Owning a classic Mercedes-Benz R107 (1971–1989) comes with the responsibility of proper maintenance to ensure longevity and peak performance. One of the most crucial aspects of preserving your R107’s engine and components is using the correct oil, fuel, brake fluid, and coolant as recommended by Mercedes-Benz. This guide, based on the manufacturer’s official recommendations, will help you choose the right fluids to keep your classic roadster running smoothly for years to come.
Engine Oil: The Lifeline of Your Classic Mercedes
The engine oil in your R107 is critical for lubrication, cooling, and protecting internal components from wear. Mercedes-Benz has tested and approved specific oils for these engines, ensuring optimal performance. To prevent sludge buildup and reduce wear, always use Mercedes-Benz-recommended engine oil from trusted brands. Consult your authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer for approved oil specifications and change intervals.
Mercedes-Benz recommends using MB-approved engine oils that meet Mercedes-Benz Oil Specifications (MB 229.1, MB 229.3, MB 229.5, MB 229.51, MB 229.52, MB 229.71, etc.), depending on your engine type and age. The following trusted brands are known to produce Mercedes-Benz-approved engine oils:
Mercedes-Benz Approved Engine Oil Brands
✔ Mobil 1 – Often factory-filled in many Mercedes models (e.g., Mobil 1 0W-40 European Car Formula).
✔ Castrol – Known for Castrol EDGE 0W-40 A3/B4 and other synthetic blends meeting MB specs.
✔ Liqui Moly – German-made oils like Liqui Moly Leichtlauf High Tech 5W-40 are MB-approved.
✔ Shell (Pennzoil Ultra Platinum) – Meets many MB standards, including Shell Helix Ultra 5W-40.
✔ TotalEnergies – Total Quartz 9000 5W-40 is recommended for many classic Mercedes engines.
✔ Motul – Motul 8100 X-cess 5W-40 meets MB 229.5 and is often used in European vehicles.
✔ Fuchs – A high-quality German brand, including Fuchs Titan GT1 5W-40.
✔ Valvoline – Valvoline SynPower 5W-40 meets MB approval for many older engines.
✔ Ravenol – German-made Ravenol VST 5W-40 and Ravenol HCL 5W-30 are MB-approved.
How to Verify MB Approval?
To ensure you are using Mercedes-Benz-approved oil, check for the MB approval number (e.g., MB 229.5, MB 229.3, etc.) on the bottle or refer to the official Mercedes-Benz oil list, available on their website or through your authorized Mercedes dealer.
Premium Unleaded Gasoline: The Only Choice for Your R107
To maintain the durability and performance of your classic V8 or inline-six engine, it is essential to use premium unleaded gasoline with a minimum octane rating of 91 (Anti-Knock Index (R+M)/2).
What to Do If Premium Unleaded Is Unavailable?
If you must use regular unleaded fuel temporarily:
✔ Only partially fill the tank and top off with premium as soon as possible.
✔ Avoid full-throttle acceleration and high engine speeds.
✔ Limit engine RPM to 3,000 when lightly loaded (e.g., two passengers, no luggage).
✔ Keep accelerator usage under 2/3 if fully loaded or driving in mountainous terrain.
Acceptable Fuel Blends
Mercedes-Benz allows the use of unleaded gasoline with oxygenates under these conditions:
- Ethanol, MTBE, IPA, IBA, and TBA content must not exceed 10%.
- Methanol content must not exceed 3%, with additional co-solvents.
- Gasohol (10% Ethanol, 90% gasoline) is acceptable if it meets Mercedes-Benz standards.
- Ethanol-methanol mixtures are strictly prohibited due to engine damage risks.
Brake Fluid: Annual Replacement for Safety
Brake fluid degrades over time as it absorbs moisture, which can lead to reduced braking performance and possible failure. Mercedes-Benz recommends replacing brake fluid annually, preferably in the spring, to maintain braking efficiency. Always use Mercedes-Benz-approved brake fluid, which meets the required safety and performance standards.
Mercedes-Benz-Approved Brake Fluids for R107
For the Mercedes-Benz R107 (1971–1989), the manufacturer recommends using DOT 4 brake fluid that meets MB 331.0 specifications. The following brake fluids are approved for use in the R107 and meet Mercedes-Benz’s safety and performance standards:
✔ Mercedes-Benz Genuine Brake Fluid DOT 4 Plus – The official factory-recommended fluid.
