Segment:
Full-size luxury sedan, representing the pinnacle of Mercedes-Benz engineering for its era.
Competitors:
BMW 7 Series, Lexus LS 400, Jaguar XJ, Audi V8 Quattro.
Luxury:
Emphasis on comfort, refinement, advanced technology, and build quality.
Engine:
Powerful and smooth 4.0-liter V8 engine.
Engineering:
Sophisticated engineering, advanced safety features, and high-quality materials.
Engine Mechanical:
Complete overhaul, component testing, troubleshooting for the M119 V8 engine.
Engine Management:
Engine Control Unit (ECU) diagnostics, sensor data, fuel injection strategy, ignition timing, emission control systems.
Transmission:
4-speed automatic transmission (722.3xx series) overhaul, adjustments, hydraulic control, troubleshooting.
Drivetrain:
Driveshaft, differential, axle shafts, wheel bearings, removal and installation procedures.
Suspension:
Front independent suspension, rear multi-link suspension, springs, shock absorbers, control arms, bushings, alignment specifications.
Steering:
Hydraulic power steering system, steering gear, steering column, linkages, troubleshooting.
Brakes:
Hydraulic brake system, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), brake calipers, rotors, pads, master cylinder, bleeding procedures, hydraulic component testing.
Electrical System:
12-volt electrical system, battery, alternator, starter, lighting, wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, power distribution.
Body And Chassis:
Body construction, panel replacement, door mechanisms, window regulators, sealing, chassis component repair.
Climate Control:
Automatic climate control system, A/C compressor, refrigerant, HVAC blower, temperature sensors, actuators, troubleshooting.
Interior Trim:
Seat removal and installation, dashboard removal, interior paneling, console components.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance intervals, fluid changes (oil, coolant, transmission fluid, brake fluid), filter replacements, tune-up procedures.
Troubleshooting:
System-specific diagnostic flowcharts, common fault identification, symptom-based repair guidance.
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, overhaul, repair, and reinstallation.
Diagnostics:
Procedures for using diagnostic tools, reading error codes, testing electrical components, checking sensor readings.
Adjustments:
Valve adjustments, parking brake adjustments, headlight aiming, transmission shifting point adjustments.
Depth:
Comprehensive coverage from basic maintenance to in-depth engine and transmission overhauls, including electrical schematics and diagnostic procedures.
Engine Type:
4.0-liter V8, SOHC (later DOHC variants in other models)
Displacement:
3996 cc (243.8 cubic inches)
Horsepower:
Approx. 278 hp @ 5700 rpm (DIN)
Torque:
Approx. 390 Nm (288 lb-ft) @ 3900 rpm (DIN)
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch KE-Jetronic fuel injection with Electronic Control Unit (ECU) and Lambda sensor.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (Premium Octane)
Coolant Type:
Mercedes-Benz approved ethylene glycol-based coolant (e.g., MB 325.0 specification)
Crash Test Information:
Specific NHTSA/Euro NCAP ratings for 1992 are not readily available in a standardized format; however, Mercedes-Benz vehicles of this era were engineered to very high safety standards.
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS).
Traction Control:
Optional Acceleration Skid Control (ASR).
Airbags:
Driver's side airbag standard.
Body Structure:
Reinforced safety cell, crumple zones.
Seatbelts:
Pre-tensioning front seatbelts.
Audio System:
Bose sound system (optional), cassette player, AM/FM radio.
Navigation:
Early navigation systems were available as options on later W140 models, but unlikely standard or prevalent on the 1992 400SE.
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control.
Parking Assist:
Parktronic parking assist was introduced on later W140 models, not standard on 1992 400SE.
Telematics:
No integrated telematics or smartphone connectivity typical of modern vehicles.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 10,000-15,000 km (6,000-9,000 miles) or 12 months, depending on driving conditions (refer to manual for exact interval).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Recommended every 50,000-80,000 km (30,000-50,000 miles).
Engine Oil:
SAE 15W-40 or 10W-40 (API SJ or equivalent) - consult manual for precise MB specification (e.g., MB 229.1 specification is for later models, but similar quality oils are required).
Coolant:
Mercedes-Benz specified ethylene glycol coolant (MB 325.0).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 Low Viscosity (LV) hydraulic brake fluid.
Wiring Harness:
Biodegradable insulation on certain wiring harnesses can degrade over time, leading to electrical issues. Manual will detail troubleshooting for these.
Hydropneumatic Suspension:
While not standard on the 400SE, the S-Class had complex hydraulic systems that could develop leaks or component failures. Manual will cover standard suspension.
Door Panels:
Vacuum-actuated central locking and door closing systems can develop leaks, affecting function. Manual will cover diagnosis.
Engine Mounts:
Hydraulic engine mounts can fail over time, leading to increased vibration. Manual will cover replacement procedures.
