Electrical
For most people, the Electrical system is the scariest part of the car. All those wires, and the magical force of electricity, can be very confusing. But dry your eyes mate, we'll get you through it.
Contents
Engine
All of the main functions of the engine; the Fuel, Air and Spark, are ultimately controlled electrically.
Ignition
ECU
Main article: ECU
Charging
Main article: Charging
Loom
Main article: Loom
The loom is one enormous snake of wires, and is a one-piece unit in E30s. From the very back of the car all the way to the fuse box, it feeds every primary and ancillary circuit in the vehicle, with only a small number of plug-in extras to feed things like the OBC and cruise control.
The same loom was used in all cars for any specific year, but there are small differences between years. The biggest difference is between facelift (1987-94) and pre-facelift (82-87) cars.
Interior
Instruments
Main article: Instruments
Stereo
Main article: Audio
Exterior
Lights
Main article: Lights
Windows
Main article: Windows
Wing Mirrors
Main article: Wing Mirrors
Locks
Main article: Central Locking
Sunroof
Main article: Sunroof
While poverty-specification vehicles came with a windy handle to open and close the roof, some buyers opted for the electric alternative. Mounted in the roof and activated with a switch above the driver's head, the motor offered two functions; upward tilt and full recline.
If you have an "exercise roof", all of the wiring should be in place to fit the electric motor and switch to upgrade your sunroof.
Windscreen Wipers
Rear Demister
If you want to make your Demister switch glow like the Hazard and Wiper switches, then learn more about illuminating your demister switch.
Ancilliaries
Cruise Control
Main article: Cruise Control
Heated
The term Heated can be applied to a number of accessories on the E30. The list of heated features includes:
The main Loom provides plugs for all of these accessories in their respective locations, but there are no switches; all heated components except the Seats are activated automatically when the ignition is turned on.
If you feel the need to prepare your car for cold weather climes, then learn more about retrofitting heated washer jets.
