Mercedes w126 Buyers Guide

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🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Mercedes-Benz Model: S-Class Codes Chassis Code: W126 Generation Generation: Second Generation W126 👋 Introduction Market Position Segment: Full-size Luxury Sedan Reputation: Considered one of the...

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Type: Car

Vendor:

Sku: 366519

Tags: Car Cars Mercedes W126

Product variants

Description

🏷️ Basic Information

Identification

Make:

Mercedes-Benz

Model:

S-Class

Codes

Chassis Code:

Generation

Generation:

Second Generation W126

👋 Introduction

Market Position

Segment:

Full-size Luxury Sedan

Reputation:

Considered one of the best vehicles in the world in its era

Competitive Analysis

Competitors:

BMW 7 Series (E23), Jaguar XJ, Cadillac Eldorado, Lincoln Continental

Key Features

Build Quality:

Exceptional build quality and durability

Engineering:

Over-engineered, sophisticated engineering

Comfort And Ride:

Supremely comfortable ride, excellent noise insulation

Safety Features:

Pioneered many safety advancements for Mercedes-Benz

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas

Primary Focus:

Buyer's Guide for W126 S-Class

Secondary Focus:

Common Pitfalls and Generic Problems

Page Count

Page Count:

Manual Type

Type:

Buyers Guide / Pre-purchase Inspection Aid

Language

Language:

English

Format

Format:

Likely Printed Booklet (based on description, no digital specified)

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered

Mechanical Systems:

Engine, Drivetrain, Suspension, Brakes, Cooling, Fuel, Exhaust

Electrical Systems:

Basic electrical checks, common failure points

Bodywork And Interior:

Common cosmetic and structural issues, interior wear points

Procedures Included

Inspection Points:

Key areas to inspect during a pre-purchase evaluation

Problem Identification:

Diagnosis of common W126 specific faults and wear

Cost Estimation Guidance:

Implied, by mentioning 'save you a lot money'

Technical Depth

Depth Level:

Buyer-focused, highlighting common problems and areas of concern, not in-depth repair procedures.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format

Format:

Print Quality

Paper Type:

Standard paper (typical for buyer's guides)

Print Quality:

Standard commercial print

Binding Type

Binding:

Stapled or Perfect Bound (common for short booklets)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine

Engine Variants:

M110 (2.8L I6), M117 (3.8L/4.2L/5.0L V8), M103 (2.6L/3.0L I6), M119 (5.0L V8 - late models)

Performance

Horsepower Range:

143 hp (260SE) to 240 hp (500SEL)

Torque Range:

205 lb-ft (260SE) to 325 lb-ft (500SEL)

Fuel System

Injection System:

Bosch K-Jetronic (early models), Bosch KE-Jetronic (later models), Bosch DOHC EFI (M119)

Engine Type

Configuration:

Inline 6-cylinder and V8

🔧 Transmission

Standard

Transmission Type:

4-speed Automatic (722.3 series)

Optional

Transmission Type:

5-speed Manual (rare, typically on 2.6/2.8 models)

Features

Automatic Features:

Hydraulically controlled, comfort-oriented shifting

Fluid Specifications

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Mercedes-Benz Specification 236.1 (e.g., Dexron II compatible)

📐 Dimensions

Exterior

Wheelbase:

116.7 inches (Standard Wheelbase), 121.1 inches (Long Wheelbase - SEL models)

Length:

197.7 inches (Standard Wheelbase), 202.4 inches (Long Wheelbase)

Weights

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3,700 - 4,200 lbs (depending on engine and configuration)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approx. 5,000 - 5,500 lbs

🛡️ Safety Features

Ratings

Crash Test Performance:

Excellent for its era, featuring robust crumple zones and safety cage

Active Features

Braking System:

Four-wheel disc brakes, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) standard on later models and optional on earlier ones

Traction Control:

ASR (Acceleration Skid Control) available on V8 models from 1989

Passive Features

Airbags:

Driver-side airbag became standard in 1987, passenger airbag optional later

Seatbelts:

Pretensioning front seatbelts

Steering Column:

Collapsible steering column

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment

Audio System:

Premium Becker audio systems with options for cassette decks, later models offered CD compatibility.

Climate Control:

Automatic climate control with cabin air filtration (for its time).

Driver Assistance

Cruise Control:

Standard on most models.

Memory Seats:

Optional/standard on higher trims, adjustable via electronic controls.

Connectivity

Phone Integration:

Early models did not have integrated systems; aftermarket options existed.

🔧 Maintenance

Service Intervals

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles or annually (depending on driving conditions and oil type).

Major Service Interval:

Every 30,000-60,000 miles for comprehensive inspection and component checks (e.g., spark plugs, fuel filter, transmission service).

Fluid Specifications

Engine Oil Specification:

API SG or higher, SAE 15W-40 or 10W-30 (refer to owner's manual for specific climate recommendations)

Coolant Specification:

Mercedes-Benz Specification 325.0 (Ethylene Glycol based coolant)

Brake Fluid Specification:

DOT 3 or DOT 4

Known Issues

Engine Components:

Head gasket leaks (especially on V8s), timing chain wear, vacuum line deterioration, fuel distributor issues (K-Jetronic).

Suspension Components:

Front ball joint wear, rear axle bushings, hydraulic self-leveling suspension leaks (if equipped).

Electrical Components:

Wiring harness degradation, climate control unit failures, window regulator issues, headlamp leveling system problems.

Bodywork And Interior:

Rust (wheel wells, rocker panels, sunroof drains), headliner sagging, seat upholstery wear, dashboard cracks.

Parts Information

Part Numbers Guidance:

The guide will likely highlight common part numbers or sources for critical components.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage

Manufacturer:

Daimler-Benz AG (now Mercedes-Benz Group AG)

Model Evolution

Production Years:

1979-1991

Facelifts:

Significant facelift in 1985 (introducing new engines, revised exterior styling, improved aerodynamics, and safety features like driver's airbag).

Production

Manufacturing Locations:

Sindelfingen, Germany

Total Production Units:

Over 650,000 units (sedan and coupe combined)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions

Historical Accolades:

Consistently ranked among the best luxury cars of the 1980s by automotive journalists and publications worldwide.

Ratings

Safety Ratings Era:

Pioneered many safety standards, earning high marks for structural integrity and occupant protection in its time.

Certifications

Engineering Certification:

Represents a pinnacle of German automotive engineering and build quality.