Vehicle Segment:
Compact executive car (entry-level luxury).
Target Audience:
Consumers seeking a reliable, well-engineered, and comfortable compact luxury sedan from a premium European manufacturer.
Key Competitors:
BMW 3 Series (E36), Audi 80/A4 (B4), Lexus ES 250/300.
Vehicle Highlights:
Solid build quality, comfortable ride, refined interior, good safety features for its era, characteristic Mercedes-Benz engineering.
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides detailed, authoritative information for DIY enthusiasts and professional technicians to maintain and repair the specific 1994 C220, ensuring longevity and optimal performance.
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel injection, ignition, emission controls, engine management (ECU), diagnostics.
Transmission Systems:
Manual and automatic transmission (4-speed 4G-TRONIC) overhaul, diagnosis, fluid specifications, control systems.
Drivetrain Systems:
Driveshafts, CV joints, differential, rear axle assembly.
Suspension Systems:
Front and rear suspension (independent), struts, shocks, control arms, bushings, wheel alignment specifications.
Steering Systems:
Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, steering column, diagnosis and repair.
Brake Systems:
Front and rear disc brakes, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) diagnosis and repair, brake fluid specifications, component replacement.
Electrical Systems:
Wiring diagrams, starter, alternator, battery, lighting, fuses, relays, instrumentation, power windows, central locking, diagnostic connectors.
Body And Frame:
Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, interior trim, exterior trim, chassis components.
HVAC Systems:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system diagnosis and repair, refrigerant types, component replacement.
Maintenance Procedures:
Routine maintenance checks, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid top-offs, lubrication points.
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major vehicle systems, including engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, brake caliper replacement, suspension component upgrades.
Troubleshooting Guides:
Diagnostic flowcharts and symptom-based troubleshooting for common and complex issues across all vehicle systems.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Information on accessing diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), interpreting sensor data, and using diagnostic tools specific to the 1994 C220.
Depth Of Information:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic scheduled maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including detailed electrical schematics and component testing procedures.
Engine Type:
Inline-4, DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft)
Displacement:
2.2 Liters (2199 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
89.9 mm x 86.6 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.0:1
Horsepower:
148 hp @ 5500 rpm (approx.)
Torque:
150 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (approx.)
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch Motronic M2.8.3 multi-point fuel injection (MPI).
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, premium unleaded recommended (91-93 octane).
ECU Type:
Bosch Motronic (specific model details likely within manual).
Transmission Type:
4-speed automatic (4G-TRONIC 722.4)
Transmission Type:
5-speed manual (rare in North America for C220, more common for C200/C230 variants, but coverage may exist).
Automatic Features:
Electronically controlled, selectable driving modes (Economy/Sport).
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
MB 236.1 approved ATF (e.g., Shell ATF 3403-M115 or equivalent).
Crash Test Performance:
While specific NCAP ratings for 1994 models are not as widely publicized as modern vehicles, Mercedes-Benz's reputation for safety was strong. The W202 featured a robust safety cell and crumple zones.
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS).
Airbags:
Driver's side airbag standard. Passenger airbag may have been optional or standard depending on market/package.
Seatbelts:
Front and rear seatbelts with pre-tensioners for front occupants.
Body Structure:
Reinforced passenger compartment, energy-absorbing steering column.
Audio System:
Factory fitted AM/FM/Cassette stereo with potential for CD changer integration (optional).
Climate Control:
Manual or optional automatic climate control (Thermatic/Thermotronic).
Cruise Control:
Standard or optional cruise control system.
Diagnostic Port:
OBD-I compliant diagnostic connector, likely located under the hood or dashboard, with specific proprietary Mercedes-Benz protocols for advanced diagnostics.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 7,500-10,000 miles (12,000-16,000 km) or 12 months, depending on driving conditions (refer to manual for specific service indicator reset procedures).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles (24,000-48,000 km) or as needed based on driving environment.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically 60,000-100,000 miles (96,000-160,000 km) for iridium or platinum plugs, or sooner for older-style plugs (refer to manual for specific plug type).
Transmission Fluid Service:
Recommended at 50,000-80,000 miles (80,000-130,000 km) or as per manual's specific guidance for the 4G-TRONIC transmission.
Engine Oil Type:
API SJ or higher, SAE 0W-30, 5W-30, 5W-40, or 10W-40 viscosity (refer to manual for specific temperature-dependent recommendations).
Coolant Type:
Mercedes-Benz approved G48 antifreeze/coolant (blue-green color) or equivalent with silicates.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid (refer to manual for precise specification).
Common Wear Items:
Worn front control arm bushings, sagging headliner, potential for crankcase ventilation (CCV) system issues, ABS sensor failure, fuel pump relay failure.
Cooling System Concerns:
Plastic coolant expansion tank can become brittle and crack over time, leading to leaks. Heater control valve issues can affect HVAC performance.
Electrical Quirks:
Corroded wiring at common connection points, particularly in the engine bay, and failure of the Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor can cause drivability issues.
Manufacturer History:
Mercedes-Benz, established in 1926, has a long-standing reputation for engineering excellence, luxury, and safety in the automotive industry.
W202 Introduction:
The W202 chassis marked Mercedes-Benz's entry into the compact executive sedan segment, aiming to compete with the BMW 3 Series and Audi A4. It was introduced in 1993.
Production Years:
1993-2000 (W202 generation).
Manufacturing Locations:
Primary production in Germany (Sindelfingen, Rastatt), with some assembly in other international locations.
