Positioning:
The Mercedes-Benz W124 generation is renowned for its exceptional build quality, durability, and engineering prowess, often referred to as the 'last of the over-engineered' Mercedes. The 300 TE, as a versatile estate variant, caters to families and individuals seeking practicality without compromising on luxury and performance.
Competitors:
During its production run, the 300 TE competed with other premium estate cars from manufacturers like BMW (e.g., 5 Series Touring), Audi (e.g., 100 Avant), and Volvo (e.g., 700/900 Series estate).
Manual Value Proposition:
This manual provides professional-grade, factory-accurate repair and maintenance information, empowering owners and independent mechanics to service their Mercedes-Benz 300 TE with confidence, mirroring the procedures used by authorized dealerships.
Searchability And Bookmarking:
The manual's comprehensive bookmarking and full text searchability significantly enhance usability, allowing for rapid access to specific repair procedures, diagnostic steps, and technical specifications.
Engine:
Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel injection (Bosch KE-Jetronic), ignition, exhaust, emission controls
Transmission:
Manual transmission, Automatic transmission (e.g., 4-speed 722.4, 5-speed 722.5), transfer case (if applicable to 4MATIC)
Drivetrain:
Clutch system, drive shafts, axles (front and rear), differentials
Suspension Steering:
Front suspension, rear suspension, self-leveling suspension (if equipped), steering system, ball joints, wheel bearings
Brakes:
Brake system (hydraulic, ABS if equipped), brake fluid, pads, discs, lines, hoses, parking brake
Electrical:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, wipers, washers, power windows, central locking, interior and exterior lamps, warning and indicator lamps
Body Chassis:
Body structure inspection, water leakage, corrosion, suspension and body structure inspection, door hinges, door locks, hood, sunroof, soft top mechanisms, windshield, mirrors
Climate Control:
Heating and ventilation systems, A/C refrigerant charge, dust filter, active charcoal filter, recirculating air filter
Routine Maintenance:
Engine oil and filter change, air filter replacement, fuel filter replacement, V-belt inspection and replacement, spark plug inspection and replacement, fluid level checks (coolant, brake, power steering, transmission, axle), tire pressure correction, lubrication
Engine Repair:
Valve clearance adjustment, injection timing adjustment, idle speed adjustment, cylinder head inspection, engine mounting bolt re-torquing
Transmission Repair:
Fluid and filter changes (automatic and manual), oil level checks, clutch disk wear inspection
Suspension Steering Repair:
Ball joint inspection and replacement, axle oil level checks, steering system checks, wheel bearing inspection
Brake Repair:
Brake fluid replacement, brake line inspection, parking brake adjustment, brake pad and disc inspection
Electrical Diagnostics:
Component condition inspection, warning lamp diagnosis, starter and alternator testing
Body Work:
Lubrication of hinges and locks, sunroof rail cleaning, windshield wiper blade replacement, paint damage inspection
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers routine maintenance, diagnostics, component replacement, and detailed repair procedures. Equivalent to dealership service information.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000-15,000 km (6,000-10,000 miles) or annually, depending on driving conditions and oil type. Consult specific manual section.
Transmission Fluid Change Interval:
Automatic: Typically every 60,000 km (40,000 miles) or 2-3 years. Manual: Varies, often checked during major services.
Engine Oil Spec:
API SG or higher; MB 229.1 specification recommended. Viscosity grade typically 10W-40 or 5W-40 depending on climate.
Brake Fluid Spec:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Common Problems:
Wiring harness degradation (especially insulation), head gasket leaks, valve cover gasket leaks, OM603 diesel engine head bolt issues (less common on petrol M103), rust in common W124 areas (wheel arches, jacking points, sunroof drains), over-reliance on vacuum lines, potential for head gasket failure in high-mileage or poorly maintained examples.
Parts Catalog Reference:
Manual provides detailed procedures often referencing specific tools and component part numbers indirectly through diagrams and repair steps.
Mercedes Benz Legacy:
Mercedes-Benz has a long-standing reputation for engineering excellence, safety, and durability, dating back to the invention of the automobile. The W124 series continued this tradition.
W124 Estate Introduction:
The S124 estate (often referred to as 'T-Modell' for Touring Modell) was introduced in 1985, building upon the robust engineering of the W124 sedan. It offered a spacious and practical alternative with Mercedes-Benz luxury and build quality.
Production Period:
The W124 series was produced from 1984 to 1995, with the estate variant (S124) produced from 1985 to 1996. The 300 TE model was a significant variant within this range.
