🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Mercedes-Benz Model: 280E Model Code: W123 Series (E-Class) Production Years Covered: 1976, 1977, 1978, 1979, 1980, 1981, 1982, 1983, 1984, 1985 Codes Chassis Code: W123 👋 Introduction Market Position Positioning: The Mercedes-Benz 280E W123 represented the pinnacle of mid-size luxury sedans in its era, known for exceptional build quality, comfort, and durability. This manual caters to enthusiasts and owners seeking to maintain and repair these iconic vehicles. Competitive Analysis Competitors: Competed with other premium sedans of the time such as BMW 5 Series (E12/E28), Audi 100, and Volvo 240. Key Features Distinguishing Features: Robust construction, comfortable and spacious interior, refined ride quality, reliable powertrain, excellent safety features for its time. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Regions Covered: Global (standard specifications applicable worldwide) Engine Variants Covered: M110 (2.8L Inline-6) Page Count Estimated Page Count: 500-700 (typical for comprehensive service manuals of this era) Manual Type Type: Service and Repair Manual Language Language: English Format Format: Downloadable Digital File (PDF) 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine: Engine mechanical, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel system (including fuel injection), ignition system, exhaust system, engine management. Transmission: Manual transmission (4-speed and 5-speed), Automatic transmission (3-speed and 4-speed variants), clutch system, driveshaft, differential. Brakes: Hydraulic system, front disc brakes, rear disc brakes, parking brake system, ABS (where applicable on later models). Suspension: Front independent suspension (MacPherson struts), rear independent suspension (semi-trailing arms), shock absorbers, springs, anti-roll bars. Steering: Power steering system, steering column, steering linkage. Electrical: Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system, lighting system, instrumentation, wipers and washers, horn, HVAC blower motor, power accessories (windows, locks if equipped). Body And Chassis: Chassis construction, body panels, doors, windows, convertible top (if applicable), bumpers, interior trim. Body And Trim: Exterior body panels, doors, hood, trunk lid, bumpers, glass replacement, interior trim, seat removal and upholstery. Heating And Ventilation: HVAC system operation, blower motor, heater core, A/C compressor and system, ducting. Wheels And Tires: Tire types, sizes, pressure recommendations, wheel torque specifications, wheel bearing service. Procedures Included Maintenance: Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, lubrication points, tune-ups, belt replacement, spark plug replacement. Diagnostics: Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) for fuel injection and ignition systems, electrical system testing. Repair: Detailed step-by-step repair procedures for all major mechanical and electrical components, engine overhaul, transmission rebuilds, brake system repairs, suspension component replacement. Special Tools: Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repair procedures. Wiring Diagrams: Detailed electrical wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems. Torque Specifications: Precise torque values for all critical fasteners throughout the vehicle. Troubleshooting Charts: Comprehensive charts to diagnose problems based on symptoms. Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive, covering everything from basic preventative maintenance and fluid changes to complete engine and transmission overhauls, advanced electrical diagnostics, and bodywork repairs. Diagnostic Tools: Details on using standard hand tools, multimeters, timing lights, and basic pressure testing equipment. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Type: PDF Searchability: Text-searchable (OCR processed for efficient information retrieval) Printability: Printable Print Quality Quality: High resolution, clear diagrams and text. Binding Type Type: N/A (Digital Download) Paper Type Type: N/A (Digital Download) Manual Completeness Completeness: Comprehensive, covering all aspects of service, maintenance, and repair. ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Code: M110.984 / M110.985 Configuration: 2.8L (2781 cc) Naturally Aspirated Inline-6 (SOHC) Performance Horsepower Approximate: 182-185 PS (179-182 bhp / 134-136 kW) at 5800 rpm (depending on market and emission controls) Torque Approximate: 240-245 Nm (177-181 lb-ft) at 4500 rpm Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Bosch K-Jetronic (CIS) Mechanical Fuel Injection Fuel Type: Unleaded Gasoline (Premium Octane) Cooling System Type: Pressurized Liquid Cooling System Lubrication System Oil Capacity Approximate: 7.5 Liters (7.9 US Quarts) Engine Management Ignition Type: Electronic Ignition with Mechanical Distributor 🔧 Transmission Standard Type: 4-Speed Manual Transmission Optional Type: Optional 4-Speed Automatic Transmission (with torque converter) Features Automatic Features: Hydraulic torque converter, typically with a 'Economy'/'Standard' or 'S'/'W' selector. Fluid Specification Automatic Transmission Fluid: MB Spec 236.2 (Dexron II or equivalent prior to MB Spec 236.3) Manual Transmission Fluid: GL-4 Hypoid Gear Oil (SAE 90) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length: Approx. 4725-4787 mm (186.0-188.5 in) Width: Approx. 1786-1790 mm (70.3-70.5 in) Height: Approx. 1430-1440 mm (56.3-56.7 in) Wheelbase Wheelbase: Approx. 2795 mm (110.0 in) Weights Curb Weight Approximate: 1450-1550 kg (3197-3417 lbs) Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Approximate: 1970-2050 kg (4343-4519 lbs) Cargo Trunk Capacity Approximate: 500-520 Liters (17.7-18.4 cu ft) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings Crash Test Results: No standardized crash test ratings as per modern NTHSA/Euro NCAP protocols were available during this era. However, the W123 chassis was renowned for its structural integrity and safety features for its time. Active Features Active Safety: Four-wheel disc brakes, robust independent suspension for stable handling, power-assisted steering. Passive Features Passive Safety: Reinforced passenger safety cell, energy-absorbing steering column, padded dashboard, safety belts (three-point front, two-point rear standard,...