Mercedes-Benz 124 Series ('85 to '93) Service and Repair Manual

Synopsis

Every manual is written from hands-on experience gained from stripping down and rebuilding each vehicle in the Haynes Project Workshop. The practical step-by-step instructions and clear photos are easy to follow and provide information on maintenance, servicing, fault finding, the MoT, brakes, electrics and Haynes tips to make many tasks easier.

Summary

Introduction
The Mercedes-Benz 124 Series ('85 to '93) Service and Repair Manual is a comprehensive guide for maintaining and repairing the popular luxury vehicle series from Mercedes-Benz. This manual covers the years 1985 to 1993 and provides detailed instructions and illustrations for both DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics. In this summary, we will explore each chapter of the manual and provide real-world examples of common issues and repairs for the Mercedes-Benz 124 Series.

Chapter 1: General Information and Maintenance
The first chapter of the manual provides general information about the Mercedes-Benz 124 Series, including its history, model range, and technical specifications. It also covers important maintenance procedures such as engine oil and filter changes, tire pressure, and battery maintenance. Additionally, this chapter includes a helpful checklist for regular maintenance tasks, ensuring that owners can keep their vehicle in top condition.

Example: A common maintenance task for the Mercedes-Benz 124 Series is changing the engine oil and filter. This should be done every 5,000-7,500 miles to ensure the longevity and optimal performance of the engine. Failure to do so can result in engine damage and costly repairs.

Chapter 2: Engines
The second chapter of the manual focuses on the engines of the Mercedes-Benz 124 Series. It covers both petrol and diesel engines, including their construction, fuel systems, and cooling systems. This chapter also includes detailed instructions for engine tune-up and adjustments, as well as common troubleshooting tips for engine issues.

Example: One common issue with the M102 petrol engine is a faulty fuel pump relay, which can cause the engine to stall or not start at all. The manual outlines how to check and replace the fuel pump relay, saving the owner time and money from having to take their vehicle to a mechanic.

Chapter 3: Engine Electrical Systems
Chapter 3 delves into the electrical systems of the Mercedes-Benz 124 Series, including the ignition system, fuel injection system, and charging system. It provides step-by-step instructions for testing and diagnosing any issues with these systems, as well as how to replace faulty components.

Example: One common issue with the ignition system is a faulty or worn distributor cap, which can cause misfiring or difficulty starting the engine. The manual provides a detailed guide on how to test and replace the distributor cap, ensuring optimal ignition performance.

Chapter 4: Clutch
The fourth chapter of the manual covers the clutch system of the Mercedes-Benz 124 Series, including clutch operation, maintenance, and adjustment. It also includes instructions for replacing the clutch components if necessary.

Example: A worn clutch is a common issue with high mileage Mercedes-Benz 124 Series vehicles. The manual provides detailed instructions for replacing the clutch and flywheel, which can save the owner hundreds of dollars compared to taking their vehicle to a mechanic.

Chapter 5: Manual Transmission
This chapter covers the manual transmission of the Mercedes-Benz 124 Series, including its operation, maintenance, and repair. It includes step-by-step instructions for clutch and transmission removal, as well as troubleshooting tips for common transmission issues.

Example: A common issue with the manual transmission is a worn or faulty gear shift linkage, which can cause difficulty shifting gears. The manual provides instructions on how to replace the gear shift linkage, saving the owner from potentially costly repairs at a dealership.

Chapter 6: Automatic Transmission
Chapter 6 focuses on the automatic transmission of the Mercedes-Benz 124 Series, including its components, operation, and maintenance. It also includes detailed instructions on how to remove and rebuild the automatic transmission, as well as troubleshooting tips for common issues.

Example: One common issue with the automatic transmission is a faulty or damaged torque converter, which can cause the vehicle to slip out of gear and have trouble accelerating. The manual provides instructions for replacing the torque converter, saving the owner from having to replace the entire transmission at a dealership.

Chapter 7: Suspension and Steering Systems
This chapter covers the suspension and steering systems of the Mercedes-Benz 124 Series, including maintenance, repair, and adjustment procedures. It also includes instructions for replacing components such as shock absorbers and steering gear.

Example: A common issue with the suspension system is worn shock absorbers, which can cause a bumpy and uncomfortable ride. The manual provides instructions for replacing the shock absorbers, allowing owners to save money by doing the repair themselves.

Chapter 8: Brakes
In Chapter 8, the manual covers the braking system of the Mercedes-Benz 124 Series, including brake pad and rotor replacement, as well as brake system diagnosis and repair. It also includes instructions for bleeding and flushing the brake system.

Example: A common issue with the brake system is a soft or spongy brake pedal, which can indicate air in the brake lines. The manual provides instructions for how to bleed the brakes to remove any air, ensuring optimal brake performance.

Chapter 9: Bodywork and Fittings
The final chapter of the manual covers the bodywork and fittings of the Mercedes-Benz 124 Series, including door locks, windows, and interior trim. It also includes instructions for diagnosing and repairing common issues with the bodywork and fittings.

Example: One common issue with the bodywork is a faulty door lock, which can cause difficulty locking and unlocking the vehicle. The manual provides instructions for how to diagnose and replace the door lock, saving the owner money from taking their vehicle to a dealership.

Conclusion
The Mercedes-Benz 124 Series ('85 to '93) Service and Repair Manual is a comprehensive guide that covers all aspects of maintaining and repairing this luxury vehicle series. With detailed instructions and real-world examples, it is a valuable resource for both DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics. This manual can save owners time and money by allowing them to perform repairs and maintenance themselves, rather than taking their vehicle to a dealership.