🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mercedes-Benz

Model:

300 CE

Generation:

C124

Chassis Code:

W124 Coupe (C124)

Engine Code Common:

M103

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The Mercedes-Benz 300 CE (C124) was positioned as a luxury coupe, offering a blend of elegant styling, refined performance, and robust engineering characteristic of Mercedes-Benz vehicles of the era. It targeted discerning buyers seeking comfort and performance in a stylish, two-door package.

Competitors:

Competed with other European luxury coupes of the late 1980s and early 1990s, such as the BMW 3 Series Coupe (E36), Audi Coupe, and certain models from Jaguar and Porsche.

Highlights:

Distinctive pillarless coupe styling, robust M103 inline-six engine, advanced (for its time) suspension and safety features including optional ABS and ASD (Automatic Slip Differential), and the legendary Mercedes-Benz build quality and durability.

📋 Manual Details

Applicable Years:

1988, 1989, 1990, 1991, 1992, 1993

Estimated Page Count:

Varies by year; typically 500-1000+ pages per year.

Type:

Factory Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Digital Format:

PDF / WINRAR

Operating Systems:

Win95/98/ME/XP/vista/7/8, Linux, MAC, iOS, Android.

Delivery Method:

Instant Download.

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine mechanical (M103 3.0L I6), fuel system (Bosch KE-Jetronic), ignition system, cooling system, exhaust system, manual transmission (G34), automatic transmission (722.4, 722.5).

Chassis:

Front suspension (independent, McPherson struts), rear suspension (independent, multi-link), steering system (recirculating ball), brakes (discs all around, ABS), wheels and tires, drive shafts, differential.

Body And Electrical:

Body structure, body panels, doors, hinges, locks, windows, sunroof, convertible top (if applicable to specific variants), HVAC system (heating, ventilation, air conditioning), interior trim, exterior lighting, interior lighting, dashboard instruments, wiring diagrams, battery, starter, alternator.

Climate Control:

Heating system, ventilation system, air conditioning (R134a refrigerant on later models, R12 on earlier ones), A/C compressor, condenser, evaporator, refrigerant charging, component replacement, troubleshooting.

Maintenance:

Engine oil and filter change, valve clearance adjustment, fuel filter replacement, air filter replacement, V-belt inspection and adjustment, spark plug inspection and replacement, coolant flush and replacement, transmission fluid and filter change, differential fluid change, brake fluid flush and replacement, lubrication points.

Repair:

Engine component disassembly and reassembly (e.g., cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft), fuel injection system diagnostics and repair, ignition system diagnostics, cooling system repair, exhaust system repair, transmission overhaul, brake system repair, suspension component replacement, steering component repair, electrical component testing and replacement, body panel repair and replacement.

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting guides for common drivability issues, electrical faults, starting problems, cooling system leaks, brake system malfunctions. Includes diagnostic steps for specific components and systems.

Troubleshooting Engine:

Diagnosing starting issues, rough idle, misfires, power loss, fuel system faults, oil consumption, overheating. Includes diagnostic flowcharts and component testing procedures for the M103 engine and KE-Jetronic fuel system.

Troubleshooting Brakes:

Diagnosing brake pedal feel, brake noise, ABS faults, parking brake issues. Includes procedures for bleeding brake systems, replacing pads and rotors, and inspecting brake lines.

Depth:

Comprehensive from basic maintenance to in-depth mechanical and electrical repair. Covers disassembly, inspection, rebuilding, and reassembly of all major components. Includes detailed torque specifications, clearances, and diagnostic procedures.

Wiring Diagrams:

Includes comprehensive wiring diagrams for all major electrical systems, including engine management, lighting, HVAC, power accessories, and instrumentation.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format Details:

PDF files, often compressed in WINRAR archives for efficient download. Searchable text is typically included for easy navigation.

Printability:

High-resolution scans of original factory manuals, suitable for printing specific sections or the entire manual.

Binding:

N/A (Digital format - no physical binding)

Paper Quality:

N/A (Digital format - no physical paper type)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Inline 6-cylinder, SOHC

Engine Code:

M103.980

Displacement:

2962 cc (3.0 Liters)

Horsepower Peak:

Approximately 180-190 hp (depending on market and specific tuning)

Torque Peak:

Approximately 240-260 Nm (177-192 lb-ft) (depending on market and specific tuning)

Fuel Delivery:

Bosch KE-Jetronic (CIS-E) Fuel Injection

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (Octane rating specified in manual, typically 91+RON/90+ AKI)

Oil Capacity:

Approximately 6.5 Liters (6.9 US Quarts) with filter change. Specific grade as per manual (e.g., MB 229.1).

Coolant Capacity:

Approximately 8.5 Liters (9.0 US Quarts) of 50/50 coolant/water mix. Specific coolant type as per manual (e.g., G48).

