The 1997 Mercedes-Benz S500, chassis code W140, represents a pinnacle of full-size luxury sedan engineering from the 1990s. This model, powered by the robust M119.970 5.0-liter V8 engine producing 315 horsepower and 347 lb-ft of torque, was designed for discerning drivers seeking unparalleled comfort, refinement, and advanced technology for its era. Known for its imposing presence and meticulous build quality, the S500 competed directly with other premium marques like the BMW 7 Series, Lexus LS, and Audi A8, often lauded for its superior refinement and solid construction. Its sophisticated features, including standard ABS and ASR, and optional side airbags, underscored a commitment to safety and innovation.
This comprehensive service and repair manual provides detailed information for all 1997 Mercedes-Benz S500 models. It covers a wide array of critical systems, including in-depth procedures for the M119.970 V8 engine, the 4G-TRONIC automatic transmission, and the complex electrical system with comprehensive wiring diagrams. Additionally, the manual details maintenance and repair for the self-leveling suspension, braking systems, climate control, and bodywork. With over 1000 pages of content, this English-language manual serves as an invaluable resource for owners, mechanics, and technicians, offering step-by-step instructions, troubleshooting guides, and technical specifications essential for maintaining and repairing this sophisticated luxury vehicle.
Vehicle Class:
Full-size luxury sedan.
Competitors:
BMW 7 Series, Lexus LS, Audi A8.
Design Era:
Represents the peak of 1990s Mercedes-Benz engineering and luxury.
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides cost-effective access to professional-level repair information for owners and independent shops.
Applicable Models:
All 1997 Mercedes-Benz S500 Models
Estimated Page Count:
>1000 pages
Type:
Service and Repair Manual
Digital Format:
PDF (Multiple Sections)
Engine:
Detailed repair and overhaul procedures for the M119.970 V8 engine.
Transmission:
Service and repair of the 4G-TRONIC (722.6) 5-speed automatic transmission.
Electrical System:
Comprehensive wiring diagrams, component testing, troubleshooting for all electrical systems.
Suspension And Steering:
Repair and maintenance for the self-leveling suspension (SLS) and hydraulic power steering.
Braking System:
Service procedures for ABS, ASR, and ventilated disc brakes.
Climate Control:
Diagnosis and repair of automatic climate control systems (THERMATIC/THERMOTRONIC).
Bodywork And Interior:
Panel removal/installation, interior trim, power accessories (windows, seats, sunroof).
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance tasks, fluid changes, filter replacements.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts and common fault analysis for various systems.
Repair:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, disassembly, repair, and reassembly.
Installation:
Procedures for installing new or replacement parts and components.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance to advanced engine and transmission overhauls.
Readability:
Viewable and printable using Adobe Acrobat Reader.
Printable Pages:
Allows users to print specific pages as needed.
Binding:
Digital (Non-applicable for printed format).
Paper Type:
Digital (Non-applicable for printed format).
Engine Type:
V8, SOHC (later DOHC, but M119.970 is DOHC)
Displacement:
4973 cc (5.0 Liters)
Bore X Stroke:
96.5 mm x 85.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.0:1
Horsepower:
315 hp @ 5600 rpm
Torque:
347 lb-ft @ 3900 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch LH-Jetronic Fuel Injection
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Premium Gasoline (91 Octane or higher)
Type:
4-speed automatic (4G-TRONIC)
Gear Ratios:
Specific ratios available in manual for all gears.
Transmission Fluid Type:
MB 236.1 (e.g., Mobil ATF 220, Shell ATF 3403 M-115)
Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approximately 8.0 liters (dry fill) / 5.5 liters (drain and fill).
Length:
5163 mm (203.3 in)
Height:
1468 mm (57.8 in)
Wheelbase:
3140 mm (123.6 in)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1940 kg (4277 lbs)
NHTSA Front Impact:
Not directly rated by NHTSA under modern standards, but known for robust construction.
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS).
Asr:
Standard Acceleration Slip Regulation (ASR).
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags. Side airbags were optional.
Seatbelts:
Pre-tensioning front seat belts.
Head Unit:
Factory AM/FM Cassette/CD player with optional navigation.
Speaker System:
Premium sound system, often Bose.
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control.
Parking Assistance:
Optional parking assist sensors (early versions).
OBD Ii:
OBD-II compliant system for diagnostic port (post-1996 models).
Oil Change Interval:
Every 10,000 miles or 1 year, whichever comes first (check manual for specific details based on driving conditions).
Transmission Service Interval:
Every 40,000 - 60,000 miles, including filter and fluid change (refer to manual).
Engine Oil Specification:
MB 229.1 (e.g., Castrol Syntec 5W-40, Mobil 1 0W-40 - check manual for exact spec for the M119.970).
Coolant Specification:
MB 325.0 (Antifreeze/Coolant).
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 4.
Common W140 Issues:
Headlight switch failure, sagging headliner, vacuum system leaks (door locks, central locking), coolant leaks from plastic components, ignition coil failure, window regulator issues, SBC pump failure (on later models, not typically W140).
Manual Assistance For Issues:
Manual provides troubleshooting guides for electrical, vacuum, and mechanical issues, aiding in diagnosis of common problems.
Mercedes Benz Legacy:
Known for engineering excellence, safety, and luxury since the early 20th century.
W140 Generation:
This generation (W140) was produced from 1991-1998, known for its imposing size and advanced technology for its era.
Manufacturing Location:
Germany
Auto Motor Und Sport Comparison:
Frequently lauded in comparison tests for its build quality and refinement against contemporaries, though often criticized for weight and cost.
