|
Introduction
|
|
Market Position
|
|
Positioning:
|
The Mercedes-Benz 300 E 4MATIC (W124 chassis) represented the pinnacle of engineering and luxury in its segment during the late 1980s and early 1990s. It was positioned as a premium, technologically advanced, and durable sedan offering refined performance and exceptional build quality.
|
|
Competitive Analysis
|
|
Competitors:
|
Competed with other luxury sedans of the era, including BMW 5-Series, Audi V8 Quattro, and higher-end models from Jaguar and Lexus.
|
|
Key Features
|
|
Salient Features:
|
Permanent four-wheel drive (4MATIC), robust inline-6 engine, legendary W124 chassis durability, sophisticated build, and comfortable ride.
|
|
Manual Coverage
|
|
Systems Covered
|
|
Engine Systems:
|
Engine mechanical (M103 3.0L inline-6), fuel injection (Bosch KE-Jetronic/CIS-E), ignition, cooling, lubrication, exhaust
|
|
Transmission Systems:
|
4-speed automatic transmission (722.4) operation, diagnosis, and repair; 4MATIC all-wheel drive system
|
|
Drivetrain Systems:
|
Front and rear differentials, driveshafts, CV joints, 4MATIC system components
|
|
Suspension Steering:
|
Front and rear suspension components, shocks, springs, control arms, bushings, steering gear, power steering system
|
|
Brake Systems:
|
Hydraulic brake system, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), front and rear brake assembly, parking brake
|
|
Electrical Systems:
|
Complete wiring diagrams, component testing, battery, alternator, starter, lighting, fuses, relays, instrumentation, control modules
|
|
Body Chassis:
|
Body panels, doors, windows, locks, convertible top mechanisms (if applicable to specific sub-models not mentioned), frame structure, seals
|
|
HVAC Systems:
|
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system diagnosis and repair
|
|
Procedures Included
|
|
Maintenance Procedures:
|
Scheduled maintenance intervals, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, coolant flushes, belt replacements
|
|
Diagnostic Procedures:
|
Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and their interpretation
|
|
Repair Procedures:
|
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, overhaul, and rebuilding
|
|
Rebuilding Procedures:
|
Detailed instructions for engine, transmission, and differential rebuilding
|
|
Adjustment Procedures:
|
Valve adjustments, timing adjustments, idle speed adjustments
|
|
Installation Procedures:
|
Installation of accessories, replacement parts
|
|
Technical Depth
|
|
Depth:
|
Factory-level diagnostic and repair procedures, including torque specifications, tolerances, and special tool requirements
|
|
Engine Specifications
|
|
Primary Engine
|
|
Engine Type:
|
Naturally Aspirated Inline 6-Cylinder
|
|
Displacement:
|
2.96 L (180.7 cu in)
|
|
Bore X Stroke:
|
89.9 mm x 78.6 mm (3.54 in x 3.09 in)
|
|
Compression Ratio:
|
9.2:1
|
|
Valve Train:
|
SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft), 2 valves per cylinder
|
|
Performance
|
|
Horsepower:
|
188 hp @ 5700 rpm (approx.)
|
|
Torque:
|
195 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm (approx.)
|
|
Fuel System
|
|
Fuel Injection System:
|
Bosch KE-Jetronic (CIS-E) Electronic Fuel Injection
|
|
Fuel Type:
|
Unleaded Premium Gasoline (91 Octane or higher recommended)
|
|
Lubrication
|
|
Oil Type:
|
API SG, SAE 15W-40 or 10W-30 (depending on climate)
|
|
Cooling
|
|
Coolant Type:
|
Mercedes-Benz Approved Antifreeze/Coolant (e.g., G48)
|
|
Maintenance
|
|
Service Intervals
|
|
Oil Change Interval:
|
Every 10,000 km (6,200 miles) or 12 months, whichever comes first
|
|
Air Filter Interval:
|
Every 30,000 km (18,600 miles) or 24 months
|
|
Fuel Filter Interval:
|
Every 40,000 km (24,800 miles) or 24 months
|
|
Spark Plug Interval:
|
Every 50,000 km (31,000 miles) or 36 months (for standard plugs)
|
|
Coolant Flush Interval:
|
Every 2-3 years
|
|
Transmission Service Interval:
|
Every 50,000-80,000 km (30,000-50,000 miles) or 4-5 years, depending on driving conditions.
|
|
Fluid Specifications
|
|
Engine Oil Capacity:
|
Approx. 7.5 liters (7.9 US quarts)
|
|
Coolant Capacity:
|
Approx. 10.5 liters (11.1 US quarts)
|
|
Brake Fluid Type:
|
DOT 3 or DOT 4
|
|
Known Issues
|
|
Common Problems:
|
Head gasket leaks, oil cooler seal leaks, distributor O-ring leaks, fuel distributor issues (KE-Jetronic), ABS sensor failures, vacuum hose deterioration, climate control panel failures, window regulator issues.
|
|
4Matic Specific Issues:
|
Potential wear in the transfer case and front differential, issues with the hydraulic actuation system for the 4MATIC clutch.
|
|
Vehicle History
|
|
Brand Heritage
|
|
Heritage:
|
Mercedes-Benz has a long-standing reputation for engineering excellence, safety, and durability, dating back to the invention of the automobile. The W124 generation is particularly revered for its build quality and longevity.
|
|
Model Evolution
|
|
W124 Introduction:
|
The W124 E-Class was introduced in 1984, and the 300 E 4MATIC variant was launched in 1987, featuring the permanent all-wheel-drive system developed in conjunction with Steyr-Puch.
|
|
W124 Facelift:
|
A significant facelift occurred in 1993, introducing updated styling and the new E-Class naming convention. The 1990-1993 models represent the pre-facelift styling.
|
|
Production
|
|
Production Period:
|
W124 production ran from 1984 to 1995, with the 300 E 4MATIC being a key part of the lineup during its production lifespan.
|
