Vehicle Segment:
Mid-size luxury executive car
Brand Perception:
Known for build quality, durability, and sophisticated engineering
Competitors:
BMW 5 Series (E12/E28), Audi 100, Volvo 240/260 Series, Jaguar XJ6
Manual Value Proposition:
Enables informed discussion with technicians and facilitates DIY repairs, saving significant costs.
Manual Accuracy:
Vehicle-specific, directly mirroring dealership service information.
Engine Mechanical:
Full overhaul, diagnostics, component repair
Engine Electrical:
Ignition, starting, charging systems, sensors, ECUs
Emission Control:
System operation, diagnosis, component testing
Fuel System:
Carburetor (Zenith/Stromberg for some markets), fuel injection (Bosch K-Jetronic), fuel pumps, lines
Clutch:
Disc, pressure plate, release bearing, hydraulic system
Manual Transmission:
Gearbox overhaul, synchronizers, shifting mechanisms
Automatic Transmission:
Torque converter, planetary gears, hydraulic control, valve body servicing
Driveshaft And Axle:
Universal joints, driveshaft balancing, rear axle overhaul, differential
Suspension:
Front independent suspension, rear independent suspension (multi-link), shock absorbers, springs, bushings
Steering:
Power steering system, steering box, linkage, column
Restraint Systems:
Seat belts, pre-tensioners (if applicable for later models), SRS components (if equipped)
Brake System:
Front and rear disc brakes, hydraulic circuits, ABS (if equipped on later models), parking brake
Body Interior Exterior:
Body panel repair, trim, upholstery, glass, weatherstripping
Body Electrical:
Lighting, power windows, central locking, wipers, horn, instrumentation
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, air conditioning system diagnosis and repair
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, lubrication
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts, common fault identification and resolution
Repair:
Step-by-step instructions for component replacement and repair
Diagnostics:
Engine, transmission, electrical, and chassis system diagnostics
Wiring Schematics:
Complete electrical system wiring diagrams
Scope:
Comprehensive workshop-level repair and maintenance
Target Audience:
Professional mechanics and experienced DIY enthusiasts
Illustration Quality:
Diagrams and illustrations included for clarity
Engine Type 280Ce 280E:
Inline-6, SOHC
Displacement 280Ce 280E:
2.8 Liters (2746 cc)
Bore X Stroke 280Ce 280E:
86.0 mm x 78.7 mm
Compression Ratio 280Ce 280E:
8.3:1 (typical)
Horsepower 280Ce 280E:
Approximately 142-160 hp (net, depending on market and specific engine variant)
Torque 280Ce 280E:
Approximately 177-195 lb-ft (net, depending on market and specific engine variant)
Fuel Delivery Early Models:
Carburetion (e.g., Zenith 35/40 INAT)
Fuel Delivery Later Models:
Bosch K-Jetronic CIS (Continuous Injection System)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (Octane rating typically 91 RON / 87 AKI)
Standard Transmission Type:
4-speed manual transmission
Optional Transmission Type:
3-speed or 4-speed automatic transmission (e.g., 3HP22)
Automatic Transmission Features:
Torque converter, hydraulic control, often with 'Economy' and 'Power' modes
Safety Design Philosophy:
Engineered with a focus on occupant protection, reflecting Mercedes-Benz's commitment to safety.
Active Safety Features:
Four-wheel disc brakes, power-assisted steering, independent suspension for stability
Passive Safety Features:
Reinforced passenger cell, crumple zones, dual-circuit braking system, padded interior surfaces
Infotainment Systems:
Basic analog radio systems (AM/FM), optional cassette player. Later models might have upgraded aftermarket units.
Driver Assistance Features:
Power steering, power brakes, cruise control (optional), intermittent wipers.
Connectivity Features:
N/A (no integrated connectivity features in the modern sense).
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 7,500 - 10,000 miles (12,000 - 15,000 km) or annually, whichever comes first.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Automatic: every 30,000-40,000 miles (48,000-64,000 km). Manual: inspect and change as needed.
Engine Oil Specification:
API SF/SG or equivalent, SAE 20W-50 or 10W-40 recommended (refer to manual for specific climate conditions).
Coolant Specification:
50/50 mix of Mercedes-Benz approved coolant or equivalent ethylene glycol antifreeze and distilled water.
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (check manual for specific type and change interval).
Power Steering Fluid:
Mercedes-Benz Power Steering Fluid or Pentosin CHF 11S (check manual for exact type).
Common Issues General:
Rust susceptibility (especially wheel arches, door bottoms, trunk floor), vacuum line degradation affecting central locking and climate control, aging rubber components (bushings, hoses), electrical connector corrosion.
Common Issues Engine:
Timing chain wear on high-mileage engines, fuel injection system (K-Jetronic) sensitivity to dirt and air leaks, potential for oil leaks from valve cover and oil pan gaskets.
Common Issues Transmission:
Slipping in automatic transmissions, worn clutch components in manuals.
Brand Legacy:
Mercedes-Benz has a long-standing reputation for engineering excellence, luxury, and safety since its inception.
W123 Introduction:
Introduced in 1976 as a successor to the W114/W115 models, establishing new benchmarks for durability and comfort.
W123 Variants:
Available as Sedan (E), Coupe (CE), Estate (T-model), and Limousine. The 280CE and 280E were part of the premium engine offerings.
Production Period:
1976-1985
Notable Achievements:
The W123 series is renowned for its legendary durability, with many examples exceeding hundreds of thousands of miles.
