🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mercedes-Benz

Model:

C-Class

Chassis Code:

W202

Model Year:

1997

Generation:

First Generation (W202)

Generation Years:

1993-2000

Vin Decoder Engine Prefix:

M111 (4-cylinder petrol), M104 (6-cylinder petrol), OM604 (4-cylinder diesel), OM605 (5-cylinder diesel), OM606 (6-cylinder diesel)

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Class:

Compact Executive Car (entry-level luxury)

Brand Perception:

Represents Mercedes-Benz's entry into the more accessible luxury segment, offering typical Mercedes quality and engineering.

Key Competitors:

BMW 3 Series (E36), Audi A4 (B5), Lexus IS, Volvo S40.

Design Philosophy:

Marked a departure from the more rounded styling of its predecessor (190E/W201) with sharper lines and a more modern aesthetic.

Target Audience:

Younger professionals, first-time luxury car buyers, those seeking a reliable and high-quality European sedan.

Usefulness To Owner:

Empowers owners to perform routine maintenance, understand complex repairs, and diagnose issues, saving on labor costs.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Scope:

Comprehensive service, repair, and troubleshooting for all vehicle systems.

Market Coverage:

Likely global market, encompassing North American, European, and other regional specifications where W202 was sold.

Page Count:

Hundreds (Exact count not specified, but implies extensive detail)

Manual Type:

Factory Service Repair Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine assembly, disassembly, cylinder head, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, valve train, timing systems, lubrication, cooling.

Engine Management:

Fuel injection systems (e.g., Bosch KE-Jetronic, HFM), ignition systems, emissions control systems, engine control unit (ECU) diagnosis and repair.

Transmission:

Manual and automatic transmission service, overhaul, clutch, torque converter, shift control mechanisms.

Drivetrain:

Front axle, rear axle, driveshafts, universal joints, differential.

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, anti-roll bars, alignment specifications.

Steering:

Steering gear, power steering system, steering column, tie rods, adjustments.

Brakes:

Brake system diagnosis, hydraulic components (master cylinder, brake lines, calipers), disc brakes, drum brakes, ABS system, parking brake.

Electrical System:

Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter), lighting systems, instrumentation, body electronics, fuses, relays.

Climate Control:

HVAC system, air conditioning (compressor, refrigerant), heater core, climate control unit.

Body And Interior:

Body panels, doors, windows, locks, seats, dashboard, trim, sound insulation.

Chassis And Frame:

Body structural components, corrosion protection, chassis components.

Safety Systems:

Airbag systems, seatbelt mechanisms, ABS.

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, tune-ups, fluid level checks and replacements.

Diagnostics Troubleshooting:

Systematic troubleshooting charts, common problems and solutions, diagnostic codes (OBD-I/II if applicable to model year).

Repair Rebuild:

Detailed step-by-step instructions for component disassembly, repair, reassembly, and replacement.

Alignment Adjustments:

Wheel alignment specifications and procedures, steering system adjustments.

Electrical Diagnostics:

Wiring diagrams, component testing, circuit diagnosis, connector pinouts.

Depth Level:

Professional, including complete engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, and complex electrical diagnostics.

Diagrams Illustrations:

Hundreds of detailed photos and exploded diagrams for visual guidance.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Likely text-searchable PDF (standard for professional manuals)

Print Capability:

Printable (single pages or entire manual)

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Operating Systems:

Windows and macOS compatible

Usage License:

Lifetime usage, unlimited devices, no expiry

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options 1997:

C180 (M111.920 - 1.8L I4), C200 (M111.921 - 2.0L I4), C220 (M111.960 - 2.2L I4), C230 Kompressor (M111.974 - 2.3L Supercharged I4), C280 (M104.940 - 2.8L I6), C200 Diesel (OM604.910 - 2.0L I4 Diesel), C220 Diesel (OM604.915 - 2.2L I4 Diesel), C250 Diesel (OM605.910 - 2.5L I5 Diesel), C250 Turbo Diesel (OM605.911 - 2.5L I5 Turbo Diesel), C36 AMG (M104.941 - 3.6L I6).

