Segment:
Compact Executive Sedan/Coupe (depending on body style available for this variant).
Key Competitors:
BMW 3 Series, Audi A4, Lexus IS, Infiniti G35/G37.
Features:
Emphasis on luxury, comfort, advanced technology, refined driving dynamics, and Mercedes-Benz brand prestige.
Powertrain:
Engine operation, lubrication, fuel system, cooling system, exhaust system (general information).
Chassis:
Brakes, steering, suspension, wheels, tires (general operation and care).
Electrical:
Lighting system, battery care, basic electrical component identification and operation (e.g., wipers, horn).
Interior:
Climate control, audio/infotainment system, seating adjustments, interior lighting, locks, security system.
Safety:
Airbags, seat belts, child restraint systems (ISOFIX/LATCH), emergency procedures.
Basic Maintenance:
Checking fluid levels (oil, coolant, washer fluid), tire pressure checks, jump-starting procedures, replacing wiper blades, basic cleaning instructions.
Driver Controls:
Operation of steering wheel controls, gear selector, parking brake, ignition, dashboard indicators, and warning lights.
Troubleshooting Basic:
Interpreting dashboard warning lights and messages, understanding system alerts.
Depth:
Owner-level operations, maintenance, and basic care. Not a repair manual; does not cover in-depth diagnostics or component replacement procedures.
Engine Code:
M272 (likely)
Engine Type:
3.5L V6 Naturally Aspirated
Horsepower:
Approximately 268 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque:
Approximately 258 lb-ft @ 2400-5000 rpm
Type:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Recommended Fuel:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher)
Length:
Approx. 180.0 inches (4572 mm)
Width:
Approx. 70.7 inches (1796 mm)
Height:
Approx. 56.3 inches (1430 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3700 - 3800 lbs (1680 - 1725 kg)
Trunk Volume:
Approx. 12.4 cu ft (350 liters)
NHTSA Overall:
Likely 5-Star (for relevant tests of the period)
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
Likely 'Good' ratings in most categories, potential Top Safety Pick designation.
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System
Esp:
Standard Electronic Stability Program (ESP)
Traction Control:
Standard Traction Control System (TCS)
Airbags:
Front, front-side, and side-curtain airbags.
Seatbelts:
Pretensioners and load limiters for front seats, standard three-point belts for all.
Child Restraints:
ISOFIX/LATCH anchor points.
System Name:
COMAND (Cockpit Management and Navigation)
Features:
CD/DVD player, AM/FM radio, optional navigation system, Bluetooth connectivity, auxiliary audio input.
Available Features:
Optional Parking Assist (PARKTRONIC), Adaptive Cruise Control (DISTRONIC - less common on standard C350), Bi-xenon Headlights with Dynamic Curve Lighting.
Connectivity Options:
Bluetooth for hands-free calling and audio streaming.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (based on Flexible Service System 'Service A' or 'Service B' indicators).
Major Service Intervals:
Spark plugs (approx. 100,000 miles), brake fluid flush (every 2 years), transmission fluid/filter change (typically ~60,000-80,000 miles, check specific recommendations).
Engine Oil Type:
MB 229.5 or MB 229.51 specification synthetic engine oil, typically SAE 0W-40 or 5W-40.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 6.7 quarts (6.3 liters) with filter change.
Coolant Type:
MB 325.0 (Antifreeze/Coolant Concentrate)
Transmission Fluid Type:
MB 236.14 Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 Plus (MB 331.0)
Common Issues:
M272 engine balance shaft spline wear (can affect timing), oil cooler leaks, transmission conductor plate issues, early W204 models had some timing chain tensioner concerns (though less common on later iterations).
Oil Filter:
Example: Mann-Filter HU 718/5 y, Bosch 0 986 452 076 (verify with VIN)
Air Filter:
Example: Mann-Filter C 30 102, Bosch F 026 400 402 (verify with VIN)
Heritage:
Mercedes-Benz has a long-standing reputation for automotive engineering excellence, luxury, and safety since its inception.
Generation:
W204 generation, introduced for the 2008 model year, offering a more modern and sporty design compared to its predecessor.
Manufacturing Location:
Various Mercedes-Benz plants globally, including Germany.
Type:
Generally well-regarded for its segment, often praised for ride quality, interior refinement, and safety features.
Consumer Reports:
Typically rated well for predicted owner satisfaction and reliability in its class for the era, though specific model year ratings should be consulted.
