When you buy through the buttons on this page, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Learn more >

BMW 5-Series (E12, 1973-1981) repair manuals

Find the best BMW 5-Series (E12, 1973-1981) repair manuals here. Detailed step-by-step guides for easy DIY service and repairs on BMW cars. Clear instructions for maintenance, troubleshooting, and parts replacement.

BMW Coupes and Sedans (1970-1988) | Chilton Repair Manual

Chilton Repair Manual for maintenance and repair of BMW passenger cars from the years 1970-1988.

Series: E3, E9, E10, E12, E21, E23, E24, E28, E30.

Types:
- 1600, 2000, 2002, 2500, 2800, 3000, 3.0
- 318, 320, 325, M3 / 525, 528, 530, 533, 535, M5
- 630, 633, 635, 733, 735
- L6, L7 and M6.

This Chilton manual for a wide range of North-American BMW passenger cars from the 1970s and 80s covers maintenance and repair of the gasoline engines (timing gear, camshaft, inlet and outlet valves, cylinder head, crankshaft, lubricating system, and gaskets).
It also addresses cooling, air conditioning, fuel system, exhaust, and the electrical system. Additionally, it describes work on other components, such as the clutch, transmission (only removal and installation), front and rear axles, springs and shock absorbers, the steering system, brakes and body.

  • Covers both U.S. and Canadian models.
  • Includes technical specifications, adjustment data, torque wrench settings, and wiring diagrams.
  • Tables for troubleshooting and identification of models and engines.

Product details

Details:720 pages, 28 x 21 x 2.7 cm / 11 x 8.25 x 1.06 in, paperback
Illustrations:numerous photos and drawings
Publisher:Chilton Automotive Books (USA, 1996)
Series:Chilton Auto Repair Manual (18300)
ISBN:9780801987892

More information on the Chilton Repair Manuals

Cover repair manual BMW Coupes and Sedans (1970-1988)

BMW Coupes and Sedans (1970-1988)

Language: English

Buy on Amazon.com
Buy on Amazon UK
Buy on Amazon Canada

Fast shipping, easy returns

BMW 5 & 6 Series (E12, E24, E28, E34) - Restoration Tips & Techniques

Brooklands restoration manual for the BMW 5 and 6-Series models from the years 1972-1995 (Series E12, E24, E28 and E34), including the Alpina, M5 and M6.
Gives also purchase tips and information about the model history and identification.

  • This manual describes the complete restoration of the BMW E12, E24, E28 and E34 models: body (including the replacement of bonnet, fenders, windows, doors and bumpers), interior (seat cover, dashboard and door panels), engine (removal and installation, overhaul), chassis (clutch, gearbox, suspension, brakes, steering), electrical installation (lamps, dynamo, starter motor, windscreen wipers).
  • Richly illustrated and clear step-by-step instructions.
  • Also troubleshooting tables and overview with specifications on a year-by-year basis.

Product details

Author:Andrew Everett
Details:236 pages, 27 x 19.5 x 1.5 cm / 10.6 x 7.7 x 0.59 in, paperback
Illustrations:numerous b&w and colour photos
Publisher:Brooklands Books (GB, 2012)
ISBN:9781855209626
Cover repair manual BMW 5 & 6 Series (E12, E24, E28, E34) - Restoration Tips & Techniques

BMW 5 & 6 Series (E12, E24, E28, E34) - Restoration Tips & Techniques

Language: English

Buy on Amazon.com
Buy on Amazon UK
Buy on Amazon Canada

Fast shipping, easy returns

BMW 525, 528 & 528i (E12) (1973 - Sept 1981) | Haynes Owners Workshop Manual

Haynes Classic Repair Manual for the BMW 525, 528 and 528i (E12 Series).

Petrol engines: 2494 and 2788 cc (M30).

Production years: 1973-09/1981.

Exclusions: This manual does not cover the redesigned 5-Series introduced in October 1981.

This Haynes manual for the BMW 525, 528 and 528i (Series E12) describes service and repair of the petrol engines (timing gear, belts, valves, camshaft, cylinder head, oil pump, seals and radiator).
It also includes procedures for the heater, fuel system, exhaust, starting and charging system. Additionally, it describes work on the clutch, gearbox, driveshafts, braking system, suspension, steering gear, body, interior, and electrical system.

  • Step-by-step instructions with hundreds of detailed photos guide you through every job.
  • Based on a complete vehicle strip-down and rebuild.
  • Includes a maintenance schedule, technical specifications, torque wrench settings, and troubleshooting tables.
  • Clear and detailed wiring diagrams.

