🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: BMW Model: 3-series Generation Code: E21 Year: 1981 👋 Introduction Market Position Target Audience: BMW E21 owners, independent repair shops, DIY enthusiasts Value Proposition: Empowers owners to perform maintenance, diagnostics, and repairs themselves, saving time and money. Competitive Analysis Uniqueness: Vehicle-specific, dealership-level information; not generic. Key Features Completeness: Covers all models and all repairs A-Z for the specified year. Usability: Single PDF, printable pages, zoomable images for ease of use in workshop. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Manual Type: Service and Repair Manual Language: English Format: PDF Platform Compatibility: Windows (Vista 32/64, XP, ME, 98, NT, 2000) and Mac Printability: Yes, all pages are printable Searchability: Implied via PDF format 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine Mechanical: Complete Engine Overhaul, Component Replacement, Timing, Valve Train Engine Control System: Fuel Injection, Ignition System, Electronic Control Units (ECU) Fuel System: Fuel Pump, Injectors, Fuel Lines, Fuel Tank, Fuel Pressure Regulation Emission Control: Catalytic Converter Systems, EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation), Air Pump Systems Cooling System: Radiator, Fan, Water Pump, Thermostat, Coolant Hoses Lubrication System: Oil Pump, Oil Filter, Oil Pan, Oil Passages Ignition Starting Charging: Battery, Alternator, Starter Motor, Ignition Coil, Spark Plugs, Distributor Transmission Automatic: Automatic Transmission Service, Diagnosis, Repair, Fluid Specifications Transmission Manual: Manual Transmission Service, Clutch Operation, Gearbox Repair Drivetrain Rear Axle: Differential Service, Axle Shafts, Drive Shaft, Universal Joints Suspension Front: MacPherson Struts, Control Arms, Bushings, Ball Joints Suspension Rear: Semi-Trailing Arms, Shock Absorbers, Springs, Bushings Wheels Tires: Tire Sizes, Wheel Specifications, Alignment Procedures Brakes Hydraulic: Brake Master Cylinder, Calipers, Wheel Cylinders, Brake Lines, Fluid Specifications Brakes Parking: Parking Brake Mechanism, Cables, Adjustment Steering: Steering Column, Steering Rack/Box, Tie Rods, Adjustment Power Steering: Power Steering Pump, Hoses, Fluid, System Diagnosis Air Conditioning: AC System Components, Refrigerant, Diagnosis, Recharge Procedures Body Exterior: Body Panels, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Bumpers, Trim Body Interior: Seats, Dashboard, Door Panels, Upholstery, Carpeting Electrical Wiring: Complete Wiring Schematics, Component Location Diagrams Lighting System: Headlights, Taillights, Interior Lighting, Fuses, Relays Instrumentation: Gauges, Warning Lights, Speedometer, Tachometer Wipers Washers: Wiper Motor, Blades, Washer Pump, Fluid Reservoir Restraint Systems: Seat Belts, (Note: SRS, Supplemental Restraint System, was nascent in this era, primarily seat belts) Cruise Control: Cruise Control System Diagnosis and Repair Audio Visual: Radio, Speaker Installation and Wiring Security: Door Locks, Ignition Lock, (Note: Immobilizer systems were not standard) Procedures Included Maintenance Procedures: Scheduled Maintenance, Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Lubrication, Tune-ups Diagnostic Procedures: Troubleshooting Guides, Symptom-Based Diagnostics, Component Testing Repair Procedures: Step-by-Step Disassembly and Reassembly Instructions for all covered systems Component Replacement: Detailed instructions for replacing individual parts and assemblies Adjustment Procedures: Carburetor, Ignition Timing, Carburetor, Valve Clearances, Clutch, Parking Brake Technical Depth Depth Level: Comprehensive, dealership-level technical information Diagrams Illustrations: Abundant step-by-step diagrams and illustrations Wiring Schematics: Detailed electrical wiring schematics for all circuits Specifications: Exact factory specifications for all components and systems 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Type: PDF (Portable Document Format) Digital Delivery: Speed Download Print Quality Printable Resolution: High resolution, suitable for enlarged printing of diagrams Binding Type Binding Format: Digital, no physical binding (user prints as needed) Paper Type Recommended Paper: Standard printer paper (user choice for print-outs) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Families: M10 (4-cylinder), M20 (6-cylinder) Typical Displacements: 1.8L (M10), 2.0L (M10), 2.3L (M20), 2.7L (M20) Fuel Delivery: Carburetion (e.g., Zenith, Solex) or Bosch K-Jetronic Fuel Injection Performance Power Output Range: Approximately 90 HP to 140 HP depending on engine and tune Fuel System Fuel Type: Unleaded Gasoline 🔧 Transmission Standard Standard Transmission: 4-speed manual transmission Optional Optional Transmission: 3-speed or 4-speed automatic transmission Features Clutch Type: Dry single-plate clutch 📐 Dimensions Exterior Body Styles: 2-door sedan, 4-door sedan Weights Curb Weight Range: Approximately 2,500 - 2,900 lbs (1135 - 1315 kg) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings Era Specific Safety: Focus on passive safety features of the era (e.g., crumple zones, safety belts), no modern crash ratings available. Active Features Active Safety: Four-wheel disc brakes (standard on most models), independent suspension. Passive Features Passive Safety: Three-point inertia-reel seat belts (front), padded dashboard, laminated windshield. 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Factory AM/FM radio with cassette player, or single-DIN radio options. Driver Assistance Driver Aid Features: Minimal by modern standards; focus on the mechanical feedback and handling. Connectivity Connectivity Features: None (no Bluetooth, USB, etc.) 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles (4,800-8,000 km) or 6-12 months (refer to manual for precise recommendation). Tune Up Interval: Spark plugs, points (if applicable), and filters generally every 15,000-30,000 miles (24,000-48,000 km). Fluid Specifications Engine Oil Type: Refer to manual for specific viscosity (e.g., SAE 20W-50, 10W-40) and API service classification. Coolant Type: Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze coolant mixed with distilled water (typically 50/50). Brake Fluid Type: DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid (refer to manual). Known Issues Common E21 Issues: Rust/corrosion (especially wheel arches,...