This comprehensive workshop service repair manual provides detailed information and instructions for repairing your BMW 3 Series, covering models from 1975 to 1984. The manual contains over 910 pages of valuable information, including step-by-step procedures, explanations, and pictorial diagrams for every aspect of your vehicle, from bumper to bumper. It includes special notes, important points, service data, precautions, and everything you need for maintenance, adjustments, service, removal, and installation of vehicle components. This manual is designed to be a user-friendly reference book for both professional mechanics and DIY enthusiasts. The detailed illustrations, exploded diagrams, drawings, and photos guide you through every service repair procedure, making even complex repairs manageable. Adjustment and repair operations are clearly outlined, with references to required service tools and accompanying illustrations. This manual covers all service and repair instructions for your BMW 3 Series, ensuring you have all the information you need to perform repairs or make adjustments. Information on construction, function, troubleshooting, servicing, tightening torques, checking and adjusting, disassembling and assembling, and servicing are all included. The manual is divided into groups, each containing general information, diagnosis, testing, adjustments, removal, installation, disassembly, and assembly procedures for specific systems and components. Appropriate service methods and correct repair procedures are essential for safe and reliable operation of your vehicle, and the safety of the individual performing the work. The illustrations in the manual are used to highlight the fundamental principles and procedures of basic interventions, and may not show exactly the specific model you own. Adjustment and repair operations also include reference to wear limits for your specific BMW 3 Series model. Relevant data and useful assembly details are all included in this comprehensive manual. To perform work efficiently and avoid costly mistakes, familiarize yourself with the procedures before starting any work. All work should be performed with care and in a clean working area with adequate lighting. Use this manual to ensure a complete repair job, keeping your BMW 3 Series in optimal condition. All information, illustrations, and specifications contained in this manual are based on the latest available product information at the time of publication. The manual includes specification, maintenance, and component information, along with diagnostic information where necessary. Torque values are intended for use in service assembly and installation using the correct OEM fasteners. Always use the same type of fastener when replacing them. This manual outlines procedures for servicing and repairing vehicles using safe and effective methods. It contains many notes, cautions, and warnings, which should be followed along with standard safety procedures to eliminate the possibility of personal injury or improper service that could damage your vehicle or compromise its safety. To maximize the life of your BMW 3 Series: * Accurately follow the maintenance requirements of the periodic maintenance chart in the service manual. * Do not allow problems to develop. Investigate unusual noises and changes in the riding characteristics of your BMW 3 Series. Rectify all problems as soon as possible (immediately if safety related). * Use only genuine BMW parts as listed in the parts catalogue. * Follow the procedures in this manual carefully and completely. Do not take shortcuts. * Keep complete records of all maintenance and repairs with dates and any new parts installed. * Use only approved lubricants, as specified, in the manual. This manual was designed to provide technical information regarding the design, function, disassembly, adjusting work, and troubleshooting on the components and model of your BMW 3 Series. The descriptions are brief but precise and are supported by photographs, notes, drawings, schematics, exploded and sectional drawings. All this information is intended to simplify any necessary repair work. The manual also includes information about adjusting work and valuable reference data for such adjustment values. For all maintenance and repair work on your BMW 3 Series, all accident prevention guidelines must be strictly observed. To perform all repairs listed in this manual, a complete set of standard tools, as well as the special tools and fixtures shown and listed are necessary. No special emphasis is put on replacing sealing components as we assume that these items are replaced during any repair. Unless specific values are given, all threaded connections should be tightened according to the required tightening torques listed on torque charts. When describing work that could be dangerous, we have described the required safety measures in this manual and indicated them by special remarks: DANGER, CAUTION or NOTE.

The BMW 3 Series (E21), produced from 1975 to 1983, marked the beginning of a legendary lineage for the Bavarian automaker. This compact executive car, available in a range of body styles including 2-door coupé, 4-door saloon and 5-door touring, revolutionized the automotive landscape by offering a blend of sporty performance, refined handling, and German engineering precision. The E21's underpinnings were based on the previous BMW 1800/2000 models, featuring a rear-wheel drive setup and a rigid monocoque chassis, providing a solid foundation for the car's dynamic capabilities. Power came from a selection of four-cylinder petrol engines, ranging from the 1.6-liter unit in the 316 to the more powerful 2.3-liter engine in the 323i. The 3 Series E21 was praised for its nimble handling, responsive steering, and precise gear changes, making it a joy to drive on winding roads. The BMW 3 Series E21's success lay not only in its performance but also its refinement and practicality. The interior offered a driver-focused cockpit, with a well-designed dashboard and ergonomic controls. The car’s compact dimensions and well-designed cargo space made it a versatile vehicle, suitable for both daily commuting and weekend getaways. The E21 was also a pioneer in safety features, incorporating a rigid passenger safety cell and crumple zones designed to absorb impact energy. It was the introduction of the BMW 3 Series, with its combination of sporting aspirations, practical applications, and a refined driving experience, that laid the groundwork for the iconic nameplate's enduring success.