🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mercedes-Benz

Model:

S500

Year:

1995

Chassis Code:

W140

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The 1995 Mercedes-Benz S500 (W140 chassis) represented the pinnacle of luxury and automotive engineering of its era, known for its robust construction and advanced features.

Competitors:

BMW 7 Series (E38), Lexus LS 400 (XF20), Jaguar XJ (X300).

Vehicle Features:

Powerful V8 engine, sophisticated suspension, extensive safety features, luxurious interior, advanced climate control, early adoption of electronic stability control.

Value Proposition:

This manual is an indispensable resource for owners and technicians seeking to maintain, repair, and preserve the unique engineering of the W140 S500. It provides the necessary technical data and procedural guidance for all aspects of the vehicle.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Service, Repair, Maintenance, Restoration

Secondary Coverage:

Troubleshooting, Diagnostics, Electrical Systems, Mechanical Systems

Estimated Page Count:

1500+

Type:

Full Service & Repair Manual

Scope:

Factory-level repair information, intended for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts.

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (PDF/Printable)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine (M119 V8), Transmission (722.6 5-Speed Automatic), Differential, Drivetrain

Chassis:

Suspension (Hydropneumatic), Steering, Brakes (ABS, ESP), Wheels, Tires

Electrical:

Wiring Diagrams, ECU, Sensors, Lighting, Power Accessories, Ignition System, Charging System

Body And Interior:

Body Panels, Doors, Windows, Seats, HVAC, Climate Control, Upholstery

Maintenance:

Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Fluid Checks and Changes, Spark Plug Replacement, Belt Inspection and Replacement

Repair:

Engine Rebuild, Transmission Overhaul, Brake System Repair, Suspension Component Replacement, Electrical Component Diagnosis and Repair, Bodywork Repair

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting Guides, Fault Code Interpretation, Component Testing Procedures

Bodywork Procedures:

Panel replacement, dent repair, rust prevention and repair, door alignment, bumper repair.

Climate Control Repair:

HVAC system diagnosis, compressor, condenser, evaporator service, heater core replacement, blend door actuator repair/replacement.

Diagnostic Tools:

Information on using OBD-II scan tools (for models equipped), multimeter usage, and specific Mercedes-Benz diagnostic procedures.

Depth:

Comprehensive from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed electrical schematics and diagnostic procedures.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Quality:

High-resolution, searchable PDF with printable pages.

Binding:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper Quality:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

M119

Engine Type:

4.966L (5.0L) V8

Aspiration:

Naturally Aspirated

Bore X Stroke:

98.5 mm x 82.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

10.0:1

Valve Train:

Dual Overhead Camshafts (DOHC), 4 Valves per Cylinder

Horsepower Hp:

315 hp @ 5,600 rpm

Torque Lb-Ft:

347 lb-ft @ 3,900 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Bosch Motronic Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Premium Gasoline (91 Octane or higher)

Engine Oil Type:

Mobil 1 0W-40 (or equivalent synthetic)

Coolant Type:

Mercedes-Benz Specification 325.0 (Glysantin G48 or equivalent)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-Speed Automatic

Transmission Model:

722.6 (NAG1)

Transmission Features:

Electronic Control, Adaptive Shift Programs, Torque Converter Lock-up

Transmission Fluid Type:

MB 236.14 Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase In:

119.7

Length In:

200.0

Width In:

73.6

Height In:

57.7

Curb Weight Lbs:

4,450 - 4,550 (approx.)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr Lbs:

5,512

Standard Wheel Size:

16-inch Alloy

Standard Tire Size:

235/60R16

Bolt Pattern:

5 x 112 mm

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Driver Front:

Not Rated (Vehicle designed prior to strict NHTSA rating system implementation for this class).

IIHS Side Impact:

Not Rated (Vehicle designed prior to strict IIHS rating system implementation for this class).

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System

Esp:

Optional (in some markets) or part of Traction Control System (ASR)

Airbags:

Driver and Front Passenger Airbags, Side Airbags (optional or standard depending on market)

Seatbelts:

Pretensioning Front Seatbelts, Rear Seat Restraints

Structure:

Reinforced Safety Cell, Crumple Zones

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Analog radio and cassette player, optional CD changer. Basic trip computer functions.

Traction Control:

Acceleration Skid Regulation (ASR) standard.

Cruise Control:

Standard electronic cruise control.

Connectivity Features:

Limited by era; primarily focused on internal vehicle systems. Optional antenna for mobile phone integration.

Comfort Tech:

Dual-zone automatic climate control, heated and ventilated seats (optional), power adjustable seats with memory, self-closing doors and trunk, rain-sensing wipers (optional).

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 10,000 miles or 12 months (using synthetic oil).

Transmission Fluid Change:

Recommended every 30,000 - 50,000 miles (refer to manual for specific interval based on driving conditions).

Coolant Flush:

Recommended every 2-3 years or 30,000 miles.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Refer to manual, typically around 100,000 miles for iridium/platinum plugs.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 4 (MB Specification 331.0)

Power Steering Fluid:

MB Specification 236.3 (ATF Dexron III or equivalent)

Engine Oil Capacity Liters:

8.0 L (with filter)

Coolant Capacity Liters:

12.0 L

Common Issues:

Cooling system leaks (plastic components), door handle microswitches, window regulator failure, ABS sensor issues, biodegradable wiring insulation breakdown (on earlier models), SRS (Airbag) module issues, vacuum leaks impacting central locking/door locks, climate control system faults (e.g., blend door actuators).

Repair Focus:

The manual provides detailed procedures for diagnosing and repairing these common W140 issues, including wiring diagrams for electrical problems and step-by-step guides for mechanical repairs.

📚 Vehicle History

Heritage:

Mercedes-Benz has a long-standing reputation for luxury, engineering, and safety, dating back to the early 20th century.

W140 Generation:

The W140 generation, introduced in 1991, was a significant redesign and technological leap from its predecessor (W126 S-Class), setting new benchmarks in luxury car manufacturing.

Mid Cycle Refresh:

The 1995 model year represents a minor update with some feature shuffling and potential technology enhancements over earlier W140 models.

Production Years:

1991-1998 (W140 generation)

Manufacturing Location:

Germany

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Awards:

While specific awards for the 1995 S500 are not readily cataloged as 'model year awards', the W140 generation was recognized for its engineering excellence, safety, and luxury contributions to the automotive industry upon its introduction. It consistently ranked high in luxury sedan comparisons of its era.