🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mercedes-Benz

Model:

W123 280E

Production Years Covered:

1976-1985

Chassis Code:

W123

👋 Introduction

Target Audience:

DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics seeking detailed repair information

Advantage Over Print:

Less expensive, more convenient, instant access, searchable text, printable pages

Completeness:

COMPLETE official full factory service repair manual

Value Proposition:

Inexpensive way to keep vehicle working properly, save money on mechanic costs

Convenience:

Speed download, no expiry dates, accessible on multiple devices

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Mercedes-Benz W123 280E (1976-1985)

Estimated Pages:

Hundreds (Specific number not provided, but implied comprehensive)

Type:

Factory Service Repair Manual / Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Service:

Included

Transmission Service:

Included

Brake System:

Included

Electrical System:

Included

Wiring Diagrams:

Included

Suspension:

Included

Steering:

Included

Cooling System:

Included

Fuel Injection:

Included

Fuel System:

Included

Emission System:

Included

Heating Air Conditioning:

Included

Engine Control System:

Included

Chassis Body:

Included

Restraint System:

Included

Interior:

Included

Differential Drive:

Included

Axle:

Included

General Maintenance:

Included

Troubleshooting:

Included

Periodic Lubrication:

Included

Repair Procedures:

Step-by-step instructions for complete disassembly and reassembly

Diagnostics:

Implied through troubleshooting and detailed system coverage

Maintenance Tasks:

Included (e.g., general maintenance, periodic lubrication)

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering all aspects of service and repair, suitable for DIY and experienced mechanics

Illustrations:

Hundreds of photos and illustrations

📊 Manual Specifications

Compatibility:

All Versions of Windows and Mac

Access:

Downloadable, accessible via web browser on any computer or mobile device

Printability:

Fully printable (entire manual or specific pages)

Binding:

N/A (Digital PDF Format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital PDF Format)

Software:

Adobe PDF Reader and WinZip (free online)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Inline-6 Cylinder, Fuel-Injected (2.8 Liter)

Engine Code Variant:

M110 (Specific sub-variants likely covered)

Horsepower:

Approximately 177-185 PS (175-183 hp) depending on market and year (specific figures in manual)

Torque:

Approximately 245-250 Nm (181-184 lb-ft) (specific figures in manual)

Injection System:

Bosch K-Jetronic (CIS - Continuous Injection System)

Fuel Requirement:

Unleaded Gasoline (Manual will specify octane rating)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

4-speed Manual (standard on many early models), 4-speed Automatic (common option)

Automatic Transmission Type:

Grumble-free torque converter automatic (likely 4-speed)

Transmission Coverage:

Service and repair procedures for both manual and automatic transmissions

📐 Dimensions

Body Styles:

Sedan, Coupe, Estate (Station Wagon), Limousine (Manual likely focuses on Sedan/Estate unless specified)

Curb Weight:

Varies by body style and equipment, typically around 1450-1600 kg (Manual will have exact figures)

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Safety:

Designed with robust crumple zones and safety cage, reflecting advanced safety of its era. Specific official ratings for this period are less standardized than modern tests.

Braking System:

Front Disc Brakes, Rear Disc Brakes (likely power assisted)

Seatbelts:

Front and rear seatbelts (likely with pre-tensioners on later models)

Steering Column:

Collapsible steering column

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Original systems were typically analog radios, possibly with cassette players in later years. Manual may cover basic wiring for upgrades.

ABS:

ABS was an optional extra on later W123 models, not standard. Manual will detail ABS system if equipped.

Features:

No modern connectivity features; focused on mechanical and electrical systems.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 10,000 - 15,000 km or 6-12 months (Manual will specify exact interval and oil type)

Major Service Interval:

Varies by component, but important checks usually around 40,000-60,000 km. Manual provides comprehensive schedule.

Engine Oil:

Typically SAE 10W-40 or 10W-50 (e.g., MB-Approval 227.1 or 228.1). Manual will confirm exact MB specification.

Coolant:

Glysantin G05 or similar ethylene glycol-based antifreeze with corrosion inhibitors (Manual will specify approved coolant type and mix ratio).

Transmission Fluid Auto:

Dexron III or equivalent (Manual will specify exact MB specification).

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 (Manual will specify type and recommended replacement interval).

Common W123 Issues:

Check for rust (wheel arches, sills, door bottoms), vacuum leak issues (central locking, HVAC), fuel distributor/accumulator issues, and potential for aging rubber components (hoses, mounts). The manual will detail diagnosis and repair for these.

Oil Filter:

Commonly Mann-Filter W 917/4 or equivalent. Manual will provide OE and aftermarket part number references.

Air Filter:

Commonly Mann-Filter C 27 150/1 or equivalent. Manual will provide OE and aftermarket part number references.

📚 Vehicle History

Mercedes Benz Legacy:

Reputation for engineering excellence, durability, and luxury.

W123 Significance:

The W123 generation is renowned for its exceptional build quality and longevity, often referred to as one of Mercedes-Benz's most durable cars. It succeeded the W114/W115 and was replaced by the W124.

Production Period:

1975-1986 (280E specifically within this range)

Manufacturing Locations:

Germany (primary), with assembly plants in other countries.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Reputation:

Widely recognized for its bulletproof reliability and durability, earning it a cult following among classic car enthusiasts.