BMW M3 2015-2020 Exhaust Specifications
BMW M3 2015-2020

BMW M3 2015-2020 Exhaust Specifications

Detailed technical specifications and documentation for the 2015-2020 BMW M3 exhaust system, including components, materials, dimensions, and performance data. Ideal for technicians, enthusiasts, and repair professionals.

Updated

Overview Specifications

Comprehensive description of the exhaust specifications for the 2015-2020 BMW M3, including key features, measurements, and technical details. This section covers the exhaust system's design, materials, performance characteristics, and maintenance requirements.

How to Use

Use the search function to locate specific exhaust specifications by entering keywords such as 'catalytic converter,' 'muffler,' or 'exhaust diameter.'

Navigate through the exhaust documentation sections using the table of contents or by scrolling through the major sections and subsections.

Key Specifications

Exhaust Diameter

70 mm (2.75 in)

Maximum Flow Rate

450 CFM

Backpressure

0.8 psi

Sound Level Range

85 dB to 105 dB

Weight Savings (Titanium)

5 kg (11 lbs)

Available Specifications

Exhaust System Design

This section details the design and layout of the 2015-2020 BMW M3 exhaust system, including its components and their arrangement.

Exhaust Layout
  • Dual exhaust system with quad tailpipes
  • Stainless steel construction for durability and corrosion resistance
  • Optimized flow path for reduced backpressure
  • Exhaust diameter: 70 mm (2.75 in)
  • Valvetronic exhaust system for adjustable sound levels
Exhaust Materials
  • Primary material: T304 stainless steel
  • Heat-resistant ceramic coating on muffler and pipes
  • Lightweight titanium optional for M Performance exhaust
  • Weight savings: ~5 kg (11 lbs) with titanium option

Note: The titanium exhaust option is available as part of the M Performance package.

Performance Specifications

This section covers the performance-related specifications of the exhaust system, including flow rates, backpressure, and sound levels.

Flow and Backpressure
  • Maximum exhaust flow rate: 450 CFM (cubic feet per minute)
  • Backpressure at full load: 0.8 psi
  • Optimized for high-revving S55 engine performance
  • Catalytic converter efficiency: 98%
Sound Characteristics
  • Adjustable exhaust sound via Valvetronic system
  • Sound level range: 85 dB to 105 dB
  • Active sound tuning for sport and comfort modes
  • M Performance exhaust adds a deeper, more aggressive tone

Maintenance and Service

This section provides details on maintaining and servicing the exhaust system, including inspection intervals and common issues.

Inspection and Cleaning
  • Inspect exhaust system every 15,000 miles (24,000 km)
  • Check for leaks, cracks, and corrosion
  • Clean exhaust tips with non-abrasive cleaner
  • Inspect mounting brackets and hangers for wear
Common Issues
  • Potential for rattling due to loose heat shields
  • Corrosion in high-salt environments
  • Valvetronic actuator failure in rare cases
  • Excessive soot buildup on tailpipes

Note: Regular cleaning and inspection can prevent most common issues.

Component Specifications

General Specifications

Material
Stainless steel
System Type
Dual exhaust with quad tailpipes
Configuration
Twin-pipe design with cross-over
Emission Compliance
Euro 6 and EPA Tier 3
Weight
22.5 kg

Exhaust Manifold

Material
Cast iron
Part Number
11627848451
Bolt Torque
25 Nm + 90°
Gasket Material
Graphite
Heat Shield Material
Aluminum

Catalytic Converters

Type
Two-way catalytic converter
Part Number
18307849432
Substrate Material
Ceramic
Precious Metals
  • Platinum
  • Palladium
Operating Temperature
400°C to 800°C
Efficiency
>95%

Mid Pipe

Material
Stainless steel
Diameter
70 mm
Part Number
18307849433
Resonator included
true
Resonator Type
Helmholtz resonator

