🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mercedes-Benz

Model:

W124 260E & 300E 2.6

Chassis Code:

W124

Body Style:

Sedan

Model Years Covered:

1987-1992

Generation Code:

First Generation W124 (E-Class)

Engine Code 260E:

M103.940

Engine Code 300E 2.6:

M103.942

👋 Introduction

Market Segment:

Luxury Mid-size Sedan (Executive Car)

Competitors:

BMW 5 Series (E34), Audi 100/200, Volvo 740/760, Saab 9000.

Design Philosophy:

Emphasis on build quality, safety, comfort, and advanced engineering for the era.

Manual Advantage:

Provides detailed, official factory information for DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics, ensuring accurate repairs and maintenance.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage:

Comprehensive Service and Repair

Page Count:

Hundreds of pages

Manual Type:

Official Full Workshop Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine overhaul, timing belt, head gasket, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel injection system, emission control systems.

Engine Management:

Engine control unit (ECU) diagnosis and repair, sensor testing, actuator diagnostics, fuel delivery system.

Transmission:

Automatic transmission service and repair (e.g., 722.3, 722.4), clutch service, torque converter, shift linkage adjustments.

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, bushings, steering linkage.

Brakes:

Brake system diagnosis and repair, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) service, brake fluid replacement, caliper and rotor replacement.

Electrical System:

Full electrical system diagnosis and repair, wiring diagrams, component testing, starter, alternator, battery system, lighting, instruments.

Body And Interior:

Bodywork repair, door mechanisms, window regulators, seating systems, interior trim, HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) system.

Maintenance:

Oil and filter changes, air filter replacement, spark plug replacement, coolant flush, brake fluid flush, tire pressure checks, lubrication points.

Troubleshooting:

Systematic diagnosis of common and uncommon problems, diagnostic codes, symptom-based troubleshooting for engine, transmission, and electrical issues.

Repair:

Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and repair for all major vehicle systems.

Depth:

Extensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, with detailed diagnostic procedures.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Print Quality:

Printable without restriction

Binding Type:

Digital (Downloadable PDF)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital)

Searchable Text:

Likely searchable due to PDF format, enhancing ease of finding information.

Software Requirements:

Adobe PDF Reader is essential. WinRar or similar archive utility may be needed for extraction. Flash Player is typically not required for standard PDFs.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type 260E:

Inline 6-cylinder, SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft), M103.940

Engine Type 300E 2.6:

Inline 6-cylinder, SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft), M103.942

Displacement 260E:

2.6 Liters (2599 cc)

Displacement 300E 2.6:

2.6 Liters (2599 cc)

Horsepower 260E:

Approx. 160 hp @ 5700 rpm

Torque 260E:

Approx. 228 Nm (168 lb-ft) @ 4400 rpm

Horsepower 300E 2.6:

Approx. 160 hp @ 5700 rpm (shared with 260E due to same engine displacement)

Torque 300E 2.6:

Approx. 228 Nm (168 lb-ft) @ 4400 rpm (shared with 260E)

Fuel Injection System:

Bosch KE-Jetronic (Mechanical/Electronic hybrid fuel injection)

Ignition System:

Electronic Ignition (CDI - Capacitor Discharge Ignition)

Cooling System:

Liquid-cooled, with thermostat and fan clutch.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Standard:

4-speed Automatic Transmission (e.g., 722.3)

Transmission Type Optional:

5-speed Manual Transmission (less common in US market)

Transmission Features:

Hydraulic torque converter, electronic control for automatic transmission (later models), sport/economy modes (on some automatic variants).

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 4740-4760 mm (depending on specific variant)

Width:

Approx. 1740 mm

Height:

Approx. 1430 mm

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2795 mm

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1450-1550 kg (depending on transmission and options)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Varies by model, consult specific VIN documentation.

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Rating Era:

Designed with high safety standards for its time, often praised for robust construction.

ABS:

Standard on most models (Anti-lock Braking System).

Traction Control:

Optional on some later models (ASR - Acceleration Skid Control).

Airbags:

Driver airbag standard from 1990 onwards; optional for earlier models. Passenger airbag optional.

Seatbelts:

Front and rear seat belts, automatic front seat belt presenters (on some models).

Chassis Construction:

Reinforced body structure for occupant protection.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory-installed radio/cassette players, often with options for CD changers. Sound systems varied by trim and options.

Climate Control:

Manual HVAC controls, optional automatic climate control (THERMATIC or THERMOTRONIC on higher trims).

Cruise Control:

Optional cruise control system.

Connectivity Features:

Limited by modern standards; primarily focused on vehicle mechanics and basic comfort features.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 10,000-15,000 km or 12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil used.

Transmission Fluid Change:

Recommended every 50,000-80,000 km for automatic transmissions.

Coolant Replacement:

Typically every 2-3 years or 40,000-60,000 km.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Consult manual; typically 40,000-60,000 km for standard plugs, or longer for platinum/iridium types.

Engine Oil Type:

API SG/SH or ACEA A2-96/A3-98, SAE 10W-40 or 15W-40 (check manual for specific viscosity based on temperature).

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 7.5 Liters (including filter)

Transmission Fluid Type:

MB 236.1 or 236.6 (e.g., Dexron-II compatible fluids).

Coolant Type:

MB 325.0 (Ethylene Glycol based, long-life coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water).

Common Problems:

Head gasket leaks (especially the M103 engine), OVP relay failure, vacuum line degradation, door seal leaks, rust (particularly wheel arches and jacking points), SRS (Supplemental Restraint System) warning lights, idle control valve issues.

Preventative Maintenance:

Regular inspection of vacuum lines, checking for coolant leaks, rust proofing, maintaining the electrical system, and ensuring proper engine cooling.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Focus:

Mercedes-Benz is renowned for its engineering prowess, luxury, durability, and safety innovations.

W124 Introduction:

The W124 chassis was introduced in 1984 as the successor to the W123, known for its aerodynamic design and advancements in automotive engineering.

Engine Introduction:

The M103 engine (2.6L and 3.0L variants) was a key development, known for its smoothness and reliability. The 2.6L variant (260E and 300E 2.6) offered a balance of performance and refinement.

Production Period:

W124 production spanned from 1984 to 1997, with these specific engine variants prevalent from 1985 to 1993.

Manufacturing Location:

Primarily Germany (Sindelfingen).

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Chassis Reputation:

The W124 chassis is widely regarded as one of the most over-engineered and durable cars of its era, often referred to as the 'last true Mercedes'.

Design Awards:

While specific awards might be less documented for individual models, the W124 design was praised for its functional elegance and aerodynamic efficiency.