Target Audience:
Mercedes-Benz W124 owners, independent repair shops, DIY enthusiasts
Value Proposition:
Provides dealership-level repair information, enabling accurate maintenance, diagnostics, and repairs, saving time and money.
Differentiation:
Vehicle-specific, technician-level detail, comprehensive A-Z coverage, digital format advantages (searchable, printable).
Information Source:
Factory service manual content.
Ease Of Use:
Single PDF file, searchable, printable sections for workshop use.
Models Covered:
All W124 E-Class models from 1985 to 1996
Regions Covered:
Global (technical specifications applicable across major markets)
Estimated Page Count:
Extensive (typically several thousand pages across all model variants and engine options for a complete factory manual)
Type:
Factory Authorized Service and Repair Manual
Engine Management:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, emission control, lubrication, cooling system
Drivetrain:
Automatic transmission, manual transmission, clutch, transfer case, drive shafts, differentials, axles
Suspension Steering:
Front suspension, rear suspension, steering column, power steering, wheels, tires
Brakes:
Brake control system, hydraulic brakes, parking brake
Electrical:
Ignition, starting, charging, lighting, instrumentation, horn, wiper/washer, power windows, central locking, mirrors
Comfort Convenience:
Air conditioning, supplementary restraint system (SRS/Airbag), seat belts, engine immobilizer, cruise control, interior/exterior trim, glass/mirrors
Body Chassis:
Engine hood, doors, body panels, interior components
Multiplex Communication:
CAN communication and multiplex systems (where applicable to later W124 models)
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, inspections
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, fault code interpretation (where applicable), diagnostic procedures for all major systems
Repair Rebuild:
Complete step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and overhaul of all major vehicle systems
Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, tolerances, fluid types and capacities, electrical resistance values
Wiring Schematics:
Detailed electrical wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems
Depth:
Expert Level: Covers everything from basic fluid checks to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including in-depth electrical diagnostics and bodywork repair.
Searchability:
Searchable text content
Printability:
Fully printable pages, with option to enlarge images/diagrams
Binding Type:
N/A (Digital PDF)
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital PDF)
Operating Systems:
Windows (Vista, XP, ME, 98, NT, 2000), macOS
Software Requirements:
Adobe PDF Reader, Winzip (free)
Engine Variants Covered:
M102 (2.0L, 2.3L I4), M103 (2.6L, 3.0L I6), M104 (2.8L, 3.2L, 3.4L I6), OM601 (2.0L Diesel I4), OM602 (2.5L, 2.9L Diesel I5), OM603 (3.0L, 3.5L Diesel I6), OM605 (2.5L Diesel I5), OM606 (3.0L Diesel I6)
Engine Performance Data:
Detailed power, torque, and performance data for each engine variant, including specific engine codes.
Fuel Injection Systems:
Bosch KE-Jetronic, L-Jetronic, HFM, EDC (for diesel) - detailed diagnostics and repair procedures.
Coolant Type:
Mercedes-Benz approved coolant (e.g., G48 or equivalent specified by Mercedes-Benz)
Engine Oil Specifications:
API SG or higher, MB-Approval 229.1 or 229.3 (depending on model year and engine, manual specifies exact requirement)
Standard Transmission Options:
4-speed automatic (e.g., 722.3, 722.4), 5-speed manual
Optional Transmission Options:
5-speed automatic (e.g., 722.5, 722.6 for later models)
Transmission Fluid Type:
MB 236.1 (for 722.3/722.4), MB 236.6/236.8 (for later automatics), MB 235.10 (for manual transmissions) - Manual provides specific MB-approval numbers.
Transmission Overhaul:
Detailed procedures for clutch replacement, automatic transmission disassembly and reassembly, valve body diagnostics.
Wheelbase:
Approximately 2800 mm (110.2 in) for saloon/coupe, 2815 mm (110.8 in) for estate.
Curb Weight:
Varies by model and engine, typically 1400-1700 kg (3086-3748 lbs).
Gross Vehicle Weight:
Specified by model, generally around 2000-2200 kg (4409-4850 lbs).
Crash Test History:
The W124 platform was known for its robust safety construction for its era. Manual covers SRS (Airbag) system diagnostics and seat belt pre-tensioner systems where applicable.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on many models; detailed diagnostic and repair procedures included.
Srs Airbag:
Supplementary Restraint System (SRS) for driver and passenger airbags on later models; comprehensive diagnostic and repair information.
Seat Belts:
Front and rear seat belt systems, including pre-tensioners on later models; detailed inspection and replacement procedures.
Audio Visual Systems:
Covers factory radio/cassette systems, speaker integration, and antenna systems. Later models may have CD changers or enhanced audio options.
Cruise Control:
Detailed troubleshooting and repair procedures for the cruise control system.
Multiplex Communication:
Information on multiplex/CAN communication systems for vehicles equipped with these technologies, crucial for diagnosing electronic faults in later W124 models.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 15,000 km (9,300 miles) or 12 months, whichever comes first, using specified synthetic oil. Manual provides detailed schedule.
Filter Replacement:
Air filter, fuel filter, oil filter replacement intervals specified based on mileage and time. Manual lists exact intervals and part numbers.
Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 2-3 years or specified mileage, depending on coolant type. Manual details procedure and fluid type.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (as specified by Mercedes-Benz for the particular model year and brake system).
Power Steering Fluid:
MB-Approval 236.3 (e.g., Pentosin CHF 11 S or equivalent specified).
Common W124 Issues:
Wiring harness degradation (specifically the insulation on the engine wiring harness), vacuum leak issues affecting central locking and engine idle, fuel pump relay failure, differential seal leaks, rust (especially in certain climates).
Manual Coverage Of Issues:
Manual provides diagnostic procedures and repair instructions for all common issues, including troubleshooting guides for wiring harness problems and fuel system anomalies.
Mercedes Benz Reputation:
The W124 is considered one of Mercedes-Benz's most durable and well-engineered vehicles, often referred to as the 'last of the over-engineered' Mercedes.
W124 Introduction:
Introduced in 1984 (as a 1985 model year), replaced the W123. Known for its aerodynamic design and significant chassis improvements over its predecessor.
Facelifts Updates:
Multiple facelifts and updates occurred throughout its production run, including exterior trim changes, interior refinements, and powertrain upgrades. Manual covers these variations.
Production Years:
1985-1996 (Globally)
Manufacturing Locations:
Germany, South Africa, other locations as licensed.
Industry Awards:
The W124 chassis received numerous accolades during its production run for its engineering, build quality, and safety. While specific awards are numerous, it was consistently praised in automotive press globally.
Reliability Ratings:
Consistently rated highly for reliability and durability by automotive publications and owner surveys of its era.
Oem Certification:
Manual is derived from OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) factory data, representing the highest level of technical accuracy and coverage.
