Class:
Executive Sedan/Wagon
Brand Perception:
Luxury, comfort, performance, advanced technology.
Competitors:
BMW 5 Series, Audi A6, Lexus GS, Jaguar XF, Volvo S80/V70.
Design:
Elegant and modern styling, distinct 'four-eye' headlights (early models), sophisticated interior.
Technology:
Advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), premium infotainment, efficient engine options.
Safety:
High safety ratings, comprehensive airbag systems, innovative safety features.
Engine:
Internal combustion engines (e.g., M272, M273, M276, M156, OM651, OM642) - diagnostics, repair, overhaul, timing, cooling, lubrication, fuel injection, emissions control.
Transmission:
Automatic transmissions (e.g., 7G-TRONIC PLUS, 9G-TRONIC) - diagnostics, repair, fluid service, mechatronics unit, torque converter.
Drivetrain:
All-wheel drive (4MATIC), rear-wheel drive, differentials, drive shafts, axles, CV joints.
Brakes:
Hydraulic systems, ABS, ESP, SBC (if applicable to early models), brake pads, rotors, calipers, parking brake, brake fluid specifications.
Suspension Steering:
Front and rear suspension components (struts, shocks, control arms, springs), power steering system, steering rack, alignment specifications.
Electrical Electronics:
Body control modules (BCM), engine control modules (ECM), transmission control modules (TCM), CAN bus communication, wiring diagrams, lighting systems, power windows, seats, mirrors, sensors, actuators, fuse/relay locations.
Body Chassis:
Body panel repair, structural integrity, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, glass replacement, interior trim, corrosion protection.
HVAC:
Air conditioning system, heater core, climate control unit, refrigerant R134a/R1234yf, blower motor, evaporator, condenser.
Infotainment Navigation:
COMAND system, audio components, navigation unit, Bluetooth connectivity, media interfaces (e.g., AUX, USB).
Safety Restraints:
Airbag systems, seat belt pretensioners, occupant classification systems.
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements (oil, air, cabin, fuel), spark plug replacement, brake fluid flush, coolant flush, transmission fluid service, differential fluid service.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), interpretation of sensor data, use of Mercedes-Benz diagnostic tools (e.g., STAR Diagnosis/XENTRY).
Repair:
Step-by-step repair procedures for all major components, including engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, brake system repairs, suspension replacement, electrical system diagnosis and repair, bodywork.
Installation Replacement:
Installation and replacement of parts such as alternators, starters, fuel pumps, water pumps, radiators, exhaust systems, catalytic converters, turbochargers (if applicable).
Calibration Programming:
Calibration of sensors (e.g., steering angle sensor, ride height sensors), programming of control modules.
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic maintenance tasks to complete engine and transmission overhauls, detailed electrical troubleshooting, and body repair procedures.
Detail Level:
Extremely detailed, with explicit torque specifications, component removal and installation sequences, special tool requirements, and diagnostic flowcharts.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000 - 15,000 miles or 1 year, depending on driving conditions and model year (refer to manual for specific recommendations).
Major Service Intervals:
Major services (e.g., spark plugs, transmission fluid) typically recommended at 40,000 - 60,000 mile intervals.
Engine Oil Spec:
MB 229.5 or MB 229.51 approved synthetic oil (e.g., 0W-40, 5W-40, 5W-30 depending on engine and climate).
Transmission Fluid Spec:
MB 236.14 for 7G-TRONIC PLUS, MB 236.15 for 9G-TRONIC.
Coolant Spec:
MB 325.0 or MB 326.0 (Ethylene Glycol based, blue or green color).
Brake Fluid Spec:
DOT 4 Plus (MB 331.0).
Common Problems Early W212:
M272/M273 engine balance shaft spline wear, oil cooler leaks, timing chain guides (on some variants), early transmission control unit issues.
Common Problems Later W212:
OM651 diesel engine injector sealing issues, AdBlue system faults (if equipped), electronic parking brake faults, sensor failures.
