🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Mercedes-Benz Model: W124 Sedan/Coupe Generation Generation Code: W124 Generation Years: 1984-1995 (with specific focus on 1990-1995 in this manual) Codes Vin Code: All W124 chassis codes applicable to the specified models and years 👋 Introduction Market Position Target Audience: Mercedes-Benz W124 owners, independent repair shops, and automotive technicians seeking in-depth repair and maintenance information. Competitive Analysis Value Proposition: Provides a comprehensive, factory-level resource for maintaining and repairing the specified W124 models, offering significant cost savings over dealership service. Key Features Feature Set: Extensive coverage of mechanical, electrical, and body systems, detailed illustrations, torque specifications, diagnostic procedures, and factory maintenance schedules. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Vehicles Covered: • Mercedes-Benz 300CE (1990-1995) • Mercedes-Benz 300E (1993-1995) Page Count Total Pages: Over 5000 Manual Type Type: Service and Repair Manual Language Language: English Format Format: Digital Download (PDF) 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine: Engine Overhaul and Rebuilding, Engine Performance Tuning, Firing Orders, Serpentine Belt Routings and Service, Timing Belt Replacement Procedures Brakes: Complete Brake System Service and Repair Body And Chassis: Sunroof Service, Front End Procedures and Specifications, Suspension System Service, U-Joint and CV-Joint Service Procedures Electrical And Electronics: Wiring Diagrams, Computer Diagnostic Codes, Trouble Codes, Troubleshooting and Diagnostics HVAC: Air Conditioning Service and Capacities Powertrain: Transmission Information, Transmission Service and Rebuild Procedures Included Maintenance: Factory Maintenance Schedules and Charts, Fluid Specifications and Capacities, Routine Service Procedures Repair: Detailed Repair Procedures for all covered systems, Engine Rebuilding, Transmission Overhauls, Brake System Repairs, Suspension Component Replacement Diagnostics: Troubleshooting Guides, Diagnostic Code Interpretation, Component Testing Procedures Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, suitable for professional mechanics and advanced DIY enthusiasts. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Format: PDF Searchability: Searchable text content Print Quality Printable Pages: All pages are printable Zoom Capability: High zoom capability for viewing detailed parts and diagrams Binding Type Binding: N/A (Digital PDF) Paper Type Paper: N/A (Digital PDF) Compatibility Operating Systems: Compatible with all computers (PC & Mac) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Code 300Ce: M104.980 (3.0L Inline-6, 24-valve DOHC) Engine Code 300E: M104.980 (3.0L Inline-6, 24-valve DOHC) or M103.983 (3.0L Inline-6, 12-valve SOHC) for earlier 300E models, though the manual specifies 1993-1995 which predominantly features the M104. Performance Horsepower 300Ce M104: Approximately 217 hp (162 kW) @ 6400 rpm (figures may vary slightly by market and specific year) Torque 300Ce M104: Approximately 207 lb-ft (280 Nm) @ 4400 rpm (figures may vary slightly by market and specific year) Fuel System Fuel Injection System: Bosch KE-Jetronic (M103) or Bosch HFM/PMS (M104) Electronic Fuel Injection with Lambda control Maintenance Timing Belt Or Chain M104: Timing Chain (maintenance-free under normal conditions, but inspection for wear is covered). Timing Belt Or Chain M103: Timing Belt (requires periodic replacement; intervals covered). Technical Specs Bore Stroke M104: 89.9 mm x 78.4 mm Compression Ratio M104: 10.0:1 Valve Configuration M104: DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type 300Ce: 4-speed Automatic (722.4) or 5-speed Manual (G45-5) Transmission Type 300E: 4-speed Automatic (722.4) or 5-speed Manual (G45-5) Features Electronic Control Automatic: Some later models may feature electronically controlled automatic transmissions (e.g., 722.6, though less common on the specific models listed for 1990-1995). Maintenance Automatic Transmission Fluid Type: MB 236.1, MB 236.2, or MB 236.7 (check specific vehicle for exact specification) Manual Transmission Fluid Type: MB 235.1 (GL-4) Capacities Automatic Transmission Fluid Capacity: Approx. 7-9 liters (depending on torque converter drain) Manual Transmission Fluid Capacity: Approx. 1.5-2.0 liters 📐 Dimensions Exterior Body Styles: 4-door Sedan, 2-door Coupe Weights Curb Weight 300Ce: Approx. 1550-1650 kg (3417-3638 lbs) Curb Weight 300E: Approx. 1500-1600 kg (3307-3527 lbs) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings Crash Test Ratings: While formal crash test ratings from entities like NHTSA or IIHS for this era may be limited or unavailable in a standardized format, the W124 chassis was renowned for its robust build quality and excellent passive safety features for its time, including crumple zones and reinforced passenger cell. Active Features ABS: Standard on most models within this timeframe. Passive Features Airbags: Driver's airbag became standard on many models in the early 1990s. Passenger airbags were optional or introduced later. Seatbelts: Pretensioner seatbelts for front occupants. 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Radio Options: Factory radio units were typically AM/FM with cassette players. Many owners upgrade to more modern head units with CD or Bluetooth capability. Climate Control HVAC System: Automatic climate control (optional on some models) or manual climate control systems. Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Optional cruise control system available on most models. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Typically every 10,000-15,000 km (6,000-9,000 miles) or annually, depending on driving conditions and oil type used. Specific intervals are detailed in the manual. Transmission Service Interval: Automatic transmission fluid and filter change typically recommended every 50,000-80,000 km (30,000-50,000 miles). Spark Plug...
