🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mercedes-Benz

Model:

C230

Year:

2000

Chassis Code:

W203

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The 2000 Mercedes-Benz C230 (W203 chassis, C-Class) was positioned as a compact executive sedan/coupe, offering premium features, refinement, and German engineering at a more accessible price point within the Mercedes-Benz lineup. It competed against vehicles like the BMW 3 Series, Audi A4, and Lexus IS.

Competitive Analysis:

The W203 C-Class aimed to blend luxury, comfort, and advanced technology with sportier driving dynamics than its predecessor. The C230 Kompressor variant specifically provided a performance-oriented option with its supercharged engine, differentiating it from base models in its segment.

Key Features:

Supercharged inline-4 engine, optional Kompressor styling and sport suspension, advanced safety features (ESP, multiple airbags), premium interior materials, sophisticated ride and handling, and the prestige associated with the Mercedes-Benz brand.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

Engine, Transmission, Drivetrain, Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Electrical System, Climate Control, Bodywork, Interior Components, Diagnostics, Troubleshooting, Maintenance Procedures, Repair Procedures, Specifications

Page Count:

Extensive (typical for official service manuals, often 1000+ pages digitally)

Manual Type:

Official Service and Repair Manual Software

Language:

English

Format:

Software (Digital)

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

2.3L M111 Inline-4 Engine (Kompressor), 5-Speed Automatic Transmission (722.6), Rear-Wheel Drive, Independent Front Suspension (MacPherson Struts), Independent Rear Suspension (Multi-link), Hydraulic Power Steering, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Program (ESP), SRS Airbag System, Engine Control Module (ECM), Transmission Control Module (TCM), Body Control Module (BCM), Climate Control System (MCC), Lighting, Audio System, Power Accessories (windows, locks, mirrors)

Procedures Included:

Routine Maintenance (oil changes, filter replacements, inspections), Scheduled Service Intervals, Component Diagnosis and Testing, Repair Procedures for all major systems, Overhaul procedures for engine and transmission, Electrical system troubleshooting with wiring diagrams, HVAC system repair, Body panel and trim removal/installation, Suspension and steering alignment, Brake system servicing, SRS system diagnostics and repair, Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) interpretation and resolution

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic fluid checks and filter replacements to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, advanced diagnostic procedures using proprietary Mercedes-Benz tools (e.g., SDS - Star Diagnosis System), detailed electrical schematics, torque specifications for all fasteners, and factory-recommended procedures.

Diagnostic Capabilities:

Detailed diagnostic procedures for all ECUs (Engine, Transmission, ABS, ESP, Airbag, Body Control), live data stream interpretation, actuator testing, component activation, and guided troubleshooting trees. Includes information on using the Mercedes-Benz Star Diagnosis System (SDS).

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

Proprietary software or searchable PDF (depending on licensing, typically user-installable)

Print Quality:

N/A (Digital Format)

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

Manual Completeness:

Complete Official Service and Repair Manual Software, covering all aspects of maintenance, diagnosis, and repair for the specified vehicle model and year.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code And Type:

M111.973 (2.3L Inline-4, Supercharged)

Horsepower:

192 hp @ 5300 rpm

Torque:

200 lb-ft @ 2500-4800 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)

Bore X Stroke:

97.0 mm x 94.8 mm

Compression Ratio:

8.5:1

Coolant Type:

Mercedes-Benz approved G48 (blue ethylene glycol-based) coolant concentrate mixed with distilled water at a 50/50 ratio

Oil Capacity:

Approx. 7.5 quarts (7.0 liters) with filter change

Recommended Oil Viscosity:

SAE 0W-40 or 5W-40 (meeting MB-Approval 229.5 specification)

Engine Control Module Manufacturer:

Bosch (e.g., ME2.8)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-Speed Automatic (722.6 '5G-TRONIC')

Optional Transmission:

None offered for C230 in 2000 model year

Transmission Features:

Driver-adaptive shifting, Comfort/Sport modes

Transmission Fluid Type:

MB Approved Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) 236.10 or 236.14 specification (e.g., Shell ATF 134, Pentosin ATF134)

Transmission Fluid Capacity:

Approx. 8.0 quarts (7.5 liters) for a dry fill; service fill is less.

