🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

BMW

Model:

3-series

Chassis Code:

E21

Model Year:

1979

Product Type:

Service and Repair Manual

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

Targeted at BMW E21 owners and independent mechanics seeking factory-accurate repair information.

Uniqueness:

Distinguished by being vehicle-specific, not generic. Directly replicates dealership technician resources.

Format Advantage:

Single PDF manual for ease of use, eliminating the need to flip through multiple books.

Durability Advantage:

Digital format prevents grease, tears, and loss associated with physical manuals.

Utility:

Printable pages allow users to take only necessary information to the workspace.

Cost Savings:

Enables DIY repairs, reducing reliance on and cost of professional mechanics for common tasks.

📋 Manual Details

Models Covered:

All BMW 3-series (E21) models

Repairs Covered:

A-Z (All repairs)

Estimated Page Count:

Not specified, but described as comprehensive.

Type:

Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Digital Format:

PDF

Digital Compatibility:

Windows (Vista 32/64, XP, ME, 98, NT, 2000) and Mac compatible

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine, Control System, Mechanical, Fuel Service Specifications, Emission Control, Intake Exhaust Cooling, Lube, Ignition Starting Charging, Auto Transmission, Clutch, Manual Transmission, Transfer Propeller Shaft, Drive Shaft, Differential, Axle

Chassis And Suspension:

Suspension, Tire & Wheel, Brake Control, Brake, Parking Brake, Steering Column, Power Steering

Electrical And Comfort:

Air Condition, Suppl Restraint System, Seat Belt, Engine Immobilizer, Cruise Control, Wiper & Washer, Door Lock, Meter Audio/Visual, Horn, Windshield/Glass Mirror, Instrument Panel, Electrical, Multiplex/Can Communication

Body And Interior:

Seat, Engine Hood/ Door, Exterior & Interior

Repair Procedures:

Complete step-by-step instructions for all repairs.

Maintenance Procedures:

Detailed maintenance procedures.

Diagnostic Procedures:

Diagnostic procedures for troubleshooting.

Depth:

Factory level, technician-grade detail. Comprehensive coverage from basic maintenance to complete repair and diagnosis.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

PDF

Searchability:

Likely searchable PDF, enabling quick information retrieval.

Printability:

All pages are printable.

Image Enhancement:

Ability to blow up images for enlarged printing.

Binding:

N/A (Digital PDF format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital PDF format)

PDF Reader:

Adobe PDF Reader (free online)

Unzipping Software:

Winzip (free online)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Family:

BMW M10 inline-4 cylinder (Likely, for 1979 models)

Engine Options:

Likely includes 315 (1.8L), 316 (1.8L), 318 (1.8L), 320 (2.0L), 320i (2.0L Fuel Injection), and possibly early 323i (2.3L inline-6, though less common for '79 in some markets). The manual covers all models, implying it addresses these variations.

Hp And Torque:

Specifications will vary by engine variant. For example, the M10 2.0L typically produced around 100-110 hp and 120-130 lb-ft of torque, with fuel-injected 'i' models offering slightly more. The 323i variant (if applicable for 1979 in target market) would feature the M20 inline-6, producing over 140 hp.

Fuel Delivery:

Carburetor (e.g., Solex, Zenith) for non-'i' models, Bosch L-Jetronic or K-Jetronic fuel injection for 'i' models.

Ignition Type:

Distributor-based ignition system, potentially with electronic advance on later models.

Cooling Type:

Water-cooled, with a thermostat-controlled fan and radiator.

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

4-speed manual transmission (Getrag or ZF).

Optional Transmission:

3-speed automatic transmission (ZF 3HP18 or similar).

Clutch Type:

Single dry plate clutch, hydraulically actuated.

Manual Transmission Fluid:

GL-4 Gear Oil (Specific viscosity dependent on ambient temperature, typically 75W-90 or 80W-90).

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Dexron II or equivalent ATF.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2565 mm (101 inches).

Length:

Approx. 4360 mm (171.7 inches).

Width:

Approx. 1620 mm (63.8 inches).

Height:

Approx. 1380 mm (54.3 inches).

Curb Weight:

Ranges from approximately 1150 kg to 1300 kg depending on engine and equipment.

Gross Vehicle Weight:

Not explicitly stated, but typically around 1600-1700 kg.

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test History:

E21 models predate modern stringent crash testing standards. Likely to have received poor ratings by today's standards. The manual will detail the vehicle's structural components and safety systems for its era.

Braking System:

Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes. Some models may have optional front vented discs. The manual covers hydraulic system, pad/shoe replacement, bleeding, and adjustment.

Steering System:

Recirculating ball steering. Power steering was optional on some models. Manual covers steering box adjustment, tie rod replacement, and alignment procedures.

Seat Belts:

Standard 3-point front seat belts, lap belts in rear. Manual covers seat belt maintenance and replacement.

Body Construction:

Unibody construction with crumple zones designed for the era. Manual details body panel repair and structural components.

Supplemental Restraint System:

N/A (No airbags or advanced SRS systems in this era).

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory radios were typically AM/FM analog with cassette players. The manual covers dashboard and speaker removal/installation.

Cruise Control:

Optional cruise control system available on some models. The manual includes diagnostic and repair procedures for this system.

Connectivity Features:

N/A (No modern connectivity features like Bluetooth or USB).

Dashboard Layout:

Driver-focused dashboard with analog gauges for speedometer, tachometer, fuel, and temperature. Manual covers instrument cluster removal and repair.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 10,000 km (6,000 miles) or 12 months, whichever comes first. The manual will provide specific recommendations for the 1979 model year.

Tune Up Interval:

Spark plugs, distributor cap/rotor, and points (if applicable) generally every 20,000-40,000 km. Manual will detail specific intervals and procedures.

Brake Fluid Flush:

Recommended every 2 years, regardless of mileage.

Engine Oil Type:

API SG or SH rated, multi-viscosity oil. Viscosity grade would depend on climate, typically 10W-40 or 20W-50. Manual will specify exact recommendations.

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approximately 4.5 liters (4.8 US quarts) for most 4-cylinder engines, with filter.

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze mixed with distilled water (50/50 ratio). Manual will specify BMW approved coolant.

Common E21 Problems:

Rust (especially around wheel arches, sills, and sunroofs), wear in suspension bushings, aging fuel lines and rubber components, potential carburetor or fuel injection issues depending on model, electrical gremlins due to age.

Manual Problem Solving:

The manual's detailed diagnostic and repair sections are crucial for addressing these common issues effectively.

📚 Vehicle History

Bmw History:

BMW's legacy is built on sporty, driver-focused sedans. The E21 continued this tradition, evolving from the successful Neue Klasse sedans and coupes.

E21 Development:

The E21 was BMW's second generation of the 3 Series, succeeding the E20 (02 Series). It introduced a more modern, aerodynamic design and refined chassis, establishing the benchmark for compact sports sedans.

Design Philosophy:

Characterized by its clean lines, driver-oriented cockpit, and signature BMW kidney grille. It was one of the first BMWs to feature energy-absorbing bumpers.

Production Years:

1975-1983 (The manual covers the 1979 model year within this range).

Manufacturing Plants:

Primarily Dingolfing, Germany, with potential assembly in other locations depending on market.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Market Reputation:

The BMW 3 Series (E21) was highly acclaimed for its driving dynamics and sporty character, cementing its reputation as a premium compact sports sedan. It won numerous accolades for handling and performance in its class during its production run.