🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mercedes-Benz

Model:

W116

Model Variants:

280 S, 280 SE, 300 SD, 450 SE, 450 SEL

Generation Code:

First Generation

Generation Years:

1972-1980

Chassis Code:

W116

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

Represents Mercedes-Benz's flagship luxury sedan of its era, known for build quality and advanced engineering.

Competitors:

BMW E23 7 Series, Jaguar XJ, Cadillac Fleetwood, Lincoln Continental.

Design Philosophy:

Emphasis on safety, comfort, and robust engineering.

Manual Value Proposition:

Empowers owners to perform DIY repairs, saving significant costs on dealership maintenance and repairs.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Comprehensive service and repair for Mercedes-Benz W116 models.

Secondary Coverage:

Includes all models, engines, and transmission types within the specified years.

Estimated Page Count:

Extensive (exact count not specified, but implied to be comprehensive, likely 1000+ pages for complete coverage).

Type:

Workshop Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Delivery Format:

Digital Download (PDF)

Compatibility:

PC, MAC, Tablets, Smartphones (requires Adobe Reader).

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine mechanicals, fuel system, cooling system, exhaust system, ignition system.

Drivetrain:

Automatic and manual transmissions, driveshafts, differentials, axles.

Chassis:

Suspension (front and rear), steering system, braking system (hydraulic, ABS if applicable), wheels and tires.

Electrical:

Wiring diagrams, lighting system, ignition system, starting and charging system, instrumentation, accessories, fuses and relays.

Body:

Body exterior, interior trim, doors, windows, seats, climate control system, body sealing.

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, lubrication, fluid checks and changes, filter replacements.

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, fault finding procedures.

Repair:

Detailed step-by-step repair procedures for all major components and systems.

Overhaul:

Complete engine and transmission rebuild procedures, component disassembly and reassembly.

Technical Data:

Specifications, tolerances, torque values, diagnostic trouble codes (if applicable).

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Likely searchable text if the PDF is well-OCR'd.

Printability:

High-quality, printable pages allowing for individual chapter or full manual printing.

Binding:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Quality:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

280 S/Se Engine:

M110: 2.8L (2746cc) DOHC Inline-6.

300 Sd Engine:

OM617: 3.0L (2998cc) SOHC Inline-5 Turbodiesel.

450 Se/Sel Engine:

M117: 4.5L (4520cc) SOHC V8.

280 Se Horsepower:

Approx. 185 PS (182 hp / 136 kW).

300 Sd Horsepower:

Approx. 125 PS (123 hp / 92 kW).

450 Se Horsepower:

Approx. 230 PS (227 hp / 170 kW).

280 S/Se Fuel System:

Bosch D-Jetronic (electronic fuel injection) for SE, Solex carburetors for S.

300 Sd Fuel System:

Bosch inline injection pump, mechanical injection.

450 Se/Sel Fuel System:

Bosch D-Jetronic (electronic fuel injection).

🔧 Transmission

280 S:

4-speed manual transmission.

280 Se/Sel:

3-speed automatic transmission (722.1).

300 Sd:

3-speed automatic transmission (722.1).

450 Se/Sel:

3-speed automatic transmission (722.1), with later models sometimes featuring a 4-speed (722.3).

Automatic Transmission Type:

Hydraulic torque converter automatic.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase Se Sel:

2850 mm (112.2 in) for SE, 3035 mm (119.5 in) for SEL.

Length Se:

Approx. 4960 mm (195.3 in).

Curb Weight Range:

Approx. 1700-2000 kg (3750-4400 lbs) depending on engine and options.

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Focus:

Designed with significant emphasis on passive safety for its era.

Braking System:

Hydraulic disc brakes on all wheels, vacuum-assisted, optional ABS from 1978.

Body Structure:

Crumple zones, reinforced passenger cell, safety steering column.

Interior:

Padded dashboard, energy-absorbing surfaces, safety belts (front and rear).

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM radio, optional cassette player.

Cruise Control:

Optional cruise control system available on many models.

Climate Control:

Manual or optional automatic climate control (Thermatic/Thermotronic).

Headlights:

Halogen headlights, power headlight aim adjustment.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 10,000-15,000 km (6,000-10,000 miles) with quality oil.

Transmission Fluid Change:

Recommended every 50,000-80,000 km (30,000-50,000 miles) for automatic transmissions.

Engine Oil Specification:

API SG or higher; viscosity 15W-40 or 10W-40 depending on climate (e.g., MB 227.1).

Coolant Specification:

Mercedes-Benz approved antifreeze/coolant (e.g., G48) or equivalent mixture.

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Dexron III or equivalent (refer to manual for specific MB approval).

Common Problems:

Rust (especially around wheel arches, sills, and window frames), fuel distributor issues (D-Jetronic), vacuum line leaks, aging rubber components (hoses, mounts), K-Jetronic fuel distributor issues on later models. Diesel models can have glow plug system issues.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Legacy:

Mercedes-Benz's reputation for engineering excellence, durability, and luxury.

Predecessor:

W108/W109 S-Class models.

Successor:

W126 S-Class models.

Production Years:

1972-1980.

Manufacturing Location:

Germany.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Industry Perception:

Widely regarded as one of the most robust and well-built sedans of its time, setting benchmarks for safety and comfort.

Reliability Reputation:

High, with proper maintenance, these vehicles are known for longevity.