This comprehensive factory service repair manual for the Mercedes-Benz W123, covering model years 1976 through 1985, provides a wealth of information for owners and mechanics alike. It contains detailed instructions and illustrations for performing a wide range of maintenance and repair procedures, empowering you to handle almost any task with confidence. The manual delves into every aspect of the W123, from general maintenance and troubleshooting to intricate engine, transmission, and electrical system repairs. You'll find detailed diagrams and specifications for the brake system, wiring diagrams for the electrical system, and step-by-step guidance for suspension, steering, cooling, and fuel systems. In addition to comprehensive repair procedures, the manual includes valuable information on periodic lubrication, emission systems, heater and air conditioning components, engine control systems, chassis and body work, restraint systems, interior components, and differential and drive systems. The manual serves as an invaluable resource for anyone seeking to maintain, repair, or restore their Mercedes-Benz W123 to factory specifications. With its detailed instructions, clear illustrations, and logical organization, this manual enables you to confidently tackle any repair or maintenance task, saving you time and money in the long run.

The Mercedes-Benz W123, produced from 1976 to 1985, represents a landmark in automotive history, marking a significant shift towards safety, durability, and refinement in the mid-sized luxury car segment. This model series encompassed a wide range of body styles, from sedans and coupes to station wagons and even a short-lived cabriolet. The W123 was renowned for its robust construction, utilizing a unibody chassis with extensive use of galvanized steel for superior corrosion resistance. This engineering approach, coupled with its well-designed suspension, contributed to the car's exceptional longevity, with many examples still on the road today. Under the hood, the W123 offered a diverse selection of gasoline and diesel engines, ranging from the efficient 2.0-liter four-cylinder to the powerful 3.5-liter six-cylinder. The car's interior was equally impressive, showcasing a blend of practicality and luxury with comfortable seating, durable materials, and an array of available features like power windows, air conditioning, and a sophisticated dashboard layout. The W123's significance extends beyond its technical attributes. It was the first Mercedes-Benz model to incorporate a comprehensive safety package, including crumple zones, disc brakes on all four wheels, and a robust safety cage. These features, combined with the car's overall reliability and robust construction, earned the W123 a well-deserved reputation for safety and longevity. Its iconic, understated design, characterized by its sharp lines and elegant proportions, continues to appeal to car enthusiasts today. While the W123 was primarily marketed as a mid-sized luxury car, its versatility and durability made it equally suitable for family transportation, commuting, and even light commercial use. This broad appeal, coupled with its inherent quality and enduring character, has cemented the W123's status as a true classic and a testament to Mercedes-Benz's enduring legacy of excellence.