Target Audience:
BMW E21 owners, DIY enthusiasts, independent repair shops
Differentiation:
Make, model, and year specific, not generic; comprehensive coverage from basic maintenance to engine rebuilds.
Key Features:
Instant download, detailed diagrams, comprehensive system coverage, troubleshooting guide.
Coverage Scope:
Comprehensive workshop repair, maintenance, and troubleshooting
Body And Trim:
Includes information on body panel removal, repair, and adjustment, as well as interior trim components.
Estimated Page Count:
Not specified, but implied to be extensive given the scope.
Type:
Service and Repair Manual
Engine Systems:
Engine removal/installation, cylinder head/valve, cylinder/piston, crankcase, crankshaft/primary shaft, fuel system, lubrication
Drivetrain Systems:
Clutch, gearshift linkage, sub-transmission, transmission
Suspension Steering:
Front wheel/suspension, rear wheel/suspension
Braking Systems:
Hydraulic brake system
Electrical Systems:
Battery/charging system, ignition system, electric starter, switches, re-wiring
Maintenance:
Inspection and adjustment, lubrication, fluid capacities
Repair:
Engine rebuilding, component repair, system overhauls
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting
Engine Rebuild:
Detailed procedures for valve lapping, piston ring replacement, bearing replacement, timing chain/belt adjustments, and more.
Electrical Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical schematics for all major vehicle systems, crucial for troubleshooting and repairs.
Fuel System Repair:
Carburetor overhaul and adjustment, fuel pump testing, fuel injector cleaning and replacement (for fuel-injected models).
Ignition System Repair:
Distributor maintenance, ignition coil testing, spark plug replacement, timing adjustments.
Depth:
Detailed step-by-step instructions with diagrams for workshop-level repairs.
Special Tools:
Implies the need for specific BMW special tools for certain repair procedures, which would be detailed in the manual.
Troubleshooting Approach:
Systematic approach to diagnosing faults with symptom-based guidance.
Engine Variants Covered:
Likely covers the M10 4-cylinder engines (e.g., 316, 318, 320) and potentially the M20 6-cylinder engines (e.g., 320i, 323i) depending on specific manual content within the range.
Typical Performance Range:
Horsepower ranged from approximately 90 hp for early 4-cylinder models to around 143 hp for the 323i.
Fuel Delivery:
Carburetor (Solex, Zenith) for base models, Bosch L-Jetronic or K-Jetronic fuel injection for performance models.
Layout:
Inline 4-cylinder (M10) and Inline 6-cylinder (M20)
Head Design:
SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft)
Engine Codes:
M10 (e.g., M10B18, M10B20) and M20 (e.g., M20B20, M20B23)
Transmission Types:
4-speed manual, 5-speed manual (later models), 3-speed automatic
Optional Transmissions:
5-speed manual, automatic transmission
Clutch Type:
Single dry plate diaphragm spring clutch
Driveshaft:
Open driveshaft to rear differential
Body Styles:
2-door sedan (coupe styling), 4-door sedan
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2570 mm (101.2 in)
Curb Weight Range:
Approx. 1100-1300 kg (2425-2866 lbs)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Varies by model and configuration, typically around 1600-1700 kg
Crash Test History:
NHTSA and IIHS ratings from this era are limited; emphasis was on passive safety features of the time.
Active Safety:
Four-wheel disc brakes (standard on most models), independent suspension.
Passive Safety:
Reinforced passenger cell, collapsible steering column, padded dashboard.
Brake Type:
Front: Ventilated discs; Rear: Discs (or drums on very early base models)
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000-10,000 km (3,000-6,000 miles) or annually, depending on driving conditions. Manual will specify exact intervals.
Tune Up Interval:
Spark plugs, ignition timing, and carb/injection adjustment typically recommended every 20,000-40,000 km (12,000-24,000 miles).
Engine Oil:
Refer to manual for specific API ratings (e.g., SE, SF) and viscosity grades (e.g., 10W-40, 20W-50) based on climate.
Coolant:
Ethylene glycol based antifreeze with a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Transmission Fluid:
Manual: GL-4 rated gear oil (e.g., SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90). Automatic: DEXRON-II or equivalent.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (check manual for specific recommendation)
Differential Fluid:
GL-5 rated gear oil (e.g., SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90), specific viscosity may vary based on limited-slip differential if equipped.
Common Problems:
Rust (especially wheel arches, sills, strut towers), worn front suspension bushings, aging rubber hoses and seals, fuel leaks from carburetors or injection systems, ignition system component failures (points, condenser, coil), differential pinion seal leaks.
Electrical Quirks:
Corroded wiring connectors, failing voltage regulators, worn wiper motors.
Brake Service:
Regular inspection of brake pads, rotors, and fluid levels. Fluid flush recommended every 2 years.
Brand Focus:
BMW's reputation for sporty sedans and coupes, driver engagement.
E21 Significance:
The first generation of the BMW 3 Series, establishing its benchmark position in the compact executive segment. Introduced significant design and engineering advancements for BMW.
Design Philosophy:
The E21 embodied BMW's 'Ultimate Driving Machine' philosophy with a focus on balanced weight distribution and rear-wheel drive dynamics.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Germany (Munich, Dingolfing)
Production Volume:
Over 1.3 million units produced across its lifespan.
Critical Acclaim:
Widely praised for its handling, build quality, and sporty driving characteristics, setting the standard for its class.
Owner Satisfaction:
Generally high, though dependent on individual vehicle condition and maintenance history.
