This comprehensive service and repair manual for the 1980 Mercedes W126 SE model covers all aspects of maintaining, servicing, diagnosing, and repairing your vehicle. It provides the same detailed information used by technicians at Mercedes dealerships, making it an invaluable resource for both professional mechanics and DIY enthusiasts.

The manual contains step-by-step instructions, diagrams, illustrations, wiring schematics, and specifications for every component of your vehicle. You'll find detailed information on a wide range of topics, including:

* **Maintenance:** Routine maintenance schedules, fluid specifications, and procedures for keeping your car running smoothly.
* **Engine:** Detailed information on engine components, operation, diagnostics, and repair procedures.
* **Control System:** Covers the electronic systems that control various functions like fuel injection, ignition, and emissions.
* **Mechanical:** Comprehensive coverage of the mechanical systems, including suspension, steering, brakes, transmission, and drivetrain.
* **Fuel Service Specifications:** Provides information on fuel system components, operation, and repair procedures.
* **Emission Control:** Covers the systems responsible for controlling emissions, including catalytic converters, oxygen sensors, and evaporative emissions control.
* **Intake Exhaust Cooling:** Details on the cooling system and its components, including the radiator, thermostat, and water pump.
* **Lube:** Specifications and procedures for lubrication, including engine oil, transmission fluid, and differential fluid.
* **Ignition Starting Charging:** Explains the operation and repair of the ignition system, starter, and charging system.
* **Auto Transmission Clutch:** Covers the automatic transmission, including operation, troubleshooting, and repair.
* **Manual Transmission:** Detailed information on manual transmissions, including operation, troubleshooting, and repair procedures.
* **Transfer Propeller Shaft:** Covers the transfer case and propeller shaft, including operation, troubleshooting, and repair.
* **Drive Shaft:** Information on the drive shaft, including operation, troubleshooting, and repair.
* **Differential:** Covers the differential, including operation, troubleshooting, and repair procedures.
* **Axle Suspension:** Detailed explanations of the axle and suspension systems, including components, operation, and repair.
* **Tire & Wheel:** Provides information on tires, wheels, and wheel alignment.
* **Brake Control:** Covers the brake control system, including hydraulics, ABS, and traction control.
* **Brake:** Detailed explanation of the brake system, including components, operation, and repair.
* **Parking Brake:** Covers the parking brake, including operation, troubleshooting, and repair.
* **Steering Column:** Provides information on the steering column, including operation, troubleshooting, and repair.
* **Power Steering:** Covers the power steering system, including components, operation, and repair.
* **Air Condition:** Detailed explanations of the air conditioning system, including operation, troubleshooting, and repair procedures.
* **Suppl Restraint System:** Covers the supplemental restraint system (airbags, seatbelts), including operation, diagnostics, and repair.
* **Seat Belt:** Covers the seatbelt system, including operation, troubleshooting, and repair.
* **Engine Immobilizer:** Provides information on the engine immobilizer system, including operation and troubleshooting.
* **Cruise Control:** Covers the cruise control system, including operation, troubleshooting, and repair.
* **Wiper & Washer:** Provides information on the windshield wiper and washer system, including operation, troubleshooting, and repair.
* **Door Lock:** Covers the door lock system, including operation, troubleshooting, and repair.
* **Meter Audio/Visual:** Covers the gauges, audio, and visual systems, including operation, troubleshooting, and repair.
* **Horn:** Provides information on the horn system, including operation, troubleshooting, and repair.
* **Windshield/Glass Mirror:** Information on the windshield, glass, and mirrors, including operation, troubleshooting, and repair.
* **Instrument Panel:** Covers the instrument panel, including operation, troubleshooting, and repair.
* **Seat:** Provides information on the seats, including operation, troubleshooting, and repair.
* **Engine Hood/ Door:** Covers the engine hood and doors, including operation, troubleshooting, and repair.
* **Exterior & Interior:** Covers the exterior and interior, including components, operation, and repair procedures.
* **Electrical:** Comprehensive coverage of electrical systems, including wiring diagrams, troubleshooting, and repair procedures.
* **Multiplex/ Can Communication:** Information on the multiplex and CAN communication systems, including operation and troubleshooting.

This comprehensive manual empowers you to perform repairs and maintenance confidently, saving you time and money.

The 1980 Mercedes-Benz W126 SE, a luxurious and powerful sedan, marked a significant milestone in the history of the iconic German brand. This generation of the S-Class, launched in 1979, was the first to adopt the W126 chassis code and introduced a range of innovations that solidified Mercedes' reputation for engineering excellence. The SE, standing for "Sonderausstattung" or "Special Equipment," denoted a higher trim level with added features and luxurious appointments. The W126 SE embodied the pinnacle of automotive refinement, featuring a sophisticated design, advanced technology, and unparalleled comfort. Its sleek, angular lines, often attributed to the design genius of Bruno Sacco, were a departure from the more rounded styling of previous models, showcasing a modern and elegant aesthetic.

Underneath the luxurious exterior lay a robust and powerful mechanical foundation. The W126 SE was offered with a variety of powerful petrol engines, including the 3.5-liter M117 V8, known for its smooth power delivery and reliability. The car also featured a range of innovative safety features, such as an advanced ABS system and a sophisticated crumple zone design, further enhancing its reputation for safety and durability. The W126 SE was lauded for its exceptional ride quality, accomplished through a sophisticated suspension system that expertly balanced comfort and handling. The spacious interior was appointed with high-quality materials, intricate details, and advanced technology for the time, offering a luxurious and refined driving experience. The 1980 Mercedes-Benz W126 SE represented a high-water mark for the brand, establishing a legacy of excellence that continued to influence subsequent generations of the S-Class and solidified its position as one of the world's most renowned luxury carmakers.