Positioning:
The Mercedes-Benz W202 C-Class represented Mercedes-Benz's entry into the more compact executive car segment, competing with models like the BMW 3 Series and Audi A4. It was designed to offer Mercedes-Benz quality and engineering in a more accessible package.
Competitors:
BMW E36 3 Series, Audi B5 A4, Volvo S40/V40, Saab 900/9-3.
Design Philosophy:
Emphasis on build quality, safety, comfort, and refined driving dynamics, typical of Mercedes-Benz.
Manual Value Proposition:
Empowers owners to perform maintenance and repairs, saving significant costs associated with dealership servicing, and enabling a deeper understanding of vehicle mechanics.
Years Covered:
1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000
Models Covered:
All C-Class W202 series models including Sedan (W202) and Wagon (S202) variants.
Engine Variants Covered:
All petrol and diesel engine variants offered in the W202 chassis.
Transmission Types Covered:
Manual and automatic transmissions.
Trim Levels Covered:
All trim levels and optional equipment configurations.
Estimated Page Count:
Extensive; typically several thousand pages for a complete workshop manual.
Type:
Complete Workshop Service Repair Manual
Delivery Format:
Downloadable Digital File (PDF)
Accessibility:
Printable, viewable on PC, Mac, tablets, and smartphones.
Engine:
Engine mechanical systems, fuel system, ignition system, cooling system, lubrication system, exhaust system, engine management (ECU).
Transmission:
Manual transmission overhaul and repair, automatic transmission operation, servicing, and troubleshooting.
Drivetrain:
Clutch, driveshafts, axles, differential, four-wheel drive systems (if applicable to specific models).
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, anti-roll bars.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, steering column, components.
Brakes:
Brake system hydraulics, calipers, rotors, pads, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) components and diagnosis.
Electrical:
12V electrical system, battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter), lighting, horn, wipers, power windows, central locking, fuses, relays.
Body:
Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, interior trim, glass, seals.
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system operation, service, and repair.
Diagnostics:
On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-I and early OBD-II), fault code retrieval, and troubleshooting procedures.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, inspections, lubrication.
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major and minor components.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts and procedures for identifying and resolving common and uncommon faults.
Overhaul:
Complete disassembly and reassembly of major mechanical assemblies like engines and transmissions.
Electrical Diagnostics:
Wiring diagrams, circuit testing, component testing, and repair of electrical systems.
Bodywork:
Repair and replacement procedures for body panels, collision repair guidance.
Special Tools:
Identification and usage instructions for specialized tools required for specific tasks.
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic fluid level checks and filter changes to full engine and transmission rebuilds, complex electrical diagnostics, and body panel replacement.
Engine Family Examples:
M111 (2.0L, 2.2L, 2.3L 4-cylinder), M104 (2.8L 6-cylinder), M112 (2.4L, 2.6L, 2.8L V6 introduced later), OM601 (2.0L Diesel), OM602 (2.5L Diesel), OM604 (2.2L Diesel), OM605 (2.5L Diesel), OM606 (3.0L Diesel), OM611 (2.2L CDI Diesel introduced later).
Hp Range:
Approximately 115 hp (C200 Diesel) to 204 hp (C280/C36 AMG).
Torque Range:
Approximately 190 Nm (C200 Diesel) to 280 Nm (C280).
Injection Type:
Bosch KE-Jetronic (early), Bosch HFM/PMS (later petrol), Bosch EDC (diesel), Common Rail Direct Injection (CDI on later diesel models).
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (Octane rating as per market and model), Diesel fuel.
Euroncap:
Not directly tested under modern Euro NCAP protocols. However, W202 was designed with significant safety in mind for its era.
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) across most models.
Traction Control:
ASR (Acceleration Slip Regulation) available as an option on some models.
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags standard. Side airbags (Thoraxbags) available as an option later in the production run.
Body Structure:
Reinforced safety cell, crumple zones, side-impact protection beams.
Audio Systems:
Factory fitted radio/cassette players (e.g., Becker) or optional CD players. Later models offered improved audio units.
Navigation:
Optional primitive navigation systems available on later models, often via CD-ROM.
Cruise Control:
Standard on most models or widely available option.
Parking Sensors:
Rarely factory-fitted; aftermarket installation common.
Phone Integration:
Optional integrated phone systems or preparation kits available on later models.
Oil Change:
Typically every 15,000 km (approx. 9,000 miles) or 12 months, whichever comes first, depending on driving conditions and oil type used. Refer to manual for specific engine recommendations.
Air Filter:
Recommended replacement every 30,000 km (approx. 18,000 miles) or as per manual, subject to operating environment.
Spark Plugs:
Platinum or Iridium spark plugs typically have intervals of 60,000-100,000 km (approx. 37,000-62,000 miles).
Coolant:
Mercedes-Benz recommends coolant change every 2-3 years or per manual's mileage interval (often around 40,000-60,000 km).
Engine Oil:
API SJ/SL, ACEA A2/A3 or higher. Viscosity grades like 0W-40, 5W-40, 5W-30 depending on climate and specific engine. Example: Mobil 1 0W-40 or equivalent.
Transmission Fluid Auto:
MB 236.1, 236.2, or 236.6 specification ATF (e.g., Dexron III equivalent). Consult manual for exact MB spec.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 Low Viscosity (LV) or DOT 4 Plus recommended for ABS systems. MB spec 331.0.
Coolant:
MB 325.0 (Ethylene Glycol based coolant) mixed 50/50 with distilled water. Color is typically blue.
Common Problems:
Cracked dashboard vinyl, biodegradable wiring harness insulation failure (requiring replacement), sagging headliner, MAF sensor issues on some petrol engines, tailgate pneumatic struts failure (wagon), blower motor resistor failure, ABS sensor issues, rust formation in wheel arches and sills.
Legacy:
The W202 continued Mercedes-Benz's long-standing reputation for engineering excellence, durability, and safety, introduced with the 190 (W201) as its predecessor.
Introduction:
Launched in May 1993 as the successor to the W201 (190 series). Initially offered as a sedan (W202). The T-Model wagon (S202) variant was introduced in 1996.
Facelift:
A significant facelift occurred in 1997 (for the 1998 model year), bringing updated exterior styling (clear glass headlights, revised bumpers, grille), interior trim improvements, and the introduction of the new V6 engines (M112).
Production Period:
1993 – 2000
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Germany (Sindelfingen, Bremen).
Successor:
Mercedes-Benz C-Class W203 series.
