1986 Mercedes 560 SEL Owners Manual

The 1986 Mercedes-Benz 560 SEL is a luxury executive sedan featuring a 5.6L V8 engine, advanced safety systems, premium interior amenities, and sophisticated electronic controls. This comprehensive manual covers vehicle operation, maintenance schedules, technical specifications, and troubleshooting for optimal performance and longevity of your classic Mercedes-Benz.

1. Vehicle Overview 2. Instrument Cluster 3. Controls and Operation 4. Technical Specifications 5. Maintenance Schedule 6. Driving Instructions 7. Safety Systems 8. Climate Control 9. Audio System 10. Troubleshooting 11. Warranty Information

Vehicle Overview

Key features: 5.6L V8 engine, automatic transmission, ABS braking system, climate control, power windows/locks/mirrors, leather interior, wood trim, central locking system.

Component	Description
Engine	5.6L V8 M117 fuel-injected
Transmission	4-speed automatic
Braking System	ABS with disc brakes on all wheels
Suspension	Independent with automatic leveling
Fuel System	Electronic fuel injection
Interior Features	Leather seats, power adjustments, wood trim
Exterior Features	Power sunroof, automatic climate control
Safety Systems	Driver airbag, ABS, central locking
Electrical System	12-volt with extensive electronic controls
Dimensions	Overall length: 208.7 inches

Instrument Cluster

The instrument cluster provides comprehensive vehicle information and warning indicators.

Speedometer: Vehicle speed in mph and km/h
Tachometer: Engine RPM
Fuel Gauge: Fuel level with reserve warning
Temperature Gauge: Engine coolant temperature
Warning Lights: Check engine, ABS, brake system, battery
Odometer: Total and trip distance

WARNING! Address warning lights immediately to prevent vehicle damage.

Controls and Operation

Master vehicle controls for optimal driving experience.

Ignition: Insert key and turn to start position
Transmission: Select P-R-N-D-3-2-1 as needed
Steering Wheel: Adjustable tilt and telescopic
Climate Control: Automatic temperature regulation
Power Features: Windows, seats, mirrors, sunroof
Lighting: Automatic headlight control available

CAUTION! Always engage parking brake when parked.

Technical Specifications

Engine: 5.6L V8, 238 hp @ 5000 rpm
Transmission: 4-speed automatic
Fuel Capacity: 23.8 gallons
Fuel Type: Premium unleaded (91 octane)
Brakes: Four-wheel disc with ABS
Suspension: Independent with self-leveling
Wheels: 15-inch alloy wheels
Tires: 215/65R15
Curb Weight: 3,860 lbs
Top Speed: 130 mph (electronically limited)

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

Every 10,000 miles: Oil and filter change, tire rotation, brake inspection

Every 30,000 miles: Air filter replacement, spark plugs, fluid checks

Every 60,000 miles: Transmission fluid, coolant replacement, belt inspection

Annual: Brake fluid flush, suspension check, alignment

Driving Instructions

Optimal driving techniques for your 560 SEL.

Starting: Allow engine to warm up for 30 seconds
Acceleration: Smooth application of throttle recommended
Braking: Progressive pressure for optimal ABS performance
Cornering: Maintain moderate speed for vehicle stability
Fuel Economy: Consistent speed improves efficiency

Tip: Use cruise control on highways for better fuel economy.

Safety Systems

Advanced safety features for occupant protection.

ABS: Prevents wheel lock-up during braking
Airbags: Driver-side airbag system
Seat Belts: Three-point inertia reel belts
Central Locking: Automatic door locking above 5 mph
Child Safety: Rear door child locks available
Theft Protection: Anti-theft alarm system

WARNING! Always wear seat belts and ensure proper child restraints.

Climate Control

Automatic climate control system operation.

Temperature: Set desired temperature using dial
Fan Speed: Automatic or manual control available
Air Distribution: Adjust vents for optimal airflow
Defrost: Front and rear window defogging
A/C: Engage for dehumidification and cooling

CAUTION! Have A/C system serviced by qualified technicians only.

Audio System

Premium sound system with multiple sources.

Radio: AM/FM stereo with seek and scan
Cassette Player: Auto-reverse with Dolby noise reduction
Speakers: Multiple speakers for surround sound
Controls: Steering wheel controls available
Antenna: Power antenna automatically extends

Tip: Use high-quality cassettes to prevent player damage.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Battery/ignition/fuel	Check battery connections; ensure fuel in tank; verify ignition operation
Rough idle	Spark plugs/fuel system	Inspect spark plugs; check fuel injectors; clean throttle body
Brake warning light	Fluid level/pads	Check brake fluid; inspect brake pads; examine brake lines
Overheating	Coolant/thermostat	Check coolant level; inspect radiator; test thermostat
Electrical issues	Battery/alternator	Test battery voltage; check alternator output; inspect fuses

Service: Contact authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer for professional service.

Warranty Information

Original warranty coverage and service requirements.

Basic Warranty: 4 years/50,000 miles. Rust Perforation: 7 years/unlimited mileage. Power Train: 4 years/50,000 miles. For warranty claims, contact authorized Mercedes-Benz dealership with vehicle documentation. Maintain all service records for warranty validation.