🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mercedes-Benz

Model:

400E

Year:

1993

Chassis Code:

W124

Engine Code:

M119

Transmission Code:

722.3

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The 1993 Mercedes-Benz 400E represented the pinnacle of the W124 chassis's luxury and performance offerings. Positioned as a high-performance executive sedan, it competed against other luxury marques in its segment, offering a blend of refined comfort, sophisticated engineering, and potent V8 power.

Competitive Analysis:

Competed with vehicles like the BMW 540i (E34), Lexus LS400, and Cadillac Sedan de Ville. The 400E distinguished itself with its robust build quality, advanced engineering (for its time), and the smooth, torquey nature of its V8 engine.

Key Features:

M119 4.2L V8 engine, 4-MATIC all-wheel drive availability (though 400E typically RWD), extensive standard luxury features, advanced safety systems (ABS), sophisticated chassis dynamics for its era.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

Engine mechanical, engine management, fuel system, lubrication, cooling, ignition, exhaust, transmission (automatic), drivetrain, chassis, suspension, steering, brakes, electrical system (wiring diagrams, components), HVAC, bodywork, interior, maintenance, troubleshooting, diagnostics, specifications, tightening torques, fluid types and capacities.

Page Count:

Thousands (estimated, typical for comprehensive service manuals)

Manual Type:

Official Factory Service Manual Software

Manual Source:

Official Factory Documentation

Language:

English

Language Options:

Primarily English, though factory manuals were also available in German, French, and other languages.

Format:

Software (Digital/Downloadable)

Format Advantage:

Instant access, searchable text, portable across devices, environmentally friendly compared to print.

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine (M119 V8), ECE (Electronic Control Unit for Engine), Fuel Injection (Bosch KE-Jetronic with Lambda control), Ignition System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Exhaust System, Transmission (4G-TRONIC 4-speed automatic), Drivetrain (Rear-Wheel Drive), Suspension (Multi-link rear, independent front), Steering (Recirculating ball), Brakes (ABS, ventilated discs front/rear), Electrical System (complete wiring schematics, component identification), Climate Control (manual/automatic HVAC), Body Control Modules, Interior Systems, Body Exterior.

Systems Covered Detail:

Includes detailed schematics for lighting, instrumentation, comfort features (power seats, windows, mirrors), central locking, and antenna systems. Engine management system diagnostic codes and troubleshooting are extensively covered.

Procedures Included:

Routine maintenance, scheduled servicing, detailed repair procedures for all major components, diagnostic procedures for common and intermittent faults, component testing and adjustment, disassembly and reassembly of engine, transmission, suspension, steering, brakes, electrical components. Includes torque specifications for all fasteners, fluid capacities, and type recommendations.

Procedures Included Detail:

Detailed instructions for engine timing adjustment, valve adjustment (if applicable for this specific M119 variant), fuel pressure testing, injector resistance checks, and ECU code retrieval (if available for the era).

Procedures Included Detail 2:

Detailed procedures for diagnosing and repairing ABS system faults, power steering system overhauls, and climate control system refrigerant charging and leak detection.

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive. Covers everything from basic fluid changes and filter replacements to full engine and transmission rebuilds, complex electrical system diagnostics, and body repair procedures. Includes detailed troubleshooting trees and diagnostic flowcharts.

Diagnostic Tools Required:

May require specialized Mercedes-Benz diagnostic tools (e.g., 'K-Tool' for older systems) in addition to standard hand tools and multimeters.

Technical Depth Detail:

Includes detailed torque specifications for cylinder head bolts, main bearing caps, connecting rod bolts, and suspension components.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

Likely PDF or proprietary software format with searchable text, indexed content, and interactive diagrams.

Searchability:

High (software typically allows for full-text search across all documents).

Navigation:

Likely includes hyperlinked table of contents and cross-references for easy navigation.

Software Features:

May include zoom functionality for diagrams, bookmarking, and print-to-PDF conversion.

Print Quality:

N/A (Digital Format) - High resolution for clarity.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

V8

Engine Displacement:

4.2 Liters (4196 cc)

Engine Code:

M119.940

Bore X Stroke:

92.0 mm x 78.9 mm

Horsepower:

278 hp @ 5700 rpm

Torque:

295 lb-ft @ 3900 rpm

Acceleration 0 60 Mph:

Approximately 6.8 - 7.5 seconds (manufacturer figures may vary).

Fuel Delivery:

Bosch KE-Jetronic Electronic Fuel Injection with Lambda Control

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ Octane)

Fuel System Detail:

Inline fuel injection with mechanical pressure regulation and electronic air flow sensing.

Engine Control Unit:

HFM (Hot Film Air Mass Meter) system, electronic ignition, diagnostic capabilities.

Ignition System:

Electronic ignition with distributorless ignition system (DIS) controlled by engine management unit.

Emission Control:

Catalytic converter, Lambda sensor (oxygen sensor), secondary air injection (on some variants).

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

4-speed Automatic

Transmission Model:

4G-TRONIC (722.3 series)

Transmission Features:

Hydraulically controlled, with multiple shift modes (e.g., Economy/Sport).

