Instrument Cluster:
Detailed explanations of all gauges, warning lamps, and the multi-function display.
Entertainment Systems:
Operation of COMAND infotainment, audio system, media interfaces (e.g., AUX, optional USB/iPod), and Bluetooth connectivity.
Climate Controls:
Operation of THERMATIC/THERMATIC automatic climate control, AC, heating, recirculation modes, and air distribution.
Lighting:
Headlight functions (auto, manual, leveling), interior lighting, fog lights, and turn signals.
Driver Controls:
Steering wheel controls, stalk functions, cruise control operation, and wiper/washer controls.
Locks And Security:
Central locking, keyless-go operation (if equipped), alarm system, and anti-theft features.
Seating And Safety Restraints:
Seat adjustment, headrest adjustment, seatbelt usage and pre-tensioners, airbag system overview, ISOFIX child seat anchorages.
Driving:
Starting and stopping the engine, shifting gears, parking brake operation, fuel economy tips, and driving modes.
Customer Assistance:
Information on roadside assistance, dealer network, and contacting Mercedes-Benz.
Cleaning:
Exterior and interior cleaning recommendations, material care, and glass cleaning.
Engine Compartment:
Identification of key components, fluid check points, and basic under-hood inspection.
Maintenance And Specifications:
Recommended maintenance intervals, fluid capacities, lubricant specifications, and general vehicle data.
Engine Oil:
Specifications for engine oil type, viscosity, and capacity; oil change procedures (general).
Battery:
Battery type, location, jump-starting procedures, and maintenance recommendations.
Fuel Information:
Recommended fuel grade, fuel tank capacity, and fuel filler instructions.
Air Filter:
Information regarding the engine air filter(s) and their replacement (general).
Part Numbers:
Listing of common service part numbers for filters, fluids, and other maintenance items.
Refill Capacities:
Detailed capacities for engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, windshield washer fluid, and transmission fluid.
Lubricant Specifications:
Specific MB-Approval or OEM specifications for all fluids, including engine oil, transmission fluid, brake fluid, and differential oil.
Accessories:
Information on available factory-installed or approved accessories and their operation.
Basic Maintenance:
Checking fluid levels, tire pressure, wiper blade inspection, and basic under-hood checks.
Troubleshooting:
Explanation of common warning lamps and indicators, and basic steps to address them.
Vehicle Operation:
Detailed instructions on starting, driving, parking, and general operation of vehicle systems.
Emergency Procedures:
Jump-starting a dead battery, changing a flat tire (if applicable in manual), and towing instructions.
Level Of Detail:
Comprehensive owner-level operation and maintenance guidance.
Scope:
Covers all standard equipment and common optional features for the C230 4MATIC model.
NHTSA Front Impact:
5-Star (for models tested)
IIHS Crashworthiness:
Good (for models tested, often Top Safety Pick)
Airbags:
Frontal airbags (driver/passenger), side airbags (front), window curtain airbags (front/rear).
Seat Belts:
3-point inertia-reel seat belts with pre-tensioners and force limiters, active head restraints (NECK-PRO).
Child Seat Anchors:
ISOFIX lower anchor points and tether anchorages.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Esp:
Electronic Stability Program (ESP) / Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
Traction Control:
Traction Control System (ASR)
Braking Assist:
Brake Assist System (BAS)
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000 miles or 1 year, whichever comes first (Service A/B indicator). Actual interval may vary based on driving conditions.
Major Service Points:
Spark plugs (around 60,000-100,000 miles, depending on type), transmission fluid (around 40,000-60,000 miles recommended by some specialists, though factory fill-for-life is debated), coolant flush (every 2-3 years or 30,000 miles).
Engine Oil Specification:
MB 229.5 or MB 229.51 (SAE 0W-30 or 5W-30, depending on climate).
Coolant Specification:
MB 325.0 / 326.0 (Glysantin G05 or equivalent - typically a HOAT coolant, blue or yellow).
Brake Fluid Specification:
MB 331.0 (DOT 4 Plus).
Windshield Washer Fluid:
Water with approved washer fluid additive.
Common Problems:
Balance shaft sprocket wear (M272 engines, potential for timing chain issues), oil cooler seals, valve cover gaskets, thermostat housing leaks, early transmission conductor plate failures in the 722.9 transmission.
Maintenance Notes:
Adherence to recommended service intervals and use of correct MB-spec fluids are critical for longevity.
