🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mercedes-Benz

Model:

260 E

Chassis Code:

W124

Body Style:

Sedan (4-door)

Generation Name:

First Generation W124

Model Code:

260E

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The Mercedes-Benz 260 E (W124) was positioned as a luxury mid-size sedan, representing a significant evolution in Mercedes-Benz engineering, safety, and durability. It was known for its robust build quality and sophisticated design, often considered a benchmark in its class.

Competitors:

Competed with established luxury marques like BMW (5 Series), Audi (100/200), and American luxury brands such as Cadillac and Lincoln, as well as other European offerings like Volvo and Saab.

Features:

Aerodynamic styling, advanced independent suspension, high build quality, emphasis on safety, comfortable and spacious interior, and the reputation for longevity synonymous with Mercedes-Benz vehicles of this era.

Value:

This manual provides dealership-level repair and service information, enabling owners and technicians to maintain and repair the 260 E with accuracy and efficiency, ensuring the longevity and performance of this classic Mercedes-Benz.

📋 Manual Details

Applicable Years:

1987, 1988, 1989

Specific Models Covered:

Mercedes-Benz 260 E (W124 chassis)

Estimated Page Count:

Comprehensive (Exact count not specified, but implies full factory documentation)

Type:

Factory Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Engine overhaul, inspection, maintenance, timing, fuel system (injection), emission controls (oxygen sensor), cooling system, lubrication system

Transmission:

Manual transmission oil change and level check; Automatic transmission fluid and filter change, fluid level check; Transfer case fluid change and level check

Drivetrain:

Clutch system inspection and fluid level correction; Drive shaft flexible coupling inspection; Front axle oil level check; Rear axle oil change and level check; Rear axle limiting stop adjustment

Suspension And Steering:

Suspension and body structure inspection; Level control (ADS, ASD, 4MATIC) fluid level; Self-leveling suspension inspection; Front axle ball joint inspection; Ball joint inspection (special tool); Steering play check; Steering bolt retightening

Brakes:

Brake fluid level check; Brake line inspection; Brake pad and disc thickness check; Brake disc inspection and cleaning; Parking brake cable inspection; Parking brake adjustment; Brake fluid replacement; Brake test and parking brake check

Electrical And Lighting:

Warning and indicator lamp checks; Headlamp and exterior lamp inspection; Wiper and washer inspection

Body And Chassis:

Body structure inspection; Water leakage and corrosion inspection; Exhaust manifold seating inspection; Exhaust flange retightening; Exhaust system connection retightening; Lower noise encapsulation panel removal/installation; Body paint damage inspection

Comfort And Convenience:

Hydraulic top fluid level check; Sunroof rail cleaning and greasing; Soft top locking tab check; Door hinge lubrication; Door lock lubrication; Folding side mirror lubrication; Hood lubrication; Windshield washer fluid level check

Heating Ventilation Air Conditioning:

Dust filter replacement; Active charcoal filter replacement; Recirculating air filter replacement; AC refrigerant charge check

Maintenance Tasks:

Engine oil and filter change, valve clearance adjustment, idle speed adjustment, fuel filter replacement, air filter replacement, V-belt tension check, spark plug check/replacement, coolant level/antifreeze check, coolant replacement, battery fluid level check, windshield washer fluid top-up

Diagnostic And Inspection:

Component condition inspection, lines and hoses inspection, suspension and body structure inspection, water leakage and corrosion inspection, injection timing check, clutch disk wear check, steering play check, fuel system condition check, tire pressure correction, safety belt inspection, backrest lock operation check

Repair And Replacement:

Spark plug replacement, fuel filter replacement, air filter element replacement, oxygen sensor replacement, coolant replacement, brake fluid replacement, windshield wiper blade replacement

Adjustment And Calibration:

Valve clearance adjustment, idle speed adjustment, injection timing adjustment, engine stop adjustment, rear axle limiting stop adjustment, parking brake adjustment

Depth:

Comprehensive factory-level detail, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts. Covers everything from routine maintenance to in-depth component repair and diagnosis.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

PDF

Searchability:

Fully searchable text

Printability:

All pages printable

Origin:

Real files, not scans

Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Feature:

Completely bookmarked

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Inline-6 Cylinder, Naturally Aspirated

Engine Code Family:

M103

Displacement:

2.6 Liters (2599 cc)

Bore X Stroke:

82.0 mm x 80.25 mm

Compression Ratio:

9.2:1 (typical)

Horsepower:

