🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

3 Series

Chassis Code:

E21

Production Years Covered:

1975-1983

👋 Introduction

Target Audience:

Owners and mechanics of 1975-1983 BMW 3 Series (E21) vehicles seeking to perform maintenance, repairs, or diagnostics.

Manual Value Proposition:

Provides essential technical data and repair procedures, enabling cost savings on dealership servicing and empowering DIY repairs.

Completeness:

Described as the 'most complete' service manual for the E21 generation, covering a vast array of systems and procedures.

Ease Of Use:

Designed for easy understanding with step-by-step instructions suitable for any skill level.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Type:

Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

File Format:

PDF

Compatibility:

All Versions of Windows & Mac

Requirements:

Adobe PDF Reader

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Detailed coverage of engine block, cylinder head, crankshaft, camshaft, pistons, connecting rods, timing components, and lubrication system.

Engine Control System:

Diagnosis and repair of electronic fuel injection (EFI) and ignition systems, including sensors, actuators, and control modules.

Fuel System:

Comprehensive service specifications for fuel pumps, injectors, fuel lines, and fuel tank for both carbureted and fuel-injected models.

Emission Control:

Information on emission control systems, including catalytic converters, EGR valves, and related sensors and procedures.

Cooling System:

Radiator, water pump, thermostat, coolant hoses, and fan assembly service and troubleshooting.

Lubrication System:

Oil pump, oil filter, oil pan, and oil cooler maintenance and repair.

Ignition Starting Charging:

Spark plugs, ignition coils, distributor, starter motor, alternator, and battery system diagnostics and repair.

Automatic Transmission:

Service and overhaul procedures for the automatic transmission, including fluid changes, adjustments, and component replacement.

Manual Transmission:

Clutch operation, manual gearbox servicing, gear linkage adjustments, and repair procedures.

Drivetrain:

Transfer case (if applicable), drive shafts, universal joints, CV joints, differential service, and axle repair.

Suspension And Steering:

Front and rear suspension components (struts, control arms, bushings), steering rack, power steering system, and wheel alignment specifications.

Brakes:

Front and rear brake system service, including brake pads, rotors, calipers, wheel cylinders, brake lines, master cylinder, and parking brake.

Wheels And Tires:

Tire pressure specifications, wheel torque values, and tire rotation procedures.

Air Conditioning:

Refrigerant handling, component testing, and repair of the A/C system.

Electrical System:

Wiring diagrams, fuse box layout, lighting systems, power windows, central locking, and instrument cluster diagnostics.

Body And Interior:

Door mechanisms, seat adjustments, windshield wiper and washer systems, mirrors, instrument panel removal, and exterior/interior trim.

Safety Systems:

Seat belt operation and adjustment, and supplementary restraint system (SRS) component identification (though airbags were less common in early E21s).

Maintenance Procedures:

Routine maintenance tasks such as oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, and lubrication points.

Diagnostic Procedures:

Troubleshooting charts and step-by-step diagnostic guides for common problems across all major systems.

Repair Procedures:

Detailed, step-by-step instructions for the repair and replacement of all major vehicle components.

Adjustment Procedures:

Specific instructions for adjusting components like carburetor idle speed, ignition timing, clutch free play, and parking brake.

Torquing Specifications:

Precise torque values for critical fasteners in engine, drivetrain, suspension, and brake systems.

Wiring Diagrams:

Comprehensive and clearly labeled electrical wiring diagrams for all vehicle circuits.

Depth Of Coverage:

Advanced diagnostic and repair procedures suitable for both DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics.

Diagrams And Illustrations:

Includes numerous diagrams, exploded views, and illustrations to aid in understanding component identification and repair procedures.

Part Identification:

Comprehensive list of parts with part numbers for many components, aiding in procurement.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

Digital (PDF)

Searchability:

Likely searchable text content within the PDF for quick information retrieval.

Print Quality:

Printable pages for use in a garage environment.

Accessibility:

Easily accessible on multiple operating systems via Adobe Reader.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Families:

M10 and M20 inline-four and inline-six engines.

Common Engine Displacements:

1.8L (M10), 2.0L (M10), 2.3L (M20), 2.7L (M20).

Typical Horsepower Range:

80 hp (1.8L) to 143 hp (2.3L).

Fuel Delivery Types:

Carburetion (e.g., Zenith, Solex) and Bosch L-Jetronic electronic fuel injection.

🔧 Transmission

Manual Transmission Options:

4-speed and 5-speed manual transmissions (e.g., Getrag).

Automatic Transmission Options:

3-speed automatic transmission (e.g., ZF).

Clutch Type:

Single dry plate diaphragm spring clutch.

📐 Dimensions

Body Styles:

2-door sedan, 4-door sedan.

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2570 mm (101.2 in).

Front Track:

Approx. 1390 mm (54.7 in).

Rear Track:

Approx. 1390 mm (54.7 in).

🛡️ Safety Features

Historical Safety Standards:

Reflects safety standards of its era; lacks modern active safety features like ABS or multiple airbags.

Active Safety Features Covered:

Brake system diagnostics and repair, steering system functionality.

Passive Safety Features Covered:

Seat belt mechanisms, structural integrity analysis (implied through body repair sections).

💡 Technology Features

Original Infotainment Features:

Basic AM/FM radio, cassette player optional. Emphasis on driver experience over integrated tech.

Driver Assistance Features:

Limited; primarily focused on power steering (if equipped) and a well-designed chassis for handling.

Connectivity Features:

None in the modern sense; basic electrical systems for lighting, ignition, and accessories.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 7,500-10,000 miles or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used (refer to manual for specifics).

Tune Up Interval:

Spark plug replacement and ignition system checks recommended at intervals dictated by mileage or time (e.g., 20,000-30,000 miles).

Engine Oil Type:

Multi-viscosity oils like 10W-40 or 20W-50 were common, with specific API service classifications noted in the manual.

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol based antifreeze mixed with distilled water. Manual specifies correct mixture ratios.

Transmission Fluid Type Auto:

Dexron II or equivalent automatic transmission fluid (ATF).

Manual Transmission Fluid Type:

GL-4 gear oil, typically SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Common E21 Issues:

Rust (especially around wheel wells, sills, and door bottoms), fuel injection system issues (worn injectors, fuel pump), vacuum leaks, cooling system leaks, differential noise, worn suspension bushings, and aging electrical components.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw Heritage Context:

The E21 represented BMW's first foray into the compact executive sedan segment, establishing the lineage of the 3 Series.

E21 Design Philosophy:

Known for its iconic "shark nose" design, sporty handling, and driver-focused cockpit.

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily Germany.

Production Volume:

Over 1 million units produced globally.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Historical Accolades:

The E21 series was critically acclaimed for its driving dynamics and paved the way for the enduring success of the 3 Series as a benchmark for sports sedans.