Target Audience:
DIY enthusiasts, independent repair shops, and Mercedes-Benz owners seeking to perform their own maintenance and repairs.
Value Proposition:
Offers significant cost savings by enabling owners to perform repairs themselves, avoiding high dealership labor rates. Provides detailed, professional-grade information.
Ease Of Use:
Described as 'very easy to follow step-by-step instructions' and 'easy layout format'. User-friendly for individuals with basic computer literacy.
Delivery Method:
Instant download upon payment, with no shipping costs or delays. Emphasizes immediate access to repair information.
General Coverage:
All models and engine types for the stated years (1990-1995)
Specific Systems Coverage:
Engine mechanical, engine management, fuel system, exhaust system, transmission (manual and automatic), drivetrain, steering, suspension, brakes (front and rear), climate control, electrical system, bodywork, interior, safety systems.
Estimated Page Count:
Likely extensive, typical for professional service manuals covering multiple models and systems. Precise number not provided, but described as 'full professional quality in depth'.
Type:
Service Repair Shop Manual
Engine Systems:
Engine overhaul, cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, timing systems, lubrication, cooling system, fuel injection (Bosch KE-Jetronic, HFM, etc.), ignition system, emission control.
Drivetrain Systems:
Clutch, manual transmission overhaul, automatic transmission (e.g., 4G-TRONIC, 5G-TRONIC) overhaul and diagnostics, driveshafts, differentials, axles.
Chassis Systems:
Suspension component replacement (shocks, springs, control arms), steering gear and pump, brake system (ABS, hydraulic components, pads, rotors), wheel alignment specifications.
Electrical Systems:
Complete wiring diagrams, starter, alternator, battery, lighting, fuses, relays, instrument cluster, power accessories (windows, seats), diagnostic connectors.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil and filter changes, air filter replacement, spark plug replacement, fuel filter replacement, coolant flush, brake fluid flush, differential fluid change.
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and adjustment for all major vehicle systems.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts and symptom-based troubleshooting for common and complex issues across all systems.
Diagnostics:
Engine management system diagnostics, fault code interpretation (where applicable), electrical system testing.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from routine maintenance to major mechanical overhauls and complex electrical diagnostics. Includes detailed illustrations and diagrams.
Compatibility:
Compatible with PC, MAC, Tablets, and Smartphones. PDF format allows for viewing on various devices.
Searchability:
PDF format generally allows for text searching if the PDF is text-based, enhancing usability.
Quality:
Professional quality, described as having 'pictures & Wiring diagrams'.
Binding:
Not applicable (Digital Download)
Paper:
Not applicable (Digital Download)
Engine Types Covered:
Includes various 4-cylinder and 6-cylinder gasoline engines (e.g., M102, M103, M104) and diesel engines (e.g., OM601, OM602, OM603) commonly found in W124 models from 1990-1995.
Power Output Range:
Varies significantly by engine. Gasoline engines typically range from approximately 109 hp (2.0L) to 220 hp (3.0L-3.2L AMG models). Diesel engines typically range from 75 hp (2.0L diesel) to 130 hp (3.0L turbo diesel).
Torque Output Range:
Varies significantly by engine. Gasoline engines typically range from approximately 170 Nm (2.0L) to 300+ Nm (3.2L AMG). Diesel engines typically range from 150 Nm (2.0L diesel) to 280+ Nm (3.0L turbo diesel).
Injection Systems:
Covers Bosch KE-Jetronic (mechanical-electronic fuel injection), Bosch HFM (fully electronic engine management), and diesel injection pumps (e.g., Bosch inline pumps).
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (octane ratings as specified by Mercedes-Benz) and diesel fuel.
Transmission Types Covered:
Both manual transmissions (4-speed and 5-speed) and automatic transmissions (e.g., 722.4 4-speed, 722.5 5-speed, 722.6 5-speed with electronic control in later models).
Drive Options:
Rear-wheel drive (RWD) is standard. All-wheel drive (4MATIC) was an option on some W124 models during this period.
