This comprehensive service and repair manual covers all models and repairs for the BMW 5-series (E12) produced in 1976. It provides the same detailed information used by technicians at BMW dealerships to maintain, service, diagnose, and repair your vehicle.

You'll find complete step-by-step instructions, diagrams, illustrations, wiring schematics, and specifications for every aspect of your vehicle. This manual makes it easy to perform repairs yourself, saving you time and money.

The manual includes detailed information on a wide range of topics, including:

* **Maintenance:** Routine maintenance procedures, schedules, and tips for keeping your car in top condition.
* **Engine:** Covers all aspects of the engine, including troubleshooting, repair, and rebuild procedures.
* **Control System:** Explains the operation and troubleshooting of the engine control system.
* **Mechanical:** Detailed information on all mechanical components, including the transmission, suspension, brakes, and steering.
* **Fuel Service Specifications:** Provides specifications for fuel systems, including fuel lines, pumps, injectors, and filters.
* **Emission Control:** Covers the emission control system and includes procedures for diagnosing and repairing emissions-related issues.
* **Intake Exhaust Cooling:** Detailed information on the intake, exhaust, and cooling systems.
* **Lube:** Explains lubrication systems, including oil changes, filter replacements, and specifications for various fluids.
* **Ignition Starting Charging:** Covers the ignition, starting, and charging systems in detail.
* **Auto Transmission Clutch:** Provides information on automatic transmissions, including troubleshooting and repair procedures.
* **Manual Transmission:** Covers manual transmissions, including repair and adjustment procedures.
* **Transfer Propeller Shaft:** Explains the operation and maintenance of the transfer case and propeller shaft.
* **Drive Shaft:** Details about the drive shaft, including inspection, repair, and replacement procedures.
* **Differential:** Information on differentials, including troubleshooting and repair procedures.
* **Axle Suspension:** Covers the axle and suspension, including inspection, repair, and adjustment procedures.
* **Tire & Wheel:** Provides information on tires, wheels, and wheel alignment.
* **Brake Control:** Explanations of the brake control system, including ABS and electronic brake force distribution (EBD).
* **Brake:** Detailed coverage of the brake system, including troubleshooting and repair procedures.
* **Parking Brake:** Information on the parking brake, including adjustment and repair procedures.
* **Steering Column:** Covers the steering column, including inspection and repair procedures.
* **Power Steering:** Explains the power steering system, including troubleshooting and repair procedures.
* **Air Condition:** Details about the air conditioning system, including troubleshooting and repair procedures.
* **Suppl Restraint System:** Information on the supplemental restraint system (SRS), including airbags and seatbelt pretensioners.
* **Seat Belt:** Covers seatbelts, including inspection and replacement procedures.
* **Engine Immobilizer:** Explanations of the engine immobilizer system and how to troubleshoot related issues.
* **Cruise Control:** Provides information on cruise control, including troubleshooting and repair procedures.
* **Wiper & Washer:** Details about the windshield wiper and washer systems, including troubleshooting and repair procedures.
* **Door Lock:** Information on door locks, including repair and adjustment procedures.
* **Meter Audio/Visual:** Covers the instrument panel gauges and audio/visual systems.
* **Horn:** Explains the horn system, including troubleshooting and repair procedures.
* **Windshield/Glass Mirror:** Information on windshield and mirror replacement.
* **Instrument Panel:** Covers the instrument panel, including repair and replacement procedures.
* **Seat:** Details about the seats, including adjustment and repair procedures.
* **Engine Hood/ Door:** Covers the engine hood and doors, including repair and replacement procedures.
* **Exterior & Interior:** Explanations of the exterior and interior features and components.
* **Electrical:** Detailed coverage of the electrical system, including wiring diagrams and troubleshooting guides.
* **Multiplex/ Can Communication:** Explains the multiplex/CAN communication system used in the vehicle.

This manual provides you with the information you need to take on any repair job, large or small, with confidence. It allows you to gain a deeper understanding of your vehicle and its systems, empowering you to perform maintenance and repairs yourself.

The BMW 5-Series (E12) is a landmark car in the history of BMW, marking the debut of the model line that would become synonymous with luxury performance sedans. Introduced in 1972, the first-generation 5-Series (E12) replaced the aging BMW New Six and aimed to offer a more refined and driver-focused experience compared to its predecessor. The E12 was built on a new, lighter platform and featured a range of powerful and efficient inline-six engines, ranging from the 1.8-liter 518 to the iconic 3.0-liter M535i. The E12's sleek and elegant design, penned by Paul Bracq, was a departure from the more angular styling of previous BMW models, and it instantly established the 5-Series as a stylish and sophisticated car.

The E12 was lauded for its excellent handling and driving dynamics, thanks in part to its advanced suspension design and precise steering. It also featured a comfortable and well-appointed interior, with high-quality materials and a focus on driver ergonomics. The E12's success cemented BMW's reputation as a manufacturer of high-performance luxury vehicles, laying the foundation for the 5-Series' enduring legacy. It remained in production until 1981, with over 690,000 units built, and its influence is still felt in the design and philosophy of the modern 5-Series today. The E12's legacy is not only defined by its driving experience and enduring popularity, but also by its role in shaping the future of BMW, establishing the 5-Series as a benchmark for performance and luxury in the automotive world.