Target Audience:
BMW E21 owners, independent repair shops, automotive enthusiasts
Value Proposition:
Provides factory-level repair information, eliminating reliance on generic guides or expensive dealership services.
Content Depth:
Vehicle-specific, not generic; exact same information used by dealership technicians.
Ease Of Use:
Single, easy-to-use PDF manual, reducing the need to flip through multiple physical books.
Portability:
Printable pages for taking into the garage or workshop, avoiding damage to the digital file.
Engine:
Complete Engine Service, Diagnosis, and Repair
Control System:
Engine Control System Diagnosis and Repair
Mechanical:
Comprehensive Mechanical Systems
Fuel System:
Fuel Service Specifications and Procedures
Emission Control:
Emission Control Systems Service and Diagnosis
Cooling System:
Intake, Exhaust, and Cooling System Service
Lubrication System:
Lubrication System Service and Specifications
Charging System:
Ignition, Starting, and Charging System Service
Transmission Auto:
Automatic Transmission and Clutch Service
Transmission Manual:
Manual Transmission Service and Repair
Drivetrain:
Transfer Propeller Shaft, Drive Shaft, and Differential Service
Suspension Steering:
Axle, Suspension, Tire & Wheel, Steering Column, and Power Steering Service
Brakes:
Brake Control, Brake, and Parking Brake Systems Service
HVAC:
Air Conditioning System Service and Repair
Safety Restraint:
Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) and Seat Belt Service
Security:
Engine Immobilizer and Door Lock Systems Service
Driver Controls:
Cruise Control Systems Service
Wiper Washer:
Wiper and Washer Systems Service
Instrumentation:
Instrument Panel and Meter Service
Audio Visual:
Audio/Visual Systems Service
Body Interior:
Exterior and Interior Trim, Seat, Engine Hood/Door, Windshield/Glass Mirror Service
Electrical Chassis:
Chassis Electrical Systems Service
Body Electronics:
Multiplex/CAN Communication Systems Service
Lighting:
Lighting Systems Service (Headlights, Taillights, Interior Lights)
Horn:
Horn System Service
Maintenance Procedures:
Routine Maintenance, Fluid Changes, Filter Replacements
Diagnostic Procedures:
Step-by-step diagnosis for all systems, troubleshooting guides
Repair Procedures:
Complete step-by-step repair instructions for all components
Installation Procedures:
Instructions for component replacement and installation
Rebuilding Procedures:
Detailed procedures for rebuilding major components (e.g., engines, transmissions)
Depth:
Factory-level technical depth, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIYers
Wiring Schematics:
Included (Comprehensive)
Specifications:
Included (Detailed technical specifications)
Printability:
All pages printable
Image Scaling:
Images can be blown up and printed enlarged
Binding Type:
N/A (Digital PDF)
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital PDF - printable on user's choice of paper)
Operating Systems:
Windows (Vista 32/64, XP, ME, 98, NT, 2000) and Mac Compatible
Software Requirements:
Adobe PDF Reader, Winzip (free online)
Engine Types Covered:
BMW M10 4-cylinder (e.g., 316, 318, 320i) and M20 6-cylinder (e.g., 323i) engines
Performance Details:
Covers specifications, troubleshooting, and repair for all engine variants of the E21 generation.
Fuel System Service:
Detailed coverage of carbureted and fuel-injected systems (e.g., Bosch L-Jetronic for 'i' models).
Infotainment Features:
Basic analog gauges, optional radio and cassette player. No digital or advanced infotainment features.
Driver Assistance Features:
Primarily mechanical systems. No electronic driver assistance systems (e.g., ABS, traction control, airbags were not standard or common).
Connectivity Features:
N/A (No modern connectivity features).
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles (8,000-12,000 km) or annually, check manual for specific intervals.
Tune Up Interval:
Spark plug replacement, timing adjustment, carburetor/fuel injection system checks as recommended.
Engine Oil Spec:
API SF or SG rated, viscosity 10W-40 or 20W-50 depending on climate (e.g., Castrol GTX, Valvoline VR1).
Coolant Spec:
BMW Antifreeze/Coolant (blue) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant, mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
GL-4 rated gear oil, e.g., 75W-90 or 80W-90.
Transmission Fluid Auto:
Dexron-III (or equivalent) automatic transmission fluid.
Brake Fluid Spec:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Common Issues:
Rust (especially around wheel wells, rockers, strut towers), aging rubber components (bushings, hoses), electrical connector corrosion, fuel system wear (fuel pumps, injectors), ignition system components.