Positioning:
The 1999 Mercedes-Benz C280 (W202 generation) represented Mercedes-Benz's entry-level luxury sedan, offering a blend of comfort, performance, and build quality associated with the brand.
Competitors:
Competed against other compact executive sedans such as the BMW 3 Series (E46), Audi A4 (B5), Lexus ES300, and Acura TL.
Vehicle Highlights:
Known for its robust build, refined ride quality, and the smooth M104 inline-six engine. Offered a premium interior and advanced safety features for its era.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel injection (KE-Jetronic/ME-System), ignition, exhaust, cooling system, lubrication system, engine management (ECU diagnostics).
Transmission:
Automatic transmission (e.g., 722.6 '5G-TRONIC') operation, diagnosis, and repair procedures.
Drivetrain:
Rear-wheel drive system, driveshaft, differential, axles.
Chassis & Suspension:
Front and rear suspension (independent), steering system, wheel alignment specifications.
Brakes:
Hydraulic brake system, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), brake pad and rotor replacement, fluid specifications, bleeding procedures.
Electrical System:
12V battery, charging system (alternator), starting system, lighting system, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams, power windows, mirrors, locks, climate control blower.
Body & Interior:
Body panel removal/installation, interior trim, seats, doors, sunroof, basic bodywork repair, paint codes.
HVAC:
Climate control system, A/C compressor, refrigerant, heating core, blower motor, diagnostic procedures.
Diagnostics:
OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics II) fault codes, diagnostic connector locations, diagnostic tool usage.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement.
Component Replacement:
Detailed step-by-step guides for replacing major components like water pump, alternator, starter, brake calipers, wheel bearings, etc.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic trees and symptom-based troubleshooting for common and uncommon issues across all systems.
Reassembly:
Torque specifications for critical fasteners, assembly sequence guidance, and alignment procedures.
Electrical Diagnosis:
Schematic interpretation, continuity testing, voltage drop testing, component testing procedures.
Depth:
Comprehensive; covers everything from basic maintenance to in-depth diagnostics and major component overhauls. Suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIYers.
Engine Type:
Inline 6-Cylinder, DOHC, 24 Valves
Displacement:
2.8 Liters (2799 cc)
Horsepower:
Approx. 201 hp @ 5,700 rpm
Torque:
Approx. 189 lb-ft @ 4,400 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), likely Bosch KE-Jetronic or ME-System depending on specific market/production date. Features sequential fuel injection.
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)
ECU:
Engine Control Unit (ECU) manages fuel, ignition, and emissions. Diagnostic protocols via OBD-II.
Type:
5-Speed Automatic Transmission (722.6 '5G-TRONIC')
Type:
5-Speed Manual Transmission (less common in North America)
Automatic Features:
Driver-selectable modes (e.g., Comfort/Sport), electronic control, integrated torque converter lock-up.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Mercedes-Benz Specification 236.10 or 236.12 (e.g., MB Mobil ATF 3403, Shell ATF 134). Refer to manual for exact type.
Automatic Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approx. 8.0 - 9.0 Liters (depending on torque converter drain)
Length:
Approx. 4516 mm (177.8 inches)
Width:
Approx. 1725 mm (67.9 inches)
Height:
Approx. 1422 mm (55.9 inches)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2713 mm (106.8 inches)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1500-1550 kg (3307-3417 lbs)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (Gvwr):
Varies by configuration, consult specific vehicle VIN.
Trunk Volume:
Approx. 455 Liters (16.1 cubic feet)
NHTSA Crash Test:
Refer to NHTSA data for specific model year; typically performed well for its era. Likely 4/5 stars in frontal impact for driver.
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System.
Traction Control:
Often included (ASR - Acceleration Slip Regulation).
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags, optional side airbags.
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts with pre-tensioners for front occupants.
Chassis Construction:
Reinforced safety cell, crumple zones.
Audio System:
Factory premium sound system, potentially with cassette and CD player. Optional Bose sound system.
Climate Control:
Optional automatic climate control (Thermatic/Thermotronic) offering precise temperature regulation.
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control.
Headlights:
Halogen headlamps, with projector-beam technology potentially available on some trims. Auto-dimming rearview mirror often standard.
Original Connectivity:
Limited by modern standards. May include provisions for early car phone integration or external antenna connections.
Oil Change:
Typically every 7,500 - 10,000 miles (12,000 - 16,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first, with synthetic oil.
Spark Plugs:
Platinum or Iridium plugs, often rated for 100,000 miles (160,000 km).
Transmission Fluid & Filter:
Recommended service interval around 60,000 - 80,000 miles (96,000 - 128,000 km) for the automatic transmission.
Coolant:
Mercedes-Benz specification coolant (e.g., Zerex G-05 or equivalent) with a service life of approximately 5 years or 100,000 miles.
Engine Oil:
API SJ or higher, ACEA A2-96 or B2-96. Recommended viscosity: 0W-40 or 5W-40 synthetic.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4. Replace every 2 years.
Power Steering Fluid:
Mercedes-Benz Specification 236.3 (e.g., Pentosin CHF 11S or equivalent).
Common Wear Items:
Mass airflow sensor (MAF) issues, ignition coil packs, spark plug wires (if applicable), crankcase ventilation (PCV) system clogging, fuel pump reliability, suspension bushings (especially lower control arms), window regulator mechanisms.
Electronic Gremlins:
While generally robust, older models can develop intermittent electrical issues due to aging wiring harnesses or control modules. EIS (Electronic Ignition Switch) issues can occur.
Rust:
Check wheel arches, rocker panels, and around windows for potential rust, especially in areas with road salt.
Mercedes-Benz Legacy:
Mercedes-Benz has a long-standing reputation for engineering excellence, luxury, and safety since its inception in the early 20th century.
W202 Generation:
The W202 chassis, introduced in 1993, was Mercedes-Benz's first compact executive sedan. The C280 was a mid-to-late lifecycle model within this generation, often featuring updated engines and amenities.
Production Years:
W202 chassis produced from 1993 to 2000. The 1999 C280 is part of the later facelifted models with improved styling and technology.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Germany (Sindelfingen, Bremen), with potential assembly in other global locations.
