Positioning:
The Mercedes-Benz 300 E 4MATIC (W124 chassis) represented the pinnacle of engineering and luxury in its segment during the late 1980s and early 1990s. It was positioned as a premium, technologically advanced, and durable sedan offering refined performance and exceptional build quality.
Competitors:
Competed with other luxury sedans of the era, including BMW 5-Series, Audi V8 Quattro, and higher-end models from Jaguar and Lexus.
Salient Features:
Permanent four-wheel drive (4MATIC), robust inline-6 engine, legendary W124 chassis durability, sophisticated build, and comfortable ride.
Coverage:
Comprehensive service, repair, and maintenance
Page Count:
Estimated 1500+ pages (typical for full workshop manuals of this era)
Manual Type:
Factory-authorized Service/Repair Manual
Format:
Digital (PDF), often searchable
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanical (M103 3.0L inline-6), fuel injection (Bosch KE-Jetronic/CIS-E), ignition, cooling, lubrication, exhaust
Transmission Systems:
4-speed automatic transmission (722.4) operation, diagnosis, and repair; 4MATIC all-wheel drive system
Drivetrain Systems:
Front and rear differentials, driveshafts, CV joints, 4MATIC system components
Suspension Steering:
Front and rear suspension components, shocks, springs, control arms, bushings, steering gear, power steering system
Brake Systems:
Hydraulic brake system, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), front and rear brake assembly, parking brake
Electrical Systems:
Complete wiring diagrams, component testing, battery, alternator, starter, lighting, fuses, relays, instrumentation, control modules
Body Chassis:
Body panels, doors, windows, locks, convertible top mechanisms (if applicable to specific sub-models not mentioned), frame structure, seals
HVAC Systems:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system diagnosis and repair
Maintenance Procedures:
Scheduled maintenance intervals, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, coolant flushes, belt replacements
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and their interpretation
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, overhaul, and rebuilding
Rebuilding Procedures:
Detailed instructions for engine, transmission, and differential rebuilding
Adjustment Procedures:
Valve adjustments, timing adjustments, idle speed adjustments
Installation Procedures:
Installation of accessories, replacement parts
Depth:
Factory-level diagnostic and repair procedures, including torque specifications, tolerances, and special tool requirements
File Format Details:
Digital PDF, typically with text search functionality for easy navigation
Print Quality:
High-resolution scans of original factory manuals, ensuring clarity of diagrams and text
Binding Type:
Not applicable for digital format; if printed, likely a robust comb or perfect binding
Paper Type:
Not applicable for digital format; original manuals used durable paper stock suitable for workshop environments
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated Inline 6-Cylinder
Displacement:
2.96 L (180.7 cu in)
Bore X Stroke:
89.9 mm x 78.6 mm (3.54 in x 3.09 in)
Valve Train:
SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft), 2 valves per cylinder
Horsepower:
188 hp @ 5700 rpm (approx.)
Torque:
195 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm (approx.)
Fuel Injection System:
Bosch KE-Jetronic (CIS-E) Electronic Fuel Injection
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Premium Gasoline (91 Octane or higher recommended)
Oil Type:
API SG, SAE 15W-40 or 10W-30 (depending on climate)
Coolant Type:
Mercedes-Benz Approved Antifreeze/Coolant (e.g., G48)
Transmission Type:
4-speed Automatic Transmission (722.4)
Optional Transmission:
None (Automatic was standard for 4MATIC models)
Drive System:
4MATIC Permanent All-Wheel Drive System
Transmission Fluid Type:
Dexron III or equivalent (MB 236.1 specification)
Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approx. 7.0 - 8.0 liters (depending on torque converter drain)
NHTSA Rating:
No specific NHTSA ratings for this era, but considered exceptionally safe for its time due to robust structure.
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Airbags:
Driver-side airbag (standard from late 1990 onwards, optional earlier)
Seatbelts:
Front seatbelt pre-tensioners
Construction:
Reinforced passenger compartment, crumple zones
Oil Change Interval:
Every 10,000 km (6,200 miles) or 12 months, whichever comes first
Air Filter Interval:
Every 30,000 km (18,600 miles) or 24 months
Fuel Filter Interval:
Every 40,000 km (24,800 miles) or 24 months
Spark Plug Interval:
Every 50,000 km (31,000 miles) or 36 months (for standard plugs)
Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 2-3 years
Transmission Service Interval:
Every 50,000-80,000 km (30,000-50,000 miles) or 4-5 years, depending on driving conditions.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 7.5 liters (7.9 US quarts)
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 10.5 liters (11.1 US quarts)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Common Problems:
Head gasket leaks, oil cooler seal leaks, distributor O-ring leaks, fuel distributor issues (KE-Jetronic), ABS sensor failures, vacuum hose deterioration, climate control panel failures, window regulator issues.
4Matic Specific Issues:
Potential wear in the transfer case and front differential, issues with the hydraulic actuation system for the 4MATIC clutch.
Heritage:
Mercedes-Benz has a long-standing reputation for engineering excellence, safety, and durability, dating back to the invention of the automobile. The W124 generation is particularly revered for its build quality and longevity.
W124 Introduction:
The W124 E-Class was introduced in 1984, and the 300 E 4MATIC variant was launched in 1987, featuring the permanent all-wheel-drive system developed in conjunction with Steyr-Puch.
W124 Facelift:
A significant facelift occurred in 1993, introducing updated styling and the new E-Class naming convention. The 1990-1993 models represent the pre-facelift styling.
Production Period:
W124 production ran from 1984 to 1995, with the 300 E 4MATIC being a key part of the lineup during its production lifespan.
