🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mercedes-Benz

Model:

C-Class

Model Variant:

C350

Year:

2008

Chassis Code:

W204

Production Code:

C350

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact Executive Sedan

Brand Perception:

Represents Mercedes-Benz's entry-level luxury offering, known for its blend of comfort, technology, and premium build quality.

Key Competitors:

BMW 3 Series, Audi A4, Lexus IS, Infiniti G35/G37

Design Philosophy:

Emphasizes a dynamic yet elegant design, reflecting Mercedes-Benz's modern styling cues.

Powertrain Offering:

The C350 model specifically highlights a potent V6 engine, providing a balance of performance and refinement.

Technology Integration:

Features advanced infotainment, climate control, and driver assistance systems for its era.

📋 Manual Details

Systems Covered:

Introduction, Instrument Cluster, Entertainment Systems, Climate Controls, Lights, Driver Controls, Locks and Security, Seating and Safety Restraints, Driving, Customer Assistance, Reporting Safety Defects (U.S. Only), Cleaning, Maintenance and Specifications, Engine Compartment, Engine Oil, Battery, Fuel Information, Air Filter(s), Part Numbers, Refill Capacities, Lubricant Specifications, Accessories

Estimated Pages:

Refer to original factory manual page count (typically 300-500 pages for this model)

Type:

Owner's Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Management:

Detailed information on engine operation, fluid levels, and basic checks.

Electrical Systems:

Covers lighting operation, instrument cluster indicators, and basic electrical functions.

Infotainment:

Information on operating the entertainment systems (e.g., radio, CD player).

Climate Control:

Operation of the climate control system and air conditioning.

Security:

Details on the vehicle's locking mechanisms, alarm system, and anti-theft features.

Safety Restraints:

Comprehensive coverage of airbags, seat belts, and child seat installation.

Basic Maintenance:

Instructions for checking fluid levels (oil, coolant, brake fluid, washer fluid), tire pressure, and light bulb replacement.

Driving Operations:

Guidance on vehicle operation, starting, stopping, parking, and using various controls.

Troubleshooting Basic:

Information on interpreting dashboard warning lights and common indicators.

Cleaning Care:

Recommendations for interior and exterior cleaning and care of materials.

Customer Assistance:

Information on contacting Mercedes-Benz customer support and dealership services.

Safety Defect Reporting:

Specific instructions for reporting safety defects in the U.S.

Depth:

Owner-level understanding of vehicle functions, maintenance, and basic care. Does not include detailed diagnostic procedures or repair instructions typically found in a service manual.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Readability:

Requires a PDF reader (e.g., Adobe Acrobat Reader, Foxit Reader).

Device Compatibility:

Compatible with any device capable of reading PDF files (computers, tablets, smartphones).

Quality:

Digital reproduction of factory original, quality depends on source scan.

Binding:

Not applicable (digital format)

Paper Type:

Not applicable (digital format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

M272 (V6)

Engine Type:

Naturally Aspirated V6

Displacement:

3.5 Liters (3498 cc)

Bore X Stroke:

92.9 mm x 86.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

10.7:1

Horsepower:

268 hp @ 6000 rpm

Torque:

258 lb-ft @ 2400-5000 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane or higher recommended)

Cooling System:

Pressurized coolant system

Engine Oil Type:

Mobil 1 Synthetic or equivalent meeting MB-Approval 229.5

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

7-speed Automatic (7G-TRONIC)

Optional Transmission:

N/A for C350 in 2008 model year

Transmission Modes:

Comfort (C) and Sport (S) modes

Transmission Fluid Type:

MB 236.14 (ATF) - Specific fluid for 7G-TRONIC

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

108.7 inches (2760 mm)

Length:

180.0 inches (4571 mm)

Width:

69.3 inches (1761 mm)

Height:

56.2 inches (1428 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approximately 3500-3600 lbs (1588-1633 kg)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approx. 4600 lbs (2087 kg)

Towing Capacity:

Not recommended or specified for this model.

Trunk Volume:

12.4 cu ft (351 Liters)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Crash Rating:

5-Star (Driver and Passenger)

IIHS Side Impact Rating:

Good

Electronic Stability Control:

Standard (ESP - Electronic Stability Program)

Traction Control:

Standard (ASR - Acceleration Slip Regulation)

Antilock Braking System:

Standard (ABS)

Brake Assist:

Standard (BAS - Brake Assist System)

Airbags:

Frontal airbags, side airbags (front), window airbags (front and rear), driver knee airbag.

Seat Belts:

3-point inertia-reel seat belts with belt tensioners and force limiters.

Child Seat Anchors:

ISOFIX/LATCH system

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Standard audio system with CD player, AM/FM radio. Optional COMAND APS infotainment system with navigation, larger display, and more advanced features.

Connectivity:

Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling and audio streaming (if equipped).

Cruise Control:

Standard cruise control.

Parking Assistance:

Optional parking sensors (front and rear).

Lighting Systems:

Automatic headlights, halogen or optional bi-xenon headlights with cornering illumination.

Climate Control Type:

Automatic climate control (THERMATIC) or dual-zone automatic climate control (THERMATIC) or three-zone automatic climate control (THERMATIC).

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Variable, based on 'Assyst' flexible service system, typically around 10,000 miles or 1 year, whichever comes first (refer to manual for precise guidance).

Major Service Intervals:

Key service intervals (e.g., spark plugs, transmission fluid, brake fluid) are typically at higher mileage milestones (e.g., 40,000-60,000 miles) and detailed in the manual or service booklet.

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approximately 6.9 quarts (6.5 liters) with filter change.

Coolant Type:

Mercedes-Benz Approved Antifreeze/Coolant (e.g., ZEREX G-05 or equivalent meeting MB-Approval 325.0 or 325.5).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 4 Plus (SAE J1703 or FMVSS 116).

Windshield Washer Fluid:

Mercedes-Benz Genuine Windshield Washer Concentrate or equivalent, diluted as per instructions.

Engine Component Wear:

Potential for intake manifold flap servo failure and oil cooler seal leaks on the M272 engine. Timing chain balance shaft sprocket wear has also been noted in some early M272 engines, though less common on later revisions.

Electrical Component Failure:

Occasional reports of seat control module failures or minor electrical gremlins, typical for complex luxury vehicles.

Suspension Components:

Wear on control arm bushings and ball joints can occur over time, especially in climates with rough roads.

Oil Filter Part Number:

Mann-Filter HU 718/5 y or Mercedes-Benz A0001802609

Air Filter Part Number:

Mann-Filter C 30 130 or Mercedes-Benz A2030940204

Transmission Fluid Capacity:

Approximately 9 quarts (8.5 liters) for a complete drain and fill of the 7G-TRONIC transmission.

📚 Vehicle History

Heritage:

Mercedes-Benz has a long-standing reputation for automotive engineering excellence, luxury, and safety since its inception.

Generation:

W204 generation, introduced for the 2008 model year, representing a significant redesign from the previous W203.

Design Update:

Featured a more aggressive and contemporary exterior design with a prominent grille-mounted star, moving away from the traditional headlight-integrated star.

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily manufactured in Germany, with production also occurring in other global facilities.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Industry Awards:

The W204 C-Class generally received positive reviews from automotive publications for its driving dynamics, interior quality, and technology for its time.

Safety Certifications:

Achieved high safety ratings from major regulatory bodies like NHTSA and IIHS.