Product details

Details:270 pages, 27 x 21 cm / 10.6 x 8.25 in, paperback
Illustrations:numerous photos and drawings
Publisher:Haynes Publishing (GB, 1987)
Series:Haynes Owners Workshop Manual (0632)
ISBN:9781850104308

More information on the Haynes Classic Manuals

Cover repair manual BMW 525, 528 & 528i (E12) (1973 - Sept 1981)

BMW 525, 528 & 528i (E12) (1973 - Sept 1981)

Language: English

Buy on Amazon.com
Buy on Amazon UK
Buy on Amazon Canada

Fast shipping, easy returns

BMW 518, 520 & 520i (E12) (1973-1981) | Autobooks Owners Workshop Manual

Autobooks repair manual for the BMW 518 (1975-1981), 520 (1973-1981) and 520i (1973-1977).

This Autobooks Manual for the BMW 5-Series (E12) passenger cars provides comprehensive step-by-step instructions for work on the engine, fuel system, ignition and cooling.
Covers also the clutch, gearbox, rear axle, front and rear suspension, steering gear, brakes, the electrical system and the body.

  • Includes tables with detailed service data and torque specifications.
  • Complete with wiring diagrams.

Product details

Author:Autobooks
Details:206 pages, 23.5 x 19 x 1.2 cm / 9.25 x 7.5 x 0.47 in, paperback
Illustrations:numerous photos, drawings and exploded views
Publisher:Veloce Press (USA, 2009)
Series:Autobooks Owners Workshop Manual
ISBN:9781588500892

More information on the Autobooks Workshop Manuals

Cover repair manual BMW 518, 520 & 520i (E12) (1973-1981)

BMW 518, 520 & 520i (E12) (1973-1981)

Language: English

Buy on Amazon.com
Buy on Amazon UK
Buy on Amazon Canada

Fast shipping, easy returns

BMW 525, 528 - 6 Zylinder (ab 8/1973) | Bucheli Reparaturanleitung

Bucheli Reparaturanleitung for service and repair of the BMW 525, 525 A, 528, 528 A and 528i (Series E12).

Petrol engines: 6 cylinders.

Production years: since 8/1973.

Pages of the book [0352] BMW 525, 528 - 6 Zylinder (ab 8/1973) (1)

This Bucheli repair manual for the BMW 525 and 528 provides detailed instructions for work on the 6-cylinder petrol engines (removal - refitting, crankshaft, connecting rods, pistons, distribution, valves, oil pump, cooling, fuel system).
Covers also the clutch, gearbox (only removal and installation), driveshafts, steering system, front and rear suspension, brakes, electrical system and the exhaust.

  • Includes comprehensive technical data and torque wrench settings.
  • Clear wiring diagrams.

Product details

Details:166 pages, 28 x 21 cm / 11 x 8.25 in, paperback
Illustrations:numerous photos and drawings
Publisher:Bucheli Verlag (CH, 2012)
Series:Bucheli Reparaturanleitung (352-353)
ISBN:9783716814369

More information on the Bucheli repair manuals

Cover repair manual BMW 525, 528 - 6 Zylinder (ab 8/1973)

BMW 525, 528 - 6 Zylinder (ab 8/1973)

Language: German

Buy on Amazon.com
Buy on Amazon UK
Buy on Amazon Canada

Fast shipping, easy returns

BMW 5er (E12 und E28) - Benziner und Diesel (9/1972-8/1987) | So wird's gemacht

Workshop manual from the German Series So wird's gemacht (nr. 68) for the BMW 5-Series (E12 and E28), petrol and diesel.

Petrol engines:
Type E12 (09/1972-07/1981)
518:
- 1.8 L (66 kW/ 90 hp, 06/74-07/81)
520:
- 2.0 L (85 kW/115 hp, 09/72-08/77)
520/6:
- 2.0 L (90 kW/122 hp, 08/77-07/81)
.520i:
- 2.0 L (92 kW/125 hp, 08/75-07/77)
- 2.0 L (96 kW/130 hp, 09/72-07/75)
525:
- 2.5 L (106 kW/145 hp, 09/73-07/76)
- 2.5 L (110 kW/150 hp, 08/76-07/81)
528:
- 2.8 L (121 kW/165 hp, 01/75-07/76)
- 2.8 L (125 kW/170 hp, 08/76-08/77)
.528i:
- 2.8 L (130 kW/177 hp, 08/77-08/78)
- 2.8 L (135 kW/184 hp, 09/78-07/81)

