Target Audience:
BMW E12 5-series owners, DIY enthusiasts, independent repair shops
Value Proposition:
Empowers owners to perform maintenance and repairs, saving time and money compared to dealership service
Differentiation:
Authentic factory data, vehicle-specific, comprehensive coverage unlike generic manuals
Key Selling Points:
Step-by-step instructions, diagrams, illustrations, wiring schematics, specifications, all-in-one PDF format
Knowledge Enhancement:
Increases user knowledge and confidence in vehicle maintenance and repair
Convenience:
Print only necessary pages, take to garage/workshop, avoid physical manual wear and tear
Primary Coverage:
All models and all repairs A-Z for the 1979 BMW 5-series (E12)
Specific Models Covered:
All 1979 E12 5-series variants (e.g., 520, 525, 528i, etc.)
Estimated Page Count:
Comprehensive (Specific page count not provided, but described as complete)
Type:
Factory Service and Repair Manual
Engine:
Complete service, diagnosis, and repair for engine systems
Control System:
Engine control system diagnostics and repair
Mechanical:
All mechanical components and systems
Fuel System:
Fuel service specifications and repair
Emission Control:
Emission control systems diagnosis and repair
Cooling System:
Intake, exhaust, and cooling system service
Lubrication System:
Lubrication system service and specifications
Ignition Charging:
Ignition, starting, and charging system service
Transmission Auto:
Automatic transmission service and repair
Transmission Manual:
Manual transmission service and repair
Drivetrain:
Transfer case, propeller shaft, driveshaft, differential, and axle service
Suspension:
Suspension system diagnosis and repair
Wheels Tires:
Tire and wheel service specifications
Brakes:
Brake control, brake system, and parking brake service
Steering:
Steering column and power steering system service
Climate Control:
Air conditioning system service and repair
Safety Restraint:
Supplemental restraint system (SRS) and seat belt service
Security:
Engine immobilizer system information
Cruise Control:
Cruise control system service
Wipers Washers:
Wiper and washer system service
Body Interior:
Door lock systems, interior and exterior trim, seats, engine hood, doors, and glass/mirrors
Electrical:
Complete electrical system diagnosis, wiring schematics, and repair
Instrumentation:
Instrument panel, meter, and audio/visual system service
Chassis:
Chassis component service and repair
Communication:
Multiplex/CAN communication system information
Maintenance:
Complete step-by-step maintenance procedures
Repair:
Detailed repair instructions for all vehicle systems
Diagnostics:
Diagnostic procedures for troubleshooting common and complex issues
Specifications:
Comprehensive technical specifications for all components and systems
Wiring:
Complete wiring schematics and diagrams
Illustrations:
Detailed diagrams and illustrations for visual guidance
Depth:
Factory-level, high-detail repair information used by dealership technicians
Relevance:
Vehicle-specific, not generic repair information
Compatibility:
Windows (Vista32/64, XP, ME, 98, NT, 2000) and Mac compatible
Requirements:
Adobe PDF Reader, Winzip (free downloads available)
Printability:
All pages are printable, with the ability to enlarge images
Binding:
Digital (PDF), eliminates physical binding concerns
Paper Usage:
User selects printable pages, minimizing paper use and wear
Ease Of Use:
Single, easy-to-use PDF manual, no flipping through multiple books
Engine Options E12:
Inline-4, Inline-6 petrol engines (e.g., M10, M20 families)
Example Performance 528I:
Approx. 170-180 hp, depending on specific market and tuning
Fuel Delivery:
Carburetor or Bosch L-Jetronic/K-Jetronic fuel injection (model dependent)
Ignition System:
Points-based or electronic ignition systems
Cooling Type:
Liquid-cooled
Standard Transmission Type:
4-speed manual transmission
Optional Transmission Type:
3-speed or 4-speed automatic transmission (e.g., ZF 3HP22, ZF 4HP22)
Clutch Type:
Single dry plate clutch (manual transmission)
Safety Ratings:
No official standardized crash test ratings from modern bodies (e.g., NHTSA, Euro NCAP) for this era
Active Safety Features:
Four-wheel disc brakes (ventilated front discs on most models), power-assisted brakes, independent front suspension
Passive Safety Features:
Reinforced safety cage, crumple zones, padded interior, three-point seat belts (retractable front)
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000 - 7,500 miles or 6-12 months (refer to manual for exact specs)
Tune Up Interval:
Spark plugs, ignition timing, and fuel system checks at regular intervals (e.g., 15,000 - 30,000 miles)
Engine Oil Spec:
API SG or SH classification, viscosity typically 10W-40 or 20W-50 depending on climate (manual confirmation required)
Coolant Spec:
Mixture of ethylene glycol based antifreeze and distilled water
Transmission Fluid Auto:
Dexron-II or equivalent (model specific, refer to manual)
Brake Fluid Spec:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid
Common Issues E12:
Rust (especially wheel arches, rocker panels), cooling system leaks (hose degradation), fuel delivery issues (carburetor or injection), electrical gremlins, subframe mounts, differential seals
Parts Note:
While some parts are rare, many wear items and common components are still available through BMW specialists or aftermarket suppliers.
