🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mercedes-Benz

Model:

E430

Year:

1998

Platform:

W210

Chassis Code:

W210

Engine Code:

M113.940

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The 1998 Mercedes-Benz E430 (W210) represented the pinnacle of luxury and performance in the mid-size sedan segment, competing with marques like BMW (5-Series), Audi (A6), and Lexus (GS).

Competition:

This E-Class variant offered a potent V8 engine and a refined driving experience, positioning it as a sophisticated alternative to its European and Japanese rivals, emphasizing comfort and advanced engineering.

Vehicle Highlights:

Smooth V8 power, premium interior materials, advanced safety features for its era, sophisticated ride and handling, robust build quality.

Value:

This official software manual provides an indispensable resource for owners and technicians seeking to maintain and repair the 1998 E430 to factory standards, ensuring longevity and optimal performance. It bypasses the obsolescence of printed manuals and offers immediate access to critical technical data.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

1998 Mercedes-Benz E430 (W210 Chassis)

Estimated Pages:

1500+

Type:

Factory Authorized Service & Repair Manual Software

Language:

English

Format:

Digital Software (likely PDF or proprietary executable)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Full diagnosis, repair, overhaul, timing, lubrication, cooling, fuel injection (MPI), ignition, emissions control.

Transmission:

5-speed Automatic Transmission (722.6xx series): operation, diagnosis, repair, fluid changes, electronic control unit (TCU) diagnostics.

Drivetrain:

Rear-wheel drive (RWD), driveshaft, differential, axle shafts, lubrication.

Suspension:

Front Independent Suspension (MacPherson struts), Rear Multi-link Independent Suspension, springs, shock absorbers, control arms, bushings, alignment specifications.

Brakes:

Front and rear disc brakes, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), EBD (Electronic Brake-force Distribution), brake fluid specifications, caliper and rotor replacement, bleeding procedures.

Steering:

Power assisted rack and pinion steering, steering column, linkage, fluid specifications, pump diagnosis.

Electrical:

Comprehensive wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, battery, charging system (alternator), starter, lighting systems, horn, power windows, power seats, mirrors, climate control blower, SRS (Supplemental Restraint System) diagnostics.

Body:

Exterior panels, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, glass, seals, interior trim, sound deadening, corrosion protection.

Climate Control:

Manual and automatic climate control systems, A/C refrigerant R134a, compressor, condenser, evaporator, blower motor, heater core, ducting, diagnostic procedures.

Comfort Convenience:

Power seat adjustments, memory functions, heated seats, cruise control, remote keyless entry, central locking, anti-theft system.

Maintenance:

Oil change intervals, filter replacement (oil, air, cabin), spark plug replacement, coolant flush, transmission fluid service, brake fluid flush, differential fluid change, belt replacement, tune-up procedures.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) for engine, transmission, ABS, SRS, climate control; symptom-based diagnostics, electrical system troubleshooting charts.

Repair:

Engine component replacement (e.g., alternator, starter, water pump, fuel injectors), transmission overhaul, brake component replacement, suspension part replacement, exhaust system repair, body panel repair, interior component repair.

Diagnostics:

Use of diagnostic scan tools (e.g., OBD-II), sensor testing (MAP, MAF, O2, Crankshaft Position, Camshaft Position), actuator testing, circuit analysis.

Installation:

Installation procedures for common replacement parts, accessory installation guidelines (if covered).

Depth:

Comprehensive factory-level repair and diagnostic information, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIYers. Covers everything from basic fluid changes to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed electrical schematics and troubleshooting pathways.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format Details:

Likely a high-resolution, searchable PDF or a dedicated software application. Expect clear, legible text and high-quality diagrams. Printable pages.

Quality:

Official factory data, ensuring accuracy and clarity in diagrams, schematics, and text.

