The schematics are good overall, but it did not cover later model cellular phone factory installed pre-wiring, for example. Also, the technique for removing the center console is vague (the Haynes book is better in this regard). I also noticed a photo of the dashboard was not even from a 3 series??
However, the book contains a lot of good information, which is not available elsewhere.
I recommend, it, but don't expect a factory shop manual.Yes, an E36 manual. Yes, it could be better. I've been using Bentley Manuals to fix my cars for over 20 years. I couldn't wait until this BMW E36 Bentley book finally arrived. Well, it's a big thick book with lots of pictures, but it falls short of other efforts from Bentley. Before criticizing the publisher, BMW has made service information more difficult to obtain in recent years and this may explain the lack of depth in some areas. For whatever reason, I found lots of topics where the information is just plain non-existant. There are, however, good points about this maunual. For example, the routine service required for BMW's INSPECTION 1 & 2 maintenance is well described, clear, and straightforward. This information alone justifies owning this book. Also, as with other Bentley books, the wiring diagrams are excellent and (as far as I can tell) accurate. But, where is the information about electronic engine diagnostics? How does the ventilaltion system work? Where's the engine rebuild information? How about the fuel system?
After owning the wonderful Bentley Manuals for mid 80's VW's and Audi's, this E36 book just doesn't contain the same depth of information. Many times I found local Audi dealer mechanics using the Audi Bentley manual in their shop. I doubt if you'll ever see this book used at a BMW dealer. For the E36 enthusiast, there is only one choice; you have to buy this book as there is no other that compares. But as a comparison to other works from Bentley, this one just doesn't live up to the standards set from other works.
