Segment:
Compact Executive Sedan / Compact Luxury Car
Positioning Statement:
The 2008 Mercedes-Benz C-Class (W204) positioned itself as a premium, technologically advanced, and stylish entry-level luxury vehicle, competing directly with established rivals.
Key Competitors:
BMW 3 Series, Audi A4, Lexus IS, Acura TL, Infiniti G35/G37
Design Philosophy:
The W204 generation marked a significant shift towards a more aggressive, sporty, and modern design language for the C-Class, moving away from its more conservative predecessor.
Technology Integration:
Emphasis on integrated infotainment, driver assistance systems, and safety innovations, reflecting Mercedes-Benz's commitment to advanced automotive technology.
