Diagnostic procedures for common and complex issues, fault code interpretation (OBD-I/OBD-II precursors).
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major systems, component removal and installation, adjustments, and calibrations.
Overhaul:
Engine and transmission overhaul procedures, component rebuilding.
Diagnostics:
Electrical system diagnostics, fuel system diagnostics, engine performance diagnostics.
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed electrical wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems.
Technical Depth
Depth:
Comprehensive (covering everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls).
Target Audience:
Professional Technicians and Advanced DIY Enthusiasts.
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
Format:
Digital Download (PDF)
Searchability:
Likely text-searchable for quick information retrieval.
Printability:
Printable pages for workshop use.
Page Count:
Estimated 1500-2500+ pages (typical for full factory service manuals).
Binding Type
Binding Type:
N/A (Digital Download)
Paper Type
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital Download)
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine Type:
4.96 Liters (4966 cc) V8 (M119.970)
Configuration:
4 valves per cylinder, DOHC (Double Overhead Camshafts), Alloy block and heads.
Performance
Horsepower:
315 hp (approx. 235 kW) @ 5600 rpm
Torque:
347 lb-ft (approx. 470 Nm) @ 3900 rpm
Fuel System
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch Electronic Fuel Injection (KE-Jetronic for earlier models, LH-Jetronic for later variants, likely LH-Jetronic for 1995).
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Premium Gasoline (91 Octane or higher recommended)
Engine Management
ECM:
Engine Control Module (ECM) for fuel injection and ignition timing.
Cooling System
Cooling Type:
Liquid-cooled
Lubrication System
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 8.0 Liters (with filter change)
Recommended Oil:
SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40, API SG/SH specification (check manual for exact MB approval).
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Transmission Type:
4-speed Automatic (722.5) or 5-speed Automatic (722.6 'NAG1')
Drive Wheels:
Rear-wheel Drive (RWD)
Optional
Optional Transmission:
N/A for S500 in 1995 (primarily 5-speed automatic became standard later).
Features
Transmission Control:
Electronic Control Unit (ECU) for gear selection and shift points.
Fluid Specifications
Transmission Fluid Type:
MB Approved Automatic Transmission Fluid (e.g., Shell ATF 134 or equivalent, check manual for specific MB-Approval).
Fluid Capacity
Fluid Capacity:
Approx. 8.5 Liters (for 5-speed 722.6, pan drop refill might be less).
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
Approx. 5121 mm (201.6 in)
Width:
Approx. 1892 mm (74.5 in)
Height:
Approx. 1447 mm (57.0 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 3040 mm (119.7 in)
Weights
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1950-2100 kg (4300-4630 lbs)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approx. 2550 kg (5622 lbs)
Cargo
Trunk Volume:
Approx. 500 Liters (17.7 cu ft)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
Crash Test Results:
While NHTSA/IIHS ratings were less standardized in 1995, the W140 was designed with significant passive safety features including a strong safety cell, energy-absorbing crumple zones, and advanced airbag systems.
Active Features
Active Safety:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Traction Control System (ASR - Acceleration Skid Control).
Passive Features
Passive Safety:
Dual front airbags, side-impact protection (integrated into doors and B-pillars), three-point seatbelts with pre-tensioners, reinforced body structure.
Lighting
Lighting System:
Halogen headlamps, fog lamps, comprehensive interior and exterior lighting.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Factory premium sound system (e.g., Bose optional), cassette player, AM/FM radio. CD changer often optional in trunk.
Climate Control:
Dual-zone automatic climate control with pollen filter.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control.
Parking Assist:
Front and rear parking assist sensors (optional on some models, first generation for Mercedes).
Comfort Features
Seats:
Electrically adjustable front seats with memory, heated seats, optional ventilated seats, lumbar support.
Windows Doors:
Power windows with one-touch up/down, power door locks, soft-close doors, remote keyless entry (optional).
Connectivity
Telephone:
Optional integrated car phone system (likely analog).
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Major Service Interval:
Typically every 15,000-25,000 km (9,000-15,000 miles) or 12-24 months, depending on driving conditions. Engine oil and filter changes every 10,000-15,000 km.
Transmission Service:
Transmission fluid and filter change recommended every 50,000-80,000 km (30,000-50,000 miles).
Coolant Service:
Coolant replacement every 2-3 years or as per manual's recommendation.
Fluid Specifications
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 or DOT 5.1 (check manual for specific MB approval).
Power Steering Fluid:
MB Approved Hydraulic Fluid or Pentosin CHF 11 S (check manual).
Coolant Type:
Antifreeze/Coolant with corrosion inhibitors, usually a long-life type (e.g., G05).
The M119 engine requires precise timing and fuel mixture. Many components are complex and require specialized tools and knowledge for proper repair. Regular preventative maintenance is crucial for longevity.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Heritage:
Mercedes-Benz has a long-standing reputation for engineering excellence, luxury, and safety, dating back to the invention of the automobile.
Model Evolution
W140 Introduction:
The W140 generation replaced the W126 S-Class and was produced from 1991 to 1998. It was a significant departure in size and technology.
W140 Positioning:
Known for its imposing presence, advanced technology (some of which was considered over-engineered or problematic early on), and unparalleled comfort. It aimed to redefine luxury motoring.
Production
Production Period:
1991-1998
Manufacturing Locations:
Germany (Sindelfingen plant)
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Awards:
The S-Class range generally receives critical acclaim for its luxury, comfort, and safety. Specific awards for the 1995 S500 are less documented than for its successors, but it was a benchmark for luxury sedans of its time.
Ratings
Industry Recognition:
Consistently ranked among the top luxury vehicles for build quality and technological innovation of the era.