Transmission Gear Ratios:

1st: 4.375, 2nd: 2.857, 3rd: 1.770, 4th: 1.156, 5th: 0.844, Reverse: 3.417 (for 722.6 transmission)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

106.7 inches (2710 mm)

Overall Length:

177.9 inches (4519 mm)

Overall Width:

67.7 inches (1720 mm)

Overall Height:

54.5 inches (1384 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3200-3300 lbs (1450-1500 kg)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approx. 4300 lbs (1950 kg)

Towing Capacity:

Not recommended or specified by manufacturer

Cargo Volume:

Approx. 13.1 cubic feet (370 liters)

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

5x112 mm

Wheel Size:

Typically 16-inch or 17-inch alloy wheels

Tire Size:

Examples: 205/55R16, 225/45R17 (verify for exact vehicle)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Rating:

4-Star Driver, 4-Star Passenger (for W203 chassis generally)

IIHS Moderate Overlap Front Test:

Good (for W203 chassis generally)

Active Safety Features:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Program (ESP), Traction Control System (TCS), Brake Assist (BAS)

Passive Safety Features:

Driver and front passenger airbags, Side curtain airbags (optional or standard depending on trim), front side-impact airbags, crumple zones, reinforced safety cage, 3-point seatbelts with pre-tensioners

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Audio 10, Audio 20 (optional) CD radios, with optional navigation system (APS 30).

Display Type:

Monochrome LCD display for base units, color display for optional navigation.

Driver Assistance Features:

Cruise Control, Rain-sensing wipers (optional), Automatic Climate Control (MCC - optional or standard on some trims).

Connectivity Options:

Optional Mercedes-Benz integrated cellular phone system, UHI connector for accessory phone kits.

Lighting Technology:

Halogen headlamps, optional Xenon headlamps with automatic leveling, projector fog lamps.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 10,000 miles (16,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first, using synthetic oil meeting MB-Approval 229.5.

Major Service Interval:

Following the 'Service A' and 'Service B' system (typically alternating every 10,000 miles), with more comprehensive inspections and replacements at higher mileages (e.g., 30,000, 60,000, 100,000 miles).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 4 (MB-Approval 331.0)

Coolant Capacity:

Approx. 8.5 quarts (8.0 liters)

Known Issues:

Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor failure, ignition coil failure (Misfires), Crankshaft Position Sensor (CPS) failure, valve cover gasket leaks (oil seepage), ABS/ESP sensor issues, CAN bus communication errors, blower motor resistor failure, electronic ignition switch (EIS) problems, early transmission control module (TCM) failures.

Oil Filter Part Number:

Examples: Mann-Filter HU719/2x, Mahle OX172/1DE (verify for exact vehicle)

Engine Air Filter Part Number:

Examples: Mann-Filter C35144/2, Bosch 45422 (verify for exact vehicle)

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Mercedes-Benz has a long and distinguished history of producing luxury, performance, and technologically advanced vehicles dating back to the late 19th century. Known for pioneering automotive innovations and maintaining a reputation for quality and durability.

Model Evolution:

The 2000 C230 represents the first generation of the W203 C-Class, which succeeded the W202 C-Class. This generation marked a significant styling and engineering update, featuring a more modern and rounded design, improved interior quality, and a greater emphasis on technological integration and safety.

Production Years W203 C230:

2000-2005 (for the W203 C230 Kompressor)

Manufacturing Locations:

Primary manufacturing for the W203 chassis was in Germany (Sindelfingen, Bremen) and South Africa (East London).

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

The W203 C-Class generally received positive reviews for its safety, build quality, and driving dynamics, often earning praise in automotive publications for its blend of sportiness and luxury. Specific awards for the 2000 C230 model year are less prominent than broad class accolades.

Ratings:

Consistently scored well in safety tests from NHTSA and IIHS for its structural integrity and airbag deployment.