🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mercedes-Benz

Model:

300 E 4MATIC

Chassis Code:

W124

Generation:

Third Generation (W124)

Production Years Covered By Manual:

1990, 1991, 1992, 1993

👋 Introduction

Market Segment:

Luxury Mid-size Sedan

Target Audience For Manual:

Mercedes-Benz 300 E 4MATIC owners and independent repair shops seeking factory-accurate repair and maintenance information.

Key Competitors Vehicle:

BMW 5 Series (e.g., 530i), Audi 100/200 Quattro, Lexus LS 400 (though a size class up, often cross-shopped).

All Wheel Drive:

The 4MATIC system was a significant feature, offering enhanced traction and stability, particularly in adverse weather conditions.

Build Quality:

Known for Mercedes-Benz's legendary build quality, robust engineering, and long-term durability.

Completeness:

Comprehensive factory coverage, mirroring dealer service information.

Accessibility:

Instant download, searchable PDF format for easy information retrieval.

Dealership Parity:

Provides the same information that a Mercedes-Benz dealership would use for repairs.

📋 Manual Details

Vehicle Make:

Mercedes-Benz

Vehicle Model:

300 E 4MATIC

Vehicle Model Years:

1990-1993

Engine Variants Covered:

Specifically the 3.0L M103 inline-6 gasoline engine equipped with the 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system.

Estimated Page Count:

Thousands (typical for comprehensive factory service manuals, exact count not provided but implied by depth of coverage)

Manual Type:

Factory Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Management:

Fuel injection system (Bosch KE-Jetronic), ignition system, engine diagnostics, timing, emissions control (oxygen sensor, catalytic converter).

Drivetrain:

4MATIC all-wheel-drive system, manual transmission, automatic transmission, transfer case, clutch system, front axle, rear axle.

Suspension Steering Brakes:

Front and rear suspension, steering system (including power steering), brake system (disc brakes, parking brake), level control/ADS (Adaptive Damping System).

Electrical System:

Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting (headlamps, exterior lamps), warning and indicator lamps, windshield wipers and washers, horn, infotainment (cassette deck).

Body And Chassis:

Body structure inspection, water leakage, corrosion, door hinges, door locks, sunroof, soft top (if applicable to specific sub-models), hood lubrication, lower noise encapsulation panels, paint inspection.

HVAC:

Cooling and heating system, coolant replacement, dust filter, active charcoal filter, recirculating air filter, AC refrigerant charge.

Routine Maintenance:

Engine oil and filter change, air filter replacement, fuel filter replacement, V-belt inspection/replacement, spark plug check/replacement, fluid level checks (coolant, power steering, brake, transmission, transfer case, clutch, windshield washer), tire pressure adjustment, wheel bolt tightening, lubrication (door hinges, locks, hood, mirrors).

Engine Repair:

Valve clearance adjustment, idle speed adjustment, injection timing adjustment, intake/exhaust manifold seating checks, oxygen sensor replacement.

Drivetrain Repair:

Transmission fluid and filter change (auto), transmission oil change/level check (manual), transfer case fluid change/level check, clutch system inspection/fluid check, front and rear axle oil change/level check, drive shaft flexible coupling inspection.

Suspension Steering Brake Repair:

Suspension and body structure inspection, ball joint inspection (with special tool), brake fluid replacement, parking brake adjustment, steering play checks.

Electrical Repair:

Component condition inspection, warning lamp checks, wiper blade replacement.

Diagnostics And Troubleshooting:

Implied through detailed inspection procedures and component checks.

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive factory-level detail, covering routine maintenance, diagnostics, component replacement, and adjustments. Suitable for professional technicians and experienced DIY enthusiasts.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Searchability:

Fully searchable text

Printability:

All pages printable

Binding Type:

Digital Download (no physical binding)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital)

File Integrity:

Real files, not scans

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

M103

Engine Type:

SOHC Inline-6 (Straight-6) Gasoline

Displacement:

2.960 cc (3.0 Liters)

Horsepower:

Approximately 188 hp (138 kW) @ 5700 rpm (may vary slightly by market)

Torque:

Approximately 270 Nm (199 lb-ft) @ 4400 rpm (may vary slightly by market)

Fuel Injection System:

Bosch KE-Jetronic (CIS-E - Continuous Injection System - Electronic)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (Octane rating typically 91 RON or higher)

Ignition Type:

Electronic Ignition (Distributorless or Distributor-based depending on specific year/market sub-variant, but typically distributor for this era)

Coolant Capacity:

Approx. 8.0 - 9.0 Liters (check manual for exact spec)

Coolant Type Specification:

MB Spec 325.0 or equivalent (typically a long-life silicate-free OAT coolant, blue or green colored)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

4-speed Automatic Transmission (722.4 or later variants)

Transmission Type:

5-speed Manual Transmission (less common, particularly with 4MATIC)

4Matic Integration:

The 4MATIC system is integrated with the transmission to distribute power to all four wheels.

