This comprehensive BMW 3 & 5 Series Service & Repair Manual covers models from 1981 to 1991, providing you with detailed information and instructions for maintaining and repairing your vehicle. The manual includes detailed instructions and illustrations for a wide range of procedures, from basic maintenance tasks like oil changes and tire rotations to more complex repairs involving engine, transmission, brakes, suspension, electrical systems, and bodywork. This invaluable resource provides detailed wiring diagrams, component specifications, torque values, troubleshooting tips, and step-by-step instructions for each repair procedure. Whether you're a seasoned mechanic or a DIY enthusiast, this manual offers the information you need to perform repairs confidently and effectively.

The BMW 3 Series and 5 Series models produced between 1981 and 1991 represent a pivotal era in the Bavarian automaker's history. These generations, known internally as the E21 for the 3 Series and the E12 for the 5 Series, cemented the brand's reputation for building cars that were both sporty and refined. While sharing some common underpinnings, the two models boasted distinct personalities. The 3 Series offered a compact and agile driving experience, ideal for navigating urban environments and winding roads, while the 5 Series presented a larger and more luxurious platform, perfect for long-distance cruising and comfortable family transportation.

Underneath the iconic sheet metal, these BMWs featured a range of powerful and efficient engines, from the fuel-efficient four-cylinder units to the throaty six-cylinder powerhouses. The 3 Series benefited from the introduction of the legendary M3 in 1986, a high-performance variant that set new standards for sports sedans. Meanwhile, the 5 Series offered a wide selection of trim levels and optional extras, catering to a diverse clientele. The E12 5 Series, in particular, is renowned for its timeless elegance and the smooth, powerful performance of its six-cylinder engines. These cars were not merely transportation; they were expressions of automotive artistry, embodying the very soul of the BMW brand.