Target Audience:
Mercedes-Benz owners, DIY enthusiasts, independent repair shops
Value Proposition:
Provides dealership-level repair information for a fraction of the cost, empowering users to perform maintenance and repairs independently.
Information Accuracy:
Vehicle-specific, not generic; factory-sourced data
Usability:
Searchable PDF, printable pages, zoomable images
Comprehensiveness:
Covers all models and all repairs A-Z
Primary Coverage:
All Models & All Repairs A-Z
Diagnostic Coverage:
Diagnosis and Repair
Maintenance Coverage:
Maintenance and Servicing
Estimated Page Count:
Extensive (Specific count not provided, described as comprehensive)
Type:
Service and Repair Manual
Authenticity:
Factory Service Manual (Exact same manual used by dealership technicians)
Digital Delivery:
Speed Download
Powertrain:
Engine, Fuel Service Specifications, Emission Control, Intake, Exhaust, Cooling, Lube, Ignition, Starting, Charging, Auto Transmission, Clutch, Manual Transmission, Transfer Case, Propeller Shaft, Drive Shaft, Differential, Axle
Chassis:
Suspension, Tire & Wheel, Brake Control, Brake, Parking Brake, Steering Column, Power Steering
Electrical And Electronics:
Electrical, Multiplex/CAN Communication, Engine Immobilizer, Cruise Control, Wiper & Washer, Door Lock, Meter, Audio/Visual, Horn, Supplemental Restraint System (SRS), Seat Belt
Body And Interior:
Air Conditioning, Windshield/Glass/Mirror, Instrument Panel, Seat, Engine Hood/Door, Exterior & Interior Trim
Repair Procedures:
Complete step-by-step instructions for all repairs
Maintenance Procedures:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, component inspections
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting and diagnosis of faults
Installation Procedures:
Component installation and replacement
Depth:
Factory High Detail, Complete instructions, diagrams, illustrations, wiring schematics, and specifications
Compatibility:
Windows Vista (32/64), XP, ME, 98, NT, 2000, and Mac OS
Required Software:
Adobe PDF Reader, Winzip (free)
Printability:
All pages are printable, allows for enlarged copies of images
Digital Format Advantage:
Single PDF for easy navigation, no flipping through books, no greasy/torn pages
Print On Demand:
Print only the pages and diagrams required for the task
Engine Variants:
Likely includes M111 (4-cylinder) and M104 (6-cylinder) gasoline engines, and OM60x (diesel) variants commonly found in the W202 generation. Specific engine codes (e.g., C220, C230, C280, C200D, C250D) would be detailed within the manual.
Horsepower Torque:
Specific figures for each engine variant (e.g., C220 2.2L I4: ~148-150 hp; C280 2.8L I6: ~190-193 hp) will be detailed in the manual.
Injection Type:
Likely Bosch Motronic electronic fuel injection (EFI) system for gasoline engines. Diesel engines would feature mechanical or electronic injection pumps.
Coolant Type:
Mercedes-Benz specifications for engine coolant (e.g., ANTIFREEZE - BLUE) and capacity will be provided.
Oil Specifications:
Specific engine oil viscosity grades (e.g., 0W-40, 5W-40, 5W-30 per MB Approval 229.1 or 229.3) and oil capacities for each engine will be detailed.
Transmission Type:
The manual will cover both the standard 5-speed manual transmission and the optional 4-speed automatic transmission (722.4).
Transmission Type Automatic:
4-speed automatic transmission (722.4) for most models, with potential for a 5-speed automatic (722.6) in later W202 variants or specific markets, though 1996 is predominantly 4-speed.
Fluid Specifications:
Specific automatic transmission fluid (ATF) type (e.g., ATF Dexron II E or MB specific equivalent) and manual transmission gear oil specifications will be provided.
Wheelbase:
Approximately 2715 mm (106.9 inches)
Length:
Approximately 4488 mm (176.7 inches)
Width:
Approximately 1720 mm (67.7 inches)
Height:
Approximately 1392 mm (54.8 inches)
Curb Weight:
Varies by engine and equipment, typically ranging from 1370 kg to 1550 kg (approx. 3020 - 3417 lbs).
Gross Vehicle Weight:
Specific GVWR will be listed in the manual, dependent on model and configuration.
Crash Test Data:
While official NHTSA ratings for 1996 models can be sparse, the manual will contain structural information relevant to crashworthiness. European NCAP data for later models may offer comparative insights.
Braking System:
ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) standard on most models, with detailed diagnostics and repair for the hydraulic unit and sensors.
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags are typically standard. The manual covers the Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) including airbag module diagnostics, replacement, and related sensors/wiring.
Seat Belts:
Front and rear seat belt systems, including pre-tensioners for front occupants. The manual details their operation and any service requirements.
Audio System:
Factory-installed radio/cassette players, with options for CD changers. Manual covers removal, installation, and basic troubleshooting of the audio system.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control system covered, including its operation and diagnostic procedures.
Multiplex Communication:
The manual details the Multiplex/CAN communication systems, which manage data flow between various ECUs for functions like engine management, ABS, SRS, and instrument cluster information.
Major Service Points:
The manual will detail service intervals based on mileage or time (e.g., A-Service, B-Service). Typical intervals for oil changes are around 15,000 km (9,000 miles) or 12 months, with spark plug and other fluid changes at greater intervals.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid, as per Mercedes-Benz specifications. Specific MB approval numbers will be in the manual.
Power Steering Fluid:
Specific hydraulic fluid type (e.g., Pentosin CHF 11S or MB specification) for power steering systems.
Coolant Type Specification:
Mercedes-Benz Approved Antifreeze/Coolant (e.g., G48 or similar specification, typically a blue silicate-based formula).
Common W202 Wear Items:
Common W202 issues can include vacuum line degradation affecting central locking and climate control, biodegradable wiring insulation (on some later models, less common for 1996 but covered), front suspension component wear (ball joints, bushings), rear spring sag, and occasional ABS sensor failures.
Troubleshooting Guidance:
The manual provides systematic troubleshooting procedures for these and other potential issues.
Mercedes Benz Legacy:
The C-Class W202 built upon Mercedes-Benz's long-standing reputation for engineering quality, safety, and durability.
W202 Introduction:
Introduced in 1993 (as a 1994 model year in some markets), the W202 was the first Mercedes-Benz to be marketed under the C-Class name, replacing the 190 series (W201). It aimed to offer a more compact and accessible entry into the Mercedes-Benz lineup.
Production Years:
The W202 generation was produced from 1993 to 2000.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily manufactured in Germany, with production facilities in other countries as well.
