🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mercedes-Benz

Model:

S500

Year:

1999

Chassis Code:

W220

Engine Code Standard:

M113.960

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

Flagship luxury sedan, representing the pinnacle of Mercedes-Benz engineering and comfort for its era.

Competitors:

BMW 7 Series (E38), Audi A8 (D2), Lexus LS 400 (XF20), Jaguar XJ

Key Features:

Advanced suspension systems (ABC/AirMatic), powerful V8 engine, luxurious interior, sophisticated electronics, cutting-edge safety features for its time.

Value Proposition:

Provides essential technical information for owners and independent repair shops seeking to maintain and repair a complex luxury vehicle.

📋 Manual Details

Systems Covered:

Engine, Transmission, Drivetrain, Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Climate Control, Electrical Systems, Body & Chassis, Interior, Safety Systems, Diagnostics & Troubleshooting

Estimated Page Count:

Estimated 2000+ pages (software-based, variable)

Manual Type:

Official Service & Repair Manual Software

Language:

English

Format:

Software (Digital Download/CD-ROM)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

V8 Engine Specifications, Cylinder Head, Block, Pistons, Crankshaft, Camshafts, Valve Train, Timing Components

Engine Management:

Fuel Injection System (EFI), Ignition System, Emissions Control, Engine Control Unit (ECU) Functionality & Diagnostics

Transmission:

5G-TRONIC Automatic Transmission (722.6), Component Identification, Operation, Maintenance, Troubleshooting

Drivetrain:

Rear Axle, Driveshafts, Differential

Suspension:

Active Suspension System (ABC - Active Body Control), AirMatic DC Suspension, Components, Adjustments, Troubleshooting

Steering:

Hydraulic Power Steering System, Steering Column, Steering Gear

Brakes:

ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), ESP (Electronic Stability Program), Brake System Components, Fluid Specifications, Bleeding Procedures, Parking Brake

Electrical:

12V Electrical System, Battery, Alternator, Starter, Fuses, Relays, Wiring Diagrams, Lighting, Power Accessories

Body Chassis:

Body Construction, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Bumpers, Glass, Sealing Systems

Climate Control:

Automatic Climate Control System (THERMOTRONIC), Components, Operation, Refrigerant, Troubleshooting

Interior:

Seats, Upholstery, Dashboard, Trim Panels, Infotainment System (COMAND), Audio System

Safety Systems:

Airbag System, Seatbelt Pretensioners, ESP, ABS, Pre-Safe (if equipped)

Diagnostics:

On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-II), Fault Code Retrieval and Interpretation, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs)

Maintenance Procedures:

Oil Change, Filter Replacement, Fluid Checks and Replenishment, Spark Plug Replacement, Belt Inspection and Replacement

Repair Procedures:

Component Removal and Installation (Engine, Transmission, Suspension, Brakes, etc.), Reassembly Instructions

Troubleshooting Guides:

Systematic diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon faults, symptom-based troubleshooting

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive: Covers basic maintenance, routine servicing, in-depth component repair, and advanced diagnostics.

Diagnostic Tools Required:

Mention of Mercedes-Benz specific diagnostic tools (e.g., STAR Diagnosis/XENTRY) and generic OBD-II scanners.

Torque Specifications:

Detailed torque values for all critical fasteners and components.

Clearances Tolerances:

Specifications for critical clearances and tolerances for engine and driveline components.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

Likely a proprietary executable or PDF within a viewer application.

Print Quality:

N/A (Digital - High resolution graphics and diagrams)

Binding Type:

N/A (Software)

Paper Type:

N/A (Software)

Searchability:

Likely searchable text content for quick information retrieval.

Interactivity:

Potential for interactive diagrams, cross-referencing, and linked procedures.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Naturally Aspirated V8

Displacement:

4.966 liters (303 cu in)

Bore X Stroke:

97.0 mm x 84.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

10.0:1

Horsepower Hp:

302 hp @ 5600 rpm

Torque Lb Ft:

339 lb-ft @ 3100 rpm

Fuel System:

Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (SFI)

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)

ECU Type:

ME 2.8 (Motor Electronics)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-speed Automatic (5G-TRONIC)

Transmission Code:

722.6xx

Transmission Features:

TouchShift (manual shifting control), Electronic control, Adaptive programming

Transmission Fluid Type:

MB 236.10 Specification Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF), e.g., Mobil ATF 134, Shell ATF 134

Transmission Fluid Capacity:

Approximately 8.0 - 9.0 Liters (depending on torque converter drain)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

2,945 mm (115.9 in)

Length:

5,038 mm (198.3 in)

Width:

1,855 mm (73.0 in)

Height:

1,445 mm (56.9 in)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1,850 kg (4,079 lbs)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approx. 2,400 kg (5,291 lbs)

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5x112

Wheel Offset:

ET 41-45 (typical for factory alloys)

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Ratings:

NHTSA and IIHS ratings for this era are not as standardized as today; however, the W220 was designed with advanced safety features for its time. Check specific market regulatory bodies for detailed crash test data.

Active Safety Features:

ABS, ESP (Electronic Stability Program), ASR (Acceleration Slip Regulation), Brake Assist (BAS)

Passive Safety Features:

Driver and front passenger airbags, Side airbags, Window airbags, Seatbelt pretensioners, Crumple zones, Reinforced safety cage

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

COMAND (Cockpit Management and Navigation Display) system, offering CD player, Radio, Navigation, and optional telephone integration.

Audio System:

Bose premium sound system available on higher trims.

Driver Assistance Features:

Cruise Control (standard), DISTRONIC (optional adaptive cruise control), Parking Assist sensors (front and rear).

Connectivity Options:

Optional Bluetooth phone integration, but no USB or advanced smartphone connectivity as found in modern vehicles.

Convenience Features:

Keyless Go (optional push-button start), Power-adjustable heated and ventilated seats, Power tilt/telescoping steering wheel, Rain-sensing wipers.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Variable based on Mercedes-Benz Flexible Service System (ASSYST); typically around 10,000-15,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first. Consult manual for specific ASSYST service indicator resets.

Major Service Intervals:

Inspect and replace components like spark plugs, serpentine belts, coolant, brake fluid at intervals specified by the ASSYST system, often around 30,000-60,000 miles. Detailed schedules are in the manual.

Engine Oil Type:

MB 229.5 Specification Synthetic Engine Oil (e.g., Mobil 1 0W-40, Castrol SLX Professional OW-40)

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 8.0 Liters (with filter change)

Coolant Type:

Mercedes-Benz Approved Antifreeze/Coolant (Glysantin G48 or equivalent conforming to MB-Approval 325.0)

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 4 Plus (MB 331.0 Specification)

Common Issues:

ABC suspension hydraulic leaks (struts, pump, lines), Squealing/groaning from suspension, ECU failures, Ignition coil failures, Oil leaks (valve cover, crank seals), Transmission conductor plate issues,rust on fenders and wheel wells.

Preventative Maintenance:

Regular inspection of hydraulic lines for ABC, timely replacement of wear items (belts, hoses), ensuring proper coolant levels and changes.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

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

Model Evolution:

The S-Class (Sonderklasse - Special Class) has always been Mercedes-Benz's flagship sedan, introducing new technologies and luxury features. The W220 generation replaced the W140 and was characterized by a significant reduction in weight and a sleeker design.

Production Years:

1998-2005 (W220 generation)

Manufacturing Locations:

Germany (Sindelfingen)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Awards:

While specific awards for the 1999 model year may be scarce or generalized to the S-Class line, previous generations and the W220 as a whole were consistently recognized for luxury, technology, and engineering innovation by automotive publications worldwide.