Approx. 160 hp @ 5500 rpm (DIN)

Torque:

Approx. 177 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm (Nm)

Fuel Injection:

Bosch KE-Jetronic (CIS-E/Lambda)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline

Valve Adjustment Type:

Mechanical tappets (requires shim adjustment)

Oil Capacity:

Approx. 6.5 Liters (with filter)

Recommended Oil Viscosity:

SAE 10W-30 or 15W-40 (depending on climate, check manual for specifics)

Spark Plug Type:

Bosch W8AC or equivalent

🔧 Transmission

Type:

4-Speed Automatic (e.g., 722.4)

Type:

5-Speed Manual

Automatic Transmission Fluid Capacity:

Approx. 7.5 Liters (for complete fill, varies with drain/fill)

Manual Transmission Oil Capacity:

Approx. 1.5 Liters

Manual Transmission Oil Type:

API GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil (check manual for specific grade)

Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:

MB 236.2 or 236.3 (e.g., Dexron II)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 4740 mm (186.6 inches)

Width:

Approx. 1740 mm (68.5 inches)

Height:

Approx. 1420 mm (55.9 inches)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2795 mm (110.0 inches)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1450-1550 kg (3197-3417 lbs)

Standard Tire Size:

195/65 R15

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5x112

Wheel Offset:

ET 41

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Info:

While specific official ratings for this era are less standardized, the W124 chassis was renowned for its structural integrity and safety features, incorporating crumple zones and a reinforced passenger cell.

Traction Control:

Optional: Acceleration Skid Control (ASR) available on later models or as an option (ASD system mentioned in manual coverage hints at advanced traction/stability systems).

Airbags:

Driver's airbag became standard later in the W124's life, may have been optional for 1987-1989 models.

Seatbelts:

Front and rear seat belts, pre-tensioners likely standard or optional.

Other Safety Features:

ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was available as an option.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory-fitted or dealer-installed radio/cassette players. Cassette deck tone head cleaning is covered in the manual.

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was an optional feature.

Traction Control:

ASD (Automatic Slip Differential) and ASR (Acceleration Skid Control) were available as optional electronic aids for traction.

Suspension Systems:

Standard independent suspension, with optional self-leveling suspension (Level Control) and ADS (Active Damping System) available, particularly on higher-spec models.

HVAC Features:

Manual or automatic climate control systems were available, with detailed procedures for filter replacement.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil And Filter Change:

Typically every 10,000-15,000 km or 6-12 months, but consult the manual for precise intervals based on driving conditions.

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 30,000-50,000 km or as needed based on environmental conditions.

Fuel Filter Replacement:

Typically every 40,000-60,000 km.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Around 50,000-70,000 km, depending on plug type.

Coolant Replacement:

Every 2-4 years or as per manual recommendation.

Transmission Fluid Change:

Automatic: typically 60,000-100,000 km or every 2-4 years. Manual: check manual, often longer intervals.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 (check manual)

Power Steering Fluid Type:

MB 236.3 (Dexron II compatible)

Coolant Type:

Proprietary Mercedes-Benz coolant or equivalent (e.g., G05, containing silicate)

Common Problems:

Wiring harness degradation (cracked insulation), vacuum line leaks (affecting engine performance), early ABS failures, potential head gasket issues on some M103 engines, rust in common areas (wheel arches, sills).

📚 Vehicle History

Heritage:

Mercedes-Benz, founded in 1926, has a long history of automotive innovation, engineering excellence, and luxury vehicle production, with a reputation for building durable and high-quality cars.

W124 Introduction:

The W124 E-Class was introduced in 1984, succeeding the W123. It was designed with a strong emphasis on aerodynamics, safety, and comfort, setting new standards in its class.

260E Positioning:

The 260 E was one of the entry-level models in the W124 range, offering the core W124 attributes at a more accessible price point than the larger-engined variants. It was powered by the M103 inline-six engine.

Production Years For W124:

1984-1995 (with facelifts in 1989 and 1993)

Manufacturing Location:

Primarily Germany (Sindelfingen, Bremen)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Industry Acclaim:

The W124 platform received widespread acclaim for its engineering, build quality, and durability, often being cited as one of the best-built cars of its time.

Reliability Perception:

Generally regarded as highly reliable and durable when properly maintained, a testament to Mercedes-Benz engineering and the comprehensive coverage provided by this service manual.

Manual Source Quality:

Authentic factory documentation, indicating adherence to manufacturer standards and comprehensive diagnostic/repair procedures.