Market Position Vehicle:
The Mercedes-Benz W126 S-Class was the flagship luxury sedan of its era, representing peak engineering, comfort, and prestige. The 380SE was a prominent model within this lineup.
Competitive Set:
Competed with other high-end luxury sedans such as BMW 7 Series, Jaguar XJ, and Cadillac Fleetwood.
Vehicle Key Features:
Exceptional build quality, luxurious interior appointments, advanced engineering for its time (e.g., ABS, automatic climate control), and a comfortable ride.
Manual Value:
Provides authorized dealer-level repair and maintenance information, empowering owners and independent mechanics to service and maintain the W126 380SE accurately and efficiently.
Primary Coverage:
Factory Workshop Service Repair Manual
Estimated Page Count:
Extensive (typically 1000+ pages for W126 factory manuals)
Manual Type:
Comprehensive Service and Repair Manual
Language:
English (standard for factory manuals, though original may be German)
Digital Format:
HTML/Flash menu with PDF
Engine System:
Detailed diagnostics, repair, and overhaul of M116 V8 engine, including fuel injection, ignition, lubrication, cooling, and emission control systems.
Transmission System:
Service and repair of the 4-speed automatic transmission (e.g., 722.3 series), including adjustments, hydraulic system, and rebuild procedures.
Braking System:
Comprehensive coverage of hydraulic, ABS (if equipped), disc brakes (front and rear), parking brake, and related components.
Suspension Steering:
Front and rear suspension components, steering gear, power steering system, alignments, and shock absorber replacement.
Electrical System:
Detailed wiring diagrams, component testing, diagnosis of electrical faults, lighting, instrumentation, power windows, seats, and climate control.
Body And Trim:
Exterior trim (grille, bumpers, chrome), interior trim (seats, dashboard, headliner), door mechanisms, and window regulators.
Climate Control:
Service and repair of the automatic climate control system, including A/C refrigerant handling (R12), blower motor, and heater core.
Fuel System:
Bosch K-Jetronic fuel injection system diagnostics, component testing (EHA, pressure regulator, injectors), fuel pump, and filter replacement.
Exhaust System:
Component identification, repair, and replacement of exhaust manifolds, catalytic converters, mufflers, and pipes.
Procedures Included:
Routine maintenance, scheduled services, component replacement, troubleshooting guides, diagnostic procedures, and complete overhaul instructions.
Depth Of Coverage:
From basic oil changes and fluid checks to complex engine and transmission rebuilds, electrical system diagnostics, and bodywork repairs.
File Format Details:
HTML/Flash menu provides navigation, PDF files contain the core repair information, allowing for searchability and printing.
Print Quality Assessment:
Digital PDF format typically offers high resolution, allowing for clear printing of diagrams, charts, and text.
Binding Type:
N/A (Digital Download)
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital Download)
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated V8
Displacement:
3.8 Liters (3839 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
86.0 mm x 80.25 mm
Horsepower:
155 hp @ 4750 rpm (approx.)
Torque:
205 lb-ft @ 2500 rpm (approx.)
Fuel Injection System:
Bosch K-Jetronic (CIS-E with electronic idle control)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)
Ignition System:
Electronic Ignition (CDI)
Cooling Type:
Water-Cooled
Oil Capacity With Filter:
7.5 Liters (approx.)
Valve Train:
SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft), 2 valves per cylinder
Transmission Type:
4-Speed Automatic
Transmission Model Code:
722.3 (e.g., 722.303)
Optional Transmission:
Not typically offered for 380SE in these years; 4-speed auto was standard.
Transmission Features:
Lock-up torque converter, hydraulic control, sport/economy modes.
Transmission Fluid Type:
Mercedes-Benz Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) specification 236.7 or equivalent (e.g., Dexron II D before 1995).
Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approximately 8.0 Liters (total fill), 3.0-3.5 Liters (drain and refill).
Safety Ratings Era:
While formal crash test ratings like modern standards (NHTSA/IIHS) were less common or comprehensive in the mid-80s, Mercedes-Benz vehicles were renowned for their structural integrity and safety features.
Active Safety Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), precise steering, effective disc brakes.
Passive Safety Features:
Reinforced passenger cell, crumple zones, driver and passenger airbags (optional/standard depending on late production year/market), seat belts with pretensioners.
Security Features:
Central locking, immobilizer (early forms).
Infotainment Features:
AM/FM Radio with Cassette Player, Analog Climate Control Display.
Driver Assistance Features:
ABS, cruise control, automatic climate control.
Connectivity Features:
N/A (No modern connectivity options like Bluetooth or USB).
Lighting Technology:
Halogen headlights, sealed beam units may be present, standard incandescent bulbs for other lighting.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 10,000-15,000 km or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions (refer to original service booklet).
Major Service Intervals:
Spark plug replacement (approx. 40,000-60,000 km), transmission fluid/filter (approx. 40,000-80,000 km), coolant flush (approx. 2-3 years).
Engine Oil Type And Viscosity:
API SG or higher, SAE 15W-40 or 10W-40 recommended (check owner's manual for specific approvals and climate suitability, e.g., MB 229.1 or MB 228.3 for appropriate oils).
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based coolant, meeting MB 325.0 specification (e.g., Mercedes-Benz coolant concentrate).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 specification.
Common Maintenance Issues Engine:
K-Jetronic fuel distributor leaks, vacuum leaks, timing chain stretch, OVP relay failure (if applicable to specific models), coolant leaks from plastic components.
Common Maintenance Issues Suspension Steering:
Wear in ball joints and control arm bushings, power steering pump leaks, self-leveling suspension issues (if equipped).
Common Maintenance Issues Electrical:
Corroded wiring harnesses, aging vacuum lines, failure of climate control unit, issues with central locking system, headlight switch failures.
Common Repair Procedures:
Fuel pressure regulator replacement, injector seal replacement, transmission service, replacement of aging rubber hoses and mounts.
Brand Heritage:
Mercedes-Benz has a long-standing reputation for automotive excellence, safety, and engineering innovation since its inception.
W126 Evolution:
The W126 chassis succeeded the W116 and was produced from 1979 to 1991. It represented a significant advancement in aerodynamic design, safety, and technology. The 380SE was part of the initial engine offerings, later replaced by larger displacement engines in some markets.
Production Period:
1979-1991 (W126); 380SE produced early to mid-production.
Manufacturing Base:
Germany (Sindelfingen plant)
Industry Recognition:
The W126 platform was widely praised by automotive journalists for its engineering, comfort, and durability, often cited as a benchmark for luxury sedans of its time.
Consumer Ratings Era:
Consistently ranked highly for build quality and longevity by consumer and automotive publications of the 1980s and 1990s.
Safety Certifications Era:
Met all relevant safety and emissions standards for its production years in major markets like North America and Europe.
