Segment:
Compact Executive Sedan
Target Audience:
Owners seeking to perform maintenance, repairs, and diagnostics on their 2001 Mercedes-Benz C240.
Competitors 2001:
BMW 3 Series (E46), Audi A4 (B6), Lexus IS300, Acura TL
Design Philosophy:
Combines Mercedes-Benz luxury and comfort with a more accessible entry-level executive sedan package.
Licensing:
Officially Licensed Product, ensuring accuracy and authenticity.
Digital Advantage:
Instant online access, searchable content, and potential for interactive diagrams or links.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, cylinder head, valve train, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, timing system, oil pump, oil cooler, cooling system, lubrication system, fuel injection system (ME 2.8)
Engine Management:
ECU diagnosis, sensors (crankshaft position, camshaft position, MAF, MAP, O2, coolant temp), actuators (injectors, ignition coils), emissions control (catalytic converter, EVAP)
Transmission Drivetrain:
5G-TRONIC automatic transmission (722.6), gearbox assembly, torque converter, shift controls, drive shafts, differential, axle shafts, wheel bearings
Suspension Steering:
Front MacPherson strut suspension, rear multi-link suspension, shock absorbers, coil springs, control arms, bushings, steering system (rack and pinion), power steering pump, steering column
Brakes:
Front and rear disc brakes, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), ESP (Electronic Stability Program), brake calipers, rotors, pads, brake lines, brake fluid, parking brake
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), ignition system, lighting system (headlights, taillights, interior lights), fuses, relays, wiring diagrams, body control module (BCM), multiplexing systems
HVAC:
Air conditioning system, climate control, heater core, evaporator, compressor, refrigerant R134a, blower motor, ducting, cabin air filter
Body Interior:
Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, interior trim, seats, airbags, seat belts, windows, locks, exterior trim, bumpers
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements (oil, air, cabin), spark plug replacement, fluid checks and changes (coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid, transmission fluid), belt inspection and replacement
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, fault code retrieval and interpretation (OBD-II), component testing, diagnostic connector pinouts
Repair:
Engine component overhaul, transmission service and repair, brake system bleeding and component replacement, suspension and steering component replacement, electrical system diagnosis and repair, HVAC system repairs, body panel repair and replacement
Adjustments:
Wheel alignment specifications, steering wheel centering, parking brake adjustment
Depth:
Comprehensive from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic procedures and wiring diagrams.
NHTSA Front Impact:
5-Star (for similar models/years)
IIHS Front Impact:
Good (for similar models/years)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System
Esp:
Standard Electronic Stability Program (ESP)
Traction Control:
Standard Acceleration Skid Control (ASR)
Airbags:
Frontal airbags for driver and passenger, front side-impact airbags, front and rear window curtain airbags (optional or standard depending on trim/market)
Seatbelts:
Pretensioning front seat belts with load limiters, three-point rear seat belts
Head Restraints:
Active front head restraints (optional)
Oil Change Interval:
Every 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (using synthetic oil).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles or 24 months.
Cabin Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 12 months.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles (using Iridium spark plugs).
Transmission Fluid Service:
Every 60,000 miles or 4 years.
Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 30,000 miles or 2 years.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 (or DOT 3 if specified)
Power Steering Fluid:
Pentosin CHF 11S (or equivalent hydraulic fluid specified by Mercedes-Benz)
Windshield Washer Fluid:
Approved Mercedes-Benz washer fluid concentrate or equivalent
Common Problems:
Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor issues, ignition coil failures, ABS/ESP sensor faults, oil leaks from valve cover gaskets or oil filter housing, sagging headliner, transmission conductor plate issues (in some cases), early thermostat housing leaks.
Troubleshooting Focus:
Manual provides specific diagnostic steps and repair procedures for these common issues.
Heritage:
Mercedes-Benz has a long-standing reputation for engineering excellence, luxury, and safety dating back to the late 19th century.
Predecessor:
Mercedes-Benz C-Class (W202)
Successor:
Mercedes-Benz C-Class (W204)
Introduction W203:
The W203 generation debuted in 2000 for the 2001 model year, representing a significant redesign with a more modern aesthetic and advanced technology.
Production Years W203:
2000-2007 (Sedan), 2001-2007 (Coupe), 2002-2007 (Wagon)
Manufacturing Locations:
Germany (Sindelfingen, Bremen), South Africa, Malaysia, Egypt