🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mercedes-Benz

Model:

E-Class

Chassis Code:

W124

Model Year:

1990

Generation Name:

First Generation (W124)

Generation Years:

1984-1995 (Global)

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Class:

Executive Mid-size Sedan/Estate (E-Segment)

Brand Reputation:

Mercedes-Benz known for build quality, durability, and engineering excellence

Key Competitors 1990:

BMW 5 Series (E34), Audi 100 (C3/C4), Jaguar XJ (XJ40), Volvo 700 Series

Vehicle Strengths:

Robust construction, refined ride, excellent safety features, durable powertrains, sophisticated design

Manual Value Proposition:

Provides dealership-level technical information, enabling DIY repairs and comprehensive understanding of the vehicle, saving costs and enhancing ownership experience.

Manual Advantage:

Vehicle-specific, not generic; offers step-by-step instructions with diagrams and schematics.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

All models and all repairs A-Z for 1990 Mercedes-Benz W124 E-Class

Engine Coverage:

Petrol and Diesel engines common to the 1990 W124 E-Class

Transmission Coverage:

Automatic and Manual Transmissions

Electrical Coverage:

Comprehensive electrical schematics, diagnostics, and component descriptions

Body Coverage:

Exterior and interior body repairs, trim, and glass replacement

Estimated Page Count:

High, comprehensive volume (exact count not specified but implies full factory manual detail)

Manual Type:

Factory Service and Repair Manual

Purpose:

Diagnosis, Maintenance, Service, and Repair

Language:

English

Digital Format:

PDF

Compatibility:

Windows (Vista 32/64, XP, ME, 98, NT, 2000) and Mac

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain Systems:

Engine, Fuel System, Lubrication, Cooling, Ignition, Starting, Charging, Emission Control, Intake, Exhaust, Automatic Transmission, Manual Transmission, Clutch

Drivetrain Systems:

Transfer Case (if applicable), Propeller Shaft, Drive Shaft, Differential, Axle, Suspension, Tire & Wheel

Chassis Systems:

Brake Control, Brakes, Parking Brake, Steering Column, Power Steering

Body And Interior Systems:

Air Conditioning, Supplemental Restraint System (SRS), Seat Belts, Engine Immobilizer, Cruise Control, Wiper & Washer, Door Locks, Meter, Audio/Visual, Horn, Windshield/Glass/Mirror, Instrument Panel, Seats, Engine Hood/Door, Exterior & Interior Trim

Electrical Systems:

Multiplex/CAN Communication, General Electrical Components, Wiring Schematics

Maintenance Procedures:

Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, inspections

Repair Procedures:

Step-by-step instructions for a vast array of repairs across all vehicle systems

Diagnostic Procedures:

Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, fault code interpretation (where applicable)

Component Overhaul:

Detailed procedures for rebuilding major components like engines and transmissions

Installation Procedures:

Instructions for installing new or replacement parts and accessories

Depth Of Information:

Factory-level, highly detailed

Illustrations And Diagrams:

Includes numerous diagrams, illustrations, and wiring schematics

Specification Detail:

Provides precise specifications for all aspects of the vehicle

Troubleshooting Complexity:

Covers basic to advanced troubleshooting scenarios

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Likely searchable due to PDF format, especially with OCR capabilities

Printability:

All pages are printable

Enlargement Capability:

Images and diagrams can be blown up and printed enlarged

Binding:

Digital (no physical binding)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital file)

Software Requirements:

Adobe PDF Reader, WinZip (or similar decompression utility)

Download Speed:

Speed Download (implies optimized file size for quick retrieval)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options 1990:

Likely includes M102 (2.0L, 2.3L inline-4) and M103 (2.6L, 3.0L inline-6) petrol engines, and OM601 (2.0L inline-4), OM602 (2.5L, 2.9L inline-5) diesel engines. Specific engine for the 'E' designation varies by market and exact model variant (e.g., 230E, 300E).

Fuel Delivery:

Bosch K-Jetronic or KE-Jetronic fuel injection for petrol models, Mechanical Diesel Injection for diesel models.

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (Petrol), Diesel Fuel

Ignition System:

Electronic Ignition (e.g., breakerless)

Oil Capacity Approx:

Varies by engine, typically 5-8 liters. Manual will specify exact capacity and grade.

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

Likely a 5-speed manual transmission on base models, or 4-speed automatic (722.4).

Optional Transmission:

4-speed automatic (722.4) or 5-speed automatic (722.3/722.5) on higher trims or specific engine variants.

Automatic Features:

Torque converter, hydraulic control, potentially electronic control on later models within the W124 range, but 1990 likely primarily hydraulic.

📐 Dimensions

Body Styles:

Saloon (Sedan), Estate (T-model), Coupe (C124), Convertible (A124) - though the manual specifically states W124 E, implying Sedan/Estate focus.

Curb Weight Approx:

Varies significantly by model and body style, typically ranging from 1450 kg to 1700 kg.

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Standards:

Designed to meet high Mercedes-Benz safety standards for the era; ABS typically standard or optional.

Active Safety:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Advanced Suspension Geometry for stability

Passive Safety:

Reinforced chassis, crumple zones, driver's airbag (optional on some models, potentially standard on later 1990 production), seat belt pre-tensioners

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory radio/cassette player, often with a separate amplifier. Manual covers basic operation and component location.

ABS System:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) diagnosis and repair procedures.

Central Locking:

Vacuum-actuated central locking system, known for potential leaks in lines or actuators. Manual details troubleshooting.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically 7,500 - 15,000 km or annually, depending on driving conditions and oil type. Manual will detail specific intervals and oil grades.

Major Service Intervals:

Spark plug replacement, brake fluid flush, coolant changes usually at intervals like 30,000 - 60,000 km or every 2-4 years.

Engine Oil Spec:

Typically MB 229.1 or similar API SG/SH specification. Manual will specify viscosity (e.g., 10W-40, 15W-40, 5W-40 synthetic) based on climate and engine.

Transmission Fluid Spec:

Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) like MB 236.6 or Dexron II/III. Manual is crucial for correct specification.

Coolant Spec:

Ethylene Glycol based coolant, typically with MB approval specifications (e.g., G48). Manual will confirm.

Common W124 Issues:

Wiring harness insulation degradation (especially early models), vacuum line leaks affecting central locking and engine control, sunroof drain blockage leading to water ingress, potential head gasket issues on some engines, radiator support bushings, ball joint wear.

Typical Repair Tasks:

Replacement of fuel injectors, fuel pumps, various sensors, brake pad/rotor replacement, suspension component renewal (ball joints, tie rods, control arm bushings), exhaust system repair, climate control system servicing.

📚 Vehicle History

Mercedes Benz Legacy:

Longstanding reputation for engineering, luxury, and durability since the late 19th century.

W124 Introduction:

Introduced in 1984 as the successor to the W123, aiming for improved aerodynamics, safety, and driving dynamics while retaining Mercedes-Benz solidity.

Production Years:

1984-1995

Manufacturing Locations:

Germany (Sindelfingen, Bremen), South Africa, Egypt, others

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Industry Awards:

While specific awards for the 1990 model year might be scarce, the W124 generation was widely praised for its engineering and longevity, often cited in 'best used car' lists for decades.

Design Awards:

The W124's timeless design, penned by Bruno Sacco, is considered a benchmark of automotive styling.