🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mercedes-Benz

Model:

W123 280E

Year:

1982

Chassis Code:

W123

Engine Code:

M110 (likely, for 280E)

Production Variant:

280E

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

Essential resource for owners and mechanics of the Mercedes-Benz W123 280E, a classic luxury sedan known for its build quality and engineering.

Value Proposition:

Provides comprehensive factory-level repair information, significantly reducing the cost of professional servicing and enabling DIY maintenance.

Feature Highlight:

The inclusion of hundreds of photos, detailed step-by-step instructions, and comprehensive electrical diagrams sets this manual apart for its practical usability.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage:

Complete factory workshop service and repair

Estimated Pages:

Hundreds (exact number not specified but implies extensive coverage)

Type:

Workshop Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Full engine disassembly, assembly, diagnostics, and repair for M110 engine.

Fuel System:

Bosch K-Jetronic fuel injection system diagnosis and repair, fuel pump, injectors, fuel lines.

Ignition System:

Distributor, ignition coil, spark plugs, ignition timing adjustments.

Cooling System:

Radiator, water pump, thermostat, hoses, fan, coolant specifications.

Lubrication System:

Oil pump, oil filter, oil pressure, oil change procedures, fluid specifications.

Transmission Manual:

Service and repair of 4-speed and 5-speed manual transmissions, clutch replacement.

Transmission Automatic:

Service and repair of the automatic transmission (likely 4-speed 4G-Tronic), fluid changes, diagnostics.

Drivetrain:

Driveshaft, universal joints, differential, axle shafts, lubrication.

Suspension Front:

MacPherson struts, control arms, ball joints, bushings, steering knuckle, springs, shock absorbers.

Suspension Rear:

Independent rear suspension, trailing arms, differential mounts, springs, shock absorbers, bushings.

Steering System:

Power steering system diagnosis, pump, steering box, tie rods, steering linkage.

Brakes Front:

Disc brake calipers, rotors, pads, brake lines, master cylinder.

Brakes Rear:

Disc brake calipers, rotors, pads, brake lines, parking brake mechanism.

Electrical System Charging:

Alternator, voltage regulator, battery, charging circuit diagnostics.

Electrical System Starting:

Starter motor, starter solenoid, ignition switch, starting circuit.

Electrical System Lighting:

Headlights, taillights, interior lights, bulb specifications, wiring diagrams.

Electrical System Instruments:

Dashboard instruments, gauges, warning lights, speedometer, tachometer.

Electrical System Accessories:

Wipers, washers, horn, power windows, central locking (if equipped), radio wiring.

Body Exterior:

Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, hood, trunk, bumpers, trim.

Body Interior:

Seat removal, dashboard disassembly, interior trim panels, headliner.

HVAC System:

Heating system, ventilation, blower motor, heater core, air conditioning system (if equipped).

Exhaust System:

Exhaust manifolds, catalytic converter (if applicable for US models), mufflers, pipes, hangers.

Maintenance:

Regular maintenance tasks, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication.

Troubleshooting:

Systematic troubleshooting guides for common and complex issues, diagnostic charts.

Repair:

Step-by-step repair procedures for all major vehicle components, including detailed instructions.

Disassembly Assembly:

Complete disassembly and reassembly instructions for all major systems.

Wiring Diagrams:

Detailed electrical wiring diagrams for all circuits, facilitating diagnosis and repair.

Specifications:

Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical component values.

Depth:

Full factory workshop level, suitable for professional mechanics and experienced DIY enthusiasts.

Illustrations:

Hundreds of photos and illustrations to guide procedures.

Detail Level:

Detailed substeps, notes, cautions, and warnings for critical information.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

PDF

Printability:

Printable without restriction (individual pages or entire manual).

Binding:

N/A (Digital Download - user prints and binds)

Paper:

N/A (Digital Download - user chooses paper type)

Software:

Adobe PDF Reader

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Inline 6-cylinder, 4-stroke, naturally aspirated gasoline engine.

