BMW M3 2007-2013 Drivetrain Specifications
BMW M3 2007-2013

BMW M3 2007-2013 Drivetrain Specifications

Detailed technical specifications and documentation for the drivetrain system of the 2007-2013 BMW M3, including engine, transmission, differential, and drivetrain components. Ideal for technicians, enthusiasts, and repair professionals.

Updated

Overview Specifications

Comprehensive description of the drivetrain specifications for the 2007-2013 BMW M3, including key features, measurements, and technical details

How to Use

Use the search function to locate specific drivetrain components or specifications by entering keywords such as 'transmission', 'differential', or 'driveshaft'.

Navigate through the drivetrain documentation by selecting the relevant section from the table of contents or using the sidebar menu for quick access to subsections.

Key Specifications

Engine Displacement

4.0L

Power Output

414 hp (309 kW)

Torque

295 lb-ft (400 Nm)

0-60 mph (DCT)

4.5 seconds

Final Drive Ratio (Manual)

3.85:1

Available Specifications

Engine and Transmission

Details about the engine and transmission system, including power delivery and gear ratios

S65 V8 Engine
  • 4.0L naturally aspirated V8 engine
  • Power output: 414 hp (309 kW) at 8,300 rpm
  • Torque: 295 lb-ft (400 Nm) at 3,900 rpm
  • Redline: 8,400 rpm
6-Speed Manual Transmission
  • Standard 6-speed manual gearbox
  • Gear ratios: 1st (4.055), 2nd (2.396), 3rd (1.582), 4th (1.192), 5th (1.000), 6th (0.872)
  • Final drive ratio: 3.85:1
  • Dual-mass flywheel for smoother engagement

Note: The manual transmission is known for its precise shifting and driver engagement.

7-Speed Dual-Clutch Transmission (DCT)
  • Optional 7-speed DCT with paddle shifters
  • Gear ratios: 1st (4.780), 2nd (2.933), 3rd (2.153), 4th (1.678), 5th (1.390), 6th (1.200), 7th (1.000)
  • Final drive ratio: 3.15:1
  • Shift times as low as 80 milliseconds

Differential and Driveshaft

Information about the differential and driveshaft components, including performance features

Limited-Slip Differential
  • Electronically controlled M Differential Lock
  • Locking range: 0-100%
  • Optimized for traction and stability
  • Integrated with Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)
Driveshaft
  • Carbon fiber reinforced driveshaft
  • Reduces rotational mass and improves response
  • Length: 1,200 mm (47.2 in)
  • Designed for high torque loads

Note: The carbon fiber driveshaft is a lightweight and durable component, enhancing performance.

Axles and Suspension

Details about the axle and suspension system, including geometry and components

Front Axle
  • Double-wishbone front suspension
  • Track width: 1,578 mm (62.1 in)
  • Wheelbase: 2,761 mm (108.7 in)
  • Aluminum control arms for reduced weight
Rear Axle
  • Five-link rear suspension
  • Track width: 1,601 mm (63.0 in)
  • Wheelbase: 2,761 mm (108.7 in)
  • Aluminum subframe for improved rigidity

Performance and Tuning

Performance enhancements and tuning options for the drivetrain

Launch Control
  • Available with 7-speed DCT
  • Optimized for maximum acceleration
  • Engages at 5,000 rpm
  • 0-60 mph in 4.5 seconds
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)
  • Integrated with M Differential Lock
  • Three modes: On, MDM (M Dynamic Mode), Off
  • Enhances traction and stability
  • Adjustable throttle response

Component Specifications

Engine

Type
S65B40 V8
Displacement
3999 cc
Compression Ratio
12.0:1
Max Power
414 hp @ 8300 rpm
Max Torque
295 lb-ft @ 3900 rpm
Redline
8400 rpm
Oil Capacity
8.8 liters
Oil Type
BMW TwinPower Turbo LL-01 5W-30

Transmission

Type
6-speed manual (standard), 7-speed dual-clutch automatic (optional)
Gear Ratios
1st: 4.055:1
2nd: 2.396:1
3rd: 1.582:1
4th: 1.192:1
5th: 1.000:1
6th: 0.872:1
Reverse: 3.678:1
Final Drive Ratio
3.154:1
Fluid Capacity
1.8 liters (manual), 7.5 liters (automatic)
Fluid Type
BMW MTF-LT-2 (manual), BMW DCTF-1 (automatic)

Differential

Type
Limited-slip differential (M Differential Lock)
Ratio
3.154:1
Oil Capacity
1.2 liters
Oil Type
BMW SAF-XJ + FM booster

Clutch

Type
Single dry plate (manual), Dual wet clutch (automatic)
Material
Sintered metal (manual), Carbon fiber reinforced (automatic)
Torque Capacity
295 lb-ft
Wear Limit
2 mm

