🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mercedes-Benz

Model:

S600

Year:

1996

Chassis Code:

W140

Engine Code:

M120.980

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The 1996 Mercedes-Benz S600 represented the pinnacle of luxury and engineering for its era, a flagship sedan aimed at affluent buyers seeking unparalleled comfort, performance, and prestige. This manual serves the needs of owners and technicians maintaining this high-end vehicle.

Competitive Analysis:

Competed against other ultra-luxury sedans such as the BMW 750iL, Lexus LS400, and Jaguar XJ series. The S600 distinguished itself with its powerful V12 engine, advanced technology, and signature Mercedes-Benz build quality.

Key Features:

V12 engine power, advanced electronic systems, premium interior materials, sophisticated ride quality, and extensive safety features typical of Mercedes-Benz's top-tier offerings.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

Engine, Drivetrain, Suspension, Brakes, Steering, Electrical System, HVAC, Bodywork, Diagnostics

Page Count:

Extensive (Exact number not specified in product description, but typical for comprehensive service manuals)

Manual Type:

Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Software/Digital

Licensed Product:

Officially Licensed

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine Mechanical (V12), Engine Management (ME 1.0), Fuel Injection, Ignition System, Exhaust System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Drivetrain (Transmission, Driveshafts, Differentials), Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Brake System (ABS), Climate Control (Automatic Climate Control), Electrical System (Wiring Diagrams, Components), Lighting System, Body Control Modules, Safety Systems (SRS Airbag), Body and Chassis Components, Body Repair.

Body Control Modules:

Central Locking, Power Windows, Sunroof, Seats, Mirrors, Wipers, Washers, Exterior Lighting, Interior Lighting, Keyless Entry (if equipped).

Procedures Included:

Routine Maintenance, Scheduled Servicing, Diagnostic Procedures, Component Removal and Installation, Repair Procedures, Troubleshooting Guides, Wiring Diagram Interpretation, Torque Specifications, Fluid Capacities and Specifications, Special Tool Requirements, Overhaul Procedures.

Troubleshooting Guides:

Extensive guides for diagnosing various system issues using symptoms, fault codes (if applicable to the software interface), and component testing.

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive, covering all aspects from basic maintenance and fluid changes to advanced engine diagnostics, transmission overhauls, and complex electrical system troubleshooting. Designed for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts.

Diagnostic Trouble Codes:

Covers interpretation and clearing of diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) relevant to the ME 1.0 engine management system and other ECUs.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

Likely a proprietary software executable or a structured set of digital documents (e.g., PDF, HTML) designed for interactive access.

Searchable Text:

Likely includes searchable text functionality for quick information retrieval.

Print Quality:

N/A (Digital format implies screen viewing, but high-resolution graphics and text are expected for clarity).

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital format).

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital format).

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

V12, SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft), 3 valves per cylinder (2 intake, 1 exhaust)

Displacement:

5987 cc (6.0 Liters)

Bore X Stroke:

89.0 mm x 78.9 mm

Compression Ratio:

10.0:1

Power Output:

389 hp @ 5200 rpm

Torque Output:

420 lb-ft @ 3800 rpm

Engine Block Material:

Aluminum Alloy

Cylinder Head Material:

Aluminum Alloy

Valvetrain:

SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft), 3 valves per cylinder (2 intake, 1 exhaust), actuated by hydraulic lifters.

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (Bosch ME 1.0 Motronic)

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane or higher recommended)

Ignition System:

Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with individual ignition coils for each cylinder.

0 60 Mph:

Approximately 6.3 seconds

Top Speed:

Electronically Limited to 155 mph

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

4-Speed Automatic (4G-TRONIC)

Transmission Features:

Electronic Control, Comfort/Sport Mode

Optional Transmission:

N/A for S600 model in 1996

Transmission Fluid Type:

MB Spec 236.1 or 236.3 Automatic Transmission Fluid (e.g., Pentosin ATF 1)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

119.7 inches (3040 mm)

Length:

201.3 inches (5113 mm)

Width:

73.6 inches (1869 mm)

Height:

57.7 inches (1466 mm)

Front Track:

62.0 inches (1575 mm)

Rear Track:

61.2 inches (1555 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approximately 4700 lbs (2132 kg)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Not readily available, but substantial

Trunk Capacity:

Approx. 17.2 cu ft (487 L)

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Ratings:

No specific NHTSA/IIHS ratings available for this specific model year and trim, but Mercedes-Benz vehicles of this era were engineered to very high safety standards for their time.

Passive Safety Features:

Dual front airbags, side-impact protection, reinforced chassis, seatbelt pretensioners, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System).

Active Safety Features:

ABS, Traction Control System (ASR - Acceleration Slip Regulation).

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Becker radio with cassette player, CD changer (optional), potentially early navigation systems (Tele-Aid). Limited by 1996 standards but luxurious for its time.

Driver Assistance Features:

Cruise Control, Parking Assist (rear proximity sensors often available).

Connectivity Features:

N/A (No Bluetooth or Wi-Fi connectivity in the modern sense).

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 7,500 to 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first, depending on driving conditions. Consult the manual for precise intervals.

Major Service Intervals:

Intervals for spark plug replacement, coolant flush, transmission service, and other component checks will be detailed in the manual. Often around 30,000-50,000 miles.

Brake Fluid Change Interval:

Typically every 2 years, regardless of mileage.

Engine Oil Type:

Synthetic SAE 0W-40 or 5W-40, MB Spec 229.3 or 229.5 (consult manual for exact specification).

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approximately 8.5 liters (8.9 US quarts)

Coolant Type:

Mercedes-Benz Approved Antifreeze/Coolant (e.g., G48, G05)

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 4

Power Steering Fluid Type:

MB Spec 343.0 (Hydraulic Fluid)

Transmission Fluid Capacity:

Approximately 8.0 - 9.0 liters (8.5 - 9.5 US quarts), depending on torque converter fill.

Known Issues:

Common issues for W140 models can include: Biodegradable wiring insulation degradation, SRS system faults (especially seat occupancy sensors), hydraulic suspension issues (though the S600 typically had standard coil springs), CAN bus communication errors, door lock actuator failure, climate control system malfunctions (e.g., blower motor, evaporator leaks), and coolant leaks from the plastic thermostat housing. The V12 engine, while powerful, can be complex to work on.

Filter Part Numbers:

Oil filter (e.g., Mann-Filter HU 719/5 x), Air filter (e.g., Mann-Filter C 30 135/1). Exact part numbers will be specific and available within the manual.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Mercedes-Benz has a long-standing reputation for building luxury vehicles, pioneering automotive safety and engineering advancements since the late 19th century.

Model Evolution:

The W140 S-Class generation, introduced in 1991, was a significant departure with its larger size, more advanced technology, and increased focus on luxury and refinement. The S600 specifically debuted in 1993 and represented the ultimate expression of this platform.

Key Technological Advancements W140:

Double-glazed side windows, rain-sensing wipers, self-leveling suspension (on some models, but S600 usually had standard suspension), Xenon headlights (optional/later), advanced climate control, electric seat adjustments with memory.

Production Years W140:

1991-1998

Production Location:

Sindelfingen, Germany

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

The W140 S-Class generation was widely praised for its engineering, safety, and luxury by automotive journalists and received various accolades for being a benchmark in the luxury sedan segment during its production run. Specific awards for the '96 S600 are not typically highlighted separately but fall under the overall acclaim for the model.