Vehicle Segment:
Executive Car (mid-size luxury)
Target Audience:
Discerning buyers seeking refined comfort, durability, and engineering excellence
Key Competitors:
BMW 5 Series (E28/E34), Audi 100/200, Volvo 240/740, Jaguar XJ
Engineering Philosophy:
Over-engineered for durability and long-term reliability, focus on safety and comfort
Design Era:
Epitome of Mercedes-Benz 'build quality' era, known for robust construction
Manual Type:
Factory Service Repair Workshop Manual
Estimated Page Count:
Hundreds (Specific count not provided, but described as 'very detailed')
Licensing Terms:
Lifetime use, no expiry, no renewal fees
Operating Systems:
Windows and macOS
Printing Capability:
Printable (single pages or entire manual)
Device Compatibility:
Usable on multiple computers, tablets, and smartphones
Engine Mechanical:
Engine overhaul, component diagnosis, fuel injection systems (CIS-E, KE-Jetronic, HFM), ignition systems, cooling system, lubrication system
Transmission Drivetrain:
Manual and automatic transmission repair and overhaul, differential, driveshafts, axles
Suspension Steering:
Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, ball joints, steering box, power steering system
Brakes:
Brake system diagnosis, hydraulic components, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) troubleshooting and repair, brake pad/disc replacement
Electrical Systems:
Wiring diagrams, starter motor, alternator, battery, lighting systems, fuse box, relays, dashboard instrumentation, power windows, central locking
Body Chassis:
Bodywork repair, rust prevention, door mechanisms, glass replacement, trim, underbody coatings
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system service and repair
Fuel System:
Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel lines, fuel filter replacement
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance tasks, fluid changes, filter replacements, belt adjustments
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, fault code interpretation (where applicable)
Repair:
Step-by-step instructions for all major and minor repairs, component replacement
Overhaul:
Complete engine and transmission rebuild procedures
Calibration Adjustment:
Ignition timing, idle speed, fuel mixture adjustments
Depth Of Information:
Comprehensive, suitable for professional mechanics and experienced DIY enthusiasts
Illustrations:
Hundreds of detailed photos and exploded diagrams
Data Tables:
Specifications, tolerances, torque values, fluid capacities
Engine Families Covered:
M102 (4-cylinder), M103 (6-cylinder), M104 (6-cylinder, DOHC), OM601 (4-cylinder Diesel), OM602 (5-cylinder Diesel), OM603 (6-cylinder Diesel)
Engine Displacement Examples
2.0L:
Approx. 1997cc (M102)
2.3L:
Approx. 2299cc (M102, M103), 2298cc (OM601)
2.6L:
Approx. 2597cc (M103)
3.0L:
Approx. 2996cc (M103, M104, OM603), 2962cc (OM602)
3.2L:
Approx. 3199cc (M104)
2.5L Diesel:
Approx. 2497cc (OM601)
2.9L Diesel:
Approx. 2874cc (OM602)
3.0L Diesel:
Approx. 2996cc (OM603)
Horsepower Range:
75 hp (Diesel) to 231 hp (3.2L 24V)
Torque Range:
125 lb-ft (Diesel) to 228 lb-ft (3.2L 24V)
Injection Systems:
Bosch CIS-E (Continuous Injection System - Electronic), KE-Jetronic, HFM (Hot Film Air Mass sensor)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (Octane rating specific to market and engine), Diesel fuel
Block Material:
Cast Iron
Head Material:
Aluminum Alloy
Transmission Types:
4-speed and 5-speed manual transmissions, 4-speed and 5-speed automatic transmissions (722.3, 722.4, 722.5, 722.6)
Optional Transmissions:
5-speed automatic transmission (722.6, introduced later in production)
Automatic Features:
Lock-up clutch, electronic control (later models), sport/economy modes
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2795 mm (110.0 in) for Saloon/Coupe, 2800 mm (110.2 in) for Estate
Length:
Varies by body style and model year, e.g., Saloon approx. 4740-4770 mm
Width:
Approx. 1740-1760 mm
Height:
Approx. 1420-1450 mm
Curb Weight:
Varies significantly by engine and body style, typically 1400-1700 kg
Historical Safety Design:
Designed with a strong emphasis on occupant safety for its era, high levels of passive safety
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) widely available and often standard on higher trims
Traction Control:
ASR (Anti-Slip Regulation) introduced on some later models
Airbags:
Driver's airbag became widely available and standard during this generation
Seatbelts:
Front and rear seat belts, often with pre-tensioners on front belts
Crash Structure:
Advanced crumple zones, reinforced passenger cell for superior impact protection
Audio Systems:
Various OEM Becker audio systems, often with cassette players and optional CD changers. Manual covers basic electrical connections and troubleshooting.
Cruise Control:
Standard on many models, a sophisticated vacuum-actuated system for its time.
Climate Control:
Manual or automatic climate control systems, featuring sophisticated vacuum controls and servo actuators.
Antenna Systems:
Integrated antenna systems in windshield or rear window on some models.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 10,000 - 15,000 km (6,000 - 9,000 miles) or annually, depending on driving conditions and oil type used.
Major Service Interval:
Around 40,000 - 60,000 km (25,000 - 37,000 miles) for spark plug replacement, fuel filter, air filter, and transmission fluid/filter changes.
Engine Oil Viscosity:
Varies by engine and climate, commonly 10W-40, 15W-40, 5W-40 (synthetic for cooler climates or high performance)
Coolant Type:
Proprietary Mercedes-Benz coolant or equivalent (e.g., Glysantin G05)
Transmission Fluid:
MB 236.1 or MB 236.3 for 4-speed automatics (e.g., Dexron II), MB 236.10/11 for later 5-speed automatics
Wiring Harness Degradation:
Common issue with older Mercedes, insulation can become brittle and fail. Manual provides diagnostic and repair procedures.
Rust Susceptibility:
Certain areas like wheel arches, sills, and boot lid edges can be prone to rust. Manual covers body repair and prevention.
Biodegradable Engine Wiring:
Some early M104 engines used biodegradable engine wiring harnesses; the manual details identification and replacement.
Vacuum Lines:
Aging vacuum lines can lead to performance issues and unintended system operation (e.g., cruise control, climate control).
Automatic Transmission Leaks:
Common leak points include the transmission cooler lines and the connector sleeve.
Mercedes Benz Legacy:
Established reputation for engineering, luxury, and durability dating back to the early 20th century
W124 Introduction:
Launched in 1984 (model year 1985 in some markets), with significant updates throughout its lifecycle, including the 1989 facelift and introduction of the M104 engines.
Facelifts:
Significant facelift in 1989 introduced revised styling (e.g., side protective strips integrated into body color), improved aerodynamics, and updated engine options.
Production Period:
1984/1985 - 1995/1996 (W124 chassis generation), with this manual covering the primary 1986-1993 range.
Production Locations:
Primarily Germany (Sindelfingen, Bremen), also assembly in other countries.
Reputation For Durability:
Widely recognized for exceptional build quality and longevity, often referred to as one of the best Mercedes-Benz models ever made.
Design Awards:
While specific design awards are not highlighted in the product description, the W124's aerodynamic and functional design was highly regarded.
