Tuning the E46 M3

[DrK]

Can the E46 M3 be tuned? If yes, how is this done? Via reflash or piggy-back? Would it make some difference to the performance?

Ride is stock and purchased 2nd hand. Didn't feel like the gear shift is especially smooth so I'm thinking of a re-tune. Not sure if anything was done to it too. Haiz. But engine bay looks bone-stock.

Appreciate all advices and comments related to the topic. Thanks.

 

[Mockngbrd]

Re: Tuning the E46 M3

SMG i reckon? maybe u can try change ur gearbox fluids for a start

 

[DrK]

Re: Tuning the E46 M3

Yes. SMG. The gear box pump and fluid have been changed by the previous owner, less than 10,000km ago.

Is re-tune useful or necessary for E46 M3?

 

[racingminds]

Re: Tuning the E46 M3

The e46 m3 can be tuned thru alpha-n or a flash like the Evolve, which has received many positive comments/reviews in the states and UK. I dunno to wot extent is yer gearbox not shifting well but the smg doesn't shift as smooth/fast as DSG gearboxes, even if it was totally new. 1 clutch Vs 2 clutches, technology moves with time. The engagement is by nature more raw n jerky compared to DSG.

When u say a retune, u r referring to a retune of the SMG gearbox or retune of the engine itself?

 

[DrK]

Re: Tuning the E46 M3

The e46 m3 can be tuned thru alpha-n or a flash like the Evolve, which has received many positive comments/reviews in the states and UK. I dunno to wot extent is yer gearbox not shifting well but the smg doesn't shift as smooth/fast as DSG gearboxes, even if it was totally new. 1 clutch Vs 2 clutches, technology moves with time. The engagement is by nature more raw n jerky compared to DSG.

When u say a retune, u r referring to a retune of the SMG gearbox or retune of the engine itself?

Yes, I think I meant the gear shift is not as fast/smooth as the newer beemers/audis that I had driven. Thanks. Feels abit raw like stock auto WRX or similar.

I was referring to a retune of the engine. But from my limited knowledge, isn't retuning comprises of both the engine to match the gear shift, hence both engine and gearbox?

I just want to clarify that I do not want to retune my car if nothing is wrong or require tuning. I like to keep it stock. Maybe a performance exhaust in the future is remote possibility.

 

[racingminds]

Re: Tuning the E46 M3

I dun think there's a need to retune your engine if the tune has not been touched before. It's more of maintainence, like all the oils, fuel filter, valve clearance adjustment, vanos, smg components, power steering hose, rear shock mounts, rear trailing arm bushings etc etc.

U wun find much info here to be honest. There's lots of info at M3 Forum - BMW M3 - E30, E36, E46 and E92 M3 - BMW forum

Nobody really 'tunes' the smg, some get a recalibration done on it.

 

[DrK]

Re: Tuning the E46 M3

I dun think there's a need to retune your engine if the tune has not been touched before. It's more of maintainence, like all the oils, fuel filter, valve clearance adjustment, vanos, smg components, power steering hose, rear shock mounts, rear trailing arm bushings etc etc.

U wun find much info here to be honest. There's lots of info at M3 Forum - BMW M3 - E30, E36, E46 and E92 M3 - BMW forum

Nobody really 'tunes' the smg, some get a recalibration done on it.

Ok. Thanks!

 

[AC Schnitzer]

Re: Tuning the E46 M3

Don't mean to gravedig.

ESS provides a SMG Tune.

E46 M3 SMG Transmission Software - ESS Tuning | BMW Tuning Parts | BMW Racing, Tuning, Aftermarket, Performance Parts | Engine Power Chips | Performance Upgrades Chip

However, even with the ESS software, it will not reduce that Jerky or raw feeling that you're refering to. 1st into 2nd at low revs will feel a bit lethargic on E46 M3. Perhaps I've driven on DCT for too long.

Generally in S5, I shift from 1st to 2nd no less than 3000rpm, preferably 3500rpm. The SMG "seems to" go from 1st to 2nd at a quicker pace.

I had once explored into the possibility of using CSL SMG software but this was inaccessible unless you own a CSL. This is noticeable through the Autoblip during downshifts without any throttle input from driver. Correct me if I'm wrong.

[ame=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_ljOANC8zlU&feature=related]YouTube - ‪BMWM3CSL TSUKUBA 1'01.708 INCAR‬‏[/ame].

To recalibrate the SMG alignment, Drive at 100kph ( If safe to do so), Shift into Neutral, Pull both Paddles (Up and downshift) at the same time and hold it for 10 seconds, let go both paddles at the same time, shift from N to D and drive normally.

Some claim the gear shifts are night and day on high mileage cars (100k km). On mine (46k km) I felt no difference. But worth a try.

As mentioned earlier, amongst other things, please check your SMG reservior oil level. My SMG feedpipe leaked and drained my entire SMG reservior dry.

The SMG feedpipe is very prone to failing and it does not seem to matter if it is a high or low mileage cars. Mine having failed at 46,000km ++ is an example.