✔ ATE SL DOT 4 – A high-quality fluid with excellent moisture resistance.
✔ ATE Typ 200 DOT 4 – High boiling point, ideal for classic Mercedes braking systems.
✔ Pentosin Super DOT 4 – A premium fluid that meets MB 331.0 standards.
✔ Castrol React Performance DOT 4 – High-performance brake fluid with superior heat resistance.
✔ Brembo DOT 4 – A reliable option designed for classic cars.
✔ Motul DOT 4 100% Synthetic – Meets MB standards with excellent stability.
Brake Fluid Maintenance for the R107
- Replace brake fluid annually (preferably in spring) to prevent moisture buildup and ensure optimal braking performance.
- Use only MB 331.0-approved DOT 4 brake fluid to maintain system integrity.
- Never mix DOT 4 with DOT 5 (silicone-based) brake fluids, as it can damage seals and reduce braking efficiency.
Always verify MB approval on the label or consult your Mercedes-Benz dealer for the most up-to-date recommendations.
Coolant: Protecting Your Engine from Corrosion and Overheating
Your R107’s cooling system requires Mercedes-Benz Anticorrosion/Antifreeze Agent, a carefully formulated coolant that provides:
✔ Corrosion protection for aluminum components.
✔ Freeze protection up to -30°C (-22°F) with a 40% antifreeze mix.
✔ Boil-over protection by raising the coolant’s boiling point.
Coolant Maintenance Guidelines
- Use only MB-approved coolant to avoid aluminum component damage.
- Never exceed 55% antifreeze concentration, as this can reduce heat dissipation and lead to overheating.
- Replace coolant every three years for optimal corrosion protection.
- Check antifreeze concentration annually, especially before winter.
If the coolant level is low, refill it with a 50/50 mix of MB anticorrosion/antifreeze and drinking-quality water. If water quality is questionable, consult a Mercedes-Benz dealer.
Mercedes-Benz Approved Coolants for R107
For the Mercedes-Benz R107 (1971–1989), it is essential to use a coolant that meets MB 325.0 specifications. These coolants provide the necessary corrosion protection for aluminum components, freeze protection, and boil-over prevention to keep your classic engine running smoothly.
Mercedes-Benz Approved Coolant Brands for R107
✔ Mercedes-Benz Genuine Antifreeze (MB 325.0) – The factory-recommended coolant.
✔ Zerex G05 by Valvoline – A phosphate-free, long-life coolant approved by Mercedes-Benz.
✔ Pentosin Pentofrost NF – A high-quality, silicate-containing coolant that meets MB standards.
✔ Glysantin G48 (by BASF) – A Mercedes-Benz-approved coolant used in many classic models.
✔ Prestone European Vehicle Coolant (Blue or Yellow, G48 formula) – Phosphate-free, silicate-based coolant safe for R107 engines.
✔ Peak Original Equipment Technology European Blue – Formulated for older Mercedes models, meets MB 325.0 specs.
✔ Motul Inugel G48 – An MB-approved, silicate-based antifreeze for classic Mercedes engines.
Coolant Maintenance Guidelines for R107
✔ Use a 50/50 mix of coolant and distilled water for optimal freeze and corrosion protection.
✔ Do not exceed 55% antifreeze concentration, as it reduces heat transfer and can lead to overheating.
✔ Replace coolant every 3 years to maintain corrosion resistance and cooling efficiency.
✔ Check coolant concentration before winter or during routine maintenance.
✔ Never mix coolants of different types, as it can lead to chemical imbalances and system damage.
Using MB-approved coolant ensures your R107’s aluminum engine components remain protected, preventing overheating and premature wear. Always verify MB 325.0 approval on the label or consult your Mercedes-Benz dealer for the latest recommendations.
Final Thoughts
Maintaining your Mercedes-Benz R107 with the correct engine oil, fuel, brake fluid, and coolant is essential for preserving its legendary performance and longevity. Following Mercedes-Benz’s official manufacturer recommendations ensure that your classic roadster continues to run smoothly, reliably, and safely. With proper fluid maintenance, your R107 will remain a timeless masterpiece on the road for years to come.
