🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Mercedes-Benz Model: 380SEC Chassis Code: W126 Model Years Covered: 1982, 1983 Codes Vin Code Start Year: 1982 Vin Code End Year: 1983 👋 Introduction Market Position Vehicle Segment: Full-size Luxury Coupe Target Audience: Owners and independent repair shops specializing in classic Mercedes-Benz vehicles Competitive Analysis Competitors 1980S: BMW 6 Series, Jaguar XJ-SC, Porsche 928 Key Features Manual Benefit: Enables significant cost savings on repairs and maintenance Manual Accessibility: Instant email delivery, usable on multiple devices Manual Guarantee: Customer Satisfaction Guaranteed 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Manual Type: Complete Workshop Service Repair Manual Coverage Scope: All models, engines, trim, and transmission types Language: English Format: Downloadable Digital Manual (PDF) Page Count Estimated Page Count: Extensive (exact count not specified, but described as comprehensive A-Z) 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine: Engine mechanical, engine management, fuel injection, ignition system, lubrication, cooling, exhaust Transmission: Automatic transmission service and repair Drivetrain: Driveshaft, differential, axles Suspension: Front and rear suspension, steering system Brakes: Brake system diagnosis, repair, ABS components Electrical: Wiring diagrams, electrical components, lighting, instruments, charging system, starting system Body: Bodywork, doors, windows, interior trim, climate control system Heating Ventilation Air Conditioning: HVAC system service and repair Procedures Included Maintenance: Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, tune-ups Repair: Component repair, assembly/disassembly procedures Troubleshooting: Diagnostic procedures, fault finding guides Specifications: Torque values, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical specifications Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive (every service & repair procedure A-Z) Guidance Style: Step-by-step instructions with pictures 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Digital Format: PDF Software Requirement: Adobe Reader (free download) Print Quality Printable: Yes (individual pages or entire manual) Binding Type Physical Binding: Not applicable (digital download) Paper Type Physical Paper Type: Not applicable (digital download) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Code: M116 Engine Type: V8 SOHC Displacement Liters: 3.8 Displacement Cubic Inches: 383 Bore X Stroke Mm: 92.0 x 71.5 Performance Horsepower Net Hp: 155-160 @ 5000 RPM (US Spec) Torque Net Lb Ft: 197-200 @ 2500 RPM (US Spec) Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Bosch K-Jetronic Fuel Injection Fuel Type: Unleaded Gasoline (Premium) Engine Management Ignition System: Electronic Ignition (CDI) Emission Control: California / Federal Emission Standards (may vary) 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type: 4-speed Automatic (4G-Tronic) Optional Optional Transmission: None offered for W126 SEC Coupe in these years Features Gear Ratios: Refer to manual for specific gear ratios Transmission Fluid Type: MB Specification 236.3 Automatic Transmission Fluid (e.g., Texaco ETL-7045E) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Length Mm: 4995 Width Mm: 1825 Height Mm: 1432 Wheelbase Mm: 2850 Weights Curb Weight Kg: 1760-1800 (approx.) Gross Weight Kg: 2210 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Ratings: Not typically rated under modern NHTSA standards Active Features ABS: Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) Traction Control: Not standard on early W126 models Passive Features Airbags: Driver's side airbag not standard in 1982-1983 models; Passenger airbag introduced later. Seatbelts: 3-point inertia-reel seatbelts front and rear Crumple Zones: Engineered crumple zones for occupant protection 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Factory fitted AM/FM radio with cassette player, optional premium sound system Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Standard Automatic Climate Control: Optional/Standard depending on trim Connectivity Connectivity Features: Limited by modern standards; primarily focused on vehicle systems Comfort Features Seat Adjustment: Power adjustable front seats with memory Windows Locks: Power windows, power door locks, central locking system 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval Miles: Every 7,500 - 10,000 miles or 12 months (refer to manual for specific conditions) Major Service Interval Miles: Refer to manual for detailed service schedules (e.g., 30,000, 60,000 miles) Fluid Specifications Engine Oil Type: API SF/CD or SG/CD, SAE 15W-40 or 10W-30 (check manual for temperature dependent viscosity) Engine Oil Capacity Liters: 7.5 (with filter) Coolant Type: Mercedes-Benz Approved Antifreeze/Coolant (e.g., G48, typically ethylene glycol based) Brake Fluid Type: DOT 3 or DOT 4 Known Issues Common Wear Items: Ball joints, tie rod ends, fuel lines, vacuum lines, climate control O-rings, window regulators K Jetronic Issues: Air flow meter problems, fuel distributor leaks, cold start valve issues Electrical Issues: Wire loom degradation (especially in the engine bay), faulty relays, window switch failures Corrosion: Wheel arches, rocker panels, door bottoms 📚 Vehicle History Brand Heritage Brand Philosophy: Engineering excellence, durability, and luxury Model Evolution W126 Introduction: Introduced in 1979 as the successor to the W116 S-Class. W126 Sec Introduction: The SEC (Sonderklasse Coupe) variant was introduced in 1981. 380Sec Market Positioning: Represented the pinnacle of Mercedes-Benz coupe design and engineering for its era. Production Production Period W126: 1979-1991 Production Period W126 Sec: 1981-1989 Manufacturing Location: Germany 🏆 Awards & Recognition Recognitions Period Awards: Consistently ranked among the best luxury cars of its era for build quality and comfort. Specific awards might be rare for individual models, but the W126 platform received acclaim. Ratings Reliability Reputation: Generally high, but complex systems can be costly to repair when issues arise....