Automatic Transmission Control:
Coverage extends to hydraulic and early electronic control systems for automatic transmissions, including diagnosis and adjustment procedures.
Body Styles:
Sedan (W124.020, .021, .022, .023, .024, .025, .026, .028, .030, .032, .034, .036), Coupe (C124.040, .042, .043, .052, .053), Convertible (A124.060, .061, .066), Estate (S124.080, .082, .083, .088, .090, .092).
Curb Weight Range:
Typically ranges from approximately 1300 kg for smaller gasoline sedans to over 1700 kg for diesel estates and AMG variants.
Historical Safety Performance:
The W124 platform was known for its robust safety structure. While specific formal crash test ratings for this era are less standardized than today, it performed well in contemporary evaluations and was built to high safety standards for its time.
Braking Systems:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was a common feature, with detailed repair and bleeding procedures provided.
Airbags:
Driver's side airbag became standard on most models during this period. Passenger airbags were optional on some later models. Manual covers their operation and replacement.
Seatbelts:
Front seatbelt pre-tensioners were often included. Manual details their function and servicing.
Audio Systems:
Factory-fitted options included various Becker radio/cassette units, with CD changers becoming available on later models. Manual will cover wiring and basic troubleshooting for these systems.
Climate Control:
Manual and automatic climate control (Thermatic/Thermotronic) systems are covered, including diagnosis and repair of blowers, refrigerant circuits, and control units.
ABS System:
Detailed diagnostics, component testing (wheel speed sensors, hydraulic unit, control module), and bleeding procedures for the Anti-lock Braking System.
Central Locking:
Vacuum-operated central locking system is a common feature, with repair procedures for pumps, actuators, and lines detailed. Manual will cover troubleshooting of common leaks.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000-15,000 km or 12 months, whichever comes first, depending on driving conditions and engine oil specification. Manual will provide precise intervals.
Major Service Intervals:
Includes spark plug replacement (e.g., 30,000-60,000 km), fuel filter replacement (e.g., 40,000-60,000 km), coolant replacement (e.g., every 2 years or 60,000 km), brake fluid flush (e.g., every 2 years). Manual will detail specific schedules.
Engine Oil:
Requires specific viscosity grades (e.g., 0W-40, 5W-40, 10W-40, 5W-30 for some diesel variants) and approvals (e.g., MB-Approval 229.1, 229.3, 229.5). Manual will list precise MB-Approved oils.
Transmission Fluid:
Automatic transmissions require specific ATF fluids (e.g., MB 236.x specifications). Manual transmissions use specific gear oils (e.g., MB 235.x specifications). Manual will list exact types and capacities.
Coolant:
Requires a specific blend of antifreeze and distilled water, typically a silicate-free or low-silicate coolant meeting MB-Approval 325.0 or 326.0. Manual will detail the correct mixture ratio and MB approval.
Common W124 Problems:
Wire harness degradation (especially insulation on older models), vacuum line leaks affecting central locking and engine idle, head gasket issues (on certain engine variants), rust in common areas (wheel arches, rocker panels), OVP relay failures (on some fuel-injected models), sagging headliner, worn suspension bushings, fuel distributor issues on KE-Jetronic.
Mercedes Benz Legacy:
The W124 represents a pinnacle of Mercedes-Benz engineering from the late 80s and early 90s, known for its build quality, durability, and sophisticated design. It continued the brand's reputation for luxury, safety, and longevity.
W124 Development:
Introduced in 1984, the W124 underwent significant updates and facelifts throughout its production. The 1990-1995 period covers the later 'facelift' models, which introduced updated styling, improved aerodynamics, more advanced engines, and enhanced safety features like airbags and ABS becoming more widespread.
Production Period For Covered Years:
1990-1995
Reputation For Durability:
The W124 is widely recognized in automotive circles as one of Mercedes-Benz's most over-engineered and durable models, often referred to as the 'last of the true tanks'.
Consumer Reports Legacy:
Consistently received high marks from automotive publications and consumer reports for reliability, build quality, and comfort during its production run.
