Vehicle Segment:
Executive Sedan/Saloon (E-Class)
Competitors:
BMW 5 Series (E34), Audi 100/200, Volvo 740/760, Saab 9000, Jaguar XJ6
Vehicle Strengths:
Renowned Mercedes-Benz build quality, durability, diesel engine efficiency and longevity, comfortable ride, strong safety features for its era.
Target Audience Benefit:
Provides essential, factory-level technical information for maintaining, troubleshooting, and repairing the Mercedes-Benz 300D 2.5 Turbo across multiple model years, ensuring proper upkeep and longevity of a classic vehicle.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, disassembly, rebuilding, timing, lubrication, cooling system, fuel system (injection, filters, pre-filters)
Engine Electrical:
Ignition system (spark plugs), starter system, charging system, warning lamps, diagnostic codes (where applicable)
Transmission:
Manual transmission oil change, checking fluid levels; Automatic transmission fluid and filter change, checking fluid levels
Drivetrain:
Transfer case fluid change and checking levels, front axle oil level checking, rear axle oil change and checking levels, drive shaft flexible coupling inspection
Suspension Steering:
Suspension and body structure inspection, self-leveling suspension inspection, level control (ADS, ASD, 4MATIC) fluid level, front axle ball joints checking, rear axle mount adjustment
Brakes:
Brake fluid level checking, brake lines inspection, brake pads and disk thickness inspection, brake fluid replacement, parking brake adjustment and check, brake disk cleaning
Body Chassis:
Water leakage and corrosion inspection, wheel inspection and rotation, tire pressure correction, wheel bolt tightening, door hinge lubrication, door lock lubrication, hood lubrication, body paint damage inspection
HVAC:
Cooling and heating system checks, dust filter replacement, active charcoal filter replacement, recirculating air filter replacement, AC refrigerant charge check
Electrical Body:
Headlamp and exterior lamp inspection, windshield wiper and washer inspection, antenna mast cleaning, sunroof cleaning and greasing, hydraulic top fluid level check
Routine Maintenance:
Engine oil and filter change, air filter replacement, V-belt condition checks, fuel filter replacement, spark plug inspection/replacement, fluid level checks (coolant, power steering, brake, washer), battery fluid check
Engine Repair:
Valve clearance adjustment, idle speed adjustment, injection timing adjustment, intake/exhaust manifold seating check, oxygen sensor replacement
Drivetrain Maintenance:
Fluid changes for manual and automatic transmissions, transfer case, front and rear axles
Chassis Repair:
Ball joint inspection, steering play check, suspension component checks, brake component checks and adjustments
Bodywork Care:
Corrosion inspection, water leak diagnosis, lubrication of moving parts, cleaning of specific components (e.g., cassette deck tone head, sunroof rails)
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive: Covers basic maintenance to major component repair and rebuilding. Includes diagnostic procedures for troubleshooting.
Intended User:
Professional mechanics and experienced DIY enthusiasts
Engine Configuration:
Inline 5-cylinder, turbocharged diesel
Bore X Stroke Mm:
87.0 x 100.0
Compression Ratio:
22.0:1
Valvetrain:
SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft), 2 valves per cylinder
Horsepower Ps Rpm:
126 PS (93 kW) @ 4600 rpm
Torque Nm Rpm:
230 Nm (169 lb-ft) @ 2400 rpm
Fuel Injection:
Mechanical Direct Injection with Bosch VE Rotary Pump and Turbocharger
Engine Oil Capacity Liters:
7.0 (with filter)
Transmission Type Standard:
5-speed Manual Transmission
Transmission Type Optional:
4-speed Automatic Transmission (4G-TRONIC)
Transmission Oil Manual Spec:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-85 or 75W-90 (refer to specific year manual for exact spec)
Transmission Oil Automatic Spec:
MB 236.6 (ATF Dexron II D or equivalent)
Infotainment Systems:
Period-appropriate Becker or Clarion radio/cassette players, with options for CD changers. Antennas were often powered and mast-driven.
Driver Assistance Features:
ABS, optional traction control (ASR), automatic climate control (optional), self-leveling suspension (optional), automatic antenna, cruise control (optional).
Connectivity Features:
Limited by era; primarily related to radio functions and power antenna operation.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000-15,000 km (6,000-9,000 miles) or annually, using synthetic diesel oil. Refer to manual for precise intervals and oil type.
Air Filter Replacement:
Check every 15,000-20,000 km (9,000-12,000 miles), replace as needed. Metal-reinforced elements can often be cleaned.
Fuel Filter Replacement:
Typically every 30,000-40,000 km (18,000-24,000 miles). Pre-filter should be checked and replaced more frequently if symptoms arise.
Coolant Replacement:
Every 2-3 years or as specified by coolant type (e.g., G48/G05). Check for antifreeze protection annually.
Engine Oil Specification:
API CG-4 or CH-4 (or equivalent diesel rated oil). Viscosity often 5W-40 or 10W-40. Consult manual for exact Mercedes-Benz specification (e.g., MB-Approval).
Power Steering Fluid:
MB 236.3 (ATF Dexron II D or Pentosin CHF 11 S, check manual for specific fluid type).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (ensure it's a quality synthetic brake fluid, replaced every 2 years due to moisture absorption).
Common Diesel Issues:
Glow plug failure, injector issues, turbocharger wear, vacuum line leaks, head gasket issues (less common on OM602 than early diesels), rust (especially around wheel arches, jacking points, under battery tray), climate control system faults (e.g., servo issues), vibration issues from engine mounts or driveshaft flex discs.
Mercedes Benz Legacy:
Pioneering automotive manufacturer with a long history of engineering excellence, innovation, and luxury vehicles, particularly known for diesel engine technology.
W124 E Class Lineage:
The W124 platform represented a significant evolution in Mercedes-Benz sedan design, known for its robust engineering, exceptional build quality, and technological advancements. The 300D 2.5 Turbo was a popular diesel variant, offering a balance of performance and economy.
Production Years Model:
1984-1995 (W124 platform). Specific 300D 2.5 Turbo variants likely from 1986 onwards, with the 1990-1993 range covered by this manual.