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

4-Speed Automatic (722.4) or 5-Speed Manual (G34)

Transmission Type Optional:

5-Speed Automatic (722.5 with torque converter lock-up) became available on some models.

Automatic Features:

Hydraulically controlled, shift modes (e.g., 'E' - Economy, 'S' - Standard/Sport).

Manual Features:

5-speed synchromesh, robust design.

Automatic Fluid Type:

ATF Dexron II or equivalent (MB 236.3). Refer to manual for exact specification.

Manual Fluid Type:

Gear oil, API GL-4 or GL-5, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90. Refer to manual for exact specification.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 4740 mm (186.6 in)

Width:

Approx. 1740 mm (68.5 in)

Height:

Approx. 1370 mm (53.9 in)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2760 mm (108.7 in)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1450-1550 kg (3197-3417 lbs) depending on equipment.

Gross Weight Rating:

Typically around 1900-2000 kg (4189-4409 lbs).

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Ratings:

As a vehicle from this era, official crash test ratings from modern agencies like NHTSA or IIHS are not directly applicable. However, Mercedes-Benz was known for its robust safety engineering, incorporating features like crumple zones, reinforced passenger cells, and energy-absorbing steering columns.

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was optional and increasingly standard throughout the model run.

Asd:

Automatic Slip Differential (ASD) was an optional electronic differential lock for improved traction.

Ads:

Automatic Damping System (ADS) was an optional self-leveling suspension system with electronically controlled damping.

Airbags:

Driver's side airbag became optional and eventually standard on later models. Passenger airbag was not commonly available during this production span.

Seatbelts:

Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts in front and rear. Automatic front seatbelt presenters were a notable feature.

Body Structure:

Reinforced chassis and A/B pillars, designed for occupant protection in the event of a collision.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory fitted Becker or Blaupunkt radio/cassette systems were common. Features could include AM/FM radio, cassette playback, and potentially CD changer input on later models.

Speaker System:

Typically 4-6 speakers, depending on trim level.

Advanced Features:

Optional ABS, ASD (Automatic Slip Differential), and ADS (Automatic Damping System) provided enhanced control and comfort, representing significant technological advancements for the era.

Auxiliary Options:

No integrated Bluetooth or smartphone connectivity. Older models might have provisions for external CD changers or aftermarket antenna connections.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change:

Typically every 7,500 - 10,000 miles (12,000 - 15,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first. Refer to manual for specific mileage based on driving conditions.

Spark Plugs:

Replacement recommended at approximately 30,000 - 50,000 miles (50,000 - 80,000 km), depending on type (e.g., standard copper vs. platinum). Manual will specify.

Coolant Flush:

Every 2-3 years or 30,000 miles (50,000 km).

Transmission Service:

Automatic transmission fluid and filter change every 30,000-50,000 miles (50,000-80,000 km). Manual transmission fluid inspection and change as per manual. Refer to manual for specific intervals and procedures for the 722.4/722.5 and G34 transmissions.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4. Must be replaced every 2 years. Refer to manual for exact MB specification.

Power Steering Fluid:

MB Fluid specification 236.3 (ATF Dexron II or equivalent). Refer to manual.

Common Problems:

Head gasket leaks (M103 engine), vacuum hose deterioration leading to vacuum leaks, wiring harness degradation (especially around the engine harness), OVP relay failure (Overvoltage Protection), window regulator issues, distributor cap and rotor wear, fuel pressure regulator problems. W124 specific issues like 'mouse bites' on wiring harnesses are common.

Typical Repairs:

Replacement of vacuum lines, OVP relay, fuel injectors, spark plugs, ignition wires, fuel filter, air filter, suspension bushings, and brake components. Cooling system overhauls are also common due to age.

📚 Vehicle History

Heritage:

Mercedes-Benz has a long-standing reputation for engineering excellence, luxury, and safety, dating back to the invention of the automobile. The W124 series, including the 300 CE, represents a period of exceptional build quality and technological advancement for the brand.

Evolution:

The C124 coupe was introduced in 1987 as part of the broader W124 E-Class family, which was renowned for its build quality and engineering. The 300 CE was a significant model within this range, offering the smooth performance of the M103 engine in a stylish coupe body. Later models saw incremental updates to features and minor styling tweaks.

Production Period:

1987-1993 for the 300 CE model (C124 Coupe range). The W124 platform itself ran from 1985 to 1995.

Manufacturing Location:

Primarily Germany.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Vehicle Awards:

The W124 platform in general was widely praised for its engineering, durability, and comfort. While specific awards for the 300 CE may not be as prominent as later models, the W124 series as a whole is considered an automotive icon and often features on 'best of' lists for its era, frequently lauded by automotive journalists for its robust build and timeless design.