Market Position:
Executive sedan positioned as a blend of luxury, comfort, and robust engineering, competing with other premium brands.
Competitors:
BMW 5 Series (E39), Audi A6 (C4/C5), Lexus GS 300, Volvo S80
Key Features:
Renowned Mercedes-Benz build quality, comfortable ride, powerful inline-six engine, advanced safety features for its era.
Model Significance:
The W210 E-Class marked a design departure from its predecessor, introducing a more rounded and aerodynamic shape.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, disassembly, overhaul, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel system, emission control system
Engine Electrical:
Ignition system, starting system, charging system, engine control unit (ECU), sensors, actuators
Transmission:
Automatic transmission (722.6 '5G-TRONIC'), overhaul, diagnostics, control module
Drivetrain:
Driveshafts, differentials, axle shafts
Suspension:
Front suspension (MacPherson struts), rear suspension (multi-link), components, geometry, alignment
Steering:
Power steering system, steering gear, steering column, linkage
Brakes:
Front ventilated discs, rear solid discs, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), ESP (Electronic Stability Program), brake hydraulics, calipers, pads, rotors
Electrical System:
12V electrical system, battery, alternator, starter, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams, lighting, power accessories
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning system, climate control, refrigerant, compressor, evaporator, heater core
Body Interior:
Interior trim, seats, dashboard, headliner, door panels, locks, windows
Body Exterior:
Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, glass, weatherstripping
Safety Systems:
Airbags (SRS - Supplemental Restraint System), seatbelts
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, tune-ups
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, fault code interpretation (OBD-II)
Repair:
Component removal, installation, adjustment, rebuilding procedures for all major systems
Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, tolerances, alignment settings, fluid capacities
Electrical Troubleshooting:
Wiring diagrams interpretation, circuit testing, component diagnosis
Rebuilds:
Detailed instructions for engine and transmission overhauls
Body Repair:
Panel replacement, alignment, glass installation, door mechanisms, convertible top service (if applicable to specific variants, though not E320 sedan).
Diagnostic Tools:
Details on using OBD-II scanners and Mercedes-specific diagnostic tools (e.g., STAR DIAGNOSIS, though not directly covered by this manual's scope, it provides context for system identification).
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including advanced electrical diagnostics.
Troubleshooting Charts:
Extensive charts correlating symptoms to potential causes and diagnostic steps.
Engine Type:
Naturally aspirated, inline 6-cylinder, DOHC
Displacement:
3.2 Liters (3199 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
89.9 mm x 84.0 mm
Engine Management:
Sophisticated electronic engine management system managing fuel injection, ignition timing, and emission controls.
Horsepower:
228 hp @ 5500 rpm
Torque:
230 lb-ft @ 3750 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) - Bosch Motronic ME 2.0
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ octane)
Coolant Capacity:
Approximately 8.5 Liters (8.9 Quarts)
Coolant Type:
Mercedes-Benz approved Antifreeze/Coolant (e.g., G48)
Oil Capacity:
Approximately 8.0 Liters (8.5 Quarts)
Oil Type:
SAE 5W-40 or 0W-40 Synthetic Oil (MB 229.1 or 229.3 specification)
Oil Change Interval:
Every 10,000 miles (16,000 km) or 1 year, whichever comes first (with synthetic oil).
Transmission Fluid Change Interval:
Recommended every 40,000-60,000 miles (64,000-96,000 km) or per Mercedes-Benz service schedule.
Coolant Change Interval:
Every 2-3 years or as per service schedule.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (MB 331.0 specification)
Power Steering Fluid Type:
MB 236.3 specification hydraulic fluid
Known Issues:
Mass airflow sensor (MAF) issues, ignition coil failures, serpentine belt tensioner problems, biodegradable wiring insulation deterioration (for vehicles with specific harness types), headlight projector lens hazing, window regulator failures, rust in wheel wells and rocker panels.