Class:
Full-size Luxury Sedan/Coupe
Target Audience:
Luxury vehicle owners seeking to perform their own maintenance and repairs.
Competitors:
BMW 7 Series (E23, E32), Jaguar XJ, Cadillac Sedan de Ville, Lincoln Town Car.
Value Proposition:
Significant cost savings on repairs and maintenance by empowering owners with detailed instructions and diagrams.
Accessibility:
Instant delivery via email, usable across multiple devices.
Covered Years:
1979, 1980, 1981, 1982, 1983, 1984, 1985, 1986, 1987, 1988, 1989, 1990, 1991, 1992
Covered Models:
All W126 Series Models/Engines/Trim/Transmission Types
Estimated Page Count:
Extensive (exact number not specified, but implies comprehensive)
Type:
Complete Workshop Service Repair Manual
Format:
Downloadable Digital File (PDF)
Engine:
Complete engine overhaul, diagnostics, tuning, and repair for all W126 engine variants (M110, M116, M117, M103, M104).
Fuel System:
Fuel injection systems (K-Jetronic, KE-Jetronic), carburetors (early models), fuel pumps, lines, injectors, and emissions control.
Transmission:
Automatic transmission service, repair, and overhaul (e.g., 722.3, 722.4, 722.5). Clutch operation for manual transmissions (if applicable).
Drivetrain:
Drive shafts, differential, axles, and suspension system components.
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), disc/drum brake service, caliper repair, rotor replacement, and parking brake.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering box/rack, tie rods, and linkage.
Electrical System:
Complete electrical system, battery, alternator, starter, wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, lighting, ignition system, and ECUs.
Climate Control:
HVAC system, A/C compressor, R134a conversion (if applicable), heater core, and climate control modules.
Bodywork:
Body panel repair, rust prevention, door mechanisms, window regulators, sunroof operation, and trim.
Interior:
Seat mechanisms, dashboard removal, instrument cluster, and interior trim.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance (oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks), tune-ups, belt replacements, and spark plug service.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues, fault code interpretation (where applicable).
Repair:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, repair, and reinstallation.
Rebuild:
Detailed procedures for engine, transmission, and differential rebuilds.
Installation:
Guidance on installing new or replacement parts.
Depth:
Comprehensive from basic owner maintenance to advanced engine and transmission rebuilds, including electrical system diagnostics.
Format:
PDF (Portable Document Format)
Compatibility:
Compatible with all PC & MAC computers, tablets, and mobile phones with Adobe Reader.
Printability:
Fully printable (individual pages, chapters, or entire manual).
Binding:
N/A (Digital Download)
Paper Quality:
N/A (Digital Download)
Searchable Text:
Implied (standard for most professional PDF manuals)
Illustrations:
Includes step-by-step instructions with pictures.
Engine Family:
M103, M104, M110, M116, M117
Common Engines Covered:
2.6L Inline-6 (M103), 3.0L Inline-6 (M103), 3.0L Inline-6 (M104 DOHC), 3.8L V8 (M116), 4.2L V8 (M116/M119), 5.0L V8 (M117), 5.6L V8 (M117/M119).
Horsepower Range:
Approx. 140 hp to 270 hp depending on engine variant.
Torque Range:
Approx. 200 Nm to 400 Nm depending on engine variant.
Injection Type:
Bosch K-Jetronic (CIS), Bosch KE-Jetronic (CIS-E), Monojetronic (early 2.6L) and early models may have carburetors.
Transmission Type:
4-speed Automatic (722.3, 722.4, 722.5)
Optional Transmission Type:
5-speed Manual (rare, early models)
Automatic Features:
Lock-up torque converter, hydraulic control, sometimes with selectable sport/economy modes.
Wheelbase Sedan:
Approx. 2935 mm (115.6 inches)
Wheelbase Coupe:
Approx. 2800 mm (110.2 inches)
Length:
Approx. 4995 mm (196.7 inches) for Sedan, 4910 mm (193.3 inches) for Coupe.
Width:
Approx. 1800 mm (70.9 inches)
Height:
Approx. 1430 mm (56.3 inches) for Sedan, 1390 mm (54.7 inches) for Coupe.
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1600-1800 kg (3527-3968 lbs) depending on model and equipment.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Varies by model, typically around 2200-2300 kg.
Crash Test Performance:
While formal independent crash test ratings from agencies like NHTSA or IIHS are less common for this era, the W126 was renowned for its robust construction and safety engineering.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) standard on most models from the mid-1980s onwards.
Traction Control:
Optional ASR (Anti-Slip Regulation) available on later models.
Airbags:
Driver's side airbag introduced in 1988, becoming standard later.
Seatbelts:
Pre-tensioning seatbelts, reinforced safety cage.
Lighting:
Halogen headlights, often with headlight washers and wipers on higher trims.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000-15,000 km (6,000-10,000 miles) or annually, depending on driving conditions and oil type used.
Major Service Interval:
Refer to manual for specific mileage/time intervals for spark plugs, transmission service, coolant flush, etc. Often around 50,000-80,000 km.
Engine Oil:
API SG/SH or ACEA A2/A3 rated. Viscosity typically 10W-40 or 15W-40, depending on climate. Consult manual for exact specifications.
Transmission Fluid:
MB 236.6 or MB 236.7 specification (e.g., Dexron II or III compatible). Check manual for specific type based on transmission model.
Coolant:
Mercedes-Benz approved coolant (Glysantin G48 or equivalent), typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid.
Common Wear Items:
Fuel lines, vacuum hoses (especially on K-Jetronic systems), climate control flap actuators, window regulators, suspension bushings, catalytic converters (early models), timing chain guides (M103/M104 early).
Electrical Issues:
Corrosion on connectors, failing SRS components (later models), intermittent dashboard lights.
Brand Reputation:
Mercedes-Benz is synonymous with luxury, engineering excellence, and durability.
Predecessor:
W116 S-Class
Key Innovations:
Aerodynamic styling, improved safety features, advanced engine technology for its time, increased use of electronics.
Production Period:
1979-1991
Manufacturing Locations:
Mainly Sindelfingen, West Germany.
Historical Acclaim:
Widely recognized as one of the finest sedans of its era, praised for its build quality, comfort, and engineering.
Sales Success:
Significant sales success globally, establishing Mercedes-Benz's dominance in the luxury car market.
Reliability Perception:
Generally high reliability, though maintenance requires specialized knowledge and parts can be costly. This manual addresses these needs.
