This comprehensive service and repair manual for the BMW 5-series (E12) model year 1979 provides detailed instructions and illustrations for all aspects of maintenance, service, diagnosis, and repair. It covers all models and all repair procedures, ensuring you have the exact same information used by technicians at authorized dealerships.

The manual includes step-by-step instructions, diagrams, illustrations, wiring schematics, and specifications to guide you through any repair with ease. You'll find information on everything from basic maintenance tasks to complex engine repairs, covering a wide range of systems including:

* **Engine:** Detailed coverage of engine components, including fuel service specifications, emission control, intake and exhaust systems, cooling, lubrication, ignition, starting, and charging.
* **Transmission:** Instructions for both automatic and manual transmissions, including clutches, transfer cases, propeller shafts, drive shafts, differentials, and axles.
* **Suspension:** Details on suspension components such as tires & wheels, brakes (including parking brake), steering column, power steering, and suspension systems.
* **Body & Interior:** Information on components like air conditioning, supplemental restraint system, seat belts, engine immobilizer, cruise control, wipers & washers, door locks, meters & audio/visual systems, horn, windshield & glass, mirrors, instrument panel, seats, engine hood and doors, exterior and interior, and electrical systems, including multiplex and CAN communication.

This manual is compatible with various operating systems, including Windows and Mac, ensuring accessibility for a wide range of users. You can print the pages you need, allowing you to take the relevant information directly to your vehicle or workshop, making it convenient to reference while working on repairs. This manual is a valuable resource for any BMW 5-series (E12) owner who wants to perform their own maintenance and repairs, saving you time and money in the long run.

The BMW 5-Series (E12) was the first generation of the 5 Series line, a mid-size executive car produced by BMW from 1972 to 1981. It replaced the BMW "Neue Klasse" sedans, and was a major step forward for BMW, establishing the 5 Series as a successful and enduring model line. The E12 was designed by Paul Bracq, who was known for his work on the iconic BMW 2002 and 3.0 CSL. It featured a distinctive, boxy design with a long hood, a sloping roofline, and a short rear deck.

The E12 5-Series was offered with a range of four- and six-cylinder engines, including the powerful 3.0 L inline-six found in the 530i. It was renowned for its precise handling, responsive steering, and powerful engines, which was a hallmark of BMW's brand DNA. It also featured a sophisticated suspension system, with MacPherson struts at the front and a semi-trailing arm rear suspension. The E12 quickly gained a reputation for its robust build quality, and it quickly became a popular choice for drivers who wanted a sporty, yet comfortable and practical car. The E12's success paved the way for the future of the 5 Series, which has continued to be a highly regarded and popular model line for decades.