1984-1995 (with specific focus on 1990-1995 in this manual)
Codes
Vin Code:
All W124 chassis codes applicable to the specified models and years
👋 Introduction
Market Position
Target Audience:
Mercedes-Benz W124 owners, independent repair shops, and automotive technicians seeking in-depth repair and maintenance information.
Competitive Analysis
Value Proposition:
Provides a comprehensive, factory-level resource for maintaining and repairing the specified W124 models, offering significant cost savings over dealership service.
Key Features
Feature Set:
Extensive coverage of mechanical, electrical, and body systems, detailed illustrations, torque specifications, diagnostic procedures, and factory maintenance schedules.
📋 Manual Details
Coverage Areas
Vehicles Covered:
• Mercedes-Benz 300CE (1990-1995)
• Mercedes-Benz 300E (1993-1995)
Page Count
Total Pages:
Over 5000
Manual Type
Type:
Service and Repair Manual
Language
Language:
English
Format
Format:
Digital Download (PDF)
📖 Manual Coverage
Systems Covered
Engine:
Engine Overhaul and Rebuilding, Engine Performance Tuning, Firing Orders, Serpentine Belt Routings and Service, Timing Belt Replacement Procedures
Brakes:
Complete Brake System Service and Repair
Body And Chassis:
Sunroof Service, Front End Procedures and Specifications, Suspension System Service, U-Joint and CV-Joint Service Procedures
Electrical And Electronics:
Wiring Diagrams, Computer Diagnostic Codes, Trouble Codes, Troubleshooting and Diagnostics
HVAC:
Air Conditioning Service and Capacities
Powertrain:
Transmission Information, Transmission Service and Rebuild
Procedures Included
Maintenance:
Factory Maintenance Schedules and Charts, Fluid Specifications and Capacities, Routine Service Procedures
Repair:
Detailed Repair Procedures for all covered systems, Engine Rebuilding, Transmission Overhauls, Brake System Repairs, Suspension Component Replacement
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, suitable for professional mechanics and advanced DIY enthusiasts.
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
Format:
PDF
Searchability:
Searchable text content
Print Quality
Printable Pages:
All pages are printable
Zoom Capability:
High zoom capability for viewing detailed parts and diagrams
Binding Type
Binding:
N/A (Digital PDF)
Paper Type
Paper:
N/A (Digital PDF)
Compatibility
Operating Systems:
Compatible with all computers (PC & Mac)
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine Code 300Ce:
M104.980 (3.0L Inline-6, 24-valve DOHC)
Engine Code 300E:
M104.980 (3.0L Inline-6, 24-valve DOHC) or M103.983 (3.0L Inline-6, 12-valve SOHC) for earlier 300E models, though the manual specifies 1993-1995 which predominantly features the M104.
Performance
Horsepower 300Ce M104:
Approximately 217 hp (162 kW) @ 6400 rpm (figures may vary slightly by market and specific year)
Torque 300Ce M104:
Approximately 207 lb-ft (280 Nm) @ 4400 rpm (figures may vary slightly by market and specific year)
Fuel System
Fuel Injection System:
Bosch KE-Jetronic (M103) or Bosch HFM/PMS (M104) Electronic Fuel Injection with Lambda control
Maintenance
Timing Belt Or Chain M104:
Timing Chain (maintenance-free under normal conditions, but inspection for wear is covered).
