust to that position. You can also change it back so it doesn't do it, but I forgot the exact step-by-step process.
9.2. Here it is, step-by-step: Slide the mirror switch to the passenger side position. Done. Now, when you put the car into reverse, the mirror will not tilt. The mirror switch in the driver's position causes the mirror to tilt when the car is in reverse. While the engine is running, put the car back into neutral. The mirror goes back to its original position. You can adjust it from this position; you cannot adjust the mirror settings while it's tilted.
9.2.1. I spent a huge amount of time on this 3 years ago researching the adjustable mirror thing to get it right. My understanding from the BMWNA tech's was that all E46 mirrors were powered, and that all mirrors dropped when in Reverse. It was only the adjustability of the mirrors that is tied to the Seat memory. I may have miss-understood them
10. 1. Connect the car to the DIS system.
2. Choose "1. Car Memory"
3. Choose "9. Seat/Mirror Memory"
4. Choose "2. Mirror Memory Automatic Kerb Parking Function"
5. Choose "1. Active" (It is set to "Inactive" by default)
6. Upload the new settings to the car.
7. Turn the ignition off and then back on.
8. Disconnect the car from the DIS system.
To position the mirror:
1. Push the mirror selector switch to the passenger side.
2. Put the car in reverse. (The mirror should tilt down)
3. Adjust the mirror position to what ever makes you happy.
4. Put the car back into N or 1. (The mirror should tilt back up)
That's it. Now when ever you back up the mirror will adjust to your custom settings, instead of all the way down. Please note that the mirror adjustment selector switch must be set to the passenger side for this to work. This is opposite of the way it works by default.
10.1. I have manual seats and my mirror does not tilt when in reverse regardless of where the switch is. I was told by the stealer that the reverse-tilt function is only available if you have power seats. Are they full of it? Can someone with manual seats confirm that this function works for them? I have several friends without power seats and each and every one of them has the tilt when in the drivers position. mayhaps there is an issue with your motor or electronics. Cowboy Bebop generally knows his stuff cold, but this last statement really left me puzzled. Might be worth some follow-up. Auto-tilt is something that is associated with the power seat/memory package, and I've yet to see a car with manual seats that has it.
10.2. Set 3rd position on your favorite driving position (probably your 1st posit.), then rotate both mirrors down and hit memory for position 3. Then, if you're backing up and want to see driver's side curb, or if some a**hole is blinding you from the back with his bright lights, just hit 3rd posit. and mirrors will rotate down. Then just hit 1st posit. to rotate them back up.

11. Windows
11.1. There is a sensor in the door windows and sunroof built into the weather-stripping that will pull it back open if something is in the way - ie arm (I have tested it too, it barely pinched my fingers)
11.2. After you shut off the car you can still roll up the windows as long as you dont open the door
11.3. You can hold the unlock button on the remote and it opens all the windows and sunroof. Plus if you turn the key in the driver's door it closes everything back. I think you have to press the unlock button twice and fairly hard, holding the button down on the 2nd push until the windows finish opening. For this to work remotely, both doors must be unlocked. The remote unlock also has to be a distinct step: (1) press unlock once for driver's door (and passenger's door if programmed ), (2) press unlock a second time to unlock passenger's door, (3) press and hold unlock to open windows and moon roof. The third step will not happen instantaneously. There may be a 3 to 7 second delay. If step 3 doesn't happen, stop pressing the unlock button, then press and hold unlock button again. Repeat step 3 until the windows begin to open. This feature works in all U.S. E46 models. It is not programmed by your dealer.
11.3.1. The range in which you can open all windows varies from day-to-day. Sometimes, I can open the windows from 75 feet away, other days I have to be standing right next to the car. If you put the metal part of your key on your chin, the range of the transmitter is increased and you should be able to use the buttons from farther away. (someone else said opening your mouth further increases range, but I haven't tried that). This works. I read a research article somewhere that claims that doing this reflects a portion of the transmitter's signal off the back part of your skull (concave dish shape) making the signal more directional. Call me paranoid but if its bouncing off the back of my skull that means I’m transmitting more of the signal through that grey mass between the key and the my skull. I don't do that trick anymore.
11.4. When you hold the lock button only the front windows and sunroof close, you have to do the back ones from the button inside the car. Back ones dont close because they havent got any safety device to stop trapping fingers.
11.5. Press the moon roof button a certain way - it opens either all the way or half-way
11.6. You can have your remote auto roll up your windows when locking. My indy shop programmed my car to allow me to roll up the windows via the key wirelessly. Pretty cool feature for those hot days.
11.7. You don't need to open the cover of the sunroof, just press the button, once the sunroof tilt, then the cover will automatically open a little bit for venting.

