1986 Mercedes 300E Owners Manual

The 1986 Mercedes 300E is a luxury executive sedan featuring a 3.0L inline-6 engine, rear-wheel drive, 4-speed automatic transmission, advanced safety systems, climate control, power windows, central locking, and comprehensive instrumentation. Below are key sections for operation, maintenance, specifications, and troubleshooting.

1. Vehicle Overview 2. Controls and Instruments 3. Starting and Driving 4. Specifications 5. Maintenance Schedule 6. Fluid Capacities 7. Emergency Procedures 8. Care and Cleaning 9. Warranty Information 10. Troubleshooting

Vehicle Overview

Key components: 3.0L M103 inline-6 engine, 4-speed automatic transmission, power-assisted steering, ABS braking system, climate control, power accessories.

Feature	Description
Engine	3.0L inline-6 cylinder, fuel injected
Transmission	4-speed automatic with manual mode
Braking System	4-wheel disc brakes with ABS
Suspension	Independent front and rear
Fuel System	Electronic fuel injection
Electrical	12-volt system with alternator
Climate Control	Manual temperature control
Safety Features	Driver airbag, ABS, central locking
Instrumentation	Speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, temp gauge
Exterior	Halogen headlights, power mirrors

Controls and Instruments

Dashboard layout includes speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, coolant temperature gauge, warning lights, and various control switches.

Ignition switch: Located on steering column with positions for off, accessories, on, and start.
Steering column controls: Turn signals, headlight dimmer, wiper controls.
Center console: Climate controls, radio, hazard lights, rear window defogger.
Instrument cluster: Warning lights for oil pressure, battery, brakes, ABS.

WARNING! Always fasten seat belts before driving. Ensure all warning lights extinguish after engine start.

Starting and Driving

Proper starting procedure and driving recommendations for optimal performance and safety.

Starting engine: Press clutch (manual), shift to Park/Neutral, turn key to start position.
Warm-up: Allow engine to idle for 30 seconds before driving.
Transmission operation: Select appropriate gear; use lower gears for engine braking.
Braking: Apply steady pressure; ABS will prevent wheel lock-up during hard braking.

CAUTION! Never shift to Park while vehicle is moving. Always use parking brake on inclines.

Specifications

Engine: 3.0L inline-6, 177 hp @ 5700 rpm
Transmission: 4-speed automatic
Fuel Capacity: 21.1 gallons (80 liters)
Fuel Type: Premium unleaded (91 octane)
Dimensions: Length 187.2 in, Width 68.5 in, Height 56.3 in
Curb Weight: 3,307 lbs (1,500 kg)
Tires: 195/65R15
Brakes: Front and rear disc with ABS
Electrical: 12V, 65Ah battery

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance intervals to ensure optimal performance and longevity.

Service	Interval	Description
Oil Change	7,500 miles	Replace engine oil and filter
Air Filter	15,000 miles	Replace engine air filter
Spark Plugs	30,000 miles	Replace all spark plugs
Brake Fluid	24 months	Replace brake fluid
Coolant	36 months	Replace engine coolant
Timing Belt	60,000 miles	Replace timing belt and tensioner
Transmission Fluid	30,000 miles	Drain and refill automatic transmission fluid

Fluid Capacities

Recommended fluid types and capacities for various systems.

Fluid Type	Capacity	Specification
Engine Oil	7.4 quarts	10W-40 Synthetic
Coolant	12.7 quarts	Mercedes Antifreeze
Automatic Transmission	7.4 quarts	Mercedes ATF
Brake Fluid	As needed	DOT 4
Power Steering	1.1 quarts	Mercedes Power Steering Fluid
Fuel Tank	21.1 gallons	Premium Unleaded

Emergency Procedures

Steps to follow in case of emergency situations.

Flat tire: Use jack from trunk, loosen lug nuts before lifting, replace with spare.
Dead battery: Use jumper cables - red to positive, black to negative/ground.
Overheating: Turn off A/C, turn on heater, pull over safely, check coolant level when cool.
Brake failure: Pump brakes, use parking brake gradually, downshift to lower gear.

WARNING! Always carry warning triangles and first aid kit. Know location of fire extinguisher.

Care and Cleaning

Proper cleaning techniques to maintain vehicle appearance and value.

Exterior washing: Use car wash soap, soft sponge, dry with chamois.
Interior cleaning: Vacuum regularly, use leather conditioner for seats.
Chrome and trim: Use metal polish for brightwork.
Windows: Use glass cleaner and microfiber cloth.

CAUTION! Avoid abrasive cleaners. Do not use high-pressure washers near seals.

Warranty Information

Original factory warranty coverage and terms for the 1986 Mercedes 300E.

Basic Warranty: 48 months/50,000 miles
Powertrain: 48 months/50,000 miles
Rust Perforation: 72 months/unlimited mileage
Emissions: 24 months/24,000 miles
Roadside Assistance: 48 months/unlimited mileage

Contact authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer for warranty claims and service.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Battery, fuel, ignition	Check battery charge, fuel level, spark plugs
Rough idle	Spark plugs, air filter	Replace spark plugs, check air filter
Overheating	Coolant, thermostat	Check coolant level, replace thermostat
Brake vibration	Warped rotors	Resurface or replace brake rotors
Electrical issues	Battery, alternator	Test battery and charging system
Transmission slipping	Low fluid, worn clutch	Check fluid level, service transmission

Service: Contact authorized Mercedes-Benz service center for professional repairs.