Type E28 (07/1981-08/1987)
518:
- 1.8 L (66 kW/ 90 hp, 07/81-08/84)
.518i:
- 1.8 L (77 kW/105 hp, 09/84-08/87)
.520i:
- 2.0 L (92 kW/125 hp, 07/81-08/87)
- 2.0 L Kat (95 kW/129 hp, 12/85-08/87)
.525i:
- 2.5 L (110 kW/150 hp, 07/81-08/87)
525E:
- 2.7 L (95 kW/129 hp, 03/83-08/87)
- 2.7 L Kat (95 kW/129 hp, 12/85-08/87)
.528i:
- 2.8 L (136 kW/184 hp, 07/81-08/87)
.535i:
- 3.5 L Kat (136 kW/185 hp, 09/84-08/87)
- 3.5 L (160 kW/218 hp, 09/84-08/87)

Diesel engines:
524D:
- 2.4 L (63 kW/ 86 hp, 09/85-08/87)
524Td:
- 2.4 L (85 kW/115 hp, 09/83-08/87)

Production years: 9/1972-8/1987.

The initial section of this manual for the BMW 5-Series (E12 and E28) covers inspection and daily maintenance of the petrol and diesel engines, transmission, brakes, steering and body (including the electrical system, windscreen wipers, lighting and heating or air conditioning).

Furthermore, this book provides detailed guidance on the following components:
- Suspension (replacement of driveshafts, springs and shock absorbers), steering (ball joints) and brakes (discs, brake linings and handbrake).
- Electrical system (battery, voltage regulator and starter motor).
- Dismantling and assembly of the engine cylinder head and cam drive, including replacement of the v-belt and the timing belt or chain.
- The lubricating system with the oil pump.
- The cooling system (replacement of radiator, thermostat and cooling fan).
- The fuel system (air filter, fuel pump and fuel filter) and exhaust (replacement of mufflers).
- Interior: removal and refitting of the dashboard, instrument panel, consoles, interior trim and seats.
- Body: dismantling and assembly of bumpers, fenders, bonnet, tailgate, doors, window mechanisms, locks and mirrors.

  • Extensive technical specifications, adjustment data and torque wrench settings.
  • Clear wiring diagrams of the main circuits.

Product details

Author:Rüdiger Etzold
Details:296 pages, 26 x 19.5 cm / 10.25 x 7.7 in, paperback
Illustrations:600 photos and drawings
Publisher:Delius Klasing Verlag GmbH (D, 2014)
Series:So wird's gemacht (68)
ISBN:9783768806664

More information on the series So wird's gemacht

Cover repair manual BMW 5er (E12 und E28) - Benziner und Diesel (9/1972-8/1987)

BMW 5er (E12 und E28) - Benziner und Diesel (9/1972-8/1987)

Language: German

Buy on Amazon.com
Buy on Amazon UK
Buy on Amazon Canada

Fast shipping, easy returns

BMW 520, 525, 528, 528i (E12) - Sechszylinder (bis 5/1981) | Jetzt helfe ich mir selbst

Repair manual from the Series "Jetzt helfe ich mir selbst" (nr. 77, reprint) for the BMW 520, 525, 528 and 528i (Series E12).

Petrol engines: 6 cylinders.

Production years: until 5/1981.

Pages of the book [JH 077] BMW 520, 525, 528, 528i (E12) (bis 5/1981) (1)

  • This repair manual for the BMW 520, 525, 528 and 528i describes maintenance and repair of the 6-cylinder petrol engines: the lubricating system, cooling, fuel system, filters and exhaust.
  • Covers also the clutch and transmission, the suspension, the steering system, the servo unit and the brakes, the electrical system (including windscreen wipers and lighting), the interior and the body.
  • This manual contains also adjustment data and a maintenance schedule.

Product details

Author:Dieter Korp
Details:232 pages, 22 x 15.5 cm / 8.7 x 6.1 in, paperback
Illustrations:numerous photos and drawings
Publisher:Motorbuch Verlag (D, 1989)
Series:Jetzt helfe ich mir selbst (77)
ISBN:9783879436637

More information on the series Jetzt helfe ich mir selbst

Cover repair manual BMW 520, 525, 528, 528i (E12) - Sechszylinder (bis 5/1981)

BMW 520, 525, 528, 528i (E12) - Sechszylinder (bis 5/1981)

Language: German

Buy on Amazon.com
Buy on Amazon UK
Buy on Amazon Canada

Fast shipping, easy returns

BMW 518, 520, 520i (E12) - Vierzylinder | Jetzt helfe ich mir selbst

Repair manual from the Series "Jetzt helfe ich mir selbst" (nr. 66, reprint) for the BMW 518, 520 and 520i (Series E12).

Petrol engines: 4 cylinders.

