Engine:
Engine oil and filter change, valve clearance adjustment/checking, idle speed adjustment, injection timing, fuel filter replacement, air filter replacement, V-belt inspection, intake/exhaust manifold seating, spark plug checks/replacement, coolant level/antifreeze, cooling system, engine mounts.
Transmission:
Manual transmission oil change, fluid level check/correction. Automatic transmission fluid and filter change, fluid level check/correction. Transfer case fluid change, fluid level check/correction. Clutch system fluid level check/correction and inspection.
Suspension Steering Axles:
Suspension and body structure inspection, level control (ADS, ASD, 4MATIC) fluid level, self-leveling suspension inspection, front axle oil level check, ball joint inspection (front axle and general), rear axle oil change and level check, rear axle mount adjustment, wheels (inspecting, rotating, tightening bolts), tires (inspecting, pressure correction), drive shaft flexible coupling inspection.
Brakes:
Brake fluid level check, brake lines inspection, brake pads/disk thickness inspection, brake disks inspection/cleaning, parking brake cable inspection, parking brake adjustment, brake fluid replacement, brake test/parking brake check.
Electrical Lighting:
Warning and indicator lamps check, headlamp and exterior lamp inspection, windshield wiper and washer inspection.
Body Chassis Comfort:
Water leakage and corrosion inspection, throttle linkage inspection/lubrication, exhaust system (retightening flanges and connections), battery fluid level check, water drains cleaning, engine compartment lower panel removal/installation, door hinges/locks lubrication, hydraulic top fluid level, sunroof rail cleaning/greasing, soft top locking tab check, windshield wiper blade replacement, dust filter replacement (heating/ventilation), active charcoal filter replacement, recirculating air filter replacement, folding side mirror lubrication, hood lubrication, safety belts inspection, backrest lock operation check, noise encapsulation panel removal/installation, body paint damage inspection.
Maintenance Tasks:
Routine scheduled maintenance, fluid changes (oil, coolant, transmission, power steering, brake, washer), filter replacements (oil, fuel, air, dust, charcoal), belt checks and replacement, spark plug replacement, valve clearance adjustment, battery checks, lubrication services.
Repair Tasks:
Component replacement (fuel filter, air filter, spark plugs, oxygen sensor, brake pads/discs), system adjustments (injection timing, idle speed, parking brake), fluid system servicing (cooling, brake, hydraulic top, power steering), suspension and steering component inspection and adjustment.
Depth:
Comprehensive factory-level diagnostics, repair, and maintenance procedures. Includes detailed step-by-step instructions, specifications, and troubleshooting guidance for all covered systems.
Engine Type:
Inline 6-Cylinder, SOHC
Displacement:
2960 cc (3.0 Liters)
Horsepower Approx:
188 hp @ 5700 rpm (EEC rating)
Torque Approx:
260 Nm (192 lb-ft) @ 4400 rpm
Fuel Injection:
Bosch KE-Jetronic (CIS-E)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Premium Gasoline (91+ RON)
Valve Adjustment Interval:
Recommended every 20,000 - 30,000 miles or as needed based on noise.
Spark Plug Type Example:
Bosch W8AC or equivalent
Engine Oil Capacity Approx:
7.0 Liters (with filter)
Engine Oil Specification Example:
MB 229.1 specification, SAE 10W-40 or 15W-40 (depending on climate)
Transmission Type Standard:
5-Speed Manual
Transmission Type Optional:
4-Speed Automatic (722.3 or 722.4 '4G-TRONIC')
Automatic Transmission Features:
Lock-up torque converter, electronically controlled clutch, available with torque converter lock-up (early models) and improved hydraulic control (later models).
Manual Transmission Oil Spec Example:
MB 235.0 specification, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 GL-4
Automatic Transmission Fluid Capacity Approx:
7.5 - 8.0 Liters (for complete refill)
Automatic Transmission Fluid Spec Example:
MB 236.1 specification (e.g., Dexron II or equivalent)
Crash Test Availability:
While official ratings for this era are less standardized than today, Mercedes-Benz vehicles of this period were engineered to very high safety standards.
Driver Assistance Systems:
Optional ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), ASD (Automatic Slip Differential), optional 4MATIC all-wheel drive, optional Level Control (ADS - Active Damping System).
Structural Elements:
Reinforced body structure, crumple zones, safety-designed door pillars.
Restraint Systems:
Front airbags (optional on early models, standard on later ones), seat belt pretensioners.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 10,000 - 15,000 km (6,000 - 10,000 miles) or annually, whichever comes first, using approved synthetic or semi-synthetic oil.
Transmission Fluid Change Interval:
Automatic: Every 40,000 - 60,000 km (25,000 - 40,000 miles). Manual: Typically less frequent, checked for level and condition.
Coolant Change Interval:
Every 2 years or 40,000 km (25,000 miles).
Brake Fluid Spec:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Power Steering Fluid Spec:
MB 236.3 specification (e.g., Pentosin CHF 11 S or equivalent)
Common Concerns:
Wiring harness insulation degradation (especially on earlier M103 engines), fuel distributor seal leaks, vacuum hose deterioration, heater blower motor resistor failure, potential water ingress in fuse box/ECU connectors, worn suspension bushings.
Maintenance Focus:
Proactive inspection of rubber hoses, seals, and wiring is crucial for long-term reliability.
Manufacturer Legacy:
Mercedes-Benz, renowned for engineering excellence, durability, and luxury since the early 20th century.
W124 Development:
The W124 chassis (which the C124 coupe is based on) was a significant advancement, focusing on aerodynamics, build quality, and a sophisticated independent suspension system.
C124 Development:
The C124 coupe offered a more stylish and sportier alternative to the W124 sedan, sharing most mechanical components but featuring unique B-pillarless styling and frameless doors.
Production Period:
1988-1993 for the 300 CE model variant.
Manufacturing Location:
Germany