12. Brakes/Tires
12.1. The outer ring of the LED tail lights/brake lights comes on during heavy/emergency braking. Sweet.
12.2. The E46 M3 uses the same brake pads as the E36 M3
12.3. There is a hidden Brake cooling vent on the front inner part of your right front fender. Just pop it out and your front intakes will direct some air to your right front brake. Don’t do it for the driver's side, if you popped open, yes the air can now go to the brakes but then less air directing up into your intake filter. So only pop the passenger side vent
12.4. Did you know that all M-series come with stand tires rather than run-flat tires like ones on new 2006 models. Recently had a huge argument with a friend who just purchased 06' 330i w/ run-flat tires. I didn't understand why mine wouldn't have it or an option to get one from BMW? Found that even the 2007 M5 or M6 or any other M-series do not come with run-flat, because of the suspension setting that requires for heavy cornering, etc.. Run-flat equip. cars are config. its suspensions to run-flat setting rather than fully inflated tire pressure. Run flats are very heavy because of the extra material needed to create sidewalls stiff enough to support the car when uninflected. This is probably the largest reason for not using them, as unsprung weight makes a BIG difference in performance.... also the reason that most people's cars get slower when they go up a wheel size, unless they pay out the a$$ for some very light forged wheels. Additionally, I think the suspension setting issue has more to due with needing to run a softer suspension to dampen out the excessive bumps and roughness transferred by the run flats, which leads to body roll, and all kinds of other nasty consequences that drivers of performance cars find undesirable.
12.5. After changing tires (w/ SMG) u MUST reset SMG trans. go 40+ mph, put SMG in 0 and pull both pedals for 2-4 sec.

13. Other
13.1. If you drive a Coupe, try folding the rear seats down and open the sunroof all the way. Drive at precisely 40 MPH and get ready to experience the worst wind buffeting you have ever experienced in your life
13.2. I just found out on my own that the jack(what I thought it was) is actually a tire fix it, and free air to add to your tires. I just used the air so far.
13.3. If you push the BMW emblem on the steering wheel, it deploys the rockets. Seriously, it does.
13.4. The battery inside your key is charged by the ignition....so if you have a 2nd unused key, you may want to use it every so often to charge it up. Found out the key not only charges while in the ignition but the dealer can read all kinds of information from the key in a reader at their desk. Date in service and mileage and more.
13.5. There is a little plastic hook on a rubber strap underneath the trunk floor, which you can hook onto the upper ledge of the trunk opening to keep the floor propped up.
13.6. I checked my toolkit at the bottom of the trunk, and I'm missing a few tools. This is normal, as some of the tools are with the jack and the flat tire fix in the trunk. Some tools are not supposed to be included. In some countries, the toolkit does not come complete on purpose. Just like how we dont get the warning triangle or the first aid kit in the US. As stated, we don't get the lug wrench (we've got the ///M mobility kit instead), regular 3 series warning triangle, or regular 3 series tow hook, so the tool kit will look a bit empty. That's normal, and the same no matter which market your car was produced for. Of course, if you don't know about this in advance, it can be a bit perplexing when you take delivery of your car.
13.7. Computer testing
13.7.1. If you hold down the trip odometer reset button while turning on the ignition, the odometer will read: test 1
If you wait a second, it will then read: test 1.0
If you then press the reset button repeatedly, you can cycle through various readouts.
Does anyone know what these readouts mean?
If you don't wait, but push the reset button again so it reads: test 2
then wait a second until it reads : test 2.0
your instrument panel will go through a test routine, displaying light testing. Punch the reset button again to repeat the test.
13.7.2. There are indeed a full battery of test functions, ranging from showing your voltage draw to displaying your actual speed in km/hr. The problem is that these are not intended for use by other than trained service personnel, and there are several test functions which will cripple your car -- or worse -- if activated improperly. The moral of the story is that this is not a good place for experimentation, gents. Stick with what you know -- and avoid codes with which you are unfamiliar. Even delving into the menu involves an element of risk, so keep that in mind before you head out to the garage to play around with this.