Binding:

N/A (Software)

Paper:

N/A (Software)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

V8, SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft), 32 valves

Engine Displacement:

4.3 Liters (4266 cc)

Engine Code:

M113.940

Horsepower:

Approx. 275 hp @ 5750 rpm

Torque:

Approx. 295 lb-ft @ 3750 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Sequential Multi-Point Fuel Injection (SFI)

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ octane recommended)

Coolant Type:

Mercedes-Benz Approved Coolant (Glysantin G05 or equivalent, silicate-free)

Oil Type:

SAE 5W-40 or 0W-40 Synthetic (MB-Approval 229.3 or 229.5)

Oil Capacity:

Approx. 8.5 quarts (8.0 Liters) with filter change

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-speed Automatic Transmission

Transmission Code:

722.6 (NAG1)

Optional Transmissions:

N/A for E430 model

Shift Modes:

Comfort (C) and Sport (S) modes

Transmission Fluid:

MB Spec 236.10 (e.g., Mobil ATF 134, Pentosin ATF 9)

Transmission Fluid Capacity:

Approx. 8.0 quarts (7.5 Liters) for a dry fill, approx. 4.5-5.5 quarts (4.2-5.2 Liters) for a fluid change.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 191.7 inches (4870 mm)

Width:

Approx. 70.5 inches (1790 mm)

Height:

Approx. 56.1 inches (1425 mm)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 111.5 inches (2832 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3700-3800 lbs (1680-1725 kg)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approx. 4700 lbs (2130 kg)

Trunk Volume:

Approx. 15.8 cubic feet (447 Liters)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Crash Rating:

Not explicitly rated by NHTSA for this specific model year/configuration in readily available public records, but known for robust construction. (For context, the W210 platform was designed with advanced safety features).

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

Esp:

Optional Electronic Stability Program (ESP) - known as 'ASR' (Anti-Slip Regulation) or 'ESP' in some markets/configurations.

Traction Control:

Standard Anti-Slip Regulation (ASR)

Airbags:

Front airbags, side airbags (optional, may vary by market/trim).

Srs:

Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) including seatbelt pretensioners.

Structural Safety:

High-strength steel safety cage, crumple zones.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM stereo with CD player or cassette deck (options varied), potentially Nakamichi or Bose premium sound system.

Navigation:

Optional factory navigation system (often CD-ROM based).

Cruise Control:

Standard electronic cruise control.

Rain Sensing Wipers:

Optional rain-sensing windshield wipers.

Telematics:

Early telematics features may have been available depending on market and options (e.g., cellular phone integration).

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 10,000 miles (16,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first, with synthetic oil.

Major Service Intervals:

Refer to the manual for 'B Service' and 'A Service' intervals (e.g., 20,000-30,000 miles for inspections, spark plug replacement around 100,000 miles).

Brake Fluid:

DOT 4 (MB Spec 331.0)

Power Steering Fluid:

MB Spec 236.3 (e.g., Pentosin CHF 11S, Mercedes-Benz Hydraulic Fluid)

Coolant Capacity:

Approx. 9.5-10 quarts (9.0-9.5 Liters)

Common Wear Items:

PVC hose cracking, MAF sensor issues, ignition coil failure, front suspension components (ball joints, bushings), differential seals, window regulator failure, climate control blower motor resistor failure.

Corrosion Concerns:

Rear wheel well rust (common on W210 chassis), door sills, battery tray area. Ensure thorough inspection.

Inspection Points:

Regular inspection of all fluid levels, belts, hoses, brakes, tires, suspension components, and exhaust system is crucial. The manual details specific checkpoints for each service interval.

📚 Vehicle History

Heritage:

Mercedes-Benz has a long-standing reputation for engineering excellence, luxury, safety, and durability, dating back to the invention of the automobile.

W210 Introduction:

The W210 E-Class was introduced in 1995 (as a 1996 model in North America), replacing the W124 E-Class. It marked a significant styling departure with its 'four-eyed' quad headlamp design.

E430 Introduction:

The E430 model, featuring the 4.3L V8, was introduced for the 1998 model year, slotting between the E320 and the high-performance E55 AMG.

Production Years W210:

1995-2002 (Globally), 1996-2002 (North America)

Manufacturing Locations:

Germany (Sindelfingen), South Africa, Egypt, Malaysia, Vietnam, India, Thailand.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver 10 Best:

The W210 E-Class platform was frequently recognized by automotive publications for its blend of luxury, performance, and safety. While not specific to the E430, the E320 was a 10Best winner in 1996.

Consumer Reports Reliability:

Reliability ratings for this era of Mercedes-Benz can be mixed, with some models performing well and others having specific issues. The manual is essential for addressing potential problems proactively.