Segment:
Entry-luxury compact executive sedan
Competitors:
BMW 3 Series (E46), Audi A4 (B6), Lexus IS300, Acura TL
Brand Philosophy:
Represents Mercedes-Benz's commitment to advanced engineering, safety, and comfort in a more compact package than traditional S-Class models.
Distinctive Elements:
Refined interior, smooth V6 engine, sophisticated suspension tuning for a balance of comfort and sportiness.
Coverage:
Complete service and repair for 2000 Mercedes-Benz C280
Pages:
Extensive (Software-based, equivalent to a comprehensive printed manual)
Type:
Official Service and Repair Manual Software
Format:
Digital Software (likely PDF or proprietary viewer)
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel, ignition, exhaust, lubrication, cooling, emissions control, automatic transmission (5G-TRONIC)
Chassis:
Suspension (front McPherson strut, rear multi-link), steering, brakes (ABS, ESP), wheels, tires
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrumentation, body control modules (BCM), multiplexing systems, CAN bus diagnostics
Body And Interior:
Body panels, doors, windows, seats, climate control (HVAC), airbags, infotainment, security system
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, fluid checks, filter replacements, tire rotation
Diagnosis:
Troubleshooting guides, fault code interpretation (OBD-II), diagnostic flowcharts
Repair:
Component removal and installation, disassembly and reassembly, calibration procedures
Technical Specifications:
Torque values, fluid capacities, electrical schematics, component dimensions, performance data
Depth:
Comprehensive: from routine maintenance and basic diagnostics to advanced repairs and component overhauls. Includes wiring diagrams and detailed component testing.
Engine Type:
V6 SOHC (Single Overhead Cam) with 3 valves per cylinder and 2 spark plugs per cylinder (M112)
Displacement:
3.2 Liters (3199 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
89.9 mm x 84.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.0:1
Horsepower:
215 hp @ 5750 rpm
Torque:
221 lb-ft @ 3000-4500 rpm
Induction:
Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (SFI)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)
ECU Type:
Bosch Motronic ME 2.8
Emissions Control:
Close-coupled catalytic converters, Secondary Air Injection (SAI) system (on some models)
Type:
5-speed Automatic Transmission (5G-TRONIC)
Gear Ratios:
3.45 / 2.20 / 1.45 / 1.00 / 0.73 (approximate, refer to manual for exact)
Fluid Type:
MB 236.10 Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF), e.g., Mobil ATF 134 or equivalent
Shifting Modes:
Comfort (C) and Sport (S) modes
Torque Converter Lockup:
Electronically controlled lockup clutch for improved efficiency
NHTSA Front Impact:
5-Star (Driver and Passenger)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System
Traction Control:
Standard Acceleration Skid Control (ASR)
Stability Control:
Standard Electronic Stability Program (ESP)
Airbags Front:
Dual front SRS airbags with dual-stage deployment
Airbags Side:
Standard front side-impact airbags
Airbags Rear:
Optional rear side-impact airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pretensioners and force limiters
Child Seats:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) system in rear seats
Audio System:
Available Audio 10 or Audio 20 CD systems with AM/FM radio, CD player, and optional navigation.
Climate Control:
Standard manual or optional THERMATIC (automatic climate control) or THERMOTRONIC (dual-zone automatic climate control).
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control with speed limiter.
Parking Sensors:
Optional PARKTRONIC parking assist system.
Phone Integration:
Optional Mercedes-Benz hands-free system with Bluetooth or cradle integration.
Instrument Cluster:
Illuminated instrument cluster with driver information display (trip computer, range, fuel economy).
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000 miles (16,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first (depending on driving conditions and oil used, refer to manual for exact)
Air Filter Replacement:
Recommended every 20,000-30,000 miles (32,000-48,000 km)
Cabin Filter Replacement:
Recommended annually or every 15,000 miles (24,000 km)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically every 100,000 miles (160,000 km) for iridium-tipped plugs (refer to manual for specific plug type)
Engine Oil Capacity:
7.4 US quarts (7.0 Liters) with filter change (refer to manual for precise)
Engine Oil Type:
MB 229.5 Synthetic Engine Oil (e.g., Mobil 1 0W-40, Castrol EDGE 0W-40)
Coolant Type:
Mercedes-Benz Approved Antifreeze/Coolant (e.g., G05 or G48, a silicate-containing hybrid organic acid technology (HOAT) formula)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 (refer to manual for specific MB approval, e.g., 331.0)
Power Steering Fluid:
MB 236.3 Hydraulic Fluid (e.g., Pentosin CHF 11S or equivalent)
Common Problems:
Mass Airflow (MAF) sensor issues, ignition coil failure, vacuum leaks, electronic throttle body (ETC) issues, cooling system leaks (e.g., radiator, hoses), window regulator failure, ESP/BAS warning lights.
Preventative Measures:
Regularly inspect and replace aging hoses and belts, keep engine compartment clean, use high-quality fluids and filters, address minor issues promptly.
Foundation:
Founded in 1886 by Karl Benz and Gottlieb Daimler, Mercedes-Benz is the oldest automotive manufacturer in the world.
Legacy:
Renowned for innovation, luxury, performance, and safety, setting industry standards for over a century.
W203 Introduction:
The W203 C-Class replaced the W202 C-Class and was introduced in 2000 for the 2001 model year. The 2000 model year is the initial launch year in some markets.
C280 Positioning:
Positioned as a mid-range engine option within the C-Class lineup, offering a balance of performance and refinement.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily manufactured in Germany (Sindelfingen, Bremen) and also produced in South Africa, Hungary, and Mexico.