[smoke4ndmears]

interested in the window control module...

[MauiM3Mania]

6.14. There is a place under your seat to store 8 track tapes.

[Faymester]

wow comprehensive! I want to try some of these tomorrow.

Good list.

[ljramsey]

Thank you for posting, I purchased my '02 M3 in June and am still learning the car.

[Everett#2390]

Yep, knew 80% of these. They are from the Owner's Manual.
Press the unlock button and hold on the third dpression, if 'Vert, windows roll down and so does the top.

How do you get the inside headlamps to come on besides pulling back on the combo stick?

[xtremsiege2]

Can't wait to try some of these in mine....wait..

[MauiM3Mania]

Can't wait to try some of these in mine....wait..

So sorry!

[ljramsey]

Press the unlock button and hold on the third dpression, if 'Vert, windows roll down and so does the top.

On my '02 M3 Vert, neither the windows nor the top will go down with key action. Any ideas? Is this indeed a dealer programmed option?

[jwnoodle]

What was the first model year for the current M3?
First US E46 M3 cars were 2/01 production 2001 models. The current M3 is the third generation of the M3 mark (E30 M3 1988-1991, E36 M3 1995-1999).



What does E46 mean?
E46 is the general model designation for the current generation of 3 series cars. Starting with 1999 production for 323i and 328i (sedans), 2000 production 323 and 328 models (coupe & sedan), 2001 on all 325, 330 and M3 models. E is for "Entwicklung" in German or development (maybe evolution) in English. Pervious 3 series cars were designated as E36, E30, etc.



Do all E46 M3 engines blow up?
No, they don't. There was apparently a bad production run centering on cars built during the period of 10/01 - 12/01 (all of these cars were sold as Model Year 2002 vehicles). BMW apparently changed some parts vendors and tolerances during this period and the result has been a failure rate in these particular cars of over 10%. Failure rates outside of this range (both before and after) is no higher than any other comparable car. BMW has ordered a service action to correct the problems in these cars by replacing rod bearing shells and oil pumps.



Did BMW extend the warranty on E46 M3's?
Yes, BMW has extended the warranty on all S54 engine equipped North American M3's and M Coupes/Roadsters to 6 years or 100,000 miles on internal mechanical engine components lubricated by engine oil (this warranty extension does not apply to any other parts of the vehicle). So far all 2001, 2002 and 2003 M3's are covered by this warranty.



Did BMW recall E46 M3's for engine failure related issues?
Technically no: BMW issues a "service action." To quote BMWNA, "The problem has been identified as contamination of the engine lubricating system during assembly in combination with unfavorable tolerances in the engine oil pump for the M3 coupe/convertible produced from October 2001 through February 2002. These cars require replacement of the engine oil pump and as a precautionary measure, replacement of the connecting rod bearings. In addition, the engine control module will be programmed with the latest software, which includes improved cold start characteristics. We ask that you contact your authorized BMW center to arrange a service appointment to have this service action carried out. Your vehicle can still be driven with no immediate need to have the repairs carried out. The service action will take approximately one days work, however, the actual time will vary with center scheduling. BMW of North America, LLC, will cover all necessary repair costs related to this action as well as providing you with alternate transportation if necessary. After the service action is performed on your M car, a 1,200 mile break-in period must be observed. Do not exceed 5,500 engine rpm or 105 mph road speed during this period. Please observe your local & state maximum speed limits. " - This "service action" is being done by VIN number and generally effects 2002 M3's manufactured between October of 2001 and February 2002.