Transmission Fluid Spec:

MB 236.6 (e.g., Dexron IIE or equivalent)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

187.5 inches

Width:

70.5 inches

Height:

55.7 inches

Wheelbase:

110.2 inches

Ground Clearance:

Approximately 5.5 - 6.0 inches (unladen)

Curb Weight:

Approximately 3700-3900 lbs (depending on options)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approximately 4700-4900 lbs

Trunk Volume:

Approximately 16.0 cubic feet

Seating Capacity:

5

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Ratings:

While official crash test ratings from agencies like NHTSA/IIHS for this specific year and model may be scarce in modern databases, the W124 chassis was known for its robust safety structure, including crumple zones and a reinforced passenger cabin.

Active Safety Features:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Traction Control (ASR - optional on some models, but not standard on 400E typically).

Active Safety Features Detail:

Brake system diagnostics and component replacement procedures for front ventilated discs and rear solid discs.

Passive Safety Features:

Driver and front passenger airbags (standard), seatbelt pre-tensioners, energy-absorbing steering column, reinforced door beams, dual-pane side windows for noise reduction and safety.

Passive Safety Features Detail:

Rear seatbelt retractors, impact-absorbing bumpers, laminated windshield, shatter-resistant side windows.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Factory installed AM/FM cassette stereo system with optional CD changer. Basic climate controls with manual or automatic temperature regulation.

Infotainment Features:

Digital clock, external temperature display (optional), power antenna, and speaker diagnostics.

Infotainment System Detail:

Manual or automatic climate control with recirculate function, cabin air filter replacement procedures.

Driver Assistance Features:

ABS (Anti-lock Braking System). Traction Control (ASR) was optional on some models but less common on the 400E. Cruise control was standard.

Connectivity Features:

Limited by modern standards. Typically featured a basic antenna system for radio. No integrated Bluetooth or USB connectivity.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 7,500 to 10,000 miles or annually, depending on driving conditions and oil used (consult manual for precise recommendations).

Major Service Intervals:

Major services often occur at 30,000, 60,000, and 100,000-mile intervals, involving comprehensive inspections, fluid changes (coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid), filter replacements, and component checks.

Drive Belt Replacement:

Inspect at 30,000 miles, replace as needed or at 60,000-mile intervals. Consult manual for specific belt types.

Engine Oil Spec:

MB 229.1 compliant synthetic oil (e.g., 0W-40, 5W-40, or 10W-40 depending on climate and manufacturer recommendation).

Coolant Spec:

MB 325.0 or 326.0 compliant (Ethylene Glycol based with corrosion inhibitors).

Brake Fluid Spec:

DOT 4

Power Steering Fluid Spec:

MB 236.3 (e.g., Pentosin CHF 11S or equivalent)

Transmission Fluid Capacity:

Approximately 7.5 - 9.0 liters (16-19 US pints) for complete drain and refill, depending on torque converter fill.

Known Issues:

Wire harness degradation (especially engine wiring insulation), fuel distributor leaks, vacuum leak issues, differential seals, transmission conductor plate failures (on electronically controlled transmissions, but less common on the 4G-TRONIC), SRS warning light issues, window regulator failures, rust in common areas (wheel wells, rocker panels).

Known Issues Detail:

Coolant leaks from the thermostat housing, oil cooler seals, and water pump are common. Check for head gasket integrity on high-mileage examples.

Known Issues Detail 2:

Mass airflow sensor (MAF) contamination or failure can affect performance. Fuel accumulator issues can lead to hard starting or rough idling.

Known Issues Detail 3:

The M119 engine's timing chain tensioners can fail over time, leading to chain rattle or catastrophic engine failure. This is a critical maintenance item. The hydraulic lifters can also be noisy.

Oil Filter Pn:

OEM Part Numbers may vary, common aftermarket cross-references include Mann-Filter W102, Bosch 72107.

Air Filter Pn:

OEM Part Numbers may vary, common aftermarket cross-references include Mann-Filter C34103/1.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Mercedes-Benz has a long-standing reputation for engineering excellence, safety, and luxury vehicle manufacturing, dating back to the late 19th century. The brand is synonymous with quality and innovation in the automotive industry.

Brand Heritage Detail:

Mercedes-Benz vehicles from this era are known for their over-engineering and longevity when properly maintained.

Model Evolution:

The W124 generation (1984-1995) is renowned for its exceptional build quality and durability. The 400E variant, introduced for the 1992 model year, represented a significant performance upgrade within the E-Class lineup, incorporating the potent M119 V8 engine previously found in the 400SE/SEL (W140). This marked the first time a V8 was offered in the standard W124 sedan.

Model Evolution Detail:

The 400E was a short-lived but highly regarded model, bridging the gap between the inline-six 300E and the more powerful but less refined (for some) V8 models that followed in later E-Class generations.

Production Years 400E:

1992-1994

Manufacturing Locations:

Germany

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

The W124 chassis as a whole received numerous accolades for its engineering, durability, and design during its production run, often cited as one of the best-engineered cars of its era.