Engine Displacement:

2.8 Liters (2785 cc)

Horsepower:

Approximately 185 PS (182 bhp; 136 kW) at 5800 rpm (DIN rating for Euro spec, US spec may vary slightly).

Torque:

Approximately 234 Nm (173 lb-ft) at 4500 rpm (DIN rating for Euro spec, US spec may vary slightly).

Fuel Delivery:

Bosch K-Jetronic mechanical fuel injection.

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (Premium/Super)

Bore X Stroke:

86.0 mm x 80.25 mm

Compression Ratio:

8.2:1 or 8.7:1 (depending on market and exact engine variant)

🔧 Transmission

Type:

4-speed manual transmission (standard for many markets).

Type:

4-speed automatic transmission (4G-Tronic, optional in most markets).

Automatic Features:

Torque converter, hydraulic control, possibly 'Economy'/'Sport' modes.

📐 Dimensions

Body Styles:

4-door Sedan (Saloon), 5-door Estate (T-model), 2-door Coupe, 2-door Cabriolet (rare).

Length:

Approximately 4725 mm (186.0 in) for Sedan.

Width:

Approximately 1786 mm (70.3 in) for Sedan.

Height:

Approximately 1438 mm (56.6 in) for Sedan.

Wheelbase:

Approximately 2795 mm (110.0 in) for Sedan.

Curb Weight:

Approximately 1450-1550 kg (3197-3417 lbs) depending on body style and equipment.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Varies by model and market, typically around 2000 kg.

🛡️ Safety Features

Historical Context:

While formal crash test ratings like modern NCAP were not prevalent in 1982, the W123 chassis was engineered with a strong focus on passive safety for its era, including a robust safety cage and energy-absorbing crumple zones.

Body Structure:

Reinforced passenger cell, energy-absorbing steering column, padded dashboard.

Restraints:

Seat belts for all occupants (standard).

Brakes:

Four-wheel disc brakes (standard on 280E), power-assisted.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory fitted or dealer installed AM/FM radio with cassette player common for the era. Speaker configuration typically front and rear doors.

Assistance Features:

Basic for its time: power steering, power brakes. Cruise control was a common option.

Connectivity:

No modern connectivity features (e.g., Bluetooth, USB, smartphone integration) as expected for a 1982 vehicle.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change:

Typically every 10,000-15,000 km (6,000-10,000 miles) or annually, depending on driving conditions.

Filter Replacement:

Oil filter with every oil change; air filter and fuel filter at recommended intervals (e.g., 30,000-50,000 km).

Engine Oil:

API SG or higher, viscosity typically SAE 10W-40 or 15W-40 (refer to manual for exact specifications based on climate).

Coolant:

Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze mixture (typically 50/50 with distilled water) meeting Mercedes-Benz specifications.

Transmission Fluid Auto:

MB 236.1 specification automatic transmission fluid (e.g., Dexron II compatible types historically).

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Common Wear Items:

Vacuum hoses, fuel lines, suspension bushings (due to age), climate control vacuum actuators, early rust in common areas (wheel arches, sills).

Electrical Quirks:

Can include intermittent issues with wiring harnesses, switches, or older vacuum-operated components used for climate control and central locking.

📚 Vehicle History

Heritage Focus:

Mercedes-Benz's reputation for building durable, high-quality, and technologically advanced vehicles.

W123 Introduction:

The W123 series was introduced in 1975 and ran until 1985, succeeding the W114/W115 'Stroke 8' models. It was renowned for its exceptional build quality and longevity.

W123 Updates:

The 1982 model falls within the facelifted W123 range, which saw styling refinements (like revised grille and badging) and mechanical updates, including improved aerodynamics and engine efficiency.

Production Period:

1975-1985

Key Markets:

Europe, North America, and global markets.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognition Type:

Widely recognized for its durability, build quality, and longevity, often cited in automotive journalism as one of the most reliable Mercedes-Benz models ever produced.

Owner Satisfaction:

Consistently high owner satisfaction ratings for reliability and build quality, contributing to its strong resale value and enthusiast following even today.