Segment:
Compact Executive Sedan/Coupe
Target Audience:
Drivers seeking a blend of performance, luxury, and sporty handling in a compact Mercedes-Benz package.
Competitors:
BMW 3 Series (E46), Audi A4 (B6), Lexus IS, Infiniti G35.
Powertrain:
Supercharged inline-4 engine for enhanced torque and responsiveness.
Suspension:
Sport-tuned suspension for more engaging handling characteristics.
Infotainment:
Audio system, radio operation, CD changer (if equipped), display settings.
Climate Control:
Manual and automatic climate control operation, HVAC settings, air recirculation.
Lighting:
Headlight operation, interior lighting, fog lamps, automatic headlamp function.
Driver Controls:
Steering wheel functions, pedal operation, cruise control, wiper controls, turn signals.
Locks Security:
Keyless entry system, central locking, anti-theft alarm, immobilizer.
Seating Safety Restraints:
Seat adjustment, seat belt operation, airbag system overview, child seat installation.
Instrument Cluster:
Gauge explanations (speedometer, tachometer, fuel, temperature), warning lamps, trip computer.
Driving Information:
Driving techniques, fuel efficiency tips, parking assistance (if equipped).
Customer Assistance:
Emergency procedures, roadside assistance contact information, vehicle service requirements.
Cleaning Care:
Exterior and interior cleaning recommendations, leather care, plastic trim care.
Maintenance Specifications:
Fluid capacities, recommended lubricants, filter part numbers, tire pressures.
Engine Compartment:
Location of key components, fluid fill points, basic checks (oil, coolant, washer fluid).
Battery Info:
Battery location, jump-starting procedures, battery maintenance.
Fuel Information:
Recommended fuel type, octane rating, fuel tank capacity.
Air Filter:
Air filter replacement interval and location.
Accessories:
Information on factory-installed accessories and their operation.
Basic Maintenance:
Checking fluid levels, tire pressure adjustment, bulb replacement, wiper blade replacement.
Safety Checks:
Operation of safety restraints, understanding warning lights, emergency procedures.
Troubleshooting Basic:
Interpreting warning indicators, common operational questions.
Driving Operation:
Proper operation of vehicle systems for optimal performance and safety.
Depth:
Owner-level information, focusing on operation, basic checks, and routine maintenance. Not a repair manual.
NHTSA Front Impact:
5-Star
NHTSA Side Impact Front:
5-Star
IIHS Frontal Offset:
Good
Traction Control:
Traction Control System (TCS)
Stability Control:
Electronic Stability Program (ESP)
Brakes:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BAS)
Airbags:
Front airbags, side airbags, window curtain airbags (if equipped).
Seatbelts:
Pretensioning seatbelts, belt force limiters.
Head Unit:
COMAND APS (optional, often with navigation), Audio 20 (standard)
Connectivity:
CD player, AM/FM radio, optional CD changer, optional Bluetooth interface (often required adapter).
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control system.
Parking Assistance:
Optional front and rear Parktronic parking sensors.
Lighting Tech:
Optional Bi-Xenon headlights with automatic leveling and dynamic cornering illumination.
Oil Change Interval:
Variable, typically based on 'Active Service System' (ASSYST) which monitors driving conditions. Generally every 10,000 miles or 1 year.
Major Service A:
Scheduled around 10,000 miles (or as indicated by ASSYST), typically includes oil and filter change, inspection of various components.
Major Service B:
Scheduled around 20,000 miles (or as indicated by ASSYST), includes Service A items plus additional checks, cabin filter replacement, etc.
Engine Oil:
Mobil 1 0W-40 Synthetic (MB 229.5 specification is critical for M271 engines).
Coolant:
Mercedes-Benz Approved Antifreeze/Coolant (e.g., G05 or similar silicate-free, ethylene glycol-based)
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 Plus (MB Spec 331.0)
Transmission Fluid Auto:
MB Specification 236.10 (e.g., Mobil ATF 134)
Transmission Fluid Manual:
Refer to manual for specific manual transmission fluid, often GL-4 or GL-5.
Common Issues M271:
Timing chain tensioner wear, oil leaks (valve cover gasket, oil cooler seals), catalytic converter issues, crankshaft position sensor failure, intercooler hose cracks.
Common Issues W203:
Sagging headliner, climate control actuator failures, HVAC blower motor resistor, rust (especially around wheel wells and door bottoms), ball joint wear, SAM module (Signal Acquisition Module) issues.
Oil Filter:
e.g., Mann-Filter HU 718/5 y, Mahle KL 82, Mercedes-Benz P/N A2711840125
Air Filter:
e.g., Mann-Filter C35176/2, Mahle LX 1013, Mercedes-Benz P/N A2710900101
Engine Oil:
Approx. 5.5 liters (5.8 US quarts) with filter change
Coolant:
Approx. 7.0 liters (7.4 US quarts)
Washer Fluid:
Approx. 4.0 liters (4.2 US quarts)