Is SMGII the same thing as a manually shifted automatic?
No, its not even close. While SMGII does have an Auto mode (actually 5 of them) its still not an automatic transmission in the traditional sense. SMGII is a "sequential manual gearbox" or in English: its a manual transmission with a computer actuated clutch. The only real difference between a standard manual M3 gear box and an SMGII gear box is how the clutch is engaged. In a traditional manual the driver controls the clutch by depressing the pedal. In an SMGII car the clutch is controlled by a computer (Drive Logic) which disengages and engages the clutch automatically during gear changes. The speed with which the shift is completed via SMGII is controlled by a series of settings (1-6) and by driver input (e.g. throttle input or brake application). An SMGII car can be driven in Auto mode but its really not the world's greatest automatic. Since SMGII is a manual transmission with an automatic clutch it does not have a fluid filled torque converter to smooth out the shifts (and rob power and slow down shifts) - SMGII auto shifts can be somewhat unpredictable and abrupt. Also, SMGII will not automatically up-shift if you red line the car. You cannot "stack" shifts by multiple presses of the lever. SMGII will not let you downshift if the downshift would rev the motor above the red line. The biggest advantage of SMGII (in my humble opinion) is rev matching during downshifting. SMGII can arguably rev match downshifts as well as or better than world class drivers. From personal experience I don't think it offers any advantage over a stick during upshifts.



What does "Sport" mode do?
This is probably the most misunderstood button in an M3. Depressing "Sport" button does not add any horsepower, increase torque or do anything else to boost the car's performance. Since the throttle pedal in an M3 is not physically connected to the throttle bodies via a cable like traditional designs, the amount of fuel the car actually gets is controlled via software and not directly by your foot. The software simply reads the position of the throttle pedal and then translates that into how much to open the actual throttle (actually its a lot more complicated then that but you really don't need the dirty details). The software can be altered to provide more or less fuel per given pedal position. When in Sport mode, the computer simply gives more throttle input per % of pedal input than in standard mode. Other wise, if hypothetically the software give 50% of possible throttle at 50% of the throttle pedal, in Sport mode the same pedal input may give you 70%, etc (these numbers are just examples). Wide open throttle is exactly the same in Sport and Standard modes. The car is not any faster, it just feels that way because it takes less pedal input to pump more fuel into the engine. Also, unlike the M5, M3's Sport mode does not alter steering boost - it only remaps the throttle pedal position sensor.



Is this the first time BMW has offered SMG type transmission in a production car?
No, SMG was available in E36 M3's in Europe. The SMG transmission in the current M3 is the second generation of the system, thus SMGII. Other manufacturers have also started to make "SMG" style gearboxes available. Many claim that SMG will be the new de facto manual gearbox in the future completely replacing traditional manual clutch systems (this is rather unfortunate).



How much weight does SMGII add?
SMGII adds about 18 pounds total over the standard stick.



Is the CSL coming to North America?
No. Why? Because if you believe BMWNA, etc. it would cost too much to crash and emissions certify such a low production car.



Can I get CSL parts for my car
No. Why? Because BMW requires you to provide a VIN number for any CSL part purchase - no CSL VIN - no CSL part



How do I figure out the build date of my M3?
The build date is on a sticker on the passenger side door sill (right under the latch for the door lock).



What are stock tire sizes?
Stock 18" tires are 225/45/18 Front and 255/40/18 Rear and 225/40/19 Front and 255/35/19 Rear with optional 19" wheels.