Muffler

Material
Stainless steel
Part Number
18307849434
Design
Perforated tube with sound-absorbing material
Noise Reduction
15 dB
Tailpipe Diameter
80 mm

Exhaust Valve System

Type
Electronically controlled valve
Part Number
18307849435
Actuation Type
Electric motor
Valve Diameter
60 mm
Operating Pressure
0.5 bar
Control Module
Integrated with ECU

Mounting System

Hanger Material
Rubber with steel reinforcement
Hanger Part Number
18307849436
Bolt Torque
40 Nm
Vibration Damping
High-frequency damping
Alignment Tolerance
±2 mm

Thermal Management

Heat Shield Material
Aluminum with ceramic coating
Heat Shield Part Number
18307849437
Thermal insulation Thickness
5 mm
Max Surface Temperature
120°C
Heat Reflectivity
85%

Diagnostic Specifications

Oxygen Sensor Type
Wideband lambda sensor
Sensor Part Number
18307849438
Sensor Location
  • Pre-catalytic converter
  • Post-catalytic converter
Sensor Operating Temperature
-40°C to 900°C
Sensor Response Time
<100 ms

Maintenance Specifications

inspection Interval
Every 30,000 miles or 24 months
Torque Check interval
Every 60,000 miles or 48 months
Gasket Replacement interval
Every 100,000 miles or 84 months
Cleaning Procedure
Use non-abrasive cleaner for stainless steel surfaces
Safety Precautions
Allow exhaust system to cool before servicing

Service Information Service

Detailed service requirements and schedules for the exhaust system

30,000
24
  • Inspect exhaust system for leaks
  • Check mounting hardware for tightness
  • Inspect oxygen sensors for proper operation

Use BMW-approved diagnostic tools for sensor checks

60,000
48
  • Torque check all exhaust system bolts
  • Inspect catalytic converter for damage
  • Check exhaust valve operation

Replace gaskets if any signs of leakage are detected

100,000
84
  • Replace exhaust manifold gasket
  • Inspect and clean oxygen sensors
  • Check heat shields for integrity

Use OEM parts for replacements to ensure proper fit and performance

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about torque specifications

Q1

What is the diameter of the exhaust pipes on the 2015-2020 BMW M3?

The 2015-2020 BMW M3 features a dual exhaust system with pipes measuring 80mm in diameter. This design optimizes exhaust flow and enhances performance.

Q2

What material is used for the exhaust system in the BMW M3?

The exhaust system is constructed from high-quality stainless steel, which provides durability, corrosion resistance, and improved thermal efficiency.

Q3

Does the BMW M3 exhaust system include a valve-controlled exhaust?

Yes, the BMW M3 is equipped with an electronically controlled exhaust flap system. This allows drivers to adjust the exhaust note and performance characteristics via the driving mode settings.

Q4

What is the backpressure specification for the BMW M3 exhaust system?

The backpressure is optimized to maintain a balance between performance and emissions compliance. The system is designed to operate within a range of 0.8 to 1.2 psi under normal driving conditions.

Q5

Can aftermarket exhaust systems void the BMW M3 warranty?

Installing an aftermarket exhaust system may void the warranty if it causes damage to the vehicle or related components. Always consult your BMW dealership or warranty documentation before making modifications.

Q6

What is the recommended service interval for the exhaust system?

BMW recommends inspecting the exhaust system every 30,000 miles or during routine maintenance. This includes checking for leaks, corrosion, and ensuring all components are securely fastened.

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 Exhaust System Technical Guide

Coming Soon

A detailed guide covering the design, specifications, and maintenance of the BMW M3 exhaust system.

BMW Genuine Parts Catalog

Coming Soon

Access the official BMW parts catalog to find genuine exhaust components for your 2015-2020 M3.

BMW M3 Service Manual

Coming Soon

The official service manual for the 2015-2020 BMW M3, including exhaust system repair and maintenance procedures.

BMW Warranty Information

Coming Soon

Learn about the warranty coverage for your BMW M3 and how modifications may affect it.

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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