Class Positioning:
Full-size luxury sedan, representing the pinnacle of Mercedes-Benz engineering and comfort during its era
Key Competitors:
BMW 7 Series (E32/E38), Lexus LS 400, Audi V8/A8, Jaguar XJ
Design Philosophy:
Emphasis on safety, comfort, advanced technology, and robust build quality, often described as 'over-engineered'
Technological Advancements:
Dual-pane side windows for acoustic insulation, CAN bus network for communication, advanced climate control, power closing doors/trunk (on some models)
Acoustics:
Exceptional sound insulation due to dual-pane side windows and extensive sound deadening materials.
Geographic Coverage:
Global (primarily North American and European specifications implied by common manual formats)
Market Focus:
All W140 models sold between 1992 and 1999
Vehicle Variants:
Covers all W140 variants including S-Class sedan (W140), S-Class Long Wheelbase sedan (V140/SEL), and potentially Coupe variants (C140/CL-Class) if included in the factory documentation base.
Estimated Page Count:
Hundreds (exact number not specified, but described as 'very detailed')
Manual Type:
Factory Service & Repair Workshop Manual
Digital Format:
PDF Download
Accessibility:
Instant download, usable on multiple computers (Windows & MAC), tablets, and smartphones
Licensing Model:
Lifetime use, no expiry, no renewal fees
Powertrain:
Engine, transmission, drivetrain, exhaust system
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering, brakes (hydraulic and electronic systems), wheels and tires
Electrical System:
12V system, charging system (alternator, battery), starting system, lighting (headlights, taillights, interior), ignition system, fuel injection control, engine control module (ECM), body control module (BCM), comfort features electronics
Body And Interior:
Body panels, doors, windows, sunroof, seats, interior trim, HVAC system (including climate control), safety systems (airbags, seatbelts)
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting procedures, diagnostic fault codes (DTCs), testing methods for various components
Safety Systems:
Airbag system (SRS), seatbelt pretensioners, door locks, central locking, alarm system
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes (oil, coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid), filter replacements, lubrication
Repair:
Component removal and installation, component overhaul, system repair (e.g., brake caliper replacement, alternator replacement, radiator repair)
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnosis of common and uncommon problems, identification of causes and solutions
Technical Specifications:
Torque values, clearances, electrical schematics, diagnostic data
Diagrams And Illustrations:
Detailed exploded diagrams, step-by-step photo sequences, wiring diagrams
Calibration Procedures:
Procedures for calibrating sensors, suspension height sensors, and other electronic control units (ECUs) where applicable.
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive, covering basic to advanced repair and diagnostic procedures, suitable for professional mechanics and advanced DIY enthusiasts
Searchability:
Likely text-searchable PDF (standard for professional manuals)
Software Requirements:
A PDF reader (e.g., Adobe Acrobat Reader) is required.
Print Capability:
Printable (single pages or entire manual)
Resolution Quality:
High-resolution for clear viewing of text, photos, and diagrams, suitable for printing.
Binding Type:
N/A (Digital Download)
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital Download)
Engine Options:
M104 3.2L Inline-6, M119 4.2L V8, M119 5.0L V8, M120 6.0L V12 (AMG variants also exist)
Engine Family Focus:
The manual will detail maintenance and repair procedures for the common M104 and M119 engines, with potential coverage for the M120
Typical Hp Range:
217 hp (3.2L) to 389 hp (6.0L V12)
Typical Torque Range:
221 lb-ft (3.2L) to 420 lb-ft (6.0L V12)
Fuel Injection Type:
Bosch Motronic electronic fuel injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ octane)
ECM Systems:
Detailed diagnostics and troubleshooting for Engine Control Modules (ECM)
Diagnostic Tools:
Procedures often reference the use of specialized Mercedes-Benz diagnostic tools like the 'STAR Diagnosis' system (though older versions for this era) or generic OBD-II scanners (from 1996 onwards) for DTC retrieval.
Transmission Type:
4-speed automatic (4G-TRONIC) for early models, 5-speed automatic (5G-TRONIC) for later models
Automatic Transmission Features:
Electronic control, traction control (ASR) integration, comfort and sport modes (on some)
Transmission Fluid Type:
MB 236.8 or MB 236.12 (e.g., Fuchs Titan ATF 4134, Pentosin ATF1)
Wheelbase Inches:
119.3 inches (Standard Wheelbase), 121.3 inches (Long Wheelbase - SEL models)
Length Inches:
201.4 inches (Standard), 205.3 inches (Long)
Width Inches:
73.1 inches
Height Inches:
58.5 inches
Curb Weight Lbs:
Approximately 4,400 - 4,800 lbs (depending on engine and configuration)
Federal Safety Standards:
Designed to meet or exceed all applicable Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) of its time
Active Safety Systems:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Acceleration Slip Regulation (ASR) traction control
Passive Safety Features:
Dual front airbags, side impact protection (door beams), reinforced body structure, pretensioner seatbelts
Audio System:
Factory premium sound systems (e.g., Bose), often with cassette or CD players. Manual covers head unit diagnostics and speaker replacement.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control system. Manual details its operation and troubleshooting.
Parking Assistance:
Optional parking sensors (APS - Acoustic Parking System) on later models. Manual may cover their installation or repair.
Telecommunications:
Older models may have provisions for car phones; later models might feature early telematics. Manual will cover related wiring and modules.
HVAC System:
Automatic climate control with dual-zone or multi-zone capability. Manual covers blower motor, AC compressor, evaporator, condenser, and control panel diagnostics.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 7,500 - 10,000 miles or 12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil used. Manual will specify exact intervals.
Major Service Points:
Spark plug replacement, transmission fluid & filter change, coolant flush, brake fluid flush at specified intervals (e.g., 30,000-60,000 miles).
Engine Oil Specification:
MB 229.1 or MB 229.3 compliant synthetic oil, typically 0W-40 or 5W-40 for most engines. Manual will provide specific viscosity recommendations per engine.
Coolant Type:
Mercedes-Benz approved coolant (e.g., G48 or similar ethylene glycol based coolant, usually blue or green)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Power Steering Fluid:
MB specification 236.3 or Pentosin CHF 11S
Common Wear Items:
Coolant hoses (especially the plastic pipe connectors on M104/M119 engines), vacuum lines, idle control valve, mass air flow sensor (MAF), fuel pump, window regulators, door locks, and suspension components (e.g., control arm bushings).
Electrical System Quirks:
Can be complex; troubleshooting SRS system issues, climate control module faults, and wiring harness wear are common.
Corrosion Risk:
Underbody and wheel wells can be susceptible to rust, particularly in regions with road salt.
Brand Legacy:
Mercedes-Benz has a long-standing reputation for luxury, engineering excellence, and safety, a legacy upheld by the W140 S-Class.
Predecessor:
W126 S-Class
Manufacturing Locations:
Germany (Sindelfingen plant)
Production Total:
Over 400,000 units produced during its lifespan
