Segment:
Executive Station Wagon
Target Audience:
Owners and independent mechanics seeking detailed repair and maintenance information.
Comparison Point:
The W124 chassis is renowned for its build quality, durability, and engineering sophistication, often compared favorably to BMW's E34 generation.
Vehicle Appeal:
Exceptional ride comfort, robust construction, strong performance from the 3.0L M103 engine, and the practicality of a wagon body style.
Manual Value Proposition:
Empowers owners to maintain and repair their classic Mercedes-Benz, preserving its value and performance.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine overhaul, internal components, timing, cooling system, lubrication, emissions control.
Engine Management:
Fuel injection (Bosch KE-Jetronic), ignition system, sensors, actuators, troubleshooting.
Transmission Automatic:
4-speed automatic transmission (722.4), diagnosis, repair, fluid service.
Drivetrain:
Driveshafts, differential, rear axle assembly, wheel bearings.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, alignment specifications.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering gear, tie rods, steering column.
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), brake pads, rotors, calipers, parking brake.
Electrical System:
Battery, alternator, starter, lighting, power windows, power seats, central locking, wiring diagrams.
Body And Interior:
Body panels, doors, hood, tailgate, interior trim, seats, HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning).
Chassis And Frame:
Structural components, chassis maintenance.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, tune-ups, spark plugs, air filters.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues, fault code interpretation (where applicable).
Major Repairs:
Engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, suspension component replacement, brake system repairs.
Component Replacement:
Detailed steps for replacing virtually all major and minor components.
Diagnostic Flowcharts:
Step-by-step guides to diagnose specific problems.
Depth Level:
Expert-level detail, suitable for professional mechanics and experienced DIY enthusiasts.
Diagrams And Illustrations:
Includes detailed exploded views, schematics, and step-by-step illustrations.
Torque Specifications:
Precise torque values for all critical fasteners.
Clearances And Tolerances:
Specific engine clearances, bearing tolerances, and other critical measurements.
Displacement:
2962 cc (3.0 Liters)
Configuration:
Inline 6-cylinder, SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft)
Bore X Stroke:
88.5 mm x 80.25 mm
Horsepower:
Approximately 180-189 hp @ 5700 rpm (SAE Net, varies by market)
Torque:
Approximately 230-238 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm (SAE Net, varies by market)
Injection System:
Bosch KE-Jetronic (CIS-E Continuous Injection System with Electronic Control)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (Octane rating typically 91 RON / 87 AKI)
Fuel Pump Pressure:
Approx. 5 bar (72.5 psi)
Ignition System:
Distributorless Electronic Ignition (EZL system with integrated coil)
Transmission Type:
4-speed Automatic (722.4)
Drive Wheels:
Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD)
Transmission Type Optional:
5-speed Manual (rarely fitted to wagons)
Torque Converter Lockup:
Yes, provides improved fuel economy at cruising speeds.
Transmission Fluid:
MB Spec 236.2 or 236.6 (e.g., Mobil ATF 220, Pentosin ATF 100)
Fluid Capacity:
Approx. 7.5 - 8.5 Liters (dry fill)
Length:
Approx. 4750 mm (187 in)
Width:
Approx. 1790 mm (70.5 in)
Height:
Approx. 1480 mm (58.3 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2800 mm (110.2 in)
Cargo Volume Seats Up:
Approx. 500-600 Liters (varies by configuration)
Cargo Volume Seats Down:
Approx. 1500-1600 Liters (varies by configuration)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1600-1700 kg (3527-3748 lbs)
Gross Vehicle Weight:
Approx. 2200-2300 kg (4850-5070 lbs)
Towing Capacity:
Not typically specified for this model/market as a primary feature.
Crash Test History:
W124 chassis generally performed well for its era in independent and manufacturer testing, though formal ratings like modern NHTSA/Euro NCAP were less common.
ABS:
Standard on most E320 models in this range (Teves Mark II or Mark IV ABS).
Traction Control:
Optional (ASR - Acceleration Slip Regulation) on later models, but not standard on all 1987-1992 E320 Wagons.
Airbags:
Driver airbag became standard during this period; passenger airbag was optional.
Seatbelts:
Front and rear seatbelts, with pretensioners on front belts.
Crumple Zones:
Advanced crumple zone design for the era, contributing to occupant protection.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000-15,000 km (6,000-9,000 miles) or annually, depending on driving conditions and oil used.
Transmission Fluid Service:
Recommended every 50,000-80,000 km (30,000-50,000 miles) or every 3-4 years.
Coolant Service:
Recommended every 2-3 years or 40,000-60,000 km (25,000-37,000 miles).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approx. 60,000-100,000 km (37,000-60,000 miles) depending on plug type (e.g., platinum).
Engine Oil:
API SG or higher; SAE 5W-40 or 10W-40 recommended (check manual for climate-specific grades).
Coolant:
MB Spec 325.0 (Ethylene Glycol based, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water)
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Power Steering Fluid:
MB Spec 236.3 (e.g., Pentosin CHF 11S or equivalent)
Wiring Harness:
Degradation of the primary wiring harness insulation, particularly the engine harness, is a common issue leading to electrical faults.
Mass Air Flow Sensor:
The airflow sensor (often part of the air filter housing) can become faulty, affecting fuel mixture and performance.
Harmonic Balancer:
The rubber in the harmonic balancer can degrade, causing vibration and potential failure.
Sunroof Drain Tubes:
Clogged sunroof drain tubes can lead to water ingress into the cabin, damaging electronics and upholstery.
Climate Control System:
Issues with vacuum actuators, blower motor, or evaporator core can affect HVAC performance.
Rear Fender Rust:
Rust can develop behind the rear fender liners, especially in areas exposed to salt and moisture.
Mercedes Benz Legacy:
Mercedes-Benz has a long-standing reputation for engineering excellence, safety, and durability since its inception.
W124 Lineage:
The W124 (introduced in 1984/1985) was a successor to the W123 and was known for its robust engineering, superior ride quality, and aerodynamic design. The wagon (S124) variant added significant practicality.
E Class Designation:
The 'E' designation for E320 began to be used more prominently around 1993, but the W124 was often referred to as the 'E-Class' conceptually during its lifespan and post-facelift.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Germany, with some assembly in other global locations.
Generation Facelifts:
The W124 received significant facelifts in 1989/1990, which included updated styling (body-colored trim, revised bumpers) and some mechanical refinements.
