🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mercedes-Benz

Model:

190

Chassis Code:

W201

Generation Designation:

First Generation

Body Style:

Compact Executive Sedan

👋 Introduction

Market Segment:

Compact Executive Sedan, entry-level luxury

Key Competitors Era:

BMW 3 Series (E30), Audi 80/90, Volvo 240/740, Saab 900

Vehicle Philosophy:

Introduced Mercedes-Benz quality and engineering into a more accessible price bracket; known for robust build, safety, and driving dynamics.

📋 Manual Details

Model Years Covered:

1984, 1985, 1986, 1987, 1988

Model Variants Covered:

All models, engines, trim levels, and transmission types

Engine Variants Covered:

Inline-4 Petrol (2.0L, 2.3L), Inline-6 Petrol (2.6L), Inline-4 Diesel (2.2L, 2.5L).

Transmission Variants Covered:

Manual (4 & 5 speed), Automatic (4 & 5 speed).

Estimated Page Count:

Likely several hundred pages (typical for a complete workshop manual)

Manual Type:

Complete Workshop Repair Manual / Service Manual

Language:

English (assumed based on product description)

Delivery Format:

Downloadable Digital File (PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Systems:

Engine overhaul, fuel injection, ignition, cooling, lubrication, emissions control

Drivetrain Systems:

Clutch, transmission (manual and automatic), driveline components, rear axle

Suspension Steering Brakes:

Front and rear suspension, steering system components, brake system (hydraulic, disc/drum), ABS (if equipped)

Electrical Systems:

Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrumentation, warning systems, audio system, wiring diagrams

Body Chassis Climate:

Body and frame, interior trim, exterior body panels, climate control system

Chassis Frame And Mounting:

Body structure, mounting points for suspension and drivetrain, chassis components

Exhaust System:

Exhaust manifold, catalytic converter (if applicable), mufflers, pipes, mounting hardware

Fuel System:

Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel lines, fuel filter, injection system (detailed)

Steering System:

Steering wheel, steering column, steering gear, power steering pump and system

Instrumentation And Warnings Systems:

Dashboard instruments, gauges, warning lights, sensors, warning buzzers

Battery And Charging Systems:

Battery types, charging system components (alternator, regulator), wiring

Lighting System:

Headlights, taillights, turn signals, interior lighting, bulb types and replacement

Electrical Distribution:

Fuse box, relays, wiring harnesses, electrical connectors

Wiring Diagrams:

Detailed, system-specific wiring schematics

Maintenance Procedures:

Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, spark plug service

Repair Procedures:

Step-by-step repair instructions for all major components and systems

Overhaul Procedures:

Complete engine and transmission overhaul procedures

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic procedures and common issue resolution guides

Installation Procedures:

Installation guides for major components and accessories

Adjustment Procedures:

Adjustment procedures for brakes, clutch, idle speed, ignition timing, etc.

Lubrication Specifications:

Grease points, lubrication types, and intervals

Troubleshooting Electrical:

Detailed steps for diagnosing electrical faults using wiring diagrams and testing procedures.

Depth Of Coverage:

Comprehensive, professional quality, in-depth coverage suitable for dealership-level service

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

PDF (Adobe Reader compatible)

Printability:

Printable (single pages, chapters, or entire manual)

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options 1984-1988:

Primarily M102 inline-four petrol engines (e.g., 190E 2.3, 190E 2.6 with inline-six) and OM601 inline-four diesel engines (e.g., 190D 2.2, 190D 2.5).

Engine Code Example Petrol:

M102.980 (2.3L 8v)

Engine Code Example Diesel:

OM601.912 (2.2L Diesel)

Typical Horsepower Range:

Petrol: 115-145 hp (approx.), Diesel: 70-95 hp (approx.)

Torque Specifications Range:

Approx. 190-220 Nm (140-162 lb-ft) for petrol variants.

Fuel Delivery:

Bosch K-Jetronic mechanical fuel injection (petrol models), Bosch inline injection pumps (diesel models)

🔧 Transmission

Standard Gearbox:

4-speed or 5-speed manual transmission

Optional Gearbox:

4-speed or 5-speed automatic transmission (e.g., 722.4, 722.5)

Transmission Features:

Rear-wheel drive, robust and durable construction

Transmission Fluid Capacity:

Approx. 1.5-2.0 liters for automatic transmissions (refer to specific model/transmission type).

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approximately 2665 mm (104.9 inches)

Length:

Approximately 4420 mm (174.0 inches)

Width:

Approximately 1690 mm (66.5 inches)

Height:

Approximately 1380 mm (54.3 inches)

Curb Weight:

Varies by model, generally around 1200-1400 kg (2645-3086 lbs)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Typically around 1800-2000 kg (3968-4409 lbs)

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Reputation:

High safety standards for its era, contributing to Mercedes-Benz's reputation.

Active Safety Features:

Four-wheel disc brakes (later models), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) became available as an option.

ABS Availability:

Optional on many models in this year range, becoming more standard later.

Passive Safety Features:

Reinforced passenger cell, crumple zones, padded interior, safety steering column.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment Features:

Basic analog instrumentation, factory-installed cassette or AM/FM radio/tape players, optional power antenna.

Speaker Configuration:

Typically 4 speakers (front door, rear parcel shelf), some models with optional premium sound.

Driver Assistance Systems:

Limited by era. ABS was an option. Cruise control was available on some models.

Connectivity Features:

None in the modern sense. Analog systems only.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically 10,000 km (6,000 miles) or 12 months, whichever comes first (refer to specific engine/oil type).

Major Service Intervals:

Valve adjustments, spark plug replacement, coolant flush, transmission fluid service as per manual recommendations (e.g., every 40,000-80,000 km).

Engine Oil Specification:

API SG or higher, viscosity typically 10W-40 or 15W-40 depending on climate. Specific MB approval numbers are crucial.

Transmission Fluid Specification Auto:

MB approved ATF like Dexron II or equivalent (e.g., Shell ATF 3403 M-115 or Mobil ATF 220).

Coolant Specification:

Mercedes-Benz approved coolant/antifreeze (e.g., G40 coolant or equivalent) mixed with distilled water.

Common Issues:

Can include headliner sag, minor rust spots (wheel arches, window seals), vacuum line degradation, fuel distributor issues on K-Jetronic, aging suspension bushings, and electrical connector corrosion. Diesel variants known for robust engines but potential injector pump issues.

Common Wear Items:

Sway bar links, ball joints, control arm bushings, rear subframe bushings.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Introduction:

Mercedes-Benz, established in 1926, renowned for engineering excellence, luxury, and safety.

190 Introduction:

Launched in 1982 (as W201) to fill the gap below the E-Class, designed by Bruno Sacco. The 1984-1988 period covers early production models.

Model Nickname:

Baby Benz

Production Period:

W201 chassis produced from 1982 to 1993. The specified years are early production phases.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Industry Recognition:

The Mercedes-Benz 190 series was lauded for its engineering, safety, and build quality, often referred to as the 'Baby Benz' and credited with setting new standards in its class.