Segment:
Compact Executive Sedan
Competitors:
BMW 3 Series (E30), Audi 80/90, Volvo 240/740, Alfa Romeo 75.
Design Philosophy:
Introduced Mercedes-Benz's new design language with a focus on aerodynamics and safety, often referred to as the 'Baby Benz'.
Reliability:
Known for its robust build quality and long-term reliability, characteristic of Mercedes-Benz engineering.
Safety Innovation:
Pioneered significant safety features for its class, including a crumple zone design and optional driver-side airbag.
Models Covered:
All 190 and 190E models, including all engine variants, trim levels, and transmission types for the specified years.
Years Covered:
1984, 1985, 1986, 1987, 1988
Format Type:
Downloadable PDF
Device Compatibility:
All PC & MAC Computers, tablets, smartphones.
Required Software:
Adobe Reader (free download available).
Type:
Complete Workshop Service Repair Manual
Estimated Page Count:
Extensive (specific page count not provided, but implied to be comprehensive covering A-Z procedures).
Engine:
Internal combustion engines (e.g., 2.3L, 2.6L gasoline), including fuel injection (KE-Jetronic), ignition, cooling, lubrication, emissions, and engine management.
Transmission:
Manual and automatic transmissions, including operation, removal, installation, overhaul, and fluid specifications.
Drivetrain:
Rear-wheel drive system, including driveshafts, differentials, and axles.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, including struts, springs, control arms, bushings, and alignment procedures.
Steering:
Power steering system, including pump, hoses, steering gear, and alignment.
Brakes:
Hydraulic brake system, including master cylinder, calipers, brake pads, rotors, ABS (if equipped), and bleeding procedures.
Electrical:
Complete electrical system, including wiring diagrams, battery, alternator, starter, lighting, instrumentation, power windows, and central locking.
Bodywork:
Body and chassis, including panels, doors, windows, sunroof, interior trim, bumpers, and structural components.
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system operation and repair.
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance tasks such as oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, fluid checks, and belt adjustments.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common problems, including symptom-based troubleshooting guides and fault code interpretation (if applicable).
Repair:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, repair, and installation across all major vehicle systems.
Overhaul:
Complete overhaul procedures for engines, transmissions, and other major mechanical components.
Specifications:
Detailed technical specifications, torque values, clearances, and tolerances for all components.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering basic to advanced repairs, diagnostics, and complete overhauls. Designed for DIY mechanics and professional technicians.
Engine Type 190E:
M102 Inline-4 Cylinder, SOHC
Displacement 190E 2.3:
2299 cc (2.3 Liters)
Bore Stroke 190E 2.3:
93.7 mm x 83.6 mm
Compression Ratio 190E 2.3:
9.0:1
Horsepower 190E 2.3:
130-136 hp (97-101 kW) @ 5100 rpm (depending on market and spec)
Torque 190E 2.3:
198 Nm (146 lb-ft) @ 3500 rpm
Engine Type 190E 2.6:
M103 Inline-6 Cylinder, SOHC
Displacement 190E 2.6:
2599 cc (2.6 Liters)
Horsepower 190E 2.6:
160 hp (119 kW) @ 5800 rpm
Torque 190E 2.6:
228 Nm (168 lb-ft) @ 4500 rpm
Fuel Injection Type:
Bosch KE-Jetronic (CIS-E) mechanical/electronic fuel injection system for gasoline models.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (Premium Unleaded Recommended)
0 60 Mph 190E 2.3:
Approx. 9.5 - 10.5 seconds
Top Speed 190E 2.3:
Approx. 195 km/h (121 mph)
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000 km (6,200 miles) or 12 months, whichever comes first (refer to manual for exact specifications).
Filter Replacement:
Air filter and fuel filter typically every 20,000-30,000 km (12,500-18,600 miles).
Spark Plugs:
Replace every 20,000-30,000 km (12,500-18,600 miles), depending on plug type.
Engine Oil Type:
API SG/SH or higher, SAE 10W-40 or 15W-40 recommended (specific viscosity depends on ambient temperature). MB approval 229.1.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze, mixed 50/50 with distilled water. MB approval 325.0 or 326.0.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
MB Spec 236.1 approved ATF (e.g., Shell Donax TD, Pentosin ATF 134).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Common Issues Electrical:
Wiring harness degradation (especially around the engine bay), fuse box corrosion, vacuum line deterioration.
Common Issues Mechanical:
Front lower ball joint wear, differential seals, radiator leaks, power steering hose leaks, distributor O-ring leaks on M102 engines.
Common Issues Fuel System:
KE-Jetronic system component failures (e.g., airflow meter, fuel distributor), fuel accumulator issues.
Manufacturer:
Mercedes-Benz, known for luxury, engineering, and durability since its inception.
W201 Development:
Developed to fill the gap below the larger E-Class sedans, targeting a younger demographic and increasing sales volume.
Variants Introduced During Period:
190 (basic model), 190E (fuel-injected models), 190D (diesel variants, not explicitly covered by this manual's years).
Production Period Covered:
1984-1988
Original Production Years:
1982-1993