Market Position:
The 1995 C36 AMG represented the inaugural AMG-tuned C-Class, establishing the 'pocket rocket' performance sedan segment for Mercedes-Benz. It was a homologation special for touring car racing, bridging the gap between everyday luxury and motorsport prowess. Aimed at enthusiasts seeking uncompromising performance and the prestige of the Mercedes-Benz brand, it competed with high-performance European sedans from brands like BMW (M3) and Audi (S4).
Competitive Analysis:
The C36 AMG was a more understated yet potent competitor to the E36 M3 sedan. While the M3 offered a more visceral driving experience and higher revving engine, the C36 AMG delivered a potent blend of brute torque, refined ride quality, and AMG's signature subtle performance enhancements. Its V8-like torque curve from the inline-6 engine was a key differentiator.
Key Features:
Hand-built AMG 3.6L M104 engine, enhanced suspension tuning, AMG body kit, sport seats, upgraded brakes, limited-slip differential (on some models), and exclusive badging. This manual provides detailed insights into these bespoke AMG enhancements alongside standard Mercedes-Benz engineering.
Coverage Areas:
Engine Mechanical, Engine Electrical, Fuel System, Ignition System, Emission Control, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Intake System, Exhaust System, Transmission (Automatic), Drivetrain, Suspension, Steering, Brakes (Hydraulic & ABS), Body Control Systems, Climate Control (HVAC), Electrical Systems (including wiring diagrams), Interior & Exterior Trim, Safety Systems (Airbag, Seatbelts), Diagnosis & Troubleshooting, Maintenance Schedules.
Page Count:
Likely over 1000 pages (estimated for a comprehensive official service manual software)
Manual Type:
Official Service and Repair Manual Software
Format:
Digital Software (likely searchable PDF or proprietary application)
Systems Covered:
Engine (M104.941 3.6L Inline-6), Fuel Injection (KE-Jetronic variations/variants for AMG), Ignition, Cooling, Lubrication, Exhaust, Intake, Electronic Control Units (ECU), Transmission (722.6 5-speed Automatic), Drivetrain (RWD), Suspension (Multi-link front/rear), Steering (Hydraulic Power), Brakes (ABS), Electrical Systems, Climate Control, SRS (Airbag) System.
Procedures Included:
Routine Maintenance, Scheduled Servicing, Component Removal and Installation, Engine Rebuilding, Transmission Overhaul, Brake System Repairs, Suspension and Steering Alignment, Electrical Diagnosis and Repair, HVAC System Servicing, Airbag System Safety Procedures, Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) Interpretation and Resolution, Wiring Harness Repair, Body Panel Replacement, Fuel System Servicing, Emission System Diagnostics.
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive. Covers from basic fluid changes and inspections to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, in-depth electrical troubleshooting, and chassis component overhauls. Includes torque specifications, clearances, diagnostic flowcharts, and wiring diagrams.
Primary Engine:
M104.941 - 3.6 Litre (3606 cc) DOHC Inline-6, 24 Valves
Horsepower:
276 hp @ 5750 rpm (206 kW)
Torque:
284 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (385 Nm)
Fuel System:
Bosch LH-Jetronic Fuel Injection with Electronic Throttle Control (ETC) and Sequential Fuel Injection
Block Material:
Aluminum Alloy
Bore Stroke:
91.0 mm x 92.4 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.0:1
Ratings:
No specific official US NCAP ratings available for this specific model year and trim, but based on the W202 platform's design, it offered good occupant protection for its era.
Active Features:
4-wheel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Traction Control System (ASR - often included in AMG models or optional).
Passive Features:
Front airbags for driver and passenger, crumple zones, reinforced safety cage, side-impact protection beams, three-point seatbelts with pre-tensioners.
Front Brakes:
Vented Discs, 300mm diameter, Two-piston calipers (AMG specific upgrade)
Rear Brakes:
Solid Discs, 278mm diameter, Single-piston calipers
Infotainment:
Basic by modern standards: Primarily analog instrument cluster with odometer, trip meter, fuel gauge, tachometer, and warning lamps. Optional features may have included a basic cassette/radio head unit with an integrated CD changer, potentially with a small LCD display. No integrated navigation or Bluetooth.
Driver Assistance:
ABS, Traction Control System (ASR). Limited advanced driver-assistance systems. Focus is on the mechanical and electrical systems.
Connectivity:
No factory-integrated smartphone connectivity (e.g., Apple CarPlay, Android Auto). Antenna for radio reception. Optional telephone preparation might have existed.
Lighting:
Halogen headlights with integrated turn signals, halogen fog lights (often integrated into front bumper), standard rear lighting. Manual covers bulb replacement and basic headlight aiming.
Service Interval Oil Change:
Every 7,500 - 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (refer to manual for specific intervals based on driving conditions).
Service Interval Major Service:
Refer to manual for B-Service intervals (typically every 15,000 - 20,000 miles), which includes comprehensive checks, fluid changes (transmission, coolant, brake fluid), filter replacements, and inspections.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 0W-40 or 5W-40 Synthetic (MB 229.3 or equivalent, refer to manual for exact specification).
Engine Oil Capacity:
8.0 Liters (8.5 US Quarts)
Coolant Type:
Glysantin G05 (or equivalent OAT coolant) mixed with distilled water (50/50 ratio).
Transmission Fluid Type:
MB 236.10 (ATF) or equivalent synthetic ATF. Specific type depends on transmission variant; manual will clarify. Likely Dexron III or compatible.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 (refer to manual for specific specification, e.g., MB 331.0).
Power Steering Fluid Type:
MB 236.3 (ATF) or equivalent hydraulic fluid.
Known Issues:
W202 platform commonly exhibits 'biodegradable' wiring harness degradation (requiring replacement), vacuum leak issues from aging hoses and actuators, crankcase ventilation system (PCV) blockages leading to oil leaks and increased pressure, sagging headliner, rust in wheel arches and rocker panels, and potential electronic module failures (e.g., K40 relay). AMG-specific items might include more robust wear on performance-oriented components if not maintained.
Oil Filter Part Number:
e.g., Mann-Filter HU 718/1 X, Bosch 0 986 AF0 271 (Always verify with manual or parts catalog).
Air Filter Part Number:
e.g., Mann-Filter C 35 192/1 (Always verify).
Cabin Filter Part Number:
e.g., Mann-Filter CU 2524 (Always verify).
Brand Heritage:
Mercedes-Benz, established in 1926, has a long-standing reputation for luxury, engineering excellence, and automotive innovation. AMG, originally a performance tuning company founded in 1967, became a wholly owned subsidiary of Mercedes-Benz in 1999, known for its specialized performance variants of standard Mercedes-Benz vehicles.
Model Evolution:
The C36 AMG (W202) was the first C-Class to receive the full AMG treatment. It was based on the W202 C-Class platform, which debuted in 1993. The C36 AMG was introduced in 1994 and marked a significant step for AMG in integrating its performance enhancements directly into Mercedes-Benz's production line. It paved the way for future AMG C-Class models.
Production Years:
1994-1997
Manufacturing Location:
Affalterbach, Germany (AMG)
