Segment:
Executive Sedan/Wagon
Brand Perception:
Luxury, engineering excellence, reliability, advanced technology
Key Competitors:
BMW 5 Series (E39), Audi A6 (C5), Lexus GS (JZS160), Volvo S80
Design Philosophy:
Modern, flowing lines with signature Mercedes-Benz cues; focus on aerodynamics and comfort
Innovations:
Introduction of CAN-bus architecture, enhanced safety systems, improved aerodynamics, optional bi-xenon headlights
Vehicle Model Years Covered:
1996-2003 (W210 Chassis)
Engine Variants Covered:
All gasoline and diesel engines offered for W210 chassis
Trim Levels Covered:
All trim levels (e.g., Classic, Elegance, Avantgarde, AMG variants)
Estimated Page Count:
1500+
Type:
Factory Service Repair Manual
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, engine management (ME, KE, CDI), fuel system, cooling system, lubrication system, exhaust system
Drivetrain:
Transmission (automatic & manual), drive shafts, differentials, axles
Chassis And Suspension:
Front suspension, rear suspension, steering system, brake system (hydraulic, ABS, ESP)
Electrical And Electronics:
Wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, lighting system, instrument cluster, body control module (BCM), comfort systems (e.g., climate control, power seats, windows), SRS (airbag) system, engine control unit (ECU) diagnostics
Body And Interior:
Body panels, doors, windows, seats, dashboard, climate control system components, interior trim
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes (oil, coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid), filter replacements, spark plug replacement, belt replacement
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting, electrical system diagnostics
Repair And Rebuild:
Engine component overhaul, transmission repair, brake caliper rebuild, suspension component replacement, electrical component repair/replacement
Disassembly And Assembly:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and reassembly
Depth:
Comprehensive factory-level coverage for professional technicians and experienced DIYers
Detail Level:
Detailed illustrations, diagrams, torque specifications, clearances, and diagnostic procedures
Engine Lineup Example 1:
M111 (2.0L Inline-4, Supercharged) - e.g., E200 Kompressor
Engine Lineup Example 2:
M112 (2.4L/2.6L/2.8L/3.2L V6) - e.g., E240, E280, E320
Engine Lineup Example 3:
M113 (4.3L/5.0L V8) - e.g., E430, E500 (E55 AMG)
Engine Lineup Example 4:
OM604 (2.2L Inline-4 Turbo Diesel), OM605 (2.5L Inline-5 Turbo Diesel), OM606 (3.0L Inline-6 Turbo Diesel) - e.g., E220 CDI, E250 TD, E300 TD
Horsepower Range:
136 hp (E200 Diesel) to 354 hp (E55 AMG)
Torque Range:
210 Nm (E200 Diesel) to 525 Nm (E55 AMG)
Gasoline Injection Type:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with sequential multi-port injection (MPI) or direct injection (early CGI in some markets)
Diesel Injection Type:
Common Rail Direct Injection (CDI) for later models, mechanically controlled injection pumps for earlier models
Standard Transmission:
5-speed Manual (less common in North America)
Optional Transmission 1:
5-speed Automatic (722.6 'NAG' series)
Optional Transmission 2:
5-speed Automatic (722.4) for earlier models with smaller engines
Optional Transmission 3:
5-speed AMG Speedshift Automatic (722.6 AMG)
Automatic Features:
Touchshift (manual selection of gears), Comfort/Sport modes
Length:
Approx. 4818 mm (189.7 in)
Width:
Approx. 1799 mm (70.8 in)
Height:
Approx. 1451 mm (57.1 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2833 mm (111.5 in)
Trunk Volume:
Approx. 500 liters (17.7 cu ft) for sedan
Curb Weight Range:
Approx. 1500 kg - 1850 kg (3300 lbs - 4080 lbs) depending on engine and equipment
NHTSA Front Crash Test:
4/5 stars (for models equipped with side airbags and pretensioners)
IIHS Ratings:
Good (for models with improved structural integrity and safety features)
Active Safety Features:
ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), ASR (Acceleration Slip Regulation), ESP (Electronic Stability Program) on later models, Brake Assist (BAS)
Passive Safety Features:
Front and side airbags (standard/optional), front and rear crumple zones, seatbelt pretensioners, head restraints
Infotainment System:
COMAND (Cockpit Management and Navigation Device) optional, featuring CD player, radio, navigation, and cassette player; basic radio/cassette systems also available.
Driver Assistance Features:
Optional features included Parktronic (parking sensors), Xenon headlights, rain-sensing wipers, and cruise control.
Connectivity Features:
Limited by era; primarily focused on analog systems, with some later models offering early forms of telematics or hands-free phone integration.
Oil Change Interval:
Variable Service Interval (VSI) system, typically 15,000 km (9,300 miles) or 1 year, whichever comes first (depending on driving conditions and oil specification)
Major Service Interval:
Service A/B intervals, typically around 40,000-60,000 km (25,000-37,000 miles) or 2-3 years, encompassing more comprehensive checks and replacements.
Engine Oil Specification Gasoline:
MB 229.1, MB 229.3, MB 229.5 (e.g., SAE 0W-40, 5W-40, 5W-30 depending on variant and temperature)
Engine Oil Specification Diesel:
MB 229.1, MB 229.3, MB 229.5 (for common rail diesel), MB 228.3 (for older diesel models)
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
MB 236.10, MB 236.12, MB 236.14 (e.g., ATF NAG2 VIO)
Coolant Specification:
MB 325.0 or MB 325.5 (Glycol-based, Phosphate-free, silicate-free)
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 4 (MB specification: 331.0)
Common Issues Examples:
Corrosion (especially around wheel arches and door bottoms), MAF sensor issues (gasoline), vacuum leaks (various engines), transmission conductor plate failure (722.6), blower motor resistor failure, SRS warning light (due to seat occupancy sensor or airbag module), coolant leaks from plastic components, crank position sensor failure.
Heritage:
Mercedes-Benz's long-standing reputation for engineering, safety, and luxury automotive development.
Predecessor:
W124 E-Class
Design Shift:
Marked a departure from the W124's more angular design towards a more rounded, aerodynamic, and modern aesthetic, which was polarizing for some traditionalists.
Manufacturing Locations:
Germany (Sindelfingen, Bremen), South Africa, Hungary, Thailand, Malaysia, China
Automotive Press Awards:
Consistently rated highly by automotive journalists for comfort, build quality, and driving dynamics, often cited as a benchmark in its class.
Safety Awards:
Achieved good safety ratings in various international crash tests for its time, contributing to Mercedes-Benz's reputation for safety.
