Positioning:
The 2004 C32 AMG represented Mercedes-Benz's entry into the compact high-performance sedan segment, directly competing with offerings from BMW (M3) and Audi (S4) of the era. It was a potent, albeit niche, performance variant of the C-Class (W203 generation).
Competitors:
BMW E46 M3, Audi B6 S4, Cadillac CTS-V (first generation).
Performance Focus:
The defining characteristic is the AMG-tuned 3.2L supercharged V6 engine, offering significantly enhanced power and torque over standard C-Class models.
Handling Enhancements:
Features AMG-specific suspension tuning, larger brakes, and often unique wheel and tire packages to complement the increased performance.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, cylinder head, pistons, connecting rods, crankshaft, timing, lubrication, cooling system.
Engine Management:
Fuel injection system (Bosch Motronic ME 2.8), ignition system, emissions control, sensors, actuators, ECU diagnostics.
Supercharger:
Vanden Plas supercharger system, intercooling, boost pressure control, supercharger maintenance and repair.
Transmission:
5G-TRONIC 5-speed automatic transmission (722.6xx series), transmission control unit (TCU), torque converter, internal components, fluid specifications and procedures.
Drivetrain:
Rear-wheel drive system, driveshaft, differential, axles, axle shafts, U-joints.
Brakes:
Front and rear disc brakes, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), ESP (Electronic Stability Program), brake fluid specifications, bleeding procedures, component replacement.
Suspension:
Front independent suspension (McPherson struts), rear multi-link suspension, springs, shock absorbers, control arms, bushings, alignment specifications.
Steering:
Hydraulic power steering system, steering column, steering gear, power steering fluid, troubleshooting.
Electrical System:
12V battery system, alternator, starter motor, fuse box locations and descriptions, relay functions, wiring diagrams, lighting systems.
Body And Chassis:
Body panel removal and installation, doors, hood, trunk lid, interior trim, body repair procedures.
Climate Control:
HVAC system, A/C compressor, refrigerant, climate control unit, blower motor, actuators, troubleshooting.
Comfort Features:
Power windows, power seats, sunroof, remote keyless entry, central locking.
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements (oil, air, cabin, fuel), spark plug replacement, fluid checks and top-offs, brake pad replacement, belt inspection and replacement.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting guides for various systems, diagnostic flowcharts.
Repair Overhaul:
Engine component removal and installation, transmission overhaul, brake caliper rebuild, suspension component replacement, electrical component diagnostics and replacement.
Diagnostics:
Scan tool usage, sensor testing, actuator testing, electrical circuit testing, OBD-II diagnostics.
Specifications:
Torque specifications for all fasteners, engine timing specifications, diagnostic parameters, component clearances.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including detailed electrical schematics and diagnostic procedures.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000 miles or 1 year, whichever comes first (refer to manual for exact recommendation based on driving conditions).
Major Service A:
Based on the ASSYST (Active Service System) or approximately every 20,000-30,000 miles, including synthetic oil and filter change, cabin air filter replacement, inspection of brakes, suspension, and exhaust.
Major Service B:
Based on ASSYST or approximately every 40,000-60,000 miles, in addition to Service A items, may include spark plug replacement (at higher mileage), fuel filter replacement, coolant flush, and transmission fluid service.
Engine Oil Type:
Synthetic SAE 0W-40 (MB-Approval 229.5 or 229.51)
Engine Oil Capacity:
8.0 Liters (8.5 US Quarts) with filter change
Coolant Type:
Antifreeze/Coolant Concentrate (MB 325.0) mixed 50/50 with distilled water
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 Plus (MB 331.0)
Supercharger Coupler:
The rubber isolation coupler on the supercharger drive can degrade over time, leading to rattling noises or reduced boost. Replacement is a common maintenance item.
Crankshaft Position Sensor:
Failure of the crankshaft position sensor can cause intermittent stalling or no-start conditions.
Intercooler Hoses:
Aging rubber hoses in the intercooler system can develop cracks, leading to boost leaks and performance loss.
Transmission Conductor Plate:
The conductor plate in the 722.6 transmission can fail, leading to shifting problems or a complete loss of drive. This is a known common failure point across many Mercedes models using this transmission.
