🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mercedes-Benz

Model:

C320

Year:

2005

Chassis Code:

W203

Engine Code:

M271 (Supercharged Inline-4 for C200 Kompressor, M112 V6 for C320)

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The 2005 Mercedes-Benz C320 (W203 generation) occupied the premium compact executive sedan segment, competing with rivals like the BMW 3 Series, Audi A4, and Lexus IS.

Competitive Analysis:

The C320 was praised for its refined interior, sophisticated ride, powerful V6 engine (in the C320 variant), and Mercedes-Benz's reputation for safety and build quality, although it was often positioned as a more comfort-oriented alternative to sportier competitors.

Key Features:

The W203 C-Class featured a contemporary design, advanced safety features like ESP, and a range of efficient and powerful engines. The C320 model offered a balance of performance and luxury for its class.

📋 Manual Details

Systems Covered:

Engine, Transmission, Brakes, Suspension, Steering, HVAC, Electrical Systems, Bodywork, Interior, Diagnostics, Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Wiring Diagrams, Specifications

Model Variants Covered:

Specifically for the C320 Sedan (W203), but may contain general information applicable to other W203 variants if shared components exist.

Page Count:

Extensive (Software-based, dynamic content)

Manual Type:

Official Service and Repair Manual Software

Language:

English

Format:

Software (Digital Download/Online Access)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Detailed diagnosis and repair for M112 V6 engine (C320), including timing, cooling, fuel injection, lubrication, exhaust, ignition, emissions control, and supercharger system (if applicable to specific C320 variants).

Transmission:

Comprehensive coverage of the 722.6 (5G-TRONIC) automatic transmission, including hydraulic systems, electronic control module (TCM), gear shifting logic, torque converter, maintenance, and repair procedures.

Brakes:

Diagnosis and repair of the Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Program (ESP), Brake Assist (BAS), and standard hydraulic brake components. Includes procedures for pad and rotor replacement, fluid bleeding, and component testing.

Suspension Steering:

Detailed information on front and rear suspension components (struts, control arms, ball joints, bushings), steering system (rack and pinion, power steering), alignment procedures, and wheel bearing replacement.

Electrical Systems:

Extensive electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, component locations, fuse box layouts, and troubleshooting guides for all vehicle electrical systems, including lighting, power windows, central locking, comfort systems, and diagnostic interfaces (OBD-II).

Body Interior:

Body panel repair, door panel removal, seat adjustment mechanisms, trim piece replacement, and interior component diagnostics.

Comfort Control:

HVAC system diagnosis, blower motor replacement, climate control module troubleshooting, refrigerant system service (with appropriate precautions).

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance tasks, oil changes, filter replacements (oil, air, cabin, fuel), spark plug replacement, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotation, and brake inspections.

Repair Rebuild:

Step-by-step instructions for engine component repair (e.g., cylinder head, pistons, valves), transmission overhaul, brake caliper replacement, suspension arm replacement, and body panel repair.

Diagnostics Troubleshooting:

Systematic diagnostic procedures for identifying and resolving common and complex issues using diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), live data analysis, component testing, and wiring diagram interpretation.

Installation Replacement:

Procedures for replacing common wear items such as belts, hoses, spark plugs, brake pads, rotors, filters, and other service components.

Technical Depth:

Expert-level, covering complete vehicle diagnostics, repair, and rebuilding procedures, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts.

Diagnostic Tools Required:

Requires a Mercedes-Benz compatible diagnostic scanner (e.g., STAR Diagnosis/XENTRY) for advanced troubleshooting and module programming.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

Proprietary software format with searchability and interactive diagrams.

Print Quality:

N/A (Digital Format)

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

Completeness:

Officially licensed and comprehensive, covering all aspects of service, repair, diagnostics, and maintenance as intended by the manufacturer.

Searchability:

Software format allows for keyword searching of specific procedures, parts, or symptoms.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

3.2L V6 SOHC (M112 E32)

Displacement:

3199 cc (195.2 cu in)

Horsepower:

215 hp @ 5750 rpm

Torque:

229 lb-ft @ 3000-4500 rpm

Fuel Injection:

Sequential Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)

Coolant Type:

MB-Approval 325.0 Coolant (Glysantin G05 or equivalent)

Emission Controls:

Catalytic converter, oxygen sensors, secondary air injection system (depending on market), crankcase ventilation (PCV).

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-speed automatic (722.6 5G-TRONIC)

Optional Transmission:

None offered for C320 in 2005

Transmission Features:

TouchShift (manual shifting control), electronically controlled gear selection, adaptive shift programs.

Transmission Fluid Type:

MB-Approval 236.10 ATF (e.g., Mobil ATF 134)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

177.7 in (4513 mm)

Width:

68.0 in (1727 mm)

Height:

55.7 in (1415 mm)

Wheelbase:

106.7 in (2710 mm)

Curb Weight:

3450 lbs (1565 kg) approx.

Interior Volume:

Approx. 95.7 cu ft (passenger), 12.6 cu ft (trunk)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact:

5 Stars

NHTSA Side Impact:

5 Stars

IIHS Frontal Offset:

Good

Active Safety Features:

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

Passive Safety Features:

Front airbags, side airbags, front and rear head curtain airbags, front seatbelt pre-tensioners, crumple zones, LATCH child seat anchors.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Based on COMAND (Cockpit Management and Navigation) system with options for CD player, radio, and navigation. Aux input availability may vary by specific vehicle configuration.

Driver Assistance Features:

Cruise control, rain-sensing wipers, automatic climate control, parking assist sensors (optional).

Connectivity Options:

Optional Mercedes-Benz Tele Aid emergency system. Bluetooth connectivity was not standard on all models and often an option requiring a cradle.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first, or as indicated by the 'Service A'/'Service B' reminders on the instrument cluster.

Major Service Intervals:

Major services (e.g., spark plugs, transmission fluid) typically around 40,000-60,000 miles, refer to manual for specific intervals.

Engine Oil Type:

MB-Approval 229.5 (e.g., Mobil 1 0W-40 Synthetic)

Engine Oil Capacity:

7.9 US quarts (7.5 Liters) with filter change

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 4 Plus (MB-Approval 331.0 or DOT 4 Plus equivalent)

Power Steering Fluid:

MB-Approval 236.3 or Pentosin CHF 11 S (check specific manual requirement)

Coolant Capacity:

Approx. 8.0 US quarts (7.6 Liters)

Common Issues:

Oil cooler seals (leaks), crankcase ventilation hose degradation, mass airflow sensor (MAF) issues, ABS/ESP sensor failures, ignition coil failures, rear main crankshaft seal leaks, window regulator failures.

Maintenance Focus Areas:

Regularly inspect and replace PCV hoses, monitor oil cooler for leaks, and ensure proper function of MAF sensor. Transmission service at recommended intervals is crucial for longevity.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Mercedes-Benz boasts over a century of automotive innovation, renowned for engineering excellence, luxury, safety, and durability.

Model Evolution:

The W203 C-Class generation, launched in 2000, represented a significant modernization of the C-Class line, introducing more advanced technology, improved safety, and a sportier design language compared to its W202 predecessor. The C320 model provided a more potent V6 engine option within the lineup.

Production Years W203:

2000-2007

Manufacturing Locations:

Germany (Sindelfingen, Bremen), South Africa, Hungary, Malaysia.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recalls:

Potential recalls may exist for various safety and mechanical aspects. Specific recall information should be verified with Mercedes-Benz or NHTSA for individual vehicles.

Consumer Reports Rating:

Ratings vary by model year; generally considered average to good reliability for its class, with specific models and engine variants having different reliability scores.