🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mercedes-Benz

Model:

S500

Model Code:

W140

Year:

1995

Chassis Code:

W140

Engine Code Primary:

M119.970

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

Flagship luxury sedan of its era, representing peak Mercedes-Benz engineering and comfort.

Competitors:

BMW 7 Series (E38), Lexus LS400 (XF20), Audi V8 Quattro, Jaguar XJ.

Features:

V8 engine, advanced suspension, luxurious interior, robust build quality, high safety standards for the time.

Target Owner:

Discerning individuals seeking refined motoring, comfort, and proven engineering.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Type:

Complete Service & Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Downloadable (likely PDF)

Source Type:

Digital Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

All engine components, troubleshooting, overhaul, timing, fuel injection (KE-Jetronic/LH-Jetronic), ignition system, cooling system, lubrication system, emissions control.

Transmission:

Automatic Transmission (722.5/722.6), diagnosis, repair, fluid specifications, electronic control module (ECM).

Drivetrain:

Rear-wheel drive, differential, driveshafts, CV joints, propshaft.

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension systems, springs, shock absorbers, control arms, bushings, hydraulic self-leveling suspension (optional).

Brakes:

Hydraulic braking system, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), brake fluid, discs, pads, calipers, lines, parking brake.

Steering:

Power steering system, steering column, steering gear, hydraulic lines.

Electrical:

12V electrical system, battery, alternator, starter motor, wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, lighting systems, ignition switch.

Body And Chassis:

Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, interior trim, chassis components, structural integrity.

HVAC:

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system, climate control, refrigerant, diagnosis and repair.

Comfort And Convenience:

Power windows, power seats, sunroof, central locking, cruise control, interior features.

Maintenance:

Routine scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, inspections, lubrication.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic procedures for common and complex issues, fault code interpretation (OBD-I/OBD-II precursors).

Repair:

Step-by-step repair instructions for all major systems, component removal and installation, adjustments, and calibrations.

Overhaul:

Engine and transmission overhaul procedures, component rebuilding.

Diagnostics:

Electrical system diagnostics, fuel system diagnostics, engine performance diagnostics.

Wiring Diagrams:

Detailed electrical wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems.

Depth:

Comprehensive (covering everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls).

Target Audience:

Professional Technicians and Advanced DIY Enthusiasts.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

Digital Download (PDF)

Searchability:

Likely text-searchable for quick information retrieval.

Printability:

Printable pages for workshop use.

Page Count:

Estimated 1500-2500+ pages (typical for full factory service manuals).

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

4.96 Liters (4966 cc) V8 (M119.970)

Configuration:

4 valves per cylinder, DOHC (Double Overhead Camshafts), Alloy block and heads.

Horsepower:

315 hp (approx. 235 kW) @ 5600 rpm

Torque:

347 lb-ft (approx. 470 Nm) @ 3900 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Bosch Electronic Fuel Injection (KE-Jetronic for earlier models, LH-Jetronic for later variants, likely LH-Jetronic for 1995).

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Premium Gasoline (91 Octane or higher recommended)

ECM:

Engine Control Module (ECM) for fuel injection and ignition timing.

Cooling Type:

Liquid-cooled

Oil Capacity:

Approx. 8.0 Liters (with filter change)

Recommended Oil:

SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40, API SG/SH specification (check manual for exact MB approval).

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

4-speed Automatic (722.5) or 5-speed Automatic (722.6 'NAG1')

Drive Wheels:

Rear-wheel Drive (RWD)

Optional Transmission:

N/A for S500 in 1995 (primarily 5-speed automatic became standard later).

Transmission Control:

Electronic Control Unit (ECU) for gear selection and shift points.

Transmission Fluid Type:

MB Approved Automatic Transmission Fluid (e.g., Shell ATF 134 or equivalent, check manual for specific MB-Approval).

Fluid Capacity:

Approx. 8.5 Liters (for 5-speed 722.6, pan drop refill might be less).

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 5121 mm (201.6 in)

Width:

Approx. 1892 mm (74.5 in)

Height:

Approx. 1447 mm (57.0 in)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 3040 mm (119.7 in)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1950-2100 kg (4300-4630 lbs)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approx. 2550 kg (5622 lbs)

Trunk Volume:

Approx. 500 Liters (17.7 cu ft)

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Results:

While NHTSA/IIHS ratings were less standardized in 1995, the W140 was designed with significant passive safety features including a strong safety cell, energy-absorbing crumple zones, and advanced airbag systems.

Active Safety:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Traction Control System (ASR - Acceleration Skid Control).

Passive Safety:

Dual front airbags, side-impact protection (integrated into doors and B-pillars), three-point seatbelts with pre-tensioners, reinforced body structure.

Lighting System:

Halogen headlamps, fog lamps, comprehensive interior and exterior lighting.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory premium sound system (e.g., Bose optional), cassette player, AM/FM radio. CD changer often optional in trunk.

Climate Control:

Dual-zone automatic climate control with pollen filter.

Cruise Control:

Standard electronic cruise control.

Parking Assist:

Front and rear parking assist sensors (optional on some models, first generation for Mercedes).

Seats:

Electrically adjustable front seats with memory, heated seats, optional ventilated seats, lumbar support.

Windows Doors:

Power windows with one-touch up/down, power door locks, soft-close doors, remote keyless entry (optional).

Telephone:

Optional integrated car phone system (likely analog).

🔧 Maintenance

Major Service Interval:

Typically every 15,000-25,000 km (9,000-15,000 miles) or 12-24 months, depending on driving conditions. Engine oil and filter changes every 10,000-15,000 km.

Transmission Service:

Transmission fluid and filter change recommended every 50,000-80,000 km (30,000-50,000 miles).

Coolant Service:

Coolant replacement every 2-3 years or as per manual's recommendation.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 4 or DOT 5.1 (check manual for specific MB approval).

Power Steering Fluid:

MB Approved Hydraulic Fluid or Pentosin CHF 11 S (check manual).

Coolant Type:

Antifreeze/Coolant with corrosion inhibitors, usually a long-life type (e.g., G05).

Common Problems:

Ignition module failures, crank position sensor issues, vacuum hose leaks, biodegradable wiring insulation degradation (later models), transmission solenoids, window regulator failures, early electronic complexity issues.

Maintenance Considerations:

The M119 engine requires precise timing and fuel mixture. Many components are complex and require specialized tools and knowledge for proper repair. Regular preventative maintenance is crucial for longevity.

📚 Vehicle History

Heritage:

Mercedes-Benz has a long-standing reputation for engineering excellence, luxury, and safety, dating back to the invention of the automobile.

W140 Introduction:

The W140 generation replaced the W126 S-Class and was produced from 1991 to 1998. It was a significant departure in size and technology.

W140 Positioning:

Known for its imposing presence, advanced technology (some of which was considered over-engineered or problematic early on), and unparalleled comfort. It aimed to redefine luxury motoring.

Production Period:

1991-1998

Manufacturing Locations:

Germany (Sindelfingen plant)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Awards:

The S-Class range generally receives critical acclaim for its luxury, comfort, and safety. Specific awards for the 1995 S500 are less documented than for its successors, but it was a benchmark for luxury sedans of its time.

Industry Recognition:

Consistently ranked among the top luxury vehicles for build quality and technological innovation of the era.