Positioning:
Entry-level luxury sedan that offered Mercedes-Benz quality and engineering at a more accessible price point.
Competitors:
BMW 3 Series (E30), Audi 80/90, Volvo 240/740, Acura Integra.
Design:
Boxy, functional design by Bruno Sacco, emphasizing safety and aerodynamics for its era.
Engineering:
Robust construction, excellent ride and handling balance, typical Mercedes-Benz build quality.
Purpose:
Essential resource for owners and technicians seeking to maintain, diagnose, and repair the 1990 Mercedes-Benz 190E.
Primary Coverage:
Service and Repair
Secondary Coverage:
Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Diagnostics, Electrical Diagrams
Type:
Service and Repair Manual Software
Format:
Software (Digital Download)
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanical, fuel injection (Bosch KE-Jetronic), ignition, cooling, lubrication, exhaust
Drivetrain Systems:
Manual and automatic transmissions, clutch, driveshafts, differential
Suspension Steering:
Front and rear suspension, steering gear, power steering system
Braking Systems:
Front and rear brakes (discs), ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), brake hydraulics
Electrical Systems:
Battery, charging system, starter, lighting, instrumentation, body electronics, wiring diagrams
Body Chassis:
Body panels, doors, windows, interior trim, chassis components
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs
Repair Overhaul:
Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, brake system repair, suspension component replacement
Diagnostics Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common and complex issues, fault code interpretation
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repairs
Depth:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds)
Engine Code:
M102 (e.g., 2.3L)
Configuration:
Inline-4 Cylinder
Displacement:
2299 cc (2.3 Liters)
Bore X Stroke:
95.5 mm x 80.25 mm
Valve Train:
SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft), 8 valves
Horsepower Net:
Approx. 118 hp @ 5200 rpm (for 2.3L model)
Torque Net:
Approx. 127 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm (for 2.3L model)
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch K-Jetronic Continuous Injection (CIS) or CIS-E (Electronic) Fuel Injection
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (87-91 Octane recommended, check specific variant)
Transmission Type:
4-Speed Manual
Transmission Type:
4-Speed Automatic (Optional, typically with torque converter lock-up)
Automatic Features:
Hydraulically controlled, with selection modes (e.g., Economy/Sport).
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron III (or equivalent MB Spec 236.1)
Automatic Transmission Capacity:
Approx. 7.0 - 8.5 Liters (depending on torque converter)
Crash Test Era:
Excellent for its time; W201 chassis was known for its structural integrity and safety focus.
ABS:
Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on some models.
Airbag:
Driver's side airbag (optional on some early models, standard on later ones including 1990 depending on market).
Seatbelts:
Pre-tensioning front seatbelts, inertia reel seatbelts.
Rollover Protection:
Reinforced A-pillars and roof structure.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 - 10,000 miles (12,000 - 15,000 km) or 12 months.
Major Service:
At 30,000 miles/km: inspect and replace various fluids, filters, spark plugs, inspect belts and hoses.
Engine Oil:
SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (API SG or higher), meeting MB-Approval 229.1 (check manual for exact specs based on climate).
Coolant:
Mercedes-Benz Coolant/Antifreeze (MB-Specification 325.0, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.5 - 5.0 Liters (with filter)
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 7.5 Liters
Wiring Harness:
Biodegradable insulation on engine wiring harnesses can degrade, causing electrical faults. The manual details inspection and replacement procedures.
Fuel System:
K-Jetronic system can develop leaks (fuel distributors, accumulators, injectors). The manual provides diagnostic steps.
Suspension:
Front lower ball joints and rear subframe mounts can wear. Manual covers inspection and replacement.
Cooling System:
Coolant leaks from hoses, radiator, or expansion tank are common due to age. Manual guides for replacement.
Heritage Focus:
Mercedes-Benz reputation for build quality, durability, and engineering excellence.
Introduction:
The 190 (W201) was introduced in 1982 as Mercedes-Benz's first compact executive car, aiming to capture a new, younger demographic.
Facelift:
The 190E received a significant facelift for the 1988 model year, introducing revised bumpers, side mouldings, and improved interior features, which carried into 1990.
Production Years:
1982-1993
Manufacturing Location:
Bremen, Germany (primary)