  • This repair manual for the BMW 518, 520 and 520i describes maintenance and repair of the 4-cylinder petrol engines: the lubricating system, cooling, fuel system, filters and exhaust.
  • Covers also the clutch and transmission, the suspension, the steering system, the servo unit and the brakes, the electrical system (including windscreen wipers and lighting), the interior and the body.
  • This manual contains also adjustment data and a maintenance schedule.

Product details

Author:Dieter Korp
Details:232 pages, 22 x 15.5 cm / 8.7 x 6.1 in, paperback
Illustrations:numerous photos and drawings
Publisher:Motorbuch Verlag (D, 1979)
Series:Jetzt helfe ich mir selbst (66)
ISBN:9783879435494

More information on the series Jetzt helfe ich mir selbst

Cover repair manual BMW 518, 520, 520i (E12) - Vierzylinder

BMW 518, 520, 520i (E12) - Vierzylinder

Language: German

Buy on Amazon.com
Buy on Amazon UK
Buy on Amazon Canada

Fast shipping, easy returns

BMW 518, 520 - 4 Zylinder (ab 9/1972) | Bucheli Reparaturanleitung

Bucheli Reparaturanleitung for service and repair of the BMW 518, 520, 520 An and 520i (Series E12).

Petrol engines: 4 cylinders.

Production years: since 9/1972.

Pages of the book [0348] BMW 518, 520 (E12) - 4 Zyl (ab 9/1972) (1)

This Bucheli repair manual for the BMW 518 and 520 provides detailed instructions for work on the 4-cylinder petrol engines (removal - refitting, crankshaft, connecting rods, pistons, distribution, valves, oil pump, cooling, fuel system).
Covers also the clutch, gearbox (only removal and installation), driveshafts, steering system, front and rear suspension, brakes, electrical system and the exhaust.

  • Includes comprehensive technical data and torque wrench settings.
  • Clear wiring diagrams.

Product details

Details:152 pages, 28 x 21 cm / 11 x 8.25 in, paperback
Illustrations:numerous photos and drawings
Publisher:Bucheli Verlag (CH, 2013)
Series:Bucheli Reparaturanleitung (348-349)
ISBN:9783716814345

More information on the Bucheli repair manuals

Cover repair manual BMW 518, 520 - 4 Zylinder (ab 9/1972)

BMW 518, 520 - 4 Zylinder (ab 9/1972)

Language: German

Buy on Amazon.com
Buy on Amazon UK
Buy on Amazon Canada

Fast shipping, easy returns

< >

Related titles:

BMW 3- & 5-Series (sohc) (83-91/81-91)

BMW 3-Series - Petrol (E30, 1981-1991) & 5-Series - Petrol (E28 and E34, 1983-Apr 1991)

English | paperback | 256 p. | 2013

BMW 520i & 525e (E28) (10/81-6/88)

BMW 520i & 525e (E28) (Oct 81 - June 1988)

English | hardback | 299 p. | 1991

BMW 5 & 6 Series Restoration Tips & Techniques

BMW 5 & 6 Series (E12, E24, E28, E34) - Restoration Tips & Techniques

Andrew Everett | English | paperback | 236 p. | 2012

[0820] BMW 520-525-528-M535 - 6-Zyl (ab 6/81)

BMW 520i, 525i, 525e, 528i, M535i (E28) - 6-Zylinder (ab 6/1981)

German | paperback | 169 p. | 2012

[JH 135] BMW 520i-528i (E28) (9/1981-12/1987)

BMW 520i, 525e, 525i, 528i (E28) (9/1981-12/1987)

Dieter Korp | German | paperback | 270 p. | 2004

[SW 068] BMW 5er (E12 und E28) (9/1972-8/1987)

BMW 5er (E12 und E28) - Benziner und Diesel (9/1972-8/1987)

Rüdiger Etzold | German | paperback | 296 p. | 2014

[1003] BMW 5er-Reihe (E28) - 6 Zyl (ab 9/1981)

BMW 5er-Reihe (E28) - 520i, 525i, 525e, 528i, M 535i - Sechszylinder (ab 9/1981)

German | paperback | 137 p. | 2012

[0812] BMW 518, 518i (E28) - 4 Zyl (6/1981-1986)

BMW 518, 518i (E28) - 4 Zylinder (6/1981-1986)

German | paperback | 158 p. | 2016


The TMB Bookshop presents not only technical books on BMW . Click here to discover all books on BMW (including make histories, type overviews, books about certain models, road test collections, etc.).

Years: 1973 1974 1975 1976 1977 1978 1979 1980 1981


Last update: 05/04/2025