🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mercedes-Benz

Model:

C-Class

Model Variant:

C320

Year:

2001

Chassis Code:

W203

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact Executive Sedan/Coupe/Wagon (C-Segment)

Competitors:

BMW 3 Series (E46), Audi A4 (B6), Lexus IS300, Acura TL.

Features:

Premium interior materials, refined ride quality, sophisticated styling, potent V6 engine, advanced safety features for its era, availability of sedan, coupe, and wagon body styles.

📋 Manual Details

Content Summary:

Factory owner's manual covering operation, maintenance, safety, and features for the 2001 Mercedes-Benz C320.

Estimated Page Count:

Approximately 300-400 pages (typical for this era and model)

Type:

Owner's Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital PDF (Instant Download)

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems:

Instrument Cluster, Entertainment Systems (COMAND, Audio), Climate Controls (THERMATIC/THERMOTRONIC), Lighting, Driver Controls (Steering Wheel Functions, Pedals), Locks and Security (Remote Keyless Entry, Central Locking, Immobilizer), Seating and Safety Restraints (Airbags, Seatbelts, Child Seat Anchors), Driving Aids (ABS, ESP), Fuel System, Battery, Air Filtration, Fluid Systems.

Procedures:

Basic operation, understanding dashboard indicators, using infotainment and climate controls, exterior and interior lighting functions, seat and steering wheel adjustments, proper use of safety restraints, basic driving techniques, locking/unlocking procedures, security system operation, cleaning recommendations, basic maintenance checks (fluid levels, tire pressure), engine compartment overview, engine oil information and checks, battery maintenance, fuel information, air filter inspection/replacement, refill capacities for various fluids, lubricant specifications, accessory installation guidelines.

Depth:

Comprehensive owner-level information for daily use and basic maintenance. Does not include detailed diagnostic procedures or repair instructions typically found in a service manual.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Readability:

Requires PDF reader software (e.g., Adobe Acrobat Reader, Foxit Reader)

Device Compatibility:

Compatible with any device capable of reading PDF files (PC, Mac, tablet, smartphone).

Quality:

Digital reproduction of factory manual, intended for digital viewing. Print quality depends on user's printer.

Binding:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

M112 E32

Engine Type:

3.2L SOHC V6

Horsepower:

215 hp @ 5750 rpm

Torque:

229 lb-ft @ 3000-4800 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded (91 octane or higher recommended)

Cylinder Block Material:

Aluminum Alloy

Cylinder Head Material:

Aluminum Alloy

Spark Plug Part Number:

Bosch FGR8KQI (example, verify with VIN)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-Speed Automatic (722.6 '5G-Tronic')

Optional Transmission:

N/A for C320 in 2001

Transmission Features:

TouchShift manual shifting control, Comfort (C) and Sport (S) modes.

Transmission Fluid Spec:

MB Specification 236.10 (e.g., Pentosin ATF1)

Transmission Fluid Capacity:

Approximately 7.5 Liters (1.7 Gallons) for refill, 9.5 Liters (2.1 Gallons) for complete overhaul.

Transmission Filter Kit Part Number:

Hengst Filter EHT126 (example, verify with VIN)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

106.7 inches (2710 mm)

Length:

178.3 inches (4530 mm)

Width:

68.7 inches (1745 mm)

Height:

55.7 inches (1415 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approximately 3373 lbs (1530 kg)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:

Approximately 4519 lbs (2050 kg)

Towing Capacity:

Not recommended or specified for towing by manufacturer.

Trunk Volume:

12.6 cubic feet (0.357 m³)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Driver:

Good

NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:

Good

NHTSA Side Impact Front Driver:

Good

NHTSA Side Impact Rear Passenger:

Good

IIHS Frontal Offset:

Good

Active Safety:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Program (ESP), Traction Control System (TCS).

Passive Safety:

Dual front airbags, front side-impact airbags, front and rear head curtain airbags (optional/standard depending on market/trim), pre-tensioning seatbelts, crumple zones.

Child Seat Anchors:

LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

COMAND (Cockpit Management and Navigation) system available on higher trims or as an option, featuring CD player, AM/FM radio, and optional navigation. Base audio systems also available.

Display Type:

Color LCD screen for COMAND system.

Driver Assistance Features:

Cruise control, Rain-sensing windshield wipers (optional), Auto-dimming rearview mirror.

Connectivity Options:

Pre-wiring for optional CD changer, possibly early Bluetooth phone integration (depending on specific COMAND version and options).

Climate Control Types:

THERMATIC (single-zone automatic climate control) or THERMOTRONIC (dual-zone automatic climate control) available.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Variable Service Interval System (ASSYST), typically 10,000-15,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first, depending on driving conditions. Consult manual for specific service indicator reset.

Major Service Intervals:

Spark plugs typically every 100,000 miles. Automatic transmission fluid and filter service recommended every 40,000-60,000 miles.

Engine Oil Specification:

MB 229.5 (e.g., Mobil 1 0W-40, Castrol Syntec 0W-30)

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approximately 6.5 Liters (6.9 US Quarts)

Coolant Specification:

MB Specification 325.0 (Blue or Green ethylene glycol coolant)

Brake Fluid Specification:

DOT 4 Plus (MB Specification 331.0)

Power Steering Fluid:

MB Specification 343.0 (ATF)

Air Filter Part Number:

Mann-Filter C2435/1 (example, verify with VIN)

Common Issues:

Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor issues leading to rough idle or stalling, 'limp mode' due to transmission control module (TCM) problems, sagging headliner, window regulator failures, potential for electronic glitches.

Common Issues Engine:

PCV valve issues causing vacuum leaks, occasional oil leaks from valve cover gaskets.

Common Issues Suspension:

Worn control arm bushings, ball joints, and tie rod ends.

📚 Vehicle History

Heritage:

Mercedes-Benz, established in 1926, is renowned for its engineering excellence, luxury, safety, and innovation in the automotive industry.

Generation:

Second generation C-Class (W203 series), introduced for the 2001 model year.

Design Philosophy:

Transitioned to a more modern, curvaceous design compared to the preceding W202, adopting styling cues from larger Mercedes-Benz models like the S-Class (W220).

Manufacturing Locations:

Various Mercedes-Benz plants globally, including Germany (Sindelfingen, Bremen).

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Awards Or Recognition:

While specific awards for the 2001 C320 model are not broadly publicized, the W203 platform generally received positive reviews for its improved chassis dynamics, build quality, and safety compared to its predecessor.