Typical Hp Range:

120 hp (C180) to 276 hp (C36 AMG)

Typical Torque Range:

136 lb-ft (C180) to 284 lb-ft (C36 AMG)

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-point fuel injection (MPI) for petrol engines, Electronic Diesel Control (EDC) for diesel engines.

Engine Management System:

Proprietary Mercedes-Benz EMS, often based on Bosch components (e.g., HFM - Hot Film Mass Airflow).

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

5-speed manual transmission.

Optional Transmission:

4-speed or 5-speed automatic transmission (e.g., 722.4, 722.6).

Automatic Features:

Selectable modes (e.g., Economy/Sport) on some models.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approx. 106.9 inches (2715 mm)

Length:

Approx. 175.0 inches (4445 mm)

Width:

Approx. 67.7 inches (1720 mm)

Height:

Approx. 54.8 inches (1392 mm)

Curb Weight Range:

Approx. 3000-3400 lbs (1360-1540 kg), depending on engine and equipment.

🛡️ Safety Features

Typical Crash Test Results:

Achieved good ratings in contemporary crash tests, benefiting from Mercedes-Benz's robust safety engineering.

Active Safety Systems:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Traction Control System (TCS) on some models.

Passive Safety Features:

Front airbags, optional side airbags, crumple zones, reinforced safety cell.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Basic AM/FM radio with cassette player, optional CD player. Limited integrated technology compared to modern vehicles.

Driver Assistance Features:

ABS, optional Traction Control. No advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like adaptive cruise control or lane keeping assist.

Connectivity Options:

Basic external antenna for radio. No Bluetooth or USB connectivity.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval Petrol:

Typically every 7,500-10,000 miles (12,000-16,000 km) or annually, whichever comes first (refer to manual for exact specs).

Oil Change Interval Diesel:

Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles (8,000-12,000 km) or annually.

Major Service Intervals:

Spark plugs, air filters, fuel filters, coolant flushes typically recommended at 30,000-60,000 mile intervals.

Engine Oil Type:

API SJ or higher, SAE 0W-40, 5W-40, or 5W-30 synthetic or semi-synthetic oil recommended. (Refer to manual for specific engine recommendations and MB-Approval numbers like MB 229.1 or 229.3).

Coolant Type:

Mercedes-Benz specified antifreeze/coolant concentrate (e.g., G48 or equivalent) mixed with distilled water, typically a 50/50 ratio.

Transmission Fluid Auto:

MB Spec 236.10 or 236.12 for automatic transmissions. (e.g., ATF 3.0 / Dexron III equivalent for older transmissions, 722.6 transmissions require specific MB fluid).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Common Problems:

Cracked dashboard plastic (especially in hot climates), sagging headliner, coolant leaks from O-rings or hoses, MAF sensor issues, rust on wheel arches and sills, ABS sensor failures, distributor cap/rotor wear (on older ignition systems).

Diesel Specific Issues:

Glow plug issues, injector pump leaks, turbocharger problems (on turbo diesel models).

📚 Vehicle History

Mercedes Benz Legacy:

Continues Mercedes-Benz's tradition of engineering excellence, safety, and build quality.

W202 Introduction:

Introduced in 1993 as the successor to the popular W201 ('190E'), positioning itself as the compact entry-luxury sedan.

Facelift:

Received a facelift in 1997, featuring revised bumpers, grille, headlights, taillights, and interior trim.

Production Period:

1993-2000

Manufacturing Locations:

Various Mercedes-Benz plants globally, including Germany and South Africa.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Industry Awards:

While specific awards for the 1997 model year are not prominently recalled, the W202 generation was generally well-regarded for its build quality, comfort, and safety, contributing to Mercedes-Benz's strong reputation in the luxury segment.