Positioning:
Essential resource for Mercedes-Benz W124 owners and independent repair shops seeking in-depth knowledge for maintenance and repair.
Value Proposition:
Provides dealership-level technical information at a fraction of the cost, covering a wide range of models and systems essential for maintaining these robust vehicles.
Content Highlights:
Complete tear down and rebuild procedures, detailed part diagrams, torque specifications, extensive maintenance schedules, troubleshooting guides, electrical schematics.
Models Covered:
260E / 300E 2.6 (1987-1992), 300E 2.8 (1993), 300E / E320 (1986-1995), 400E / E420 (1992-1995), 500E / E500 (1992-1995), 300D 2.5 Turbo (1990-1993), E300 Diesel (1994-1995), 300D Turbo (1986-1987), 300E 4MATIC (1990-1993), 300CE (1988-1992), 300CE / E320 (1993-1995), 300CE / E320 Cabriolet (1993-1995)
Estimated Total Pages:
Extensive (multiple volumes, specific page counts not provided but implied to be comprehensive)
Type:
Comprehensive Service, Repair, Maintenance, Electrical Troubleshooting, and Owner Information
Powertrain:
Engine (tear down, rebuild, maintenance, troubleshooting), Fuel System, Cooling System, Exhaust System, Transmission (manual/automatic, repair, maintenance)
Electrical:
Complete Electrical Troubleshooting, Wiring Diagrams, Component Functionality, Lighting, Ignition System, Battery, Charging System, ECU Diagnostics
Chassis And Body:
Suspension (front/rear), Steering, Brakes (hydraulic/ABS), Body Panels, Doors, Windows, Convertible Tops, Interior Trim, HVAC (Climate Control)
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, tune-ups, lubrication
Repair:
Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, brake system repair, suspension component replacement, electrical system diagnostics and repair, body panel repair
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues, fault code interpretation (where applicable), symptom-based troubleshooting guides
Technical Specifications:
Torque specifications for all fasteners, engine specifications, chassis alignment data, fluid capacities and types, electrical component resistance values
Depth:
Comprehensive: From basic owner maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed electrical schematics and diagnostic procedures.
Engine Family:
M103 (inline-6), M104 (inline-6, DOHC), M119 (V8)
Engine Displacement Range:
2.5L, 2.6L, 2.8L, 3.0L, 3.2L, 4.2L, 5.0L
Horsepower Range:
Approx. 160 HP to 326 HP (depending on engine variant)
Torque Range:
Approx. 170 lb-ft to 354 lb-ft (depending on engine variant)
Fuel Injection:
Bosch KE-Jetronic (K-Jetronic variants), Bosch EIS (Electronic Ignition and Fuel Injection)
Diesel Variants:
OM602 (inline-5 turbo diesel), OM603 (inline-6 turbo diesel)
Diesel Displacement:
2.5L, 3.0L
Diesel Horsepower:
Approx. 126 HP to 147 HP
Diesel Torque:
Approx. 170 lb-ft to 195 lb-ft
Transmission Type Standard:
4-speed Automatic (e.g., 722.4), 5-speed Manual (less common on higher trims)
Transmission Type Optional:
4-speed Automatic, 5-speed Automatic (e.g., 722.5, 722.6)
Transmission Features:
Comfort-oriented shift programs, electronic control units (on later models), lock-up torque converter
Safety Features Standard:
Driver and front passenger airbags, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), seatbelt pretensioners
Active Safety:
ABS, optional Traction Control System (ASR on later models)
Passive Safety:
Reinforced chassis, crumple zones, side-impact protection beams, seatbelt systems
Infotainment Systems:
Original Mercedes-Benz radio/cassette systems, optional CD changers.
Driver Assistance Features:
Cruise control, optional heated seats, optional electric seat adjustment, optional limited-slip differential (on some models).
Connectivity Options:
Basic analogue systems, limited connectivity by modern standards.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000 km or 1 year, whichever comes first (synthetic oil recommended).
Major Service Interval:
At significant mileage milestones (e.g., 50,000 km, 100,000 km) for comprehensive checks and component replacements.
Engine Oil Spec:
API SG/SH or MB 229.1 (e.g., SAE 10W-30, 10W-40, 15W-40 depending on climate)
Transmission Fluid Spec:
MB 236.3 (for 722.4), MB 236.10 or 236.12 (for later automatics), GL-4 or GL-5 for manual transmissions
Coolant Spec:
MB 325.0 (Ethylene Glycol based coolant)
Common Problems:
Head gasket leaks, coolant leaks (plastic components degrading), wiring harness insulation breakdown ('noodle'), transmission 'limp mode', rust (wheel wells, underbody), biodegradable wiring insulation failure.
Maintenance Tips:
Regularly inspect cooling system hoses and plastic components, check wiring insulation, maintain transmission fluid and filter, address any rust spots promptly.
Heritage:
The W124 represents the peak of Mercedes-Benz engineering and build quality from the late 20th century, building on a legacy of robust and reliable luxury vehicles.
Generation Timeline:
Launched in 1984 (as the 'E-Class' designation was introduced in 1993, prior models were designated with their series code). Replaced by the W210 E-Class in 1995.
Production Years:
1984-1995
Production Locations:
Germany (Sindelfingen, Bremen), South Africa, Egypt, others