Timing Belt Or Chain M103:
Timing Belt (requires periodic replacement; intervals covered).
Technical Specs
Bore Stroke M104:
89.9 mm x 78.4 mm
Compression Ratio M104:
10.0:1
Valve Configuration M104:
DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Transmission Type 300Ce:
4-speed Automatic (722.4) or 5-speed Manual (G45-5)
Transmission Type 300E:
4-speed Automatic (722.4) or 5-speed Manual (G45-5)
Features
Electronic Control Automatic:
Some later models may feature electronically controlled automatic transmissions (e.g., 722.6, though less common on the specific models listed for 1990-1995).
Maintenance
Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:
MB 236.1, MB 236.2, or MB 236.7 (check specific vehicle for exact specification)
Manual Transmission Fluid Type:
MB 235.1 (GL-4)
Capacities
Automatic Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approx. 7-9 liters (depending on torque converter drain)
Manual Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approx. 1.5-2.0 liters
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Body Styles:
4-door Sedan, 2-door Coupe
Weights
Curb Weight 300Ce:
Approx. 1550-1650 kg (3417-3638 lbs)
Curb Weight 300E:
Approx. 1500-1600 kg (3307-3527 lbs)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
Crash Test Ratings:
While formal crash test ratings from entities like NHTSA or IIHS for this era may be limited or unavailable in a standardized format, the W124 chassis was renowned for its robust build quality and excellent passive safety features for its time, including crumple zones and reinforced passenger cell.
Active Features
ABS:
Standard on most models within this timeframe.
Passive Features
Airbags:
Driver's airbag became standard on many models in the early 1990s. Passenger airbags were optional or introduced later.
Seatbelts:
Pretensioner seatbelts for front occupants.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Radio Options:
Factory radio units were typically AM/FM with cassette players. Many owners upgrade to more modern head units with CD or Bluetooth capability.
Climate Control
HVAC System:
Automatic climate control (optional on some models) or manual climate control systems.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Optional cruise control system available on most models.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000-15,000 km (6,000-9,000 miles) or annually, depending on driving conditions and oil type used. Specific intervals are detailed in the manual.
Transmission Service Interval:
Automatic transmission fluid and filter change typically recommended every 50,000-80,000 km (30,000-50,000 miles).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Depends on plug type; typically 30,000-60,000 km for standard plugs, and significantly longer for platinum or iridium plugs.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Specification:
MB 229.1 or MB 229.3 compliant synthetic or semi-synthetic oils, typically SAE 0W-40, 5W-40, 10W-40, or 15W-40 depending on climate. Specific viscosity grade is crucial and detailed in the manual.
Coolant Specification:
MB 325.0 (Glysantin G48) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant with corrosion inhibitors. Specific ratio for mixing with distilled water is provided.
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (non-silicone based). Regular flushing and replacement are recommended.
Known Issues
Wiring Harness:
Degradation of the main engine wiring harness insulation (especially the Motronic harness) is a common issue due to age and material breakdown.
Head Gasket:
While generally robust, head gasket issues can occur, particularly with higher mileage or overheated engines.
Sun Roof Leaks:
Drain channels for the sunroof can become blocked, leading to water ingress into the cabin.
Climate Control:
Vacuum leaks affecting the HVAC system's ability to control airflow direction are common.
Suspension Components:
Wear on control arm bushings, ball joints, and shock absorbers is typical with age and mileage.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Mercedes Benz Legacy:
Mercedes-Benz has a long-standing reputation for engineering excellence, safety, and durability, often referred to as 'over-engineered'.
Model Evolution
W124 Introduction:
The W124, launched in 1984, succeeded the W123 and was produced until 1995. It was marketed as the 'E-Class' from 1993 onwards. It was celebrated for its build quality, ride comfort, and sophisticated design.
Mid Cycle Updates:
The W124 received a significant facelift in 1993, introducing the 'E-Class' nomenclature and updated styling elements, including smoother body lines and integrated bumpers. Engine options also evolved during its production run.
Production
Production Period Covered:
1990-1995 for the specific models listed.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Germany, with some assembly in other international locations.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Historical Acclaim:
The W124 platform is widely regarded as one of Mercedes-Benz's finest and most durable automobiles. It consistently received praise in automotive publications for its engineering, reliability, and longevity during its production run.
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