This comprehensive service and repair manual provides detailed instructions and diagrams for maintaining, servicing, diagnosing, and repairing your 1973 BMW 5-series (E12). This manual is the same one that technicians at BMW dealerships use, offering you the same level of expertise for your own repairs.

Inside, you'll find step-by-step instructions, diagrams, illustrations, wiring schematics, and specifications covering every aspect of your vehicle. From basic maintenance procedures to complex engine repairs, this manual provides all the information you need to handle any task confidently.

The manual covers a vast range of topics, including:

* **Engine:** Detailed information on engine components, operation, maintenance, and repair.
* **Transmission:** Instructions for both manual and automatic transmissions, covering everything from fluid changes to complete rebuilds.
* **Suspension and Steering:** Complete coverage of all suspension and steering components, including diagnosis and repair procedures.
* **Brakes:** Detailed information on brake system components, operation, maintenance, and repair.
* **Electrical System:** Comprehensive coverage of the electrical system, including wiring diagrams, troubleshooting guides, and repair procedures.
* **Body and Interior:** Information on body panels, trim, interior components, and their repair.

This service and repair manual is your ultimate resource for keeping your 1973 BMW 5-series (E12) in top condition. You'll gain valuable knowledge and skills, allowing you to perform repairs yourself and save money on expensive dealership visits.

The BMW 5-Series (E12), launched in 1972, marked a significant milestone in the history of the Bavarian automaker. It was the first car to bear the "5-Series" designation, establishing a lineage of executive sedans that would go on to define the brand's image for decades to come. The E12 was designed as a successor to the BMW Neue Klasse sedans, specifically the 1800/2000 models, and aimed to offer a more luxurious and refined driving experience. Its sleek, angular design, penned by Paul Bracq, exuded a sense of elegance and sophistication, setting it apart from its rivals. This model was initially available with a range of four-cylinder engines, including the iconic M10 unit, and later received the option of a powerful six-cylinder powerplant.

The E12's success was underpinned by its exceptional handling and driving dynamics, a hallmark of BMW's engineering prowess. The car featured a sophisticated independent suspension system, a rear-wheel drive layout, and a precise steering setup, making it a joy to drive on both winding roads and open highways. It also introduced several innovative features for its time, including a fuel-injected engine, a five-speed manual transmission, and an optional automatic transmission. The BMW 5-Series (E12) quickly gained a reputation for its performance, reliability, and stylish design, becoming a popular choice for discerning drivers worldwide. Its enduring legacy continues to inspire the development of the 5-Series model line, which has evolved into one of the most successful luxury sedans ever produced.