Segment:
Compact Executive Sedan/Coupe (depending on body style variant of C230 Sport).
Brand Perception:
Represents Mercedes-Benz's entry into the premium compact segment, known for quality, performance, and luxury.
Key Competitors:
BMW 3 Series, Audi A4, Lexus IS, Infiniti G35.
Sport Package:
The 'Sport' designation often implies a firmer suspension, sportier exterior styling cues, and potentially unique interior trim for the C230 model.
Target Audience:
Younger professionals, individuals seeking a premium compact vehicle with a balance of performance and comfort.
Primary Coverage:
Vehicle operation, maintenance, safety, and basic troubleshooting.
Secondary Coverage:
Vehicle systems, features, controls, and specifications.
Estimated Page Count:
Approximately 300-400 pages (typical for this model year and type of manual).
Format:
Digital Download (PDF)
Powertrain:
Engine operation, cooling system, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system.
Drivetrain:
Automatic transmission operation, drive wheels.
Chassis:
Braking system, steering system, suspension system, wheels and tires.
Electrical:
Lighting system, dashboard indicators, instruments and controls, battery, fuses, basic electrical features.
Body:
Doors, windows, locks, exterior lighting, interior comfort controls, climate control system.
Safety Systems:
Airbag system, seatbelts, child restraint systems, electronic stability program (ESP).
Operation:
Starting and driving the vehicle, using various controls and features.
Maintenance:
Checking fluid levels, tire pressure, wiper blade replacement, bulb replacement.
Troubleshooting:
Understanding warning lights and indicators, basic fault identification.
Emergency:
Emergency equipment, towing procedures, jump starting.
Depth:
Consumer-level technical information focused on user understanding and basic maintenance.
Engine Code:
M271 (Supercharged Inline-4)
Displacement:
1.8 Liters (1796 cc)
Configuration:
DOHC, 16 Valves, Supercharged Inline-4 Cylinder
Horsepower:
201 hp @ 5200 rpm (approximate)
Torque:
207 lb-ft @ 3000-4300 rpm (approximate)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (Bosch Motronic ME 2.8 or similar)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane or higher recommended)
Aspiration:
Belt-driven Lysholm-type supercharger with intercooler.
Bore X Stroke:
82.0 mm x 85.0 mm (approximate)
Compression Ratio:
8.5:1 (approximate)
Type:
5-Speed Automatic Transmission (722.6 '5G-Tronic')
Type:
6-Speed Manual Transmission (less common on C230 Sport, but possible).
Automatic Modes:
Comfort (C) and Sport (S) driving modes.
Automatic Fluid:
MB 236.10 or MB 236.14 ATF (e.g., Pentosin ATF1, Mobil ATF 134).
Wheelbase:
106.7 inches (2710 mm)
Length:
178.0 inches (4522 mm)
Width:
68.0 inches (1727 mm)
Height:
55.5 inches (1410 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approximately 3300-3500 lbs (1497-1588 kg), depending on body style and options.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Not specified in manual, but typically around 4500 lbs.
Trunk Capacity:
Approximately 13.1 cubic feet (370 Liters).
NHTSA Front Impact:
5-Star (for driver and passenger, model year specific).
IIHS Side Impact:
Good (for models tested).
Traction Control:
Traction Control System (ASR - Anti-Slip Regulation).
Stability Control:
Electronic Stability Program (ESP).
Braking System:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Brake Assist (BAS).
Airbags:
Front airbags (driver/passenger), side airbags, curtain airbags (window airbags).
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia-reel seatbelts with belt tensioners and force limiters.
Child Restraints:
ISOFIX (LATCH) lower anchor points for child safety seats.
Audio System:
Mercedes-Benz Audio 20 (standard) with CD player, radio, and potential for auxiliary input or CD changer.
Navigation:
Optional COMAND (Cockpit Management and Navigation Display) system available.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control with speed limiter.
Phone Integration:
Optional Bluetooth telephony preparation or integrated system.
System:
MANUAL OR AUTOMATIC CLIMATE CONTROL (THERMATIC/THERMOTRONIC, depending on options).
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000 miles (16,000 km) or 1 year, whichever comes first, based on Mercedes-Benz Flexible Service System (FSS).
Major Service Intervals:
Refer to FSS indicator or specific mileage milestones (e.g., spark plugs, coolant, transmission fluid).
Engine Oil:
SAE 0W-40 or 5W-40, meeting MB-Approval 229.5 or 229.3.
Coolant:
MB 325.0 (Approved Antifreeze) - typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 Plus (MB 331.0).
Power Steering Fluid:
MB 236.3 (or specified Pentosin CHF 11S for some models).
Common Problems:
Potential for oil leaks from valve cover gaskets and oil cooler seals. Supercharger belt wear. Climate control actuator failure. Window regulator issues. Early signs of rust on wheel arches and sills.
Maintenance Tips:
Adherence to scheduled maintenance, using genuine or approved fluids and parts is crucial for longevity. Regular inspection for oil leaks and corrosion.
Heritage:
Mercedes-Benz boasts a long history of automotive innovation, luxury, and engineering excellence dating back to the late 19th century.
C Class History:
The C-Class has evolved through several generations, representing Mercedes-Benz's compact luxury offering, with the W203 generation (2000-2007) being a significant step in design and technology.
W203 Facelift:
The 2006 model year falls within the facelifted W203 series (introduced in 2004), featuring updated styling, interior enhancements, and improved features.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily manufactured in Germany (Sindelfingen, Bremen), and also in other global plants.
Safety Awards:
Often received good safety ratings from NHTSA and IIHS for its model years, reflecting robust engineering.
Design Awards:
The W203 generation received accolades for its modern and sporty design, especially after the 2004 facelift.
Emissions Compliance:
Compliant with prevailing emissions standards for its model year (e.g., EPA, Euro 4).
