🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mercedes-Benz

Model:

300E

Year:

1992

Chassis Code:

W124

Engine Code:

M104.980

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The 1992 Mercedes-Benz 300E (W124 chassis) was positioned as a premium mid-size luxury sedan, known for its build quality, durability, comfort, and advanced engineering.

Competitors:

Competed with vehicles like the BMW 5 Series (E34), Audi 100/A6, Lexus ES 300, and Cadillac DeVille of the era.

Vehicle Highlights:

Robust construction, sophisticated multi-link rear suspension, efficient inline-6 engine, high level of safety features for its time, exceptional longevity.

Value Proposition:

Provides DIY enthusiasts and professional technicians with the essential, factory-authorized information to maintain, diagnose, and repair the 1992 Mercedes-Benz 300E accurately and efficiently, preserving its value and performance.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage:

Comprehensive service and repair for all major mechanical and electrical systems.

Page Count:

Estimated 1500+ pages (typical for comprehensive W124 service manuals).

Manual Type:

Official Factory Service Manual Software

Language:

English

Format:

Digital Software (likely PDF or proprietary viewer, searchable text)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

3.0L Inline-6 (M104), including fuel injection (Bosch KE-Jetronic/EZL), ignition, cooling, lubrication, emissions control.

Transmission:

4-speed Automatic (722.4) and 5-speed Manual (G5/28) transmission repair, maintenance, and diagnostics.

Drivetrain:

Rear-wheel drive, differential, driveshafts, CV joints.

Suspension:

Front independent (McPherson struts), Rear independent multi-link, springs, shock absorbers, control arms, bushings.

Steering:

Power-assisted recirculating ball steering system, steering column, linkages.

Brakes:

Front ventilated discs, rear solid discs, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), hydraulic system, parking brake.

Electrical:

12V electrical system, battery, alternator, starter, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams, lighting, instrumentation.

Body:

Body structure, panels, doors, windows, locks, hinges, seals, sunroof operation.

HVAC:

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning system (manual or automatic climate control depending on trim).

Interior:

Seats, upholstery, trim panels, dashboard, interior lighting.

Maintenance:

Oil change, filter replacement (oil, fuel, air, cabin), spark plug replacement, coolant flush, brake fluid flush, belt inspection and replacement.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic procedures for common drivability issues, electrical faults, and mechanical problems using symptom-based guides.

Repair:

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

Diagnostics:

Detailed procedures for diagnosing engine performance, transmission shifting, ABS faults, and electrical system issues, including wiring harness checks.

Special Tools:

Identification and usage instructions for Mercedes-Benz specific special tools required for certain repairs.

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering from routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed electrical schematics.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

Digital Software (likely PDF optimized for printing or proprietary viewer with indexed search capabilities).

Print Quality:

High-resolution digital reproduction, suitable for clear printing of all diagrams and text.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Software)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Software)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Naturally Aspirated Inline 6-Cylinder

Displacement:

2960 cc (3.0 Liters)

Bore X Stroke:

88.5 mm x 80.2 mm

Compression Ratio:

9.2:1

Horsepower:

188 hp @ 5700 rpm (SAE net)

Torque:

195 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm (SAE net)

Fuel Injection:

Bosch KE-Jetronic Electronic Fuel Injection with Lambda Control

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ octane recommended)

Ignition Type:

Electronic Ignition (EZL)

Oil Capacity:

7.0 Liters (7.4 US Quarts) with filter

Coolant Capacity:

9.5 Liters (10 US Quarts)

🔧 Transmission

Type:

4-Speed Automatic Transmission (722.4)

Type:

5-Speed Manual Transmission (G5/28)

Automatic Features:

Lock-up torque converter, hydraulic control unit.

Automatic Fluid:

MB-Approval 236.1 (e.g., Mobil ATF 220, Valvoline Dexron III/Mercon)

Automatic Capacity:

Approximately 6.5 Liters (6.9 US Quarts) for torque converter refill.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

4740 mm (186.6 in)

Width:

1740 mm (68.5 in)

Height:

1420 mm (55.9 in)

Wheelbase:

2800 mm (110.2 in)

Curb Weight:

Approximately 1540 kg (3395 lbs)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approximately 2070 kg (4564 lbs)

🛡️ Safety Features

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

Traction Control:

Optional Acceleration Slip Regulation (ASR) on some models.

Airbags:

Driver-side airbag standard for 1992 model year.

Seatbelts:

Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts front and rear.

Crumple Zones:

Designed with advanced crumple zones for occupant protection.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory-installed AM/FM stereo cassette player, often with premium sound system options.

Navigation:

Navigation systems were not commonly available or were very rudimentary aftermarket options in this era.

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control.

Power Seats:

Power-adjustable front seats with memory functions were often optional.

Windows Mirrors:

Power windows and power-adjustable mirrors standard.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 10,000 km (6,200 miles) or 12 months, whichever comes first.

Major Service:

Typically around 40,000 km (25,000 miles), includes spark plugs, fuel filter, air filter, coolant, transmission fluid and filter (depending on service history).

Engine Oil:

SAE 15W-40 or 10W-40 synthetic or semi-synthetic API SG/CD or ACEA A2-96/B2-96 certified.

Coolant:

Mercedes-Benz Specification 325.0 (Glycol-based, silicate-free antifreeze, typically 50/50 mix with distilled water).

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4.

Wiring Harness:

Cracking insulation on the engine wiring harness (specifically the biodegradable insulation used in this era) can lead to various electrical problems.

Head Gasket:

While generally robust, head gasket leaks can occur, particularly with age and high mileage.

Sunroof Drain Tubes:

Clogged sunroof drain tubes can cause water ingress into the cabin, leading to mold and electrical issues.

Climate Control:

Vacuum leaks in the climate control system can cause improper airflow or mode selection.

Oil Filter Example:

Mann Filter W104/1 or equivalent Mercedes-Benz part number A0001802609.

Air Filter Example:

Mann Filter C3226/1 or equivalent Mercedes-Benz part number A1040940004.

Spark Plug Example:

Bosch W8AC or equivalent.

📚 Vehicle History

Mercedes Benz Legacy:

Mercedes-Benz has a long-standing reputation for engineering excellence, safety, and durability dating back to the late 19th century.

W124 Development:

The W124 E-Class was introduced in 1984 and represented a significant evolution in Mercedes-Benz sedan design, focusing on aerodynamics, safety, and a robust chassis. The 300E was a popular mid-range offering within the W124 lineup.

Production Period:

The W124 series was produced from 1984 to 1995, with the 1992 model year being part of the facelifted second series.

W124 Legacy:

The W124 is often considered one of the last 'over-engineered' Mercedes-Benz models, renowned for its build quality and long-term reliability, making it a sought-after classic.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Industry Accolades:

The W124 chassis received numerous accolades for its build quality and safety during its production run. Often cited in automotive press as one of the best-built sedans of its time.

Reliability Reputation:

Widely regarded for excellent long-term reliability and durability when properly maintained.