Positioning:
The Mercedes-Benz W124 series represented a pinnacle of engineering and build quality in its era, offering robust performance, luxurious comfort, and exceptional durability. This specific manual targets owners and technicians seeking to maintain and repair the highly regarded 300TE Wagon variant with the powerful 3.2L M104 engine.
Competitors:
Competed against other luxury marque wagons such as the BMW E34 Touring, Audi V8 Avant, Volvo 940/960 Estate, and upscale offerings from American manufacturers. The W124 was often lauded for its over-engineered construction and driving dynamics.
Vehicle Strengths:
Exceptional build quality, refined ride, powerful and smooth M104 inline-six engine, practical wagon versatility, advanced safety features for its time (e.g., ABS, optional airbags), excellent long-term durability.
Value:
Provides direct access to factory-level repair and maintenance information, enabling cost-effective ownership and ensuring correct service procedures are followed, thereby preserving the vehicle's longevity and performance.
Powertrain:
Engine (M104.980), Fuel System, Ignition System, Exhaust System, Transmission (722.4 Automatic)
Chassis:
Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering, Brakes (ABS), Drivetrain (RWD)
Electrical:
Starting System, Charging System, Lighting, Instruments, Wiring Diagrams, Fuses, Relays, Climate Control, Power Accessories
Body:
Exterior Body Panels, Interior Trim, Doors, Windows, Seats, Sunroof, Hatch, Convertible Top (if applicable to model variant)
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance, Fluid Changes, Filter Replacements, Lubrication Points
Repair:
Component Removal & Installation, Engine Rebuild, Transmission Overhaul, Brake Service, Suspension Component Replacement, Electrical Component Troubleshooting & Repair
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting Guides, Symptom-Based Diagnosis, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Component Testing Procedures
Specifications:
Torque Specifications, Tolerances, Alignment Specs, Electrical Values
Depth:
Comprehensive - from basic adjustments to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed electrical schematics and diagnostic procedures.
Searchability:
Text-searchable PDF
Quality:
High-resolution scans, legible text and diagrams
Binding:
Not Applicable (Digital Download)
Paper:
Not Applicable (Digital Download)
Coverage Scope:
Full factory service manual covering all aspects of repair, maintenance, troubleshooting, and technical specifications for the specified model.
Engine Type:
Inline 6-Cylinder, DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft)
Displacement:
3.2 Liters (3199 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
89.9 mm x 84.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.0:1
Horsepower:
217 hp @ 5500 rpm (approx.)
Torque:
228 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (approx.)
Induction:
Bosch Motronic Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane or higher recommended)
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 9.0 Liters (9.5 US Quarts)
Oil Capacity With Filter:
Approx. 7.5 Liters (8.0 US Quarts)
Recommended Oil Viscosity:
SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (depending on climate, consult manual for specifics)
Type:
4-Speed Automatic Transmission (722.4)
Availability:
No manual transmission option for this specific model/year in North America.
Features:
Lock-up torque converter, Selectable modes (Economy/Sport - depending on vehicle configuration)
Fluid Type:
MB Approved Automatic Transmission Fluid (e.g., MB 236.3 or equivalent specification)
Capacity:
Approx. 7.0 Liters (7.4 US Quarts) for a dry fill, fluid level checked with engine running warm in Park.
Length:
Approx. 4740 mm (186.6 in)
Width:
Approx. 1740 mm (68.5 in)
Height:
Approx. 1440 mm (56.7 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2800 mm (110.2 in)
Seating Capacity:
5-7 passengers (depending on optional rear-facing third-row seat)
Cargo Volume Seats Up:
Approx. 560 Liters (19.8 cu ft)
Cargo Volume Seats Down:
Approx. 1600 Liters (56.5 cu ft)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1600 kg (3527 lbs)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approx. 2150 kg (4740 lbs)
Crash Test Data:
While specific NHTSA/IIHS ratings for this exact model year/configuration may be limited, the W124 chassis was renowned for its robust safety structure and advanced passive safety features for its era, including a significantly reinforced passenger cell.
Braking System:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) standard on this model.
Traction Control:
ASR (Anti-Slip Regulation) may be optional or standard depending on specific market and final build configuration.
Airbags:
Driver's airbag standard; passenger airbag optional depending on market and trim.
Seat Belts:
Three-point inertia-reel seat belts for all seating positions, front seat belt height adjustment.
Structural Integrity:
Designed with advanced crumple zones and high-strength steel for passenger protection.
Audio System:
Original Becker or Blaupunkt AM/FM Cassette radio with optional CD changer. Later models may have updated head units. Speaker quality generally good for the era.
Climate Control:
Automatic Climate Control (ACC) often standard or optional, featuring sophisticated temperature and air distribution management via vacuum actuators and electronic controls.
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control.
Original Options:
Pre-wiring for a cellular phone may be present in some models.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 7,500-10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (synthetic oil recommended). Consult manual for exact interval based on driving conditions.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles or as needed based on inspection.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically every 30,000-60,000 miles, depending on plug type (e.g., platinum or iridium).
Transmission Fluid Service:
Recommended every 30,000-50,000 miles, though debated by some enthusiasts. Crucial for longevity.
Engine Oil:
API certified, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 synthetic recommended (check manual for specific MB approval numbers).
Coolant:
Mercedes-Benz approved (MB 325.0) ethylene glycol based coolant (typically 50/50 mix with distilled water).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 (check manual for specific approval, recommended to change every 2 years).
Power Steering Fluid:
MB Approved power steering fluid (e.g., Pentosin CHF 11S or equivalent).
Engine Component Wear:
Potential for head gasket leaks (though less common on M104 than M119), timing chain stretch (rare), and oil leaks from seals (e.g., valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket) due to age.
Electrical System Quirks:
Age-related degradation of wiring insulation (specifically the fabric loom on some components), failing vacuum lines affecting climate control and engine performance, occasional issues with central locking or power windows.
Suspension And Chassis:
Wear in bushings (control arms, sway bars), potential failure of self-leveling rear suspension (if equipped with hydraulic system), brake rotor warping.
Fuel System Maintenance:
Clogged fuel injectors, degradation of fuel lines over time.
Mercedes Benz Legacy:
Mercedes-Benz has a long-standing reputation for building durable, high-quality, and technologically advanced vehicles, with a particular emphasis on safety and engineering excellence.
W124 Development:
The W124 (launched in 1984) was developed as the successor to the W123. It was designed with a focus on aerodynamics, fuel efficiency, and improved ride comfort and handling. The wagon (S124) variant was introduced later, offering exceptional practicality.
W124 Facelifts:
This 1993-1995 model falls into the second facelift of the W124 series, which introduced significant styling updates including integrated bumpers, redesigned exterior trim, and updated interior features. The 3.2L M104 engine replaced the earlier 3.0L variants in many markets for the 1993 model year.
Production Years:
W124 Sedan/Coupe/Convertible: 1984-1995; W124 Wagon (S124): 1987-1996. This manual covers the final years of W124 wagon production.
Manufacturing Location:
Primarily Germany (e.g., Sindelfingen plant)
