🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mercedes-Benz

Model:

S500

Year:

1995

Chassis Code:

W140

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Full-size Luxury Sedan

Key Competitors 1995:

BMW 7 Series (E38), Lexus LS400 (XF20), Audi A8 (D2), Jaguar XJ.

Flagship Status:

The S-Class of this era was Mercedes-Benz's flagship, representing the pinnacle of automotive engineering, luxury, and safety.

Engineering Focus:

Known for its robust engineering, advanced technology for its time, and exceptional ride comfort.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Scope:

Comprehensive repair and service for the 1995 Mercedes-Benz S500 (W140 chassis).

Estimated Page Count:

Over 1500 pages (estimated for a complete factory service manual).

Manual Classification:

Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Digital Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Service:

Detailed diagnostics, repair, and overhaul procedures for the M119 V8 engine, including cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, timing system (chain, guides, tensioner), lubrication system, cooling system, and fuel injection.

Transmission Service:

Repair, overhaul, and diagnostic procedures for the 4-speed automatic transmission (722.3) or optional 5-speed automatic transmission (722.6), including valve body, torque converter, and electronic control unit (ECU).

Drivetrain Service:

Front and rear suspension, steering system (including hydraulic power steering), drive shafts, differentials, and wheel bearings.

Brake System Service:

Disc brake systems (front and rear), ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), brake fluid replacement, hydraulic system diagnostics, and caliper/rotor replacement.

Electrical System Service:

Complete wiring diagrams, fuse box layouts, component testing, diagnostic procedures for engine control, lighting, power accessories, climate control, and the CAN bus system.

Body And Chassis Service:

Body panel repair, door and window mechanisms, sunroof operation, interior trim removal and installation, and chassis component diagnostics.

HVAC Service:

Climate control system diagnostics, refrigerant handling, compressor, evaporator, heater core, and blower motor service.

Maintenance Procedures:

Routine oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, fluid level checks and top-offs, belt inspections and replacement, and general vehicle inspection procedures.

Troubleshooting Guides:

Systematic diagnostic flowcharts and symptom-based troubleshooting for common and complex issues across all major vehicle systems.

Repair Procedures:

Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and adjustment, including engine components, transmission, suspension, brakes, and electrical modules.

Diagnostics:

On-board diagnostics (OBD-II) information, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), and procedures for using diagnostic tools.

Depth Of Information:

Factory-level technical information suitable for professional technicians, covering complex diagnostics, electrical schematics, and detailed mechanical procedures.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Quality:

High-resolution scans with searchable text for easy navigation.

Printability:

Printable pages for in-shop use.

Binding Format Digital:

N/A (Digital PDF)

Paper Quality Digital:

N/A (Digital PDF)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

M119.970

Engine Configuration:

V8, SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft) with 4 valves per cylinder.

Displacement:

4973 cc (5.0 Liters)

Horsepower:

322 hp @ 5,500 rpm (approximate, North American specification)

Torque:

354 lb-ft @ 3,900 rpm (approximate, North American specification)

Fuel Delivery:

Bosch Motronic Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)

Recommended Fuel:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ Octane)

Coolant Capacity:

Approx. 12.5 Liters (13.2 US Quarts) - Refer to manual for exact specification.

Oil Capacity:

Approx. 8 Liters (8.5 US Quarts) with filter change - Refer to manual for exact specification.

Recommended Engine Oil:

SAE 0W-30 or 5W-40 Synthetic Engine Oil (API SG or higher) - Refer to manual for specific MB approval.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

4-Speed Automatic Transmission

Transmission Model:

722.3xx

Transmission Type Optional:

5-Speed Automatic Transmission (later models or specific markets)

Transmission Model Optional:

722.6xx (Electronic)

Electronic Control:

The 722.3 transmission uses electro-hydraulic control. The optional 722.6 is fully electronically controlled.

Transmission Fluid Type:

MB 236.1 or 236.6 (Dexron II-E equivalent) for 722.3; MB 236.10/236.12 for 722.6. Always consult manual for exact specification.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

3,130 mm (123.2 inches)

Length:

5,130 mm (202.0 inches)

Width:

1,880 mm (74.0 inches)

Height:

1,490 mm (58.7 inches)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1,980 kg (4,365 lbs)

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Data:

While official NHTSA/IIHS ratings for this specific year are not readily available in a comparable format to modern standards, the W140 was designed with advanced safety features for its time.

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

Traction Control:

Optional ASR (Anti-Slip Regulation) on some models.

Airbags:

Driver and front passenger airbags.

Body Structure:

Reinforced safety cage and crumple zones, a hallmark of Mercedes-Benz engineering.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory premium sound system, often with cassette or CD player. Options for Bose sound systems were available.

Climate Control:

Dual-zone automatic climate control (Thermotronic).

Cruise Control:

Standard electronic cruise control.

Parking Assistance:

Early parking assist systems (e.g., PARKTRONIC) were optional on some later W140 models, but likely not standard or widely available on the 1995 S500 in all markets.

Navigation:

Optional navigation systems were available, though primitive by modern standards, typically CD-ROM based.

Power Seats:

Multi-way power adjustable front seats with memory function.

Door Closers:

Vacuum-assisted power door closing.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 7,500 - 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (using quality synthetic oil). Consult manual for precise recommendation.

Transmission Fluid Service:

Typically every 30,000 - 50,000 miles for fluid and filter change. Critical for longevity. Refer to manual for exact interval and fluid type.

Coolant Flush:

Every 2-3 years or 30,000 miles.

Power Steering Fluid:

MB 236.3 (Dexron II equivalent). Refer to manual for exact specification.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 4 Low Viscosity. Refer to manual for exact specification and change interval.

Engine M119:

Timing chain guides (plastic guides can become brittle and break, leading to chain slack and potential catastrophic engine damage), SAM unit issues, MAF sensor failures, and oil cooler leaks.

Cooling System:

Plastic coolant expansion tank can crack, radiator leaks, water pump seal failures.

Electrical Systems:

CAN bus communication issues, headlamp leveling module failures, window regulator problems, and wiring harness degradation (especially in engine bay).

Suspension:

Hydraulic self-leveling suspension (SLS) leaks or pump failures, control arm bushings wear.

📚 Vehicle History

Mercedes Benz Legacy:

Mercedes-Benz has a long-standing reputation for luxury, safety, and engineering innovation, with the S-Class serving as its flagship model for decades.

W140 Introduction:

The W140 generation of the S-Class was introduced in 1991, succeeding the W126 S-Class. It was a complete redesign, offering significantly increased size, technology, and luxury.

W140 Facelift:

The W140 received a significant facelift for the 1995 model year, which included cosmetic updates and some technical revisions, making the 1995 model year a key update.

Production Period:

1991–1998

Manufacturing Location:

Germany (Sindelfingen)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Vehicle Accolades:

While specific awards for the 1995 S500 might not be widely documented like modern vehicles, the W140 generation was generally recognized for its engineering prowess and luxury.

Reliability Perception:

Perceived as highly robust and well-engineered, though maintenance costs can be high due to complexity and specialized parts. Modern reliability is highly dependent on previous maintenance history.