Segment:
Compact Executive Sedan
Target Audience:
Owners seeking professional-level maintenance and repair guidance
Competitors:
BMW 3 Series (E36), Audi A4 (B5), Lexus ES 300
Differentiators:
Mercedes-Benz engineering reputation, refined interior, smooth inline-6 engine
Manual Benefit:
Enables DIY maintenance and repairs, saving on labor costs and ensuring correct procedures
Official Licensing:
Confirms accuracy and completeness of information
Engine:
M104 2.8L Inline-6 Engine (12-valve)
Engine Management:
Bosch LH-Jetronic Fuel Injection and Ignition System
Transmission:
4-Speed Automatic Transmission (722.4)
Drivetrain:
Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD)
Suspension:
Front: Independent, MacPherson struts; Rear: Independent, Multi-link
Brakes:
Front: Ventilated Discs; Rear: Discs, ABS
Steering:
Power-assisted recirculating ball
Electrical:
12V System, Lighting, Wipers, Horn, Power Accessories
Climate Control:
HVAC System, A/C Compressor, Heater Core
Body:
Body Panel Removal, Interior Trim, Sealing
Body Electrical:
Power Windows, Power Locks, Seat Adjustment, Mirrors
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance, Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Spark Plug Replacement
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting Flowcharts, Symptom-Based Diagnosis, DTC Interpretation (OBD-I)
Repair:
Component Removal and Installation, Engine Rebuild, Transmission Overhaul, Brake System Repair, Suspension Component Replacement
Adjustment:
Throttle Linkage, Parking Brake Adjustment, Headlight Aiming
Testing:
Compression Testing, Fuel Pressure Testing, Electrical Circuit Testing
Depth:
Comprehensive: From basic fluid checks to complete engine and transmission overhauls
Diagnostic Tools:
Diagnostic Procedures for OBD-I (On-Board Diagnostics - First Generation)
Configuration:
2.8L (2799 cc) DOHC 12-Valve Inline-6
Horsepower:
190 hp @ 5500 rpm (approx.)
Torque:
181 lb-ft @ 3750 rpm (approx.)
Injection Type:
Bosch LH-Jetronic Electronic Fuel Injection
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded (91+ octane recommended)
Coolant Type:
Mercedes-Benz Approved Antifreeze/Coolant (e.g., G05)
Oil Type:
API SG, ACEA A2/B2, or Mercedes-Benz Specification 229.1 (e.g., 5W-40 or 10W-40)
Oil Capacity:
7.0 Liters (7.4 US Quarts) with filter change
Spark Plugs:
NGK BKR5EKU (or equivalent, check manual for exact spec)
Transmission Type:
N/A (5-speed manual was optional on some C-Class models, but not typically the C280 in US market)
Torque Converter:
Lock-up torque converter for improved fuel efficiency
Fluid Type:
MB Approval 236.2 (e.g., ATF Dexron II or equivalent, confirm with manual)
Capacity:
Approx. 7.5 Liters (7.9 US Quarts) for complete fill (check dipstick)
NHTSA Front Impact:
4-star (driver), 4-star (passenger) - 1995 model year testing
IIHS Side Impact:
Good (for models equipped with side airbags, which were optional/later availability)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Airbags:
Driver and Passenger Front Airbags (SRS - Supplemental Restraint System)
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia-reel seat belts with pre-tensioners
Body Structure:
Reinforced safety cage, crumple zones
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM Stereo with Cassette Player, optional CD changer integration
Display:
Analog gauges, basic digital clock and odometer
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control
Traction Control:
Optional ASR (Acceleration Slip Regulation) on some models
Auxiliary Input:
N/A (aftermarket modifications required)
Oil Change:
Every 7,500 - 10,000 miles (12,000 - 15,000 km) or annually, depending on driving conditions (refer to manual for specific flex service intervals)
Transmission Fluid:
Every 30,000 - 50,000 miles (48,000 - 80,000 km) or as per 'Service A'/'Service B' indicators (refer to manual)
Air Filter:
Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles (24,000 - 48,000 km)
Spark Plugs:
Every 60,000 - 100,000 miles (96,000 - 160,000 km) for platinum or iridium plugs (check manual for exact replacement interval)
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (Mercedes-Benz approved, e.g., ATE Typ 200 or equivalent)
Power Steering Fluid:
MB Approval 236.3 (e.g., Pentosin CHF 11S or equivalent, check manual)
Engine:
Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor issues, vacuum leaks, valve cover gasket leaks, thermostat housing leaks, potential head gasket issues on higher mileage units
Transmission:
Slipping, delayed engagement, transmission control module (TCM) issues (less common on 722.4), conductor plate issues (later models)
Electrical:
Corroded wiring harnesses (biodegradable insulation), door lock actuator failures, central locking system issues, headlamp switch failures
Suspension:
Front ball joint wear, control arm bushings, rear multi-link component wear
Body:
Sunroof drain blockage leading to water ingress, rust around wheel arches and rocker panels
Manufacturer:
Daimler-Benz AG (now Mercedes-Benz Group AG)
Platform:
W202, first generation of the C-Class
Introduction Year:
1993 (for W202 platform)
Production Period:
1993-2000 (W202 generation)
Manufacturing Locations:
Germany (Sindelfingen), South Africa, others
