Positioning:
The 2003 C-Class (W203) represented Mercedes-Benz's entry-level luxury sedan, competing with vehicles like the BMW 3 Series, Audi A4, and Lexus IS.
Competitors:
BMW 3 Series (E46), Audi A4 (B6), Lexus IS300, Infiniti G35.
Features:
The C320 4MATIC offered a balance of Mercedes-Benz luxury, performance from its V6 engine, and the added traction of all-wheel drive. It was known for its refined interior, comfortable ride, and advanced safety features for its time.
Primary Coverage:
Operation, Maintenance, Features, Safety, Specifications for 2003 Mercedes-Benz C320 4MATIC
Secondary Coverage:
Instrument Cluster, Entertainment Systems, Climate Controls, Lighting, Driver Controls, Locks & Security, Seating & Restraints, Driving Aids, Customer Assistance, Cleaning, Engine Compartment, Fuel, Air Filters, Accessories
Estimated Page Count:
Approximately 300-400 pages (typical for a comprehensive owner's manual of this era)
Powertrain:
Engine oil, fuel information, air filter replacement, battery maintenance, refill capacities, lubricant specifications
Chassis:
Wheels and tires (general care), braking system (basic operation), suspension (general operation)
Electrical:
Instrument cluster functions, lighting controls, basic entertainment system operation, climate control operation, locks and security systems, battery inspection
Body:
Door locks, seating adjustments, safety restraint systems, interior/exterior cleaning
Operation:
Starting and operating the vehicle, using climate controls, operating the audio system, understanding instrument cluster warnings, adjusting seats and mirrors, using interior/exterior lighting
Maintenance:
Checking fluid levels (oil, coolant, washer fluid), tire pressure checks, basic cleaning procedures, understanding maintenance indicators
Safety:
Proper use of seat belts, airbag system explanation, child seat installation guidance, safe driving practices
Depth:
Owner-level information focusing on operation, routine checks, and basic troubleshooting. Does not include detailed repair procedures or diagnostic steps typically found in a service manual.
Engine Type:
3.2L SOHC V6
Displacement:
3199 cc (3.2 Liters)
Bore X Stroke:
89.9 mm x 84.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.0:1
Horsepower:
215 hp @ 6,200 rpm
Torque:
229 lb-ft @ 3,000 - 4,600 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane or higher recommended)
Recommended Oil Viscosity:
SAE 0W-40 (Mobil 1 Synthetic is often factory fill and recommended)
Oil Capacity:
8.5 US quarts (8.0 liters) with filter change
Part Number Example:
A2710900101 (example for W203 platform, verify for C320)
Transmission Type:
5-speed Automatic Transmission (5G-TRONIC)
Optional Transmission:
N/A (5-speed Automatic was standard for C320 4MATIC)
Transmission Features:
TouchShift (manual shifting capability), Electronic Stability Program (ESP) integration.
Transmission Fluid Type:
MB 236.10 (e.g., Pentosin ATF1, Fuchs ATF 4100)
NHTSA Front Impact:
5-Star (Driver & Passenger)
NHTSA Side Impact:
5-Star (Front & Rear Passengers)
Active Safety Systems:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Traction Control System (TCS), Electronic Stability Program (ESP), Brake Assist (BAS)
Passive Safety Features:
Dual front airbags, front side-impact airbags, front and rear side curtain airbags (optional/standard depending on package), front seatbelt pretensioners, active head restraints.
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM CD player with optional navigation system (COMAND 2.0/2.5) and changer.
Display:
Central LCD display in dashboard for audio, climate, and vehicle information.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control with speed limiter function.
Parking Sensors:
Optional Parktronic parking assist system.
Phone Integration:
Optional factory-installed telephone system with integrated antenna.
Oil Change Interval:
Variable (based on 'Assyst' system, typically 10,000-15,000 miles or 1 year, whichever comes first, with synthetic oil).
Major Service Intervals:
Spark plugs (approx. 100,000 miles), cabin air filter (approx. 15,000-20,000 miles or annually), engine air filter (approx. 30,000 miles).
Coolant Type:
MB Spec 325.0 (Antifreeze/Coolant, typically blue or green)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 Plus
Common Issues W203:
Window regulator failures, 'SAM' module (Signal Acquisition Module) issues, E430/E500 ignition coil failures (though less common on the C320 M112 engine), catalytic converter failure, serpentine belt tensioner wear, sunroof drain clogs leading to water ingress.
Oil Filter Example:
A0001802609 (example, verify specific part for C320 M112)
Cabin Air Filter Example:
A2038300018 (example, verify specific part for C320)
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 8.0 - 8.5 US quarts (7.5 - 8.0 liters)
Heritage Overview:
Mercedes-Benz has a long-standing reputation for engineering excellence, luxury, safety, and innovation since its founding.
W203 Generation:
The W203 C-Class generation, introduced for the 2001 model year, marked a significant styling and technological update over its W202 predecessor. The C320 was a popular mid-range engine option.
Production Location:
Bremen, Germany and other Mercedes-Benz plants globally.
Influential Awards:
While specific awards for the 2003 C320 4MATIC aren't readily highlighted, the W203 generation overall received praise for its improved handling and refined interior over its predecessor, often featured in 'best of' lists for its class.
Safety Ratings Summary:
Generally strong safety ratings from NHTSA and IIHS for its era, reflecting Mercedes-Benz's commitment to safety.
