Segment:
Entry-level Luxury Coupe / Executive Coupe
Target Audience:
Owners seeking detailed repair and maintenance information for their classic Mercedes-Benz coupe.
Competitors:
BMW 3 Series Coupe (E36), Audi 80/90 Coupe, Lexus SC300, Acura Legend Coupe.
Vehicle Appeal:
Elegant styling, robust engineering, refined driving experience, strong safety reputation.
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides authorized dealership-level technical information, enabling owners to perform or confidently manage repairs and maintenance.
Engine:
M104.980 3.2L Inline-6 DOHC (24-valve)
Fuel System:
Bosch KE-Jetronic (CIS-E) electronic fuel injection
Ignition System:
Distributorless ignition system (DIS) with coil-on-plug or coil packs
Cooling System:
Water-cooled, thermostatically controlled with fan clutch/electric fan
Exhaust System:
Catalytic converter, oxygen sensors, muffler system
Transmission:
4-speed automatic (722.4xx series) and optional 5-speed manual (G5-25)
Drivetrain:
Rear-wheel drive (RWD)
Suspension Front:
Independent multi-link, MacPherson struts
Suspension Rear:
Independent multi-link
Steering:
Recirculating ball power steering
Brakes Front:
Vented disc brakes with ABS
Brakes Rear:
Disc brakes with ABS
Electrical System:
12V system, battery, alternator, starter, wiring diagrams
Lighting System:
Headlights, taillights, interior lighting, fog lamps
HVAC:
Automatic climate control (optional), manual heating and air conditioning
Bodywork:
Exterior panels, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, glass, seals
Interior:
Seats, upholstery, trim panels, dashboard, instrumentation
Safety Features:
ABS, seat belts, optional airbags (driver's side from '94)
General Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid level checks, belt inspections
Engine Repair:
Engine removal/installation, cylinder head removal/installation, valve adjustments, piston/ring replacement
Fuel System Diagnostics:
Fuel injector testing, fuel pressure regulation, airflow meter diagnostics
Transmission Service:
Fluid and filter changes, valve body inspection, torque converter service
Brake System Repair:
Brake pad/rotor replacement, caliper overhaul, ABS system diagnosis
Suspension And Steering:
Component replacement (ball joints, tie rods, control arms), alignment procedures
Electrical Troubleshooting:
Wiring diagram interpretation, component testing, fault code diagnosis
HVAC Repair:
Compressor replacement, refrigerant charging, blower motor service
Body And Trim Repair:
Panel replacement, door mechanism adjustment, interior component installation
Diagnostic Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step diagnostic trees for common issues
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers routine maintenance, diagnostics, component repair, and complete overhauls.
Diagnostic Tools:
Details use of specialized Mercedes-Benz diagnostic tools (e.g., SDS - Star Diagnosis System) where applicable.
Oil Change Interval:
10,000 - 15,000 km (6,000 - 9,000 miles) or 12 months, whichever comes first.
Transmission Fluid Interval:
Every 60,000 km (37,500 miles) or 36 months for automatic transmission fluid and filter.
Coolant Interval:
Every 2 years or 40,000 km (25,000 miles).
Engine Oil:
API SG or higher, SAE 0W-40, 5W-30, 5W-40, 10W-30, 10W-40 (refer to manual for specific climate recommendations).
Transmission Fluid Auto:
MB 236.2, 236.3, or 236.6 Automatic Transmission Fluid (e.g., Dexron II)
Transmission Fluid Manual:
MB 235.1 (90W) Gear Oil
Coolant:
Mercedes-Benz Coolant/Antifreeze (e.g., G48, 50/50 mix with distilled water)
Wiring Harness:
Biodegradable insulation on wiring harnesses can degrade, leading to electrical issues (common on W124).
Headliner:
Headliner fabric often sags due to adhesive failure.
Window Regulators:
Power window regulators can be prone to failure.
Door Panels:
Door panel clips can break, causing panels to sag.
Crankshaft Position Sensor:
Early M104 engines might experience crankshaft position sensor failures, affecting engine starting.
