🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mercedes-Benz

Model:

C280

Year:

1994

Chassis Code:

W202

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact Executive Sedan (entry-level luxury)

Positioning:

The C280 represented Mercedes-Benz's offering in the burgeoning compact executive segment, aiming to attract younger buyers and those seeking a more accessible entry into the brand's quality and refinement.

Key Competitors:

BMW 3 Series (E36), Audi 80/A4 (B4/B5), Lexus ES, Infiniti G20

Brand Attributes:

Renowned for build quality, safety, ride comfort, and sophisticated engineering.

Model Highlights:

Emphasis on driver comfort, robust inline-6 engine, classic Mercedes-Benz styling. The W202 platform was a significant departure, designed to be more compact and aerodynamic than previous Mercedes sedans.

Target Audience:

DIY mechanics, independent repair shops, Mercedes-Benz enthusiasts, owners seeking to maintain their vehicle.

Advantage:

Provides official, accurate repair and maintenance procedures, saving significant costs compared to dealership service.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Service and Repair

Estimated Page Count:

1500+

Type:

Software / Digital Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital Software (likely PDF or proprietary executable)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

M104 Inline-6, Fuel Injection System (KE-Jetronic/LH-Jetronic variations), Ignition System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Emission Controls

Transmission:

4-Speed Automatic Transmission (4G-TRONIC, model 722.4), Clutch System (if applicable for manual variant, though less common for C280 in this era)

Drivetrain:

Rear-Wheel Drive, Drive Shafts, Differential, Axles

Suspension:

Front Independent Suspension (McPherson Struts), Rear Independent Suspension (Multi-link), Shock Absorbers, Springs, Bushings, Control Arms

Steering:

Power Steering System, Steering Column, Rack and Pinion

Brakes:

Front Ventilated Discs, Rear Solid Discs, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Brake Lines, Master Cylinder, Calipers, Parking Brake

Electrical System:

12V Battery System, Alternator, Starter Motor, Lighting System, Fuses, Relays, Wiring Diagrams, Diagnostic Connectors (OBD-I)

Body And Chassis:

Body Panels, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Bumpers, Glass, Interior Trim, Seating, Body Structure (unibody construction)

Climate Control:

Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning (HVAC) System, Compressor, Condenser, Evaporator, Climate Control Module

Safety Systems:

Seat Belts, Airbags (driver-side likely standard)

Maintenance:

Oil Changes, Filter Replacements (Oil, Air, Fuel, Cabin), Spark Plug Replacement, Fluid Checks and Top-offs (Coolant, Brake Fluid, Power Steering Fluid, Transmission Fluid), Belt Inspections and Replacement

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) for Engine and ABS, Symptom-based troubleshooting guides, Wiring diagram interpretation

Repair:

Engine Component Replacement (e.g., head gasket, water pump, alternator), Transmission Service and Repair, Suspension Component Replacement, Brake System Overhaul, Electrical Component Diagnosis and Replacement, Body Panel Repair and Replacement

Diagnostics:

Engine Control Unit (ECU) diagnostics, ABS diagnostics, Sensor testing, Actuator testing

Specifications:

Torque Specifications for fasteners, Fluid Capacities, Component Dimensions, Performance Data

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering everything from routine maintenance to major component overhaul and advanced diagnostics

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

Likely a compiled executable or PDF. Searchable text capability is highly probable for software versions.

Printability:

High resolution, suitable for printing individual pages or sections.

Binding:

N/A (Digital Software)

Paper Quality:

N/A (Digital Software)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

M104.941

Configuration:

Inline 6-cylinder

Displacement:

2.8 Liters (2799 cc)

Bore X Stroke:

89.9 mm x 73.5 mm

Compression Ratio:

10.0:1

Valvetrain:

DOHC (Double Overhead Camshafts), 4 valves per cylinder

Horsepower:

194 hp @ 5500 rpm

Torque:

200 lb-ft (272 Nm) @ 3750 rpm

Induction:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), likely Bosch LH-Jetronic with Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Premium Gasoline (91 Octane or higher recommended)

Fuel Pump Pressure:

Approx. 3.5 bar (50 psi)

ECU Type:

ME (Motor Electronics) system, integrated with ignition control.

