Target Audience:
Mercedes-Benz owners, independent repair shops, DIY enthusiasts
Value Proposition:
Authentic dealer-level information for comprehensive vehicle maintenance and repair
Advantage:
Directly sourced from manufacturer, ensuring accuracy and completeness over aftermarket manuals
Authenticity:
Official Factory Service Workshop Manual
Completeness:
Covers 'every service and repair imaginable'
Usability:
Ideal for DIYers and professionals alike
Delivery:
Free download, no shipping cost
Compatibility:
Broad operating system support (Win95-win7, Linux, MAC)
Primary Coverage:
Factory Service Workshop
Scope:
Comprehensive service and repair
Estimated Pages:
Extensive (exact count not specified, but described as covering 'every service and repair imaginable')
Type:
Workshop Service Repair Manual
Language:
English (Assumed based on product description and typical factory manual translations)
Digital Format:
HTML/Flash menu with PDF files
Engine:
Detailed diagnosis, repair, and rebuilding of the M103 engine
Transmission:
Complete service and repair, including transmission rebuilds
Brakes:
Comprehensive coverage including ABS system diagnostics and repair
Suspension:
Detailed procedures for front and rear suspension, including hydraulic self-leveling system for SEL models
Steering:
Power steering system, steering column adjustments, and tie rod end replacement
Electrical System:
Extensive wiring diagrams, component testing, and troubleshooting for all electrical systems
Climate Control:
Diagnosis and repair of HVAC system, including automatic climate control
Body And Trim:
Interior and exterior trim removal and installation, body panel repair, and window mechanisms
Seats:
Adjustment mechanisms, power seat systems, and seat cover replacement
Body Electronics:
Central locking, power windows, sunroof, and interior lighting
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, and lubrication
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures and fault finding for all major systems
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step repair instructions for components and systems
Rebuilding:
Instructions for rebuilding major components such as the engine and transmission
Diagnostics:
Engine control unit (ECU) fault codes, sensor testing, and circuit analysis
Alignment:
Wheel alignment specifications and procedures
Calibration:
Calibration procedures for electronic systems where applicable
Depth:
Factory-level detail, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIYers
Diagnostics Level:
Advanced electronic diagnostics and mechanical troubleshooting
Rebuild Scope:
Complete engine and transmission rebuild specifications
Digital Interface:
HTML/Flash menu for navigation, linking to PDF repair sections
PDF Quality:
High-resolution (implied by factory origin), likely includes diagrams and illustrations
Searchability:
PDF format typically allows for text searching of technical terms and procedures
Print Capability:
Printable PDF sections for on-site use
Digital Binding:
Digital delivery, no physical binding
Digital Medium:
Electronic files (HTML, Flash, PDF)
Engine Type:
Inline 6-cylinder, SOHC
Displacement:
2962 cc (3.0 Liters)
Horsepower:
Approximately 189 hp @ 5700 rpm (for US spec 3.0L models)
Torque:
Approximately 240 Nm (177 lb-ft) @ 4400 rpm (for US spec 3.0L models)
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch KE-Jetronic (CIS-E) Fuel Injection
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline
ECU Type:
Electronic Control Unit (ECU) for engine management and diagnostics
Transmission Type:
4-speed automatic (722.3 series)
Optional Transmission:
Not typically offered for the 300SEL model during this period (automatic was standard for SEL)
Shift Modes:
Comfort (E) and Sport (S) modes
Transmission Fluid Type:
MB 236.1 Specification Automatic Transmission Fluid (e.g., Mobil ATF 220 or equivalent)
Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approximately 7.5 - 8.0 liters (with torque converter, varies on drain/refill)
Crash Test Data:
W126 models generally performed well in contemporary crash tests, though specific NHTSA/IIHS ratings for these specific years may be scarce or dated.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) standard
Traction Control:
Optional Acceleration Slip Regulation (ASR) may have been available on later models or as an option
Airbags:
Driver's side airbag standard from 1987 onwards
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia-reel seatbelts front and rear
Crumple Zones:
Designed with advanced crumple zones for passive safety
Audio System:
Premium sound systems of the era, often with cassette player and optional CD changer.
Climate Control:
Automatic climate control (Thermotronic) available as an option, offering sophisticated temperature regulation.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control system.
Memory Seats:
Power-adjustable seats with memory function for driver and passenger.
Early Telematics:
Limited connectivity by modern standards; primarily focused on in-car comfort and functionality.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 15,000 km (9,300 miles) or 12 months, whichever comes first, depending on driving conditions and oil used (consult specific manual).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Recommended every 60,000 km (37,000 miles) or as per service booklet.
Coolant Change:
Typically every 2-3 years or as specified by Mercedes-Benz.
Engine Oil Specification:
MB 229.1 or MB 229.3 specification, SAE 5W-40 or 10W-40 (check manual for precise viscosity and spec).
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 7.0 liters (7.4 US quarts) with filter change for the M103 engine.
Coolant Type:
Mercedes-Benz approved G48 coolant (ethylene glycol-based with silicate corrosion inhibitors) or equivalent.
Wiring Harness Insulation:
Degradation of wiring harness insulation, especially in engine bay, leading to electrical gremlins.
Head Gasket:
While generally robust, head gasket leaks can occur, particularly if overheating has been an issue.
Seals And Gaskets:
Age-related degradation of various rubber seals and gaskets (e.g., oil pan, valve cover, O-rings) leading to fluid leaks.
Hydropneumatic Suspension:
For SEL models, potential for leaks or failure in the self-leveling rear suspension system, requiring specific knowledge.
Climate Control Actuators:
Failure of vacuum actuators or blend door mechanisms within the HVAC system.
Mercedes Benz Legacy:
Continuation of Mercedes-Benz's reputation for engineering excellence, luxury, and durability.
W126 Era:
Part of the second generation of the S-Class, known for its aerodynamic styling and technological advancements over the W116.
300Sel Positioning:
The 300SEL variant offered a longer wheelbase for enhanced rear passenger space and comfort, typically featuring a smooth inline-six engine.
Production Period W126:
1979-1991
Production Facsimile:
Representing the later facelifted version of the W126 S-Class.
