This comprehensive service and repair manual for the 1978 BMW 3-series (E21) covers all models and aspects of your vehicle's repair. It provides the same detailed information used by technicians at authorized dealerships to maintain, service, diagnose, and repair your BMW. You'll find complete step-by-step instructions, diagrams, illustrations, wiring schematics, and specifications for every aspect of your car.

The manual includes detailed information on a wide range of topics, such as:

* **Maintenance:** Regular servicing, fluid changes, and preventative measures.
* **Engine:** In-depth coverage of engine components, operation, and troubleshooting.
* **Control System:** Understanding your car's electronics and systems.
* **Mechanical:** Detailed explanations of your vehicle's mechanical systems.
* **Fuel Service Specifications:** Comprehensive specifications for fuel systems and components.
* **Emission Control:** Information on emissions systems and their maintenance.
* **Intake Exhaust Cooling:** Detailed explanations of intake, exhaust, and cooling systems.
* **Lube:** Lubrication requirements and specifications for your BMW.
* **Ignition Starting Charging:** Coverage of ignition, starting, and charging systems.
* **Auto Transmission Clutch:** Information on automatic transmission and clutch systems.
* **Manual Transmission:** Detailed guidance on manual transmission systems and repair.
* **Transfer Propeller Shaft:** Information on transfer case, propeller shaft, and related components.
* **Drive Shaft:** Coverage of drive shafts and associated components.
* **Differential:** Detailed explanations of differentials and their maintenance.
* **Axle Suspension:** Comprehensive information on axles, suspension systems, and components.
* **Tire & Wheel:** Guidance on tire and wheel maintenance, selection, and repair.
* **Brake Control:** Coverage of brake control systems and components.
* **Brake:** In-depth information on brake systems, components, and repair.
* **Parking Brake:** Detailed guidance on parking brake systems.
* **Steering Column:** Information on steering columns and associated components.
* **Power Steering:** Coverage of power steering systems and their maintenance.
* **Air Condition:** Comprehensive information on air conditioning systems and repair.
* **Suppl Restraint System:** Detailed explanation of supplemental restraint systems (airbags).
* **Seat Belt:** Information on seat belts and their maintenance.
* **Engine Immobilizer:** Coverage of engine immobilizer systems and operation.
* **Cruise Control:** Guidance on cruise control systems and their use.
* **Wiper & Washer:** Information on windshield wipers and washers.
* **Door Lock:** Coverage of door locks and related systems.
* **Meter Audio/Visual:** Information on instrument panels and displays.
* **Horn:** Explanation of the horn system and operation.
* **Windshield/Glass Mirror:** Guidance on windshield, glass, and mirror replacement and repair.
* **Instrument Panel:** Detailed information on the instrument panel and its components.
* **Seat:** Coverage of seat mechanisms, adjustment, and repair.
* **Engine Hood/ Door:** Guidance on engine hood and door mechanisms.
* **Exterior & Interior:** Information on exterior and interior components and their repair.
* **Electrical:** Comprehensive coverage of your vehicle's electrical systems and components.
* **Multiplex/ Can Communication:** Information on multiplex and CAN communication systems.

This comprehensive manual provides all the information you need to confidently maintain and repair your 1978 BMW 3-series (E21) yourself, saving you time and money.

The BMW 3-series (E21) is a compact executive car that was produced by BMW from 1975 to 1983. It was the first car to wear the "3-series" designation, and it was the successor to the BMW 1800/2000 series. The E21 was a significant departure from its predecessors, featuring a more modern design and a more refined driving experience. It was also the first BMW to utilize a four-cylinder engine in the 3-series line. The E21 was available with a variety of engines, including a 1.6-liter four-cylinder, a 1.8-liter four-cylinder, and a 2.0-liter six-cylinder. It was also available with a variety of transmissions, including a four-speed manual, a five-speed manual, and a three-speed automatic.

The BMW 3-series (E21) was a popular car, and it helped to establish BMW's reputation for building high-quality, sporty cars. It was also a successful racing car, winning the European Touring Car Championship in 1978 and 1979. The E21 was replaced by the BMW 3-series (E30) in 1982, but it remains a popular car among enthusiasts today. It is known for its sleek design, sharp handling, and relatively affordable price. The E21 is a classic example of a small, sporty car that is both stylish and fun to drive. The car's design was penned by Paul Bracq, who was also responsible for the design of the BMW 5-series (E12). The E21 featured a distinctive "shark nose" front end, which was inspired by the BMW 3.0 CSL. The car also featured a long hood, a short rear deck, and a raked windshield. The E21 was offered in a variety of trim levels, including the base 316, the sporty 318i, and the high-performance 320i. The base 316 was powered by a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine that produced 75 horsepower. The 318i was powered by a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine that produced 90 horsepower. The 320i was powered by a 2.0-liter six-cylinder engine that produced 121 horsepower. A 323i model was also available, featuring a 2.3-liter six-cylinder engine producing 143 horsepower.