Target Audience:
Mercedes-Benz W124 owners, independent repair shops, automotive enthusiasts
Uniqueness:
Vehicle-specific, factory-equivalent detail, comprehensive A-Z coverage
Information Source:
Same manual used by dealership technicians
Content Format:
Step-by-step instructions, diagrams, illustrations, wiring schematics, specifications
Convenience:
Single PDF for easy navigation, printing specific pages
Engine Mechanical:
Engine, Fuel Service Specifications, Intake Exhaust Cooling, Lube, Ignition Starting Charging
Engine Management:
Control System, Emission Control
Drivetrain:
Auto Transmission, Manual Transmission, Transfer Propeller Shaft, Drive Shaft, Differential, Axle Suspension
Braking System:
Brake Control, Brake, Parking Brake
Steering Suspension:
Tire & Wheel, Steering Column, Power Steering, Axle Suspension
Electrical Electronics:
Electrical, Multiplex/Can Communication, Cruise Control, Engine Immobilizer, Meter Audio/Visual, Horn
Comfort Convenience:
Air Condition, Wiper & Washer, Door Lock, Seat, Engine Hood/ Door, Exterior & Interior
Safety Restraint:
Suppl Restraint System, Seat Belt
Interior Features:
Instrument Panel, Windshield/Glass Mirror
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication
Diagnosis:
Troubleshooting common issues, diagnostic procedures for all major systems
Repair:
Complete step-by-step repair instructions for all components and systems
Disassembly Assembly:
Detailed procedures for component removal and installation
Wiring:
Wiring schematics and diagrams for all electrical systems
Depth:
Factory-level detail, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts
Searchability:
Searchable text within the PDF
Printability:
All pages printable, with ability to enlarge images
Binding:
Digital (no physical binding)
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital format)
Compatibility:
Windows (Vista 32/64, XP, ME, 98, NT, 2000), Mac
Required Software:
Adobe PDF Reader, Winzip
Engine Options:
Covers various W124 E-Class engine variants available in 1996, likely including inline-4, inline-6 gasoline, and diesel engines (e.g., M104, M111, OM60x series). Specific engine codes are detailed within the manual.
Power Torque:
Detailed specifications for horsepower and torque for each covered engine variant
Fuel Injection:
Detailed information on fuel delivery systems, including injection systems (e.g., Bosch KE-Jetronic, HFM) and their servicing
Ignition System:
Distributor, ignition coils, spark plugs, and related components
Lubrication System:
Oil pump, oil filter, oil passages, lubrication specifications
Cooling System:
Radiator, coolant pump, thermostat, hoses, and specifications
Automatic Transmission:
Detailed coverage of Mercedes-Benz 4-speed and 5-speed automatic transmissions (e.g., 722.4, 722.5) common in W124 models
Manual Transmission:
Coverage for available manual transmission variants, including clutch operation and servicing
Transmission Fluid:
Specific Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) specifications (e.g., MB 236.x series) and fill capacities
Gear Ratios:
Detailed gear ratios for both automatic and manual transmissions
Body Styles:
Sedan (Saloon), Coupe, Estate (Kombi/T-Model), Convertible (Cabriolet) variants covered within the W124 family
Curb Weight:
Specifications for curb weight will vary by model and engine, detailed in the manual
Gross Vehicle Weight:
GVWR specifications for all models
Crash Test Data:
While specific ratings for 1996 might not be directly in the manual, it details the safety structures and systems designed for occupant protection.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) operation, diagnosis, and repair
Airbags:
Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) coverage, including airbag modules, sensors, and control units
Seat Belts:
Seat belt mechanisms, pretensioners, and related safety systems
Audio Visual Systems:
Coverage of original Mercedes-Benz audio systems and speaker configurations
Cruise Control:
Operation and troubleshooting of the cruise control system
Multiplex Communication:
Information on multiplex communication systems within the vehicle's electrical network (though CAN is more prevalent in later models, W124 used a precursor multiplex system).
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 15,000 km (9,300 miles) or 12 months, whichever comes first, depending on driving conditions (detailed in manual)
Major Service Interval:
Specific intervals for spark plug replacement, coolant flush, transmission service, etc., detailed in the manual
Engine Oil Spec:
MB 229.1 or MB 229.3 specifications, depending on engine type (e.g., 0W-40, 5W-40, 10W-40, 5W-30).
Coolant Spec:
MB 325.0 (Ethylene Glycol based) or MB 326.0 (Propylene Glycol based) antifreeze concentrate mixed with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Spec:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid
Common W124 Issues:
Wiper park mechanism failure, vacuum door lock actuator issues, headliner sagging, wiring harness degradation (specific to certain models/years), rust in common areas (wheel wells, jacking points). Manual provides diagnostic and repair for these.
Oil Filter Example:
Commonly Mann-Filter W914/2, Mahle OX77D, or equivalent OEM Mercedes-Benz part number (specifics in manual)
Mercedes Benz Legacy:
Built on Mercedes-Benz's reputation for engineering, durability, and safety
W124 Development:
The W124 chassis, introduced in 1984, was renowned for its robust build quality and advanced engineering. The 1996 model represents the final facelift of this highly acclaimed generation.
Production Period:
W124 production ran from 1984 to 1997. The 1996 model year falls within the latter part of its lifecycle.
Manufacturing Location:
Primarily Germany
