Target Audience:
BMW owners, DIY mechanics, professional technicians
Value Proposition:
Provides factory-level repair data, enabling independent maintenance and repair, saving costs.
Differentiation:
Vehicle-specific, not generic, providing exact information used by dealership technicians.
Digital Convenience:
Single, easy-to-use PDF manual, no flipping through books, print-on-demand functionality.
Instructional Quality:
Complete step-by-step instructions, diagrams, illustrations, and wiring schematics.
Primary Coverage:
Service and Repair
Model Variant Coverage:
All models and all repairs A-Z
Estimated Page Count:
Not explicitly stated, but described as comprehensive.
Type:
Factory Service and Repair Manual
Digital Compatibility:
Windows Vista (32/64), XP, ME, 98, NT, 2000, and Mac compatible
Engine Mechanical:
Complete engine overhaul, internal components, cooling, lubrication, fuel system, emission control
Engine Control:
Engine control system diagnosis and repair
Transmission Manual:
Manual transmission service, repair, and specifications
Transmission Automatic:
Automatic transmission service, repair, and specifications
Drivetrain:
Clutch, transfer case, propeller shaft, drive shaft, differential, axle service and repair
Suspension Steering:
Axle, suspension, tire and wheel, steering column, power steering diagnosis and repair
Brakes:
Brake control, brake system service and repair, parking brake
Electrical System:
Ignition, starting, charging systems, complete electrical system troubleshooting and repair
Body Interior:
Exterior and interior components, engine hood, doors, seats, glass, mirrors, instrument panel
Comfort Convenience:
Air conditioning, supplemental restraint system (SRS), seat belts, cruise control, wiper and washer, door locks, horn
Diagnostics:
System diagnosis, troubleshooting guidance
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements
Repair:
Component replacement, system rebuilding, detailed repair instructions
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, fault code interpretation (if applicable to the era)
Specifications:
Torque values, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical values
Depth:
Factory-level detailed, from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds
Instructions:
Step-by-step instructions, diagrams, illustrations, wiring schematics
Searchability:
Likely text-searchable, enabling quick information retrieval
Printability:
All pages are printable
Image Scaling:
Images can be blown up and printed in enlarged copies
Binding:
Digital (PDF) - no physical binding
Paper Type:
Not applicable, digital format
Reader:
Adobe PDF Reader (free online)
Compression:
Winzip (free online)
Engine Displacement:
Likely covers 2.0L, 2.5L, and 2.8L inline-six engines for the E12 generation (specific engines vary by market and model).
Horsepower Range:
Typically ranges from approximately 130 hp to 180 hp, depending on engine variant.
Torque Range:
Torque figures vary by engine, generally increasing with displacement.
Fuel Delivery:
Carbureted or early Bosch electronic fuel injection (EFI) systems, depending on the specific model and market.
Type:
Pressurized liquid cooling system.
Type:
Wet sump lubrication system.
Type:
Four-speed manual transmission was common.
Type:
Optional three-speed automatic transmission.
Gear Ratios:
Specific gear ratios for manual and automatic transmissions will be detailed in the manual.
Manual Transmission Fluid:
Likely GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil specifications, detailed in the manual.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Specific ATF fluid type, e.g., Dexron II or equivalent, will be specified.
Wheelbase:
Approximately 2700 mm (106.3 in).
Length:
Approximately 4600 mm (181.1 in).
Width:
Approximately 1700 mm (66.9 in).
Height:
Approximately 1400 mm (55.1 in).
Curb Weight:
Approximately 1300-1400 kg (2866-3086 lbs), depending on model and equipment.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Specified in manual for load limits.
Crash Test Data:
Limited data available for this era, manual will detail safety structures.
Braking System:
Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes. ABS was not available in 1972.
Seat Belts:
Front seat belts are standard, rear seat belts may vary by market. Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) not applicable for this year.
Body Structure:
Reinforced safety cage construction typical of BMW vehicles.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 5,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months, detailed in manual.
Tune Up Interval:
Spark plugs, filters, and other items would have specific intervals detailed.
Engine Oil:
Likely SAE 20W-50 or 10W-40, depending on climate, as specified by BMW.
Coolant:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze mixed with distilled water, typically 50/50 ratio.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid.
Common Wear Items:
Carburetor issues, ignition system components (points, condenser), fuel pump, cooling system hoses and radiator, exhaust system, control arm bushings, subframe bushings.
Electrical Corrosion:
Degradation of wiring insulation and connector corrosion can be an issue with age.
Bmw Legacy:
BMW's reputation for engineering excellence and sporty driving dynamics.
E12 Introduction:
The E12 was BMW's first true mid-size executive sedan, establishing the 5-series lineage.
Design Philosophy:
Designed by Paul Bracq, it featured a distinctive clean and elegant styling.
Production Period:
1972-1981
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Dingolfing, Germany.
