🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mercedes-Benz

Model:

C230

Year:

2004

Chassis Code:

W203

Generation Code:

Third Generation (W203)

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The 2004 Mercedes-Benz C230 (W203 chassis) represented a significant step forward for the brand's compact executive sedan, aiming to compete with established rivals like the BMW 3 Series and Audi A4. It offered a blend of luxury, performance, and cutting-edge technology, appealing to a discerning buyer seeking sophisticated transportation.

Competitive Analysis:

Competed directly with the BMW E46 3 Series, Audi A4 B6, Lexus IS300, and Cadillac CTS in its segment. Mercedes-Benz differentiated itself through its focus on ride comfort, build quality, and advanced safety features, particularly in the W203 generation.

Key Features:

Supercharged inline-4 engine, optional '7G-TRONIC' automatic transmission, advanced safety systems (ESP, 8 airbags), optional COMAND infotainment system, and characteristic Mercedes-Benz luxury and build quality. The C230 Kompressor offered a sporty yet refined driving experience.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

Engine, Drivetrain, Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Electrical System, HVAC, Bodywork, Interior, Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Diagnostics, Specifications

Page Count:

Extensive (typically 1000+ pages for official factory service manuals, software may vary)

Manual Type:

Official Factory Service Manual Software

Language:

English

Format:

Software (likely CD-ROM or download; requires installation on a compatible operating system)

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine Mechanical (M271 E20ML Supercharged), Engine Management (ME2.8), Fuel System, Ignition System, Emission Control, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Exhaust System, Automatic Transmission (722.6 '7G-TRONIC'), Manual Transmission (if applicable to C230 variants), Drivetrain (Rear-Wheel Drive), Suspension (Front: MacPherson Strut, Rear: Multi-link), Steering (Speed-sensitive Hydraulic Power Steering), Brakes (Front: Ventilated Discs, Rear: Solid Discs, ABS, ESP), Electrical System (Power Distribution, Lighting, Instruments, SRS Airbag System, Body Control Modules), Climate Control (Automatic Climate Control - THERMATIC/THERMOTRONIC), Infotainment System, Body & Chassis, Safety Systems, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs)

Procedures Included:

Routine maintenance, scheduled servicing, diagnostic procedures, troubleshooting guides, component removal and installation, disassembly and assembly, torque specifications, wiring diagrams, exploded views, repair procedures, adjustment procedures, system checks, specifications and data

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive factory-level technical information, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts. Covers everything from basic fluid changes to complex engine and transmission overhauls. Includes detailed diagnostic flowcharts and component testing.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

Proprietary software format, executable on Windows operating systems (specific version compatibility may apply)

Print Quality:

N/A (Software format; printable pages are typically high-resolution PDFs or equivalent)

Binding Type:

N/A (Software format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Software format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine:

M271 E20ML (2.0L Supercharged Inline-4)

Horsepower:

189 hp @ 5500 rpm

Torque:

200 lb-ft (280 Nm) @ 3000-4300 rpm

Fuel Injection:

Sequential Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI) with Electronic Throttle Control (ETC)

Valvetrain:

DOHC, 4 Valves per Cylinder, Variable Valve Timing (Camshaft Adjustment)

Supercharger:

Lysholm-type Twin-Screw Supercharger with Intercooler

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Standard:

6-Speed Manual Transmission

Transmission Optional:

5-Speed Automatic Transmission (722.6 '7G-TRONIC' - introduced later in the W203 generation, may be applicable to later 2004 builds or specific market variants, otherwise 5G-TRONIC) - Confirmed 5-speed for 2004 C230

Automatic Transmission Features:

TouchShift (manual shifting capability), Electronic Transmission Control

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

106.7 inches (2710 mm)

Length:

178.9 inches (4545 mm)

Width:

68.7 inches (1745 mm)

Height:

55.7 inches (1415 mm)

Curb Weight Manual:

Approx. 3373 lbs (1530 kg)

Curb Weight Automatic:

Approx. 3472 lbs (1575 kg)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Driver:

5-Star (2004 Model Year)

NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:

5-Star (2004 Model Year)

IIHS Front Offset Small Overlap:

Good (for comparable W203 generation models tested)

Active Safety Features:

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

Passive Safety Features:

Frontal Airbags (Driver & Passenger), Side Airbags (Front & Rear), Curtain Airbags (Front & Rear), Pre-tensioning Seatbelts with Force Limiters, Crumple Zones, Side-Impact Beams

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

COMAND (Cockpit Management and Navigation) system (optional), offering radio, CD player, navigation, and phone integration. Standard audio systems typically include AM/FM radio and CD player.

Driver Assistance Features:

Cruise Control, Rain-sensing Wipers (optional), Parktronic (optional parking assist system), Bi-Xenon Headlights with adaptive features (optional).

Connectivity Features:

Bluetooth hands-free communication (optional, via UHI module), CD Changer (optional).

🔧 Maintenance

Service Interval Oil Change:

Flexible, typically every 10,000 miles or 12 months, based on the AdBlue sensor (ASSYST) system and driving conditions.

Service Interval Major Service:

As indicated by ASSYST system (e.g., Service A, Service B), typically around 15,000-30,000 miles for spark plug replacement, transmission fluid service, etc.

Engine Oil Specification:

MB 229.5 (e.g., Mobil 1 0W-40, Castrol Syntec 0W-30/5W-40) - Consult Owner's Manual for precise specification and viscosity.

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 6.0 liters (6.3 US quarts) with filter change

Coolant Specification:

MB 325.0 (Concentrate, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water)

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

MB 236.10 or MB 236.12 (e.g., Pentosin ATF1, Mobil ATF LT 71141) - Crucial to use the correct specification for the 722.6 transmission. Note: For 2004 C230, it's likely the 5-speed 722.6 which requires specific ATF.

Brake Fluid Specification:

DOT 4 Plus (MB Spec 331.0)

Known Issues Common:

Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor issues, Ignition coil failures, Oil leaks from valve cover gaskets and oil filter housing, Supercharger belt tensioner problems, HVAC blower motor resistor failure, SRS warning light (due to faulty seat occupancy sensors or module), Sunroof drain clogging leading to water ingress, Rust on wheel wells and rocker panels (less common than older models but possible), Drive shaft flex disc wear.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Founded in 1926, Mercedes-Benz is renowned for its pioneering spirit in automotive engineering, luxury, and safety, with a legacy of innovation spanning over a century.

Model Evolution:

The W203 C-Class, launched in 2000 (for the 2001 model year), succeeded the W202. The 2004 model year marked a significant mid-cycle refresh for the W203, introducing revised styling, updated powertrains, and enhanced technology. The C230 Kompressor variant was a popular choice, offering a balance of performance and efficiency.

Production Location:

Bremen, Germany; East London, South Africa; Beijing, China (for Chinese market)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

The W203 C-Class generally received positive reviews for its build quality, safety, and refined driving experience. While specific awards for the 2004 C230 may vary, the generation as a whole was recognized for its improvements over its predecessor and its strong standing in the premium compact segment.