Vehicle Class:
Full-size Luxury Sedan
Target Demographic:
Affluent buyers seeking prestigious, comfortable, and technologically advanced automobiles.
Key Competitors:
BMW 7 Series, Jaguar XJ, Rolls-Royce Silver Spirit, Cadillac Fleetwood.
Salient Features:
Long wheelbase for enhanced rear passenger space, powerful V8 engine, advanced (for its time) suspension and safety systems, opulent interior, superior build quality.
Value Proposition:
Empowers owners and independent mechanics with the detailed technical knowledge to maintain, diagnose, and repair the Mercedes-Benz 560 SEL effectively, reducing reliance on expensive dealership services.
Model Years Covered:
1985, 1986, 1987, 1988, 1989, 1990, 1991
Specific Models Covered:
560 SEL
Estimated Page Count:
Varies by specific year, but comprehensive for the model range.
Manual Type:
Service and Repair Manual
Delivery Format:
Digital Download (PDF/WINRAR)
Engine Management:
Fuel Injection (KE-Jetronic), Ignition System, Engine Mechanical Components, Cooling System, Lubrication System
Drivetrain:
Automatic Transmission (722.3/722.4), Rear Axle, Driveshaft, Differential
Chassis:
Front Suspension, Rear Suspension, Steering System, Power Steering, Level Control (ADS), Anti-roll Bars, Leveling System Components
Brakes:
Hydraulic Brake System, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), Parking Brake, Brake Fluid Service, Brake Pad/Disc Inspection and Replacement
Electrical:
Wiring Diagrams, Lighting System, Instrument Cluster, Ignition System, Starting System, Charging System, Cruise Control, Power Accessories (Windows, Locks, Seats, Mirrors), Climate Control, Sunroof Operation, Hydraulic Top (if applicable for convertible variants, though 560 SEL is sedan), ASD (Automatic Slip Differential)
Body And Interior:
Body Structure Inspection, Corrosion Prevention, Water Leakage Diagnosis, Door/Hinge Lubrication, Hood Lubrication, Seat Belt Inspection, Interior Trim Removal/Installation, Noise Encapsulation Panels
Routine Maintenance:
Oil and Filter Changes, Air Filter Replacement, Fuel Filter Replacement, Spark Plug Replacement, Coolant Flush and Replacement, Belt Inspection and Adjustment, Fluid Level Checks (Power Steering, Brake, Transmission, Differential, Washer), Tire Pressure Correction
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic Procedures, Symptom-based Troubleshooting, Electrical System Fault Finding, Engine Performance Issues
Repair And Rebuild:
Engine Component Overhaul (e.g., valve adjustment, head gasket), Transmission Service and Overhaul, Brake System Component Replacement, Suspension Component Replacement, Steering System Repair, Electrical Component Diagnosis and Replacement
Technical Specifications:
Torque Specifications, Fluid Capacities, Jumper Starting Procedures, Jacking and Lifting Points, Tire/Wheel Specifications
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Detailed diagnostic procedures for engine, transmission, and electronic systems, including explanations of system operation.
Repair Depth:
Comprehensive step-by-step instructions for major repairs and component overhauls, suitable for advanced DIY or professional use.
Diagrams And Illustrations:
Includes detailed diagrams, illustrations, and wiring schematics crucial for understanding complex systems and procedures.
File Types:
PDF, WINRAR (for archive)
Digital Quality:
High-resolution scans for clear text and legible diagrams.
Binding:
N/A (Digital Download)
Paper Quality:
N/A (Digital Download)
Operating Systems:
Windows (95/98/ME/XP/vista/7/8), Linux, MAC, iOS, Android
Device Compatibility:
Computers, Tablets, Smartphones
Engine Type:
V8, SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft)
Displacement:
5.6 Liters (5549 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
96.0 mm x 94.9 mm
Horsepower:
Approx. 238-240 hp @ 4750-5000 rpm (depending on market and specific year)
Torque:
Approx. 320-330 lb-ft @ 2800-3000 rpm (depending on market and specific year)
Fuel Injection System:
Bosch KE-Jetronic (CIS-E) Fuel Injection
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline
Cooling System Type:
Liquid-cooled, pressurized
Oil Capacity With Filter:
Approximately 7.5 Liters (7.9 US Quarts)
Crash Test Information:
While specific NHTSA/IIHS ratings for this exact model year are not readily available, the W126 platform was known for its robust body structure and safety features for its era.
Active Safety Systems:
ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), ASD (Automatic Slip Differential - optional on some models), Power-assisted steering.
Passive Safety Features:
Reinforced safety cage, crumple zones, padded interior surfaces, front seatbelt pretensioners, optional driver's side airbag (introduced later in the W126 generation), dual-pane side windows for reduced noise and enhanced safety.
Audio System:
Original Becker radio/cassette systems, often with optional premium sound packages.
Driver Assistance Features:
Cruise control, automatic climate control, power adjustable seats with memory functions (driver side often), power windows, central locking.
Connectivity Features:
Limited by era; primarily focused on in-car comfort and control rather than external connectivity.
Comfort Enhancements:
Headlight washers and wipers, heated seats (optional), orthopedic seat adjustments, extensive sound deadening, dual-pane side glass.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 15,000 km (9,300 miles) or annually, whichever comes first, with premium synthetic oil.
Transmission Fluid Service:
Recommended every 60,000 km (37,000 miles) or 3 years.
Coolant Replacement:
Recommended every 2-3 years or as per manual specifications.
Engine Oil Specification:
SAE 10W-40 or 15W-40, API SG or higher, meeting Mercedes-Benz MB 229.1 specification (or equivalent).
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 4
Power Steering Fluid:
Hydraulic Fluid (refer to manual for specific MB specification)
Differential Fluid:
API GL-5, SAE 80W-90
Common Wear Items:
V-belts, spark plugs, fuel injectors (especially with age), fuel pump, transmission modulator valve, heater control valve, blower motor resistor, suspension bushings, exhaust hangers, self-leveling suspension components (hydraulic lines/accumulators).
Electrical Quirks:
Wiring harness degradation (especially insulation), window regulator failures, central locking system issues, SRS warning light illumination (related to airbag systems if equipped).
Fuel System Maintenance:
Regular replacement of fuel filters and checking of fuel pressure are critical for optimal KE-Jetronic performance. Cleaning of the air flow meter housing is also important.
Brand Legacy:
Mercedes-Benz has a long-standing reputation for engineering excellence, luxury, and durability in the automotive industry.
W126 Development:
The W126 S-Class represented a significant leap forward in automotive design and engineering for Mercedes-Benz, setting new benchmarks for safety, comfort, and efficiency.
Production Period:
1979-1991
Manufacturing Locations:
Germany
560 Sel Positioning:
The 560 SEL was the flagship model of the W126 range, offering the largest engine and the longest wheelbase, synonymous with ultimate luxury and performance in its class.
Industry Acclaim:
The W126 platform, including the 560 SEL, was widely acclaimed by automotive journalists and critics for its groundbreaking safety, luxury, and engineering, often being referred to as the 'best car in the world' during its production run.
Safety Engineering Awards:
While not specific awards, the W126's engineering innovations, particularly in passive safety and chassis design, influenced many subsequent vehicle designs.
