Target Audience:
Mercedes-Benz W126 SEC owners, independent repair shops, DIY enthusiasts
Advantage:
Vehicle-specific, factory-authorized content, comprehensive A-Z coverage
Convenience:
All-in-one PDF, printable pages, no greasy pages
Information Richness:
Step-by-step instructions, diagrams, illustrations, wiring schematics, specifications
Engine:
Yes, comprehensive engine service, diagnostics, and repair
Control System:
Yes, detailed coverage
Mechanical:
Yes, extensive mechanical procedures
Fuel System:
Yes, including service specifications
Automatic Transmission:
Yes
Drivetrain:
Yes, including transfer, propeller shaft, drive shaft, differential, axle
Brake System:
Yes, including control and parking brake
Steering System:
Yes, including column and power steering
Climate Control:
Yes, including Air Conditioning
Restraint Systems:
Yes, including Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) and Seat Belts
Security Systems:
Yes, including Engine Immobilizer
Interior Electronics:
Yes, including Meter, Audio/Visual, Horn, Instrument Panel
Glass Mirrors:
Yes, including Windshield/Glass Mirror
Body:
Yes, including Engine Hood/Door, Exterior & Interior
Electrical System:
Yes, comprehensive electrical schematics
Multiplex Communication:
Yes, including CAN Communication (if applicable to later models in the range)
Maintenance:
Yes, routine maintenance procedures
Diagnostics:
Yes, troubleshooting and diagnostic steps
Repair:
Yes, step-by-step repair instructions for all systems
Troubleshooting:
Yes, detailed troubleshooting guides
Wiring Schematics:
Yes, comprehensive wiring diagrams included
Depth:
Vehicle Specific - Factory Detailed
Accuracy:
Exact same manual used by dealership technicians
Compatibility:
Windows (Vista 32/64, XP, ME, 98, NT, 2000) and Mac
Requirements:
Adobe PDF Reader, Winzip (free online)
Printability:
Yes, all pages printable
Image Scaling:
Yes, ability to blow up images for enlarged copies
Binding Type:
Digital (PDF) - no physical binding
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital File)
Engine Family:
Mercedes-Benz M116/M117 V8 (various displacements)
Fuel System:
Bosch K-Jetronic (CIS) Fuel Injection (likely for most models in this range)
Typical Displacement:
3.8L, 4.2L, 5.0L, 5.6L (depending on specific SEC model)
Horsepower Range:
Approx. 180-270 hp (varies by engine and year)
Torque Range:
Approx. 220-320 lb-ft (varies by engine and year)
Transmission Type:
4-speed Automatic (e.g., 4G-TRONIC)
Manual Transmission Availability:
Extremely rare or not offered on SEC models
Automatic Features:
Selectable modes (e.g., Comfort/Sport) on some later models
Safety Ratings Era:
Modern safety standards for its time, including robust body structure
Airbags:
Driver airbag became standard later in the production run
Seat Belts:
3-point inertia-reel seat belts
Crumple Zones:
Yes, front and rear crumple zones
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available/standard on later models
Audio System:
Factory radio/cassette player, often with premium sound options
Instrumentation:
Classic analog gauges, trip computer on some models
Cruise Control:
Standard or optional depending on model year
Connectivity Features:
Limited by era; no modern Bluetooth or USB integration
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000-10,000 miles or annually, depending on usage and oil type.
Major Service Interval:
Varies, but comprehensive checks at 30,000, 60,000, etc., often including spark plugs, filters, and fluid flushes.
Engine Oil:
API SG or higher, viscosity typically 10W-40 or 15W-40 (refer to manual for specific year/engine)
Transmission Fluid:
MB 236.1 (ATF Dexron II)
Coolant:
Mercedes-Benz G48 (Blue) or equivalent Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze
Common Wear Items:
Fuel pressure regulator, vacuum lines, blower motor resistor, window regulators, ignition components
Wiring Harnesses:
Insulation degradation on older wiring harnesses can lead to electrical issues
K Jetronic:
K-Jetronic system can require meticulous tuning and maintenance for optimal performance
Brand Legacy:
Mercedes-Benz renowned for engineering, luxury, and durability
W126 Introduction:
The W126 chassis (S-Class sedan) was introduced in 1979, with the C126 SEC coupe variant following shortly after.
Sec Positioning:
The SEC represented the pinnacle of Mercedes-Benz coupe design and engineering, offering luxurious and powerful grand touring capabilities.
Production Period:
1981-1991 (for C126 SEC)
Manufacturing Location:
Germany