Vehicle Segment:
Full-size luxury sedan
Target Audience:
Affluent individuals seeking executive transportation and advanced engineering
Key Competitors:
BMW 7 Series (E32/E38), Lexus LS 400, Jaguar XJ, Rolls-Royce Silver Spirit, Bentley Eight
Defining Characteristics:
Massive interior space, advanced (for its time) technology, refined ride quality, powerful engine options, substantial build quality
Manual Advantage:
Empowers owners and independent mechanics with the detailed knowledge to maintain and repair this complex luxury vehicle, saving significant dealership costs.
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanical (M104, M119, M120, OM603, OM606), fuel injection (KE-Jetronic, HFM), ignition, cooling, lubrication, exhaust, emissions control, engine management (ME, LH)
Transmission Systems:
Automatic Transmission (722.3, 722.4, 722.6), manual transmission (less common), transfer case (4MATIC models)
Drivetrain Systems:
Drive shafts, differentials, axles, 4MATIC all-wheel drive system
Suspension Systems:
Front and rear suspension, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, power steering system
Brake Systems:
Hydraulic brake system, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), ASR (Acceleration Skid Control), brake pads, rotors, calipers, lines, parking brake
Electrical Systems:
12V electrical system, battery, alternator, starter, lighting, wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, control modules (ECU, TCU, ABS control, etc.)
Body And Chassis:
Body structure, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, glass, chassis components, corrosion protection
Interior Systems:
Seating, climate control (manual/automatic), HVAC components, dashboard, trim panels, seat belts, airbags
Comfort And Convenience:
Power windows, power locks, power mirrors, central locking, cruise control, seat adjustment, sunroof operation
Safety Features:
Airbag system (SRS), seat belt pre-tensioners, ABS, ASR
Maintenance Procedures:
Scheduled maintenance (oil changes, filter replacements, inspections), fluid level checks and top-offs, lubrication points
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, fault code interpretation (OBD-I and early OBD-II if applicable), component testing
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for engine repair, transmission overhaul, brake system service, suspension replacement, electrical component repair, body panel repair
Overhaul Procedures:
Detailed instructions for engine rebuilds, transmission rebuilds, differential rebuilds
Installation Procedures:
Installation of new components, accessories, and replacement parts
Technical Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, adjustments, fluid capacities, electrical schematics
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including electrical diagnostics and bodywork.
Primary File Type:
PDF (Portable Document Format)
Searchability:
Likely searchable text, allowing for quick keyword-based information retrieval
Printability:
High quality, designed for clear printing of text and diagrams
Binding For Printed Version:
Not applicable for digital download; would typically be spiral-bound or comb-bound if printed
Paper Type For Printed Version:
Not applicable for digital download; typically printed on durable, matte paper suitable for workshop environments
Engine Options Covered:
M104 (3.2L, 3.6L AMG), M119 (4.2L, 5.0L, 6.0L AMG), M120 (6.0L V12), OM603 (3.0L Turbo Diesel), OM606 (3.0L Turbo Diesel)
Typical Horsepower Range:
210 hp (OM603) to 408 hp (M120)
Typical Torque Range:
345 Nm (OM603) to 580 Nm (M120)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) - Bosch KE-Jetronic, HFM (Hot Film Air Mass), LH-Jetronic
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (premium), Diesel fuel
Dme ECU Types:
Various Bosch Motronic and Siemens engine control units depending on engine and year
Standard Transmission:
4-speed automatic (722.3/722.4) for most models; 5-speed automatic (722.6 '5G-Tronic') introduced later
Optional Transmission:
5-speed manual (rare on V140 models); 4MATIC all-wheel drive system with automatic transmission
Automatic Transmission Features:
Electronic control, multiple shift programs (e.g., Comfort/Sport), Lock-up torque converter
Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:
MB 236.1 (ATF Dexron II-E for 722.3/722.4), MB 236.14 (for 722.6 '5G-Tronic')
Infotainment System:
Early COMAND (Cockpit Management and Navigation) system optional on later models, or simpler Becker stereo systems with cassette and CD changer options.
Navigation System:
Optional GPS navigation, typically using bulky CD-ROM based maps.
Driver Assistance Features:
ABS, ASR, cruise control, parking sensors (early versions), rain-sensing wipers (later models).
Connectivity Features:
Limited by era; primarily analog cellular phone integration in some models. No modern smartphone integration or Wi-Fi.
Advanced Comfort Features:
Dual-zone automatic climate control, heated and ventilated seats, memory seats, automatic climate-controlled rear cabin (on long-wheelbase), soft-close doors, double-glazed windows for acoustic insulation.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000 - 15,000 km (6,000 - 9,000 miles) or annually, depending on driving conditions and specific engine type.
Major Service Intervals:
Spark plug replacement, coolant flush, transmission fluid service, differential fluid service at intervals like 50,000 - 100,000 km (30,000 - 60,000 miles).
Engine Oil Specification:
MB 229.1, SAE 0W-40, 5W-40, 5W-30, or 10W-40 depending on climate and engine (refer to manual for specifics).
Coolant Specification:
MB 325.0 (Ethylene Glycol based, blue color), typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 4
Common Maintenance Concerns:
Hydraulic systems (suspension, brakes), electronic control units (ECUs), wiring harness degradation (especially insulation breakdown), vacuum system leaks, catalytic converter failure, window regulators, door lock actuators.
Diesel Specific Issues:
Glow plug system, injection pump issues, turbocharger wear on OM603/606.
