Is the E46 M3 manual?

The car looks absolutely stunning took, considering its a 2003 model but the biggest plus is found inside the cabin: this is a manual model! It may not seem like a big deal to some, but most of the BMW E46 M3 models sold back in the day were fitted with an automatic gearbox, the SMG unit to be more precise.

What is BMW M3 SMG transmission?

SMG stands for Sequential Manual Gearbox. It’s actually the same manual gearbox that is found in the cars with a clutch pedal, but instead of having the clutch foot operated, it has the clutch electro-hydaulically operated via a pump and wired to computers.

Is there a manual M3?

A manual transmission comes standard for the performance-obsessed, while the standard 8-speed M Sport Transmission in the M3 Competition models offers instantaneous and precise shifts.

What’s the difference between a SMG and a manual m3?

I began researching and already knew that people had been converting standard M3s from SMG to Manual. The engineering is undeniably clever – the base gearbox is the same. The difference is that the SMG has an ECU and hydraulic pump to move the gear selector, whereas the manual has a clutch and gear lever.

When did the BMW M3 SMG II come out?

BMW M introduced the Sequential Manual Gearbox II (SMG II) as an option for the left-hand drive European-spec E46 M3s in March of 2001, with right-hand drive models following in June and North American-market production commencing in September. SMG II then remained an option until the end of E46 M3 production.

Can a SMG be removed from an E46 M3?

The SMG computer is removed and all SMG components are unplugged. The clutch switch and brake switch must be installed and wired appropriately to retain the function of a true manual transmission E46 M3.

How to convert BMW M3 CSL from SMG to manual?

The first step is to make some space under the car. We removed the undertrays, exhaust, propshaft and heatshield from the transmission tunnel. We then removed the original transmission and put it onto the bench next to the donor. Removing both bellhousings gave us the opportunity to inspect the gears and have a look at what else was different.