🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mercedes-Benz

Model:

C350

Year:

2006

Chassis Code:

W203

Generation Designation:

Second Generation (Facelifted)

Model Code:

203.056 (Sedan), 203.256 (Wagon)

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

Premium compact executive sedan/wagon, competing with models like the BMW 3 Series, Audi A4, and Lexus IS.

Competitive Analysis:

The 2006 C350 (W203 facelift) offered a blend of Mercedes-Benz luxury, performance, and advanced technology. This generation distinguished itself with improved styling, enhanced interior comfort, and refined powertrain options compared to its predecessors.

Key Features:

Powerful V6 engine, optional 4MATIC all-wheel drive, sophisticated interior appointments, advanced safety features, and a reputation for build quality.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

Engine, Transmission, Drivetrain, Suspension, Steering, Brakes, HVAC, Electrical Systems, Bodywork, Interior, Diagnostics, Wiring Diagrams, Maintenance Procedures, Repair Procedures, Troubleshooting

Page Count:

Varies by software version, typically 1,000+ pages (digital)

Manual Type:

Official Service and Repair Manual Software

Language:

English

Format:

Software (likely CD-ROM or downloadable digital format with searchable interface)

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine Mechanical (M272), Engine Control (ME9.7), Automatic Transmission (722.6), Drivetrain (RWD/4MATIC), Suspension (Front MacPherson Strut, Rear Multi-link), Steering (Hydraulic Power Assist), Braking System (ABS, ESP), Climate Control (AAC), Body Electronics, Instrument Cluster, Lighting, SRS Airbag System, Gateway Module, CAN Bus Communication, Audio Systems, Navigation Systems, Keyless Go, Exterior/Interior Trim, Body Panels, Glass

Procedures Included:

Routine Maintenance, Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Spark Plug Replacement, Coolant Flush, Brake Pad/Rotor Replacement, Suspension Component Replacement, Steering Rack Repair, Transmission Fluid Service, Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) Interpretation and Resolution, Wiring Harness Repair, Component Testing, Overhaul Procedures, Body Panel Alignment, Interior Component Removal/Installation, Software Updates/Programming (for certain modules)

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive; from basic maintenance tasks to advanced diagnostics and complete component overhauls. Includes detailed troubleshooting flowcharts and repair procedures.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

Proprietary software executable, potentially with PDF or HTML components. Searchable text and interactive diagrams are common.

Print Quality:

N/A (Software format - high-resolution digital graphics and text)

Binding Type:

N/A (Software format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Software format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Name:

M272 E35

Engine Type:

Naturally Aspirated V6

Displacement:

3.5 Liters (3498 cc)

Bore X Stroke:

92.9 mm x 86.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

11.5:1

Valvetrain:

DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder, Variable Valve Timing (VVT) on intake and exhaust camshafts

Power Output:

268 hp @ 6000 rpm

Torque Output:

258 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm

Redline:

6500 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), Sequential Multi-port

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane or higher recommended)

Engine Management System:

Bosch ME9.7

Emission Control:

Catalytic Converter, Secondary Air Injection, Oxygen Sensors, Evaporative Emission Control System (EVAP)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

722.6 (5G-TRONIC) 5-speed Automatic Transmission

Drivetrain:

Optional 4MATIC All-Wheel Drive

Transmission Features:

Touchshift manual shifting mode, Adaptive Electronic Control, Torque Converter Lock-up Clutch

Transmission Fluid Type:

MB Specification 236.10 (e.g., Pentosin ATF 1 or equivalent)

Transmission Fluid Capacity:

Approx. 7.5 liters (16.4 US pints) for dry fill, 4.5 liters (9.5 US pints) for fluid service

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

2715 mm (106.9 in)

Length:

4526 mm (178.2 in) (Sedan)

Width:

1728 mm (68.0 in)

Height:

1423 mm (56.0 in) (Sedan)

Trunk Volume:

450 Liters (15.9 cu ft) (Sedan)

Curb Weight:

Approximately 1570 kg (3461 lbs) (RWD Sedan)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approximately 2050 kg (4519 lbs)

Standard Wheel Size:

17 x 7.5 inches

Standard Tire Size:

225/45R17

Bolt Pattern:

5 x 112

Center Bore:

66.6 mm

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Crash Test Rating:

★★★★★ (5-Star)

IIHS Top Safety Pick:

Yes

Active Safety Features:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Program (ESP) / Traction Control System (TCS), Brake Assist (BAS), Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)

Passive Safety Features:

Front Dual-Stage Airbags, Front Side-Impact Airbags, Front and Rear Side Curtain Airbags, Active Front Head Restraints, Pre-tensioning Seatbelts with Load Limiters

Chassis Safety Features:

High-strength steel safety cell, Crumple zones (front and rear)

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

COMAND (Command Operation Navigation Entertainment) NTG 2.5 or Audio 20 with optional CD changer and navigation module.

Display Type:

Integrated LCD screen (5.8-inch or 6.5-inch).

Driver Assistance Features:

Cruise Control, Optional PARKTRONIC parking assist, Rain-sensing wipers, Auto-dimming rearview mirror.

Connectivity Features:

Optional Bluetooth interface for hands-free calling, Optional Tele Aid emergency call system.

Comfort Features:

Dual-zone automatic climate control (AAC), optional heated and ventilated seats, optional sunroof, optional power adjustable steering column.

🔧 Maintenance

Major Service Interval:

Approximately every 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (varies by driving conditions and region - refer to specific market maintenance booklet).

Spark Plug Replacement:

Typically around 100,000 miles for iridium-tipped spark plugs.

Transmission Fluid Service:

Mercedes-Benz recommends a transmission fluid and filter change around 70,000-100,000 miles, or as indicated by the vehicle's Flexible Service System (FSS).

Engine Oil Type:

Full Synthetic SAE 0W-40 or 5W-40 meeting MB-Approval 229.5 or 229.51

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approximately 6.5 Liters (6.9 US Quarts) with filter change

Coolant Type:

MB Specification 325.0 (Antifreeze/Coolant, silicate-free, blue)

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 4 PLUS (e.g., MB Specification 331.0)

Known Issues:

Potential for: timing chain stretch (M272 engine, often due to faulty balance shaft gear), oil cooler leaks, valve cover gasket leaks, O-ring seal failures on the intake manifold, EGS control module issues in the transmission, ABS/ESP sensor failures, window regulator failures, and rust on the rear wheel arches and rocker panels.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Mercedes-Benz has a long-standing reputation for engineering excellence, luxury, safety, and innovation dating back to the invention of the automobile in the late 19th century.

Model Evolution:

The C-Class (W203) debuted in 2000, replacing the W202. The 2001-2007 generation received a significant facelift for the 2005 model year, introducing updated styling, interior enhancements, and new engine options, including the M272 V6 and M271 supercharged four-cylinder engines.

Production Years W203:

2000-2007

Production Locations:

Sindelfingen, Germany; Bremen, Germany; Rastatt, Germany; Beijing, China; East London, South Africa

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

The W203 C-Class generation, including the 2006 C350, was generally well-regarded for its safety, build quality, and premium feel, contributing to Mercedes-Benz's strong brand reputation in the luxury compact segment. Specific awards for the 2006 model year are less commonly highlighted individually than for the generation as a whole, but it consistently performed well in consumer satisfaction surveys for its class.