Vehicle Class:
Full-size Luxury Sedan
Brand Perception:
Represents Mercedes-Benz's pinnacle of automotive engineering and luxury for its era.
Key Competitors:
BMW 7 Series (E38), Lexus LS 400, Audi A8 (D2)
Distinguishing Features:
Advanced comfort features, sophisticated engineering, powerful V8 engine, commanding presence.
Value Proposition:
Provides essential knowledge for DIY maintenance and repairs, significantly reducing dealership service costs.
Advisor Benefit:
Empowers owners and independent workshops with the technical data needed to maintain and repair the W140 S-Class effectively.
Engine Mechanical:
Full overhaul, diagnostics, component testing, timing, lubrication, cooling
Engine Management Electronic:
ECU diagnostics, sensor identification, actuator testing, fuel injection, ignition system
Transmission:
Automatic Transmission (e.g., 722.6 '5G-TRONIC'), removal, installation, overhaul, fluid service, electronic control
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), ESP (Electronic Stability Program), brake pad replacement, rotor specifications, bleeding procedures
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension, springs, shock absorbers, control arms, bushings, alignment specifications
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, steering column, fluid specifications
Electrical System:
Battery, alternator, starter, lighting, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams, diagnostic connectors
Bodywork And Interior:
Panel removal, door mechanisms, seat adjustment, trim components, insulation, sound deadening
Climate Control:
HVAC system operation, refrigerant handling, blower motor, control modules, diagnostics
Safety Systems:
Airbag system diagnosis and replacement, seatbelt mechanisms
Infotainment And Comfort:
Radio system, speaker replacement, power windows, power seats, sunroof operation
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, spark plug replacement, belt inspection/replacement
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts, symptom-based troubleshooting, fault code interpretation
Component Replacement:
Detailed instructions for replacing major and minor components
Rebuilding:
Engine and transmission rebuilding procedures
Diagnostics:
OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics) system utilization, scan tool operation
Calibration And Adjustment:
Wheel alignment, headlight aiming, idle speed adjustments
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including complex electronic systems.
Engine Type:
V8, 32-valve, DOHC
Displacement:
4.966 Liters (303 cubic inches)
Horsepower:
Approx. 315 hp @ 5600 rpm
Torque:
Approx. 347 lb-ft @ 3900 rpm
Injection System:
Bosch Motronic Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher)
Coolant Type:
MB 325.0 Coolant (or equivalent silicate-free OAT coolant)
Oil Type:
MB 229.1 or 229.3 engine oil (e.g., 0W-40, 5W-40, 5W-30)
Engine Code Variant:
M119.970
Transmission Type:
5-Speed Automatic (722.6 '5G-TRONIC')
Optional Transmission:
N/A for S500 in 1995 (5G-TRONIC was standard)
Transmission Features:
Electronic control, adaptive shift points, manual mode (TipTronic on some models/years, confirm for specific 1995 variants).
Transmission Fluid Type:
MB 236.10 or 236.14 Automatic Transmission Fluid (e.g., Pentosin ATF1, Mobil ATF 134)
Infotainment System:
Original Mercedes-Benz audio system with cassette player and CD changer option, external antenna for radio.
Navigation:
Optional factory navigation system (likely CRT screen based) for its era.
Driver Assistance Features:
Cruise control, parking assist sensors (early versions), automatic climate control.
Connectivity Options:
Limited by modern standards; typically auxiliary input for audio devices might be an aftermarket addition. Onboard diagnostics via OBDI/OBDII connectors.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 7,500 to 10,000 miles or 12-15 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used (refer to manual for specifics).
Transmission Fluid Change Interval:
Recommended every 30,000 to 60,000 miles for optimal longevity, or as specified in the manual.
Coolant Change Interval:
Every 2-3 years or 30,000-50,000 miles.
Spark Plug Replacement Interval:
High-performance iridium spark plugs can last up to 100,000 miles; refer to manual for exact plug type and interval.
Power Steering Fluid Type:
MB 236.3 hydraulic fluid (e.g., Pentosin CHF 11S or equivalent)
Common Issues:
HECU (Hydraulic Electronic Control Unit) failure in ABS/ASR systems, window regulator issues, coolant leaks (especially from the plastic thermostat housing), MAF sensor degradation, door lock actuator failures, rust on fender arches and door bottoms.
Diesel Particulate Filter:
N/A for S500 (gasoline engine)