Segment:
Compact Executive Sedan/Coupe/Estate
Competitors:
BMW 3 Series (E36), Audi A4 (B5), Lexus IS200/IS300, Volvo S40/V40
Brand Philosophy:
Embodied Mercedes-Benz's commitment to build quality, safety, and sophisticated engineering in a more accessible package
Design Philosophy:
Clean lines, aerodynamic profile, and a refined interior reflecting the brand's established luxury cues
Target Audience:
DIY enthusiasts and experienced professional mechanics
Cost Benefit:
Inexpensive way to maintain and repair the vehicle
Regions Covered:
Global (specifications may vary by market)
Estimated Page Count:
Extensive (specific number not provided, but described as highly detailed)
Type:
Factory Service Repair Workshop Manual
Language:
English (implied by product description)
Delivery Format:
Digital Download (PDF)
Powertrain:
Engine, transmission, clutch, drivetrain, exhaust system
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering, brakes (including ABS), wheels and tires
Electrical:
Battery, charging system, ignition, lighting, instrumentation, engine control unit (ECU), body electronics, climate control electrics, infotainment wiring
Body:
Body panels, doors, windows, seats, interior trim, exterior trim, glass, sunroof, chassis and structural components
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication, inspections
Repair Rebuild:
Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, brake system overhaul, suspension component replacement, electrical component diagnostics and repair
Diagnostics Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting, wiring diagrams for fault finding
Special Procedures:
Component disassembly and reassembly, torque specifications for critical fasteners, specialized tool usage
Depth:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to complete disassembly and rebuild)
Detail Level:
Factory level detail with step-by-step instructions and extensive illustrations/photos
Engine Codes Examples:
M111 (2.0L I4), M104 (2.8L I6), M112 (2.4L/2.6L/2.8L V6 - later models), OM601 (2.0L Diesel), OM602 (2.5L Diesel), OM611 (2.2L Diesel)
Horsepower Range:
Approximately 115 hp (diesel) to 193 hp (2.8L I6)
Torque Range:
Approximately 190 Nm (diesel) to 270 Nm (2.8L I6)
Injection Type:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) / Common Rail Direct Injection (CDI) for later diesels
Coolant Type:
Mercedes-Benz approved coolant concentrate (e.g., G48 type) mixed with distilled water
Oil Capacity Example:
Approx. 5.5 - 7.5 liters depending on engine variant
Recommended Oil Viscosity:
e.g., SAE 0W-40, 5W-40, 5W-30 (refer to manual for specific engine)
Transmission Types:
5-speed Manual, 4-speed Automatic (722.4), 5-speed Automatic (722.6 - later models)
Optional Transmissions:
Available across different engine variants and trim levels
Automatic Features:
Comfort/Sport modes, electronic control for later transmissions
Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:
MB Spec 236.1, 236.3, 236.6, 236.7, 236.10, 236.14 (specific to transmission model)
Manual Transmission Fluid Type:
MB Spec 235.10 or equivalent API GL-4/GL-5
Body Styles:
4-door Sedan (Saloon), 5-door Estate (Kombi/T-Model), 2-door Coupe (later in generation, often shared chassis)
Wheelbase Example:
Approx. 2713 mm
Length Example:
Approx. 4488 mm (Sedan)
Curb Weight Range:
Approx. 1350 kg - 1550 kg depending on engine and body style
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
Varies by model, typically around 1800 kg - 2000 kg
Era Safety Standards:
Met or exceeded European and US safety standards of the time
ABS:
Standard on most models
Traction Control:
Optional (ASR - Acceleration Slip Regulation) on some models
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags standard, optional side airbags (Pelvis side airbags)
Body Structure:
High-strength steel safety cell, crumple zones
Audio Systems:
Factory AM/FM radio, cassette player, optional CD changer, early navigation systems (APS)
Cruise Control:
Standard or optional depending on trim
Climate Control:
Manual A/C, optional automatic climate control (Thermotronic)
Original Connectivity:
Limited to radio antenna and basic wiring for accessories
Oil Change Interval Example:
Every 10,000 - 15,000 km or 12 months (whichever comes first, depending on usage and oil quality)
Major Service Interval Example:
Significant inspections typically at 40,000 km, 80,000 km, etc., including spark plugs, fuel filters, air filters
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 or DOT 3 (refer to specific vehicle data plate or manual)
Power Steering Fluid Type:
MB Spec 236.3 or Pentosin CHF 11S (refer to manual)
Common Wear Items:
Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor issues, blower motor resistor failure, ABS sensor faults, rust (especially on wheel arches and sills), vacuum line leaks, transmission conductor plate issues (722.6)
Engine Specific Issues Example:
M111 engines can have timing chain tensioner issues over time; M104 engines may develop oil leaks from the valve cover gasket
Diesel Specific Issues Example:
Glow plug failure, injector seal leaks, turbocharger issues on later models
Air Filter Example:
A 111 094 01 04 (Example for M111 engine, varies by specific model)
Oil Filter Example:
A 001 180 26 09 (Example for M111/M104 engines, varies)
Parent Company:
Daimler-Benz AG (later DaimlerChrysler AG)
Predecessor:
Mercedes-Benz 190 (W201) 'Baby Benz'
Successor:
Mercedes-Benz C-Class (W203)
Production Period:
1993-2000
Manufacturing Locations:
Germany, South Africa, and other locations globally
