Vehicle Segment:
Compact Executive Sedan
Target Audience:
Consumers seeking a reliable, well-engineered, and luxurious compact sedan from a premium brand
Key Competitors:
BMW 3 Series (E36), Audi 80/90, Acura Legend, Lexus ES 250
Brand Reputation:
Reputation for build quality, safety, durability, and engineering excellence
Design Philosophy:
Understated elegance, robust construction, driver-focused ergonomics
Manual Value Proposition:
Official, comprehensive service information enabling owners and technicians to maintain and repair the vehicle correctly and efficiently.
Engine Mechanical:
Detailed diagrams, specifications, removal/installation of engine components (pistons, rings, bearings, valves, camshafts, crankshaft, etc.)
Engine Management And Electronics:
Fuel injection system (KE-Jetronic), ignition system, engine control unit (ECU) diagnostics, sensor locations and functions, wiring diagrams
Drivetrain:
Manual and automatic transmission overhauls, clutch service, differential service, driveshaft and CV joint maintenance
Suspension And Steering:
Front and rear suspension component replacement, alignment specifications, power steering system service, steering linkage repair
Braking System:
Front and rear brake component replacement (pads, rotors, calipers), brake system bleeding, ABS system components and troubleshooting (if equipped)
Electrical System:
Complete wiring diagrams, fuse box layouts, lighting systems, accessory circuits, starter and alternator service, battery testing
HVAC System:
Air conditioning system service, heater core replacement, blower motor service, climate control unit diagnostics
Body And Interior:
Door panel removal, seat removal, glass replacement, body panel adjustments, trim piece installation
Preventive Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement
Diagnostic Procedures:
Step-by-step troubleshooting guides for common and complex issues, fault code interpretation (if applicable to the year/system)
Repair Procedures:
Detailed, illustrated step-by-step instructions for component removal, repair, and reinstallation for virtually all vehicle systems
Component Rebuilds:
Information on overhauling engines, transmissions, and other major mechanical assemblies
Specification Setting:
Torque specifications, alignment settings, engine timing adjustments, valve clearances
Depth Level:
Comprehensive, covering routine maintenance to major component overhauls and complex diagnostics
Diagnostic Capability:
Detailed diagnostic trees and explanations for electrical and mechanical faults
Accuracy And Detail:
Officially licensed, ensuring high accuracy and detail consistent with Mercedes-Benz factory procedures
Engine Type:
Inline 4-cylinder, SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft)
Displacement:
2.3 Liters (2299 cc)
Engine Code Variants:
Commonly 2.3-16, but 190E typically refers to the 2.3L naturally aspirated variant (M102 engine series)
Horsepower:
Approx. 130-147 hp (depending on specific US market configuration and tuning)
Torque:
Approx. 140-150 lb-ft
Fuel Injection:
Bosch KE-Jetronic (CIS-E) Continuous Injection System
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (Octane rating typically 91+)
Federal Crash Safety:
Designed to meet rigorous safety standards of the era, with a strong emphasis on passive safety features.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on some models/optional
Airbags:
Driver's side airbag standard in the US market from the late 80s, optional or standard by 1991.
Body Structure:
Reinforced safety cell, crumple zones, side-impact protection
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (refer to manual for exact spec).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Automatic: 30,000-60,000 miles; Manual: Inspect and change as needed (refer to manual).
Coolant Change:
Every 2-3 years or as specified.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically every 30,000-60,000 miles depending on plug type.
Engine Oil:
SAE 15W-40 or 10W-40 (API SG or higher). Check manual for specific MB approval.
Coolant:
Ethylene Glycol based, 50/50 mix with distilled water (MB Spec 325.0 or equivalent).
Wiring Harness Degradation:
Common issue with older Mercedes models, insulation can become brittle and crack.
Fuel Pressure Regulator:
Can fail, leading to rough running or starting issues.
Window Regulators:
Can become weak or break over time.
Seat Heaters:
Heating elements can fail.
Distributor Cap And Rotor:
Wear items that require periodic inspection and replacement.
Mercedes Benz Legacy:
Longstanding reputation for engineering, safety, and luxury dating back to the invention of the automobile.
W201 Development:
Developed as Mercedes-Benz's entry into the compact executive sedan market, designed by Bruno Sacco, introduced in 1982. Known for its exceptional build quality and durability.
1991 Updates:
Model year 1991 falls within the facelifted second series of the W201 (1982-1993), featuring minor styling tweaks, interior refinements, and powertrain updates.
Production Location:
Bremen, Germany; also assembled in various global locations.