Can I upsize stock tire widths to 245 & 275 on OEM wheels?
Yes, the correct upsize is 245/40/18 front and 275/35/18 rear for 18" wheels and 245/35/19 front and 275/30/19 rear for 19" wheels. Many have done this on both stock and lowered cars without any rubbing issues.



What is the stock offset for OEM wheels?
For OEM 18's the offset is 47mm Front & 26mm Rear, for OEM 19's the offset is 41mm Front & 27 Rear



What sizes are OEM wheels?
OEM 18" wheels are 18X8" Front and 18X9" Rear, optional 19" OEM wheels are 19X8" Front and 19X9.5"



Are OEM wheels cast or forged?
OEM 18" wheels are cast, OEM 19" wheels are forged.



How much do OEM wheels weigh?
OEM 18" wheels weigh approximately 24 lbs for the fronts, 26 lbs for the rear - 19" OEM's weigh roughly the same as the 18" (within .5 lb).



What are the factory alignment specs?
Front (specified ranges): Camber -1° 20' to -0° 40', Caster 6° 55' to 7° 55', Toe 1mm to 2.4mm, Turning Angle Difference -2.03° to -1.03°
Front (specified ranges): Cross Camber -0° 30' to 0° 30', Cross Caster -0° 30' to 0° 30', Total Toe 1.9mm to 4.9mm
Rear (specified ranges): Camber -2° 00' to -1° 30', Toe 1.7mm to 3.0mm
Rear (specified ranges): Total Toe 3.4mm to 5.9mm, Thrust Angle -0.07° to 0.07°




How much do OEM seats weigh?
OEM manual leather seats weigh 58 pounds per, power seats weigh 62 pounds each (cloth about 2 lbs lighter).



How much weight does the sunroof add?
The sunroof adds about 40 pounds



How much headroom does the sunroof take away?
The sunroof eats up between 3/4" to 1" of headroom



What is the correct torque for lug nuts?
The correct torque is 88 ft. lb.



Will European Spec OEM drilled rotors fit a US spec car?
Yes, they are a direct replacement item.



Is the M3 OK for winter driving?
With proper snow tires the M3 will get you through most winter driving with ease. With stock Conti or Michelins, you may want to secure a burial spot before heading out. With correct tires, the M3 is no worse than any other 2 wheel drive car in the snow.



How fast is an M3?
Magazine reviews have shown the M3 to do 0-60 in 4.6 seconds and 13 flat in the 1/4 mile (individuals have run sub 13 second 1/4 miles with stock cars). Factory sets a top speed governor at 155 mph, with the governor removed the car will pull speeds just south of 180 mph.



How does the M3's tire pressure monitor work?
The tire pressure monitor does not directly monitor actual tire pressure, rather it uses ABS sensors to monitor rotation speed of each tire. As a tire deflates it becomes smaller in circumference. The tire pressure monitor senses this change and alerts the driver.



What's the best way to make my M3 faster?
Complicated question that is.. A car is really only as fast as its driver. The best way to get more speed, handling, etc out of your car is too improve what typically is the weakest link - the driver! Go to a driving school, do some track time or an autocross, race, etc. Realistically, its very hard to safely push the limits of this car on the street. Learning how to handle the car, how to brake and how to gauge the road will get you going faster than any alleged +10 hp mod a $1000 will buy.



What engine oil does the M3 use?
Fully synthetic Castrol TWS Motorsport 10W-60 Synthetic, and Castrol Formula RS 10W-60 Synthetic Oils. This is not readily available at your local WalMart. At this time its only available via BMW dealers and a few on-line retailers.



Does using premium gasoline make a difference?
Absolutely. The M3's computer is adaptive and will advance or retard ignition and make other adjustments depending on your fuel. The higher the octane the better (e.g. more power). Having bought a $50K+ car, this is really not the place to skimp.



Will the stock head unit or factory changer play CDR's and/or MP3's?
The stock head unit (same for HK and non-HK cars) will play CDR but will not play MP3's. The factory changer (actaully Alpine) will also play CDR but not MP3. To play MP3 you have to either upgrade your changer or your head unit or both. Here's what you need to do.



