Segment:
Executive Mid-size Sedan
Competitors:
BMW 5 Series (E39), Audi A6 (C5), Lexus GS, Cadillac CTS
Powertrain:
Renowned Mercedes-Benz M112 3.2L V6 engine, smooth 5-speed automatic transmission
Comfort And Luxury:
High-quality interior materials, advanced climate control, comfortable ride, optional premium features
Safety Technology:
Advanced safety systems including ESP, ABS, and multiple airbags
Benefit To Owner:
Enables informed maintenance decisions, facilitates DIY repairs, aids in understanding vehicle systems, and supports efficient diagnostics, ultimately saving time and money.
Engine:
3.2L V6 M112.941 (Naturally Aspirated)
Engine Management:
ME 2.8, ignition system, fuel injection (Sequential MPI), emission controls (OBD-II compliant)
Transmission:
5G-Tronic Automatic Transmission (722.6 series)
Drivetrain:
Rear Wheel Drive (RWD)
Suspension:
Front: Independent McPherson strut with stabilizer bar. Rear: Independent Multi-link.
Steering:
Hydraulic Power Steering
Brakes:
Front: Vented Discs, Rear: Solid Discs. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Brake Assist (BAS), Electronic Stability Program (ESP)
Electrical:
12V System, Battery, Alternator, Starter, Lighting, Fuses, Relays, Power Distribution Module (PDM), Body Control Module (BCM)
Climate Control:
Automatic Climate Control (THERMATIC/THERMOTRONIC, if equipped)
Comfort Systems:
Power windows, locks, mirrors, seats, sunroof, cruise control
Safety Systems:
Airbags (front, side), seatbelt pretensioners, SRS (Supplemental Restraint System)
Body:
Body Panel Removal/Installation, Door mechanisms, Hood, Trunk, Bumpers, Glass
Diagnostics:
On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-II), DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Codes) lookup and interpretation
Maintenance:
Oil change, filter replacement (oil, air, cabin), spark plug replacement, fluid checks and changes (coolant, brake, power steering, transmission), battery service
Repair:
Engine component repair (e.g., cylinder head, pistons, valves), transmission overhaul, suspension component replacement (shocks, struts, bushings), brake system repair (calipers, pads, rotors), electrical component diagnosis and replacement
Troubleshooting:
System-specific fault finding trees, symptom-based diagnostics, wiring diagrams for electrical issues
Specifications:
Torque values, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical system voltages, diagnostic parameters
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specialized Mercedes-Benz tools required for specific repairs
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers routine maintenance, detailed repair procedures, and advanced diagnostic techniques. Suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIYers.
Engine Type:
V6, SOHC (3 valves per cylinder - 2 intake, 1 exhaust per cylinder)
Displacement:
3.2 Liters (3199 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
89.9 mm x 84.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.0:1
Horsepower:
221 hp @ 5750 RPM
Torque:
232 lb-ft @ 3000-4250 RPM
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)
Cooling System:
Pressurized liquid cooling with thermostat and electric fan
Lubrication System:
Wet sump, positive displacement oil pump
Type:
5-Speed Automatic (5G-Tronic)
Control:
Electronic Control Unit (ECU) with driver-selectable modes (e.g., Comfort, Sport)
Torque Converter:
Lock-up torque converter for improved efficiency
Transmission Fluid Type:
MB Spec 236.10 (e.g., Mobil ATF 220, Pentosin ATF 4)
Fluid Capacity Approx:
8.0 - 9.0 Liters (depending on drain and fill vs. complete overhaul)
NHTSA Front Crash Test:
5-Star (Driver and Passenger)
NHTSA Side Impact Test:
4-Star (Front Passenger), 5-Star (Rear Passenger)
Electronic Stability Program Esp:
Standard
Anti Lock Braking System ABS:
Standard
Brake Assist Bas:
Standard
Airbags:
Frontal airbags (driver and passenger), Side-impact airbags (front)
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia-reel seatbelts with front belt tensioners and belt force limiters
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000 miles or 1 year, whichever comes first, depending on driving conditions and oil quality used. Consult manual for specific 'Service A' or 'Service B' indicators.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 - 40,000 miles, or as indicated by vehicle's maintenance system.
Cabin Filter Replacement:
Annually or every 15,000 - 20,000 miles.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically around 100,000 miles for iridium spark plugs (as used in M112).
Engine Oil Specification:
MB Spec 229.5 (e.g., Mobil 1 0W-40, Castrol Syntec 0W-40). Always verify with manual.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 8.0 Liters (with filter change)
Coolant Specification:
MB Spec 325.0 (HOAT - Hybrid Organic Acid Technology, typically blue or green in color)
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 4 Plus (e.g., Pentosin DOT 4 LV)
Common Issues:
Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor failures, ignition coil failures, SBC (Sensotronic Brake Control) issues (later models, but related systems on W210), early signs of rust/corrosion on wheel arches and sills, potential cooling system component leaks (hoses, expansion tank), transmission conductor plate issues in some cases.
Manufacturer Focus:
Luxury automobiles, engineering excellence, safety innovation
W210 Generation:
Second generation of the E-Class (W210), introduced in 1995 (for 1996 model year), facelifted in 1999.
2001 Model Year Updates:
Typically minor updates for this year, building upon the 1999 facelift which brought revised styling (e.g., clearer headlights, new bumpers), updated interior, and improved powertrain options.
Production Years W210:
1995-2002
Manufacturing Location:
Various Mercedes-Benz plants globally, including Germany and potentially others depending on market.