🔧 Transmission

Type:

4-Speed Automatic Transmission

Model Designation:

722.4

Features:

Electronically controlled, with multiple shift modes (e.g., Economy, Sport - availability may vary by specific market/option).

Type:

5-Speed Manual Transmission (less common for C280 in North America)

Automatic Fluid Type:

Mercedes-Benz Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) specification 236.3 (e.g., MB 236.3, or compatible DEXRON IIE/III)

Automatic Capacity Dry:

Approx. 7.5 Liters (pan fill, but requires careful filling procedure)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

178.3 inches (4529 mm)

Width:

67.7 inches (1720 mm)

Height:

55.5 inches (1410 mm)

Wheelbase:

106.9 inches (2715 mm)

Front Track:

58.2 inches (1479 mm)

Rear Track:

57.1 inches (1450 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3300 - 3450 lbs (1497 - 1565 kg) depending on equipment

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approx. 4300 lbs (1950 kg)

Towing Capacity:

Not typically specified for this model/segment, generally not recommended.

Trunk Volume:

Approx. 15.8 cu ft (447 Liters)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Crash Test:

4/5 stars (driver and passenger) - Based on 1994 standards.

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

Airbags:

Driver's side front airbag standard. Passenger airbag optional or standard depending on market.

Seatbelts:

Front and rear seatbelts with pretensioners (front).

Body Construction:

Reinforced passenger compartment, crumple zones.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory cassette player or optional CD player, often with premium speaker options (e.g., Bose).

Display:

Basic analog instrument cluster, with some models featuring a small LCD display for odometer and basic system messages.

Traction Control:

Optional Acceleration Slip Regulation (ASR) available on some models.

Diagnostics Port:

OBD-I (On-Board Diagnostics, First Generation) utilizing proprietary Mercedes-Benz connectors and protocols, requiring specific diagnostic tools.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 7,500 - 10,000 miles (12,000 - 16,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first, using synthetic oil.

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 - 20,000 miles (24,000 - 32,000 km).

Fuel Filter Replacement:

Every 30,000 - 40,000 miles (48,000 - 64,000 km).

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 60,000 - 100,000 miles (96,000 - 160,000 km) for iridium or platinum plugs (OEM recommended).

Transmission Service:

Every 30,000 - 50,000 miles (48,000 - 80,000 km) for fluid and filter change.

Engine Oil:

SAE 0W-30 or 5W-40 Synthetic (API SJ or higher, MB-Approval 229.1 or 229.3)

Coolant:

MB 325.0 or 326.0 Antifreeze/Coolant (ethylene glycol-based, pink or blue color) mixed 50/50 with distilled water.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 (low viscosity) meeting Mercedes-Benz specification 331.0.

Power Steering Fluid:

MB 236.3 specification (Dexron IIE or III compatible) or Pentosin CHF 11S (check owner's manual for specific applicability).

Common Problems Engine:

Oil leaks from valve cover gaskets and oil cooler seals, potential timing chain wear (though less prevalent on M104 than M111), MAF sensor issues, vacuum leak issues.

Common Problems Suspension:

Front lower ball joint wear, control arm bushing degradation, rear axle mount bushings.

Common Problems Electrical:

Shrinking insulation on wiring harness (especially around engine components), intermittent issues with window regulators, door locks, and climate control panel.

Common Problems Cooling:

Plastic coolant reservoir cracking, water pump seal leaks, heater control valve failure.

📚 Vehicle History

Heritage:

Mercedes-Benz has a long-standing reputation for engineering excellence, safety, and luxury automotive manufacturing dating back to the late 19th century.

Introduction Year:

1993 (for model year 1994 in North America)

Generation:

First Generation (W202)

Platform Significance:

The W202 marked a significant shift for Mercedes-Benz, introducing a more compact and modernly styled sedan to compete with emerging European and Japanese luxury offerings. It was designed to be more aerodynamically efficient and lighter than its predecessors.

Manufacturing Locations:

Mainly Sindelfingen, Germany.

Production Period:

1993-2000 (W202 generation)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Safety Awards:

While specific awards for the 1994 C280 might not be widely publicized, the W202 generation consistently received high safety ratings from organizations like IIHS and NHTSA for its era, reinforcing Mercedes-Benz's safety reputation.

Reliability Perception:

Generally perceived as a reliable vehicle when properly maintained, though some electrical and rubber component issues can arise with age.