Driveshaft

Type
Two-piece carbon fiber reinforced
Length
1.5 meters
Torque Capacity
295 lb-ft
Balance Tolerance
10 g-cm

Axles

Type
CV joint with tripod design
Torque Capacity
295 lb-ft
Oil Capacity
0.5 liters per side
Oil Type
BMW SAF-XJ + FM booster

Cooling System

Coolant Capacity
12.5 liters
Coolant Type
BMW Antifreeze and Corrosion Inhibitor
Radiator Type
Aluminum cross-flow
Thermostat Opening Temperature
88°C
Fan Type
Electric with variable speed control

Lubrication System

Oil Pump Type
Variable displacement
Oil Pressure
4.5 bar at 6000 rpm
Oil Filter Part Number
11 42 7 566 327
Oil Change interval
10,000 miles or 12 months

Exhaust System

Type
Stainless steel with dual exhaust
Catalytic Converter Type
Two-stage with lambda control
Exhaust Diameter
70 mm
Backpressure
0.3 bar at 6000 rpm

Diagnostics

Obd2 Port Location
Under dashboard, driver's side
Fault Code Readout
BMW-specific codes via ISTA/D
Common Fault Codes
  • 2A82: VANOS intake solenoid valve
  • 2A87: VANOS exhaust solenoid valve
  • 2A99: Throttle valve actuator
Diagnostic Tool
BMW ISTA/D or compatible OBD2 scanner

Service Information Service

Detailed service requirements and schedules for the 2007-2013 BMW M3 drivetrain

10,000 miles
12 months
  • Engine oil and filter change
  • Inspect drivetrain components for leaks
  • Check transmission and differential fluid levels

Use only BMW-approved fluids and filters

30,000 miles
36 months
  • Replace transmission fluid (manual)
  • Replace differential fluid
  • Inspect clutch wear (manual)
  • Check driveshaft and axle boots for damage

Dual-clutch transmission fluid change recommended at 60,000 miles

60,000 miles
72 months
  • Replace dual-clutch transmission fluid (if equipped)
  • Inspect and replace worn drivetrain mounts
  • Check and adjust drivetrain alignment

Perform VANOS system inspection and service if necessary

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about torque specifications

Q1

What type of transmission is used in the 2007-2013 BMW M3?

The 2007-2013 BMW M3 is equipped with either a 6-speed manual transmission (Getrag 420G) or an optional 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission (M DCT Drivelogic). The manual transmission features a direct and precise gearshift mechanism, while the M DCT offers lightning-fast gear changes and multiple driving modes.

Q2

What is the final drive ratio of the BMW M3's differential?

The final drive ratio for the 2007-2013 BMW M3 is 3.85:1 for models equipped with the 6-speed manual transmission and 3.15:1 for models with the 7-speed M DCT transmission. The limited-slip differential ensures optimal traction and power distribution to the rear wheels.

Q3

What is the torque capacity of the BMW M3's drivetrain?

The drivetrain of the 2007-2013 BMW M3 is designed to handle up to 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) of torque. This is sufficient for the S65 V8 engine, which produces 414 horsepower and 400 Nm of torque at 3,900 rpm.

Q4

How often should the differential fluid be replaced?

BMW recommends replacing the differential fluid every 60,000 miles or 100,000 kilometers under normal driving conditions. For high-performance or track use, more frequent intervals (e.g., every 30,000 miles) are advised to maintain optimal performance and longevity.

Q5

What type of oil is recommended for the manual transmission?

BMW specifies the use of MTF-LT-3 (Manual Transmission Fluid - Lifetime Technology) for the 6-speed manual transmission. This synthetic fluid is designed to provide smooth shifting and protect against wear under high-performance conditions.

Factory Service Resources

Access official service manuals, technical documents, and repair guides. These resources provide detailed procedures, specifications, and diagrams directly from the manufacturer.

BMW M3 Drivetrain Technical Manual

Coming Soon

Official technical documentation covering the drivetrain components, including transmission, differential, and driveshaft specifications.

M DCT Drivelogic Operation Guide

Coming Soon

A detailed guide on operating and maintaining the 7-speed dual-clutch transmission, including driving modes and service recommendations.

Differential Fluid Replacement Procedure

Coming Soon

Step-by-step instructions for replacing the differential fluid, including torque specifications and safety precautions.

BMW M3 Drivetrain Maintenance Schedule

Coming Soon

A comprehensive maintenance schedule for the drivetrain components, including fluid changes, inspections, and part replacements.

About the Author

Expert automotive knowledge and experience

Alan Montanye - Automotive Technical Specialist
ASE

Alan Montanye

Automotive Technical Specialist

ASE Master Certified Technician with over a decade of hands-on experience in automotive repair and diagnostics.

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