Positioning:
The Mercedes-Benz 190 (W201) was positioned as the brand's entry-level luxury compact sedan, introducing a new segment for Mercedes-Benz and significantly impacting its global sales and brand perception. It aimed to offer Mercedes-Benz quality and engineering to a broader market.
Competitors:
Competed with vehicles like the BMW 3 Series (E30), Audi 80/90, Volvo 240, and to some extent, premium variants of American and Japanese sedans of the era. It was lauded for its build quality, driving dynamics, and innovative engineering, often exceeding its rivals in these areas.
Vehicle Features:
Known for its monocoque construction, independent multi-link rear suspension (a Mercedes-Benz first for a mass-produced car), refined interior, and robust engineering. It established a reputation for durability and longevity.
Primary Focus:
Service and Repair
Detailed Systems:
Engine, Transmission, Brakes, Electrical System, Suspension, Steering, Cooling System, Fuel Injection, Fuel System, Emission System, HVAC, Chassis, Body, Restraint System, Interior, Differential, Axle
Estimated Pages:
High (Specific count not provided, but described as 'complete factory service repair manual')
Type:
Factory Service Repair Manual
Language:
English (Assumed from product description)
Format:
Physical Book (Implied by 'this book' and 'printed')
Engine Service Repair:
Comprehensive engine diagnostics, repair procedures, component overhaul, and specifications.
Transmission Service Repair:
Coverage of both manual and automatic transmission service, repair, and troubleshooting.
Brake System:
Detailed information on hydraulic systems, anti-lock braking systems (if applicable for the years), component replacement, and bleeding procedures.
Electrical System:
Extensive coverage of the vehicle's electrical architecture, including wiring diagrams, component testing, and troubleshooting.
Suspension Steering:
Information on front and rear suspension components, alignment specifications, steering system repair, and power steering.
Cooling Fuel Emission Systems:
Detailed procedures for cooling system maintenance and repair, fuel injection system diagnosis and service, and emission control system components and testing.
HVAC Chassis Body Restraint:
Coverage of heater and air conditioning system service, chassis and body repair, and safety restraint systems (e.g., seatbelts).
General Maintenance:
Routine checks, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication, and scheduled maintenance tasks.
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic procedures for identifying and resolving common and uncommon vehicle issues.
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and adjustment for all major vehicle systems.
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed electrical schematics for accurate diagnosis and repair of the vehicle's electrical components.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering all aspects from basic maintenance to advanced diagnostics and component overhaul, mirroring factory specifications.
Engine Variants Covered:
The manual likely covers a range of gasoline and diesel engines offered in the 190 model during these years, including: M102 (e.g., 2.3L, 2.6L), OM601 (e.g., 190D 2.2L), OM602 (e.g., 190D 2.5L), and potentially M103 (2.6L) in later models within this range. Specific engine codes and displacements would be detailed within the manual.
Typical Performance Range:
Horsepower typically ranged from approximately 70-90 hp for diesel models and 110-170 hp for gasoline models, depending on the specific engine and market. Torque figures would also be provided.
Fuel Injection Systems:
The manual would detail various fuel delivery systems, including Bosch K-Jetronic (CIS) mechanical fuel injection on many gasoline models and likely Bosch VE or similar diesel injection pumps for diesel variants.
Standard Transmission:
Typically a 4-speed or 5-speed manual transmission was standard on many models.
Optional Transmission:
A 4-speed or later 5-speed automatic transmission was a common option.
Transmission Features:
The manual would cover transmission fluid types and capacities, clutch service (for manual), torque converter inspection (for automatic), and gearbox repair procedures.
Overall Length:
Approximately 4,420 mm (174.0 in)
Overall Width:
Approximately 1,690 mm (66.5 in)
Wheelbase:
Approximately 2,670 mm (105.1 in)
Curb Weight Range:
Approximately 1,200-1,400 kg (2,645-3,086 lbs) depending on engine and equipment.
Safety Standards:
While formal crash test ratings in the modern sense were less prevalent during this era, the 190 was engineered with Mercedes-Benz's strong emphasis on passive safety, featuring a robust safety cell, crumple zones, and high-quality materials.
Active Safety Features:
Features like power-assisted steering and the highly effective independent rear suspension contributed to active safety through improved vehicle control. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) became available as an option during these years on some models.
Passive Safety Features:
Reinforced passenger compartment, energy-absorbing steering column, dual-circuit hydraulic brakes, and seatbelt systems.
Infotainment Features:
Basic for the era, likely featuring an AM/FM radio, possibly with cassette player. Higher trims might have multi-speaker systems. The manual would cover basic radio operation and speaker replacement.
Driver Assistance Systems:
Limited by modern standards. Availability of features like cruise control (Tempomat), power windows, and ABS (as mentioned) would be covered.
Connectivity Features:
N/A (No integrated connectivity or Bluetooth systems for this era).
Typical Maintenance Schedule:
The manual would detail intervals for oil and filter changes (e.g., every 7,500-10,000 miles or annually), air filter replacement, spark plug replacement, brake fluid flush, coolant flush, and comprehensive vehicle inspections. Specific intervals would be engine and model-dependent.
Engine Oil Specifications:
Likely specifies API SF or SG rated oils, with viscosity grades such as 10W-40 or 15W-40 depending on ambient temperature. Mercedes-Benz approved oils would also be listed.
Coolant Specifications:
A specific Mercedes-Benz coolant concentrate or a compatible ethylene glycol-based antifreeze mixed with distilled water in a 50/50 ratio. The manual would specify the correct type and capacity.
Transmission Fluid Specifications:
For automatic transmissions, typically would specify an ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid) meeting MB 236.1 or similar specifications. Manual transmissions would require specific gear oil, the type and viscosity (e.g., 75W-90) would be detailed.
Common Wear Items And Issues:
The manual would guide on addressing common wear items for this era, such as distributor O-rings, vacuum hoses (prone to cracking), fuel distributor seals (K-Jetronic), engine mounts, rear axle bushings, and potential rust on certain body panels. Troubleshooting sections would cover these.
Manufacturer Legacy:
Mercedes-Benz has a long-standing reputation for engineering excellence, safety, durability, and luxury, dating back to the invention of the automobile.
190 Series Introduction:
The 190 (W201) was a groundbreaking model for Mercedes-Benz, launched in 1982. It represented the company's first foray into the compact executive sedan market, designed to be more accessible than the larger E-Class (W123/W124) and S-Class (W126) models. It was developed with significant investment and aimed to set new standards in its class.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily manufactured in Germany, with some production later occurring in other global facilities.