Automatic Transmission Fluid Capacity:

Approx. 7.0 - 8.0 Liters (dry fill, check manual for exact spec)

Automatic Transmission Fluid Specification:

MB Spec 236.1 or MB Spec 236.2 (typically Dexron-II or equivalent)

Manual Transmission Fluid Capacity:

Approx. 1.2 - 1.5 Liters (check manual for exact spec)

Manual Transmission Fluid Specification:

MB Spec 235.10 (typically a 75W-85 or 75W-90 GL-4 manual transmission fluid)

📐 Dimensions

Body Style:

4-door Sedan

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2795 mm (110.0 inches)

Length:

Approx. 4740 mm (186.6 inches)

Width:

Approx. 1740 mm (68.5 inches)

Height:

Approx. 1430 mm (56.3 inches)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1550 - 1650 kg (3417 - 3638 lbs) - varies with options and 4MATIC

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Typically around 2100 - 2200 kg

Towing Capacity:

Generally not recommended or specified for towing in most markets.

Payload Capacity:

Approx. 450 - 550 kg

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2795 mm (110.0 inches)

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5x112

Standard Wheel Size:

15-inch (often alloy, e.g., 15x7J)

Standard Tire Size:

205/65R15

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Data:

While specific NHTSA/Euro NCAP ratings for this exact model year are not readily available in a standardized format comparable to modern tests, the W124 chassis was known for its robust safety cage and passive safety features for its era.

Antilock Brakes:

Standard (ABS)

All Wheel Drive:

4MATIC system enhances active safety through improved traction.

Traction Control:

Often integrated with the ABS system, providing limited slip control.

Airbags:

Driver-side airbag standard; passenger-side airbag often optional or standard on later models within this range.

Seat Belts:

Front and rear seat belts, pre-tensioners for front belts were becoming standard.

Crumple Zones:

Engineered crumple zones front and rear for energy absorption.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory cassette deck (often Nakamichi or Becker units), with basic radio functions. Options for CD changers might exist.

Antenna Mast:

Power-retractable antenna mast, subject to mechanical wear and electrical failure.

Adaptive Damping System:

ADS (Adaptive Damping System) was an option, offering adjustable ride stiffness. The manual covers its inspection and fluid level checks.

Diagnostic Interface:

OBD-I style diagnostics, likely requiring proprietary Mercedes-Benz diagnostic tools for full access, though the manual will cover visual checks and component-level testing.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 10,000 - 15,000 km (6,000 - 9,000 miles) or 12 months, whichever comes first. Consult the manual for specific driving conditions.

Air Filter Replacement:

Inspect every 20,000 km (12,000 miles), replace as needed or approximately every 40,000 - 60,000 km (24,000 - 36,000 miles).

Fuel Filter Replacement:

Typically every 40,000 - 60,000 km (24,000 - 36,000 miles).

Spark Plug Replacement:

Typically every 40,000 - 60,000 km (24,000 - 36,000 miles) for standard plugs. Check manual for specific plug type and interval.

Transmission Fluid Filter Change:

Recommended every 60,000 - 80,000 km (36,000 - 48,000 miles) for automatic transmissions.

Engine Oil Viscosity:

SAE 10W-40 or 15W-40 is common for this era. Consult manual for MB Approval specifications (e.g., MB 229.1 or earlier approvals if applicable).

Power Steering Fluid:

MB Spec 236.3 (typically Pentosin CHF 11S or equivalent hydraulic fluid).

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 (ensure it's high-quality, typically a glycol-based fluid). Flush and replace every 2 years.

Wiring Harness Degradation:

A common issue in Mercedes-Benz vehicles of this era is the degradation of the engine wiring harness insulation (often referred to as 'kinked' or brittle wiring) due to age and heat cycles, leading to various electrical problems. This manual would detail inspection and replacement procedures.

Suspension Component Wear:

Wear in ball joints, control arm bushings, and shock absorbers is common with age and mileage. The manual covers inspection and replacement.

Fuel Injector Seals:

Leaking fuel injector O-rings or seals on the KE-Jetronic system can cause rough idle or hard starting. The manual covers fuel system component service.

Rust And Corrosion:

While the W124 is generally well-protected, typical areas for rust include wheel arches, rocker panels, and around window seals. The manual covers inspection for water leakage and corrosion.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Legacy:

Mercedes-Benz has a long history of producing luxury, well-engineered, and durable vehicles since the early 20th century.

W124 Introduction:

The W124 E-Class was introduced in 1984 as a successor to the W123, renowned for its exceptional build quality, sophisticated engineering, and long service life.

300E Introduction:

The 300 E model with the M103 engine was a significant offering in the W124 lineup, providing a balance of performance and refinement.

4Matic Availability:

The 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system was introduced to the W124 range in 1987, with the 300 E 4MATIC becoming a popular choice for those seeking enhanced traction.

Production Period W124:

1984-1995 (Sedan/Coupe/Wagon, Convertible later)

Production Period 300E 4Matic:

Specific to the early 1990s, part of the mid-life updates for the W124.

Manufacturing Location:

Germany (Primary)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Automotive Journalism Awards:

The W124 chassis generally received widespread praise from automotive journalists for its engineering, comfort, and durability. It was often cited as a benchmark for its class.

Consumer Reports Ratings:

Consumer Reports historically rated Mercedes-Benz vehicles highly for reliability and owner satisfaction in this era, though specific model year ratings can vary.

Jd Power Rankings:

Mercedes-Benz vehicles from this period were generally strong performers in J.D. Power initial quality and long-term dependability studies.

Iso Certification:

Mercedes-Benz manufacturing facilities typically adhere to strict ISO quality standards.