What is the "sticky throttle pedal" syndrome?
Some (well, likely most) M3's have an issue with a "sticky" throttle pedal. Most are severe enough to easily notice while driving and tend to get worse when its warm in the foot well area. A simple test is to take off your right shoe and slowly depress the throttle. If you feel it moving down in steps or notchy jumps you're a winner of a free replacement pedal. While this will not damage your car it makes it much harder to drive, especially in sport mode. Dealer will replace the pedal free of charge and BMWNA has issue a tech service bulletin (TSB) for this. Make sure that the dealer replaces your pedal with the correct version as manual and SMG cars have different pedal assemblies.



Why does my passenger side mirror tilt (or not tilt) when I put the car in reverse?
The passenger side can be set to tilt if so desired to assist when backing up. Its up to the driver to choose if this function will be enabled or not. If the mirror selector switch (the switch used to select which mirror you adjust) is set to the left than the passenger side mirror will tilt when you put the car in reverse. If you slide the switch to the right, the mirror will not tilt when in reverse.



Does the M3 come with a spare tire?
Nope, but you do get the "M Mobility" kit (a really expensive seal-a-flat can), and more importantly, an 800 number for free road side assistance.



What is the M-Mobility Kit?
M-Mobility kit is a can of seal-a-flat and pump you get in place of the spare tire. Should you use it if you have a flat? Well, if there is a serious puncture (over about a 1/16") it wont do you much good. If there is a small enough puncture for the kit to work then its probably best to just try to inflate the tire (multiple times if necessary) without using the seal-a-flat goo and get to a tire shop for a repair. If you use the goo, you will likely have to discard the tire and the rim will have to be scrubbed clean before a new tire is mounted or you will have balancing problems. Best option? Call roadside assistance!



I thought the HK stereo upgrade had 12 speakers - I can only find 10 - what gives?
You've been screwed! Actually there are 2 speakers under the lower grill on each door which accounts for the 2 you're "missing"



Who is Chris Bangle?
Chris Bangle, in short, is the devil incarnate - this is the ham fisted prick who is responsible for such atrocities as the E65/66 7 Series, the Z4 and the E60 5 series. This simple minded prick has managed to do more damage in the last few years of "flame surfacing" and "forward thinking" design to destroy the gorgeous, sophisticated and classic lines BMW has always been known for that any head on impact into a brick wall in automotive history. Ridiculed widely by both BMW owners and the Automotive press, this asshole's response is only to say that we just don't get the factor of his brilliance and that his garbage will grow on us. This is not my first M3, but from having seen the preview images of the E90 3 series I have a bad feeling it will be the last one. Also, contrary to common belief, Banglefuck did not design the E46 3 series or the E46 M3 - he over saw some of the design work but did not design the car or have the final say. His first real design is the putrid, bloated wart hog E65.
There is a "Stop Chris Bangle" petition that now has over 5000 signatures - Take a moment and add your name and help get rid of this prick http://www.petitiononline.com/STOPCB/petition.html.

http://m3.madrussian.net/faq.shtml

[04powerm3]

Whats feathering the throttle?

[jwnoodle]

lightly pressing on the accelerator "or gas pedal" to rev the motor to around 3,000 revs per min.

[R2Rauto]

bumppppppppppp good info for ppl

[e46wolfe]

Could someone tell me if I can have all lights work at the same time?? Right
Now all I have is the 2 outside lites and I think it would be nice to have all 4 on at same time...
Can I do this??

[poordna]

Looks like I am necrobumping here, but what can ya do...

On my '02 M3 Vert, neither the windows nor the top will go down with key action. Any ideas? Is this indeed a dealer programmed option?

Previous owner of my car mentioned this function, tried to show it off on the test drive and it didn't work. (And said that I could pay stealership or buy a cable to "program it in...")

Anybody know?

[JeffyD]

I thought those M3s didn't get auto functionality for their windows, and probably top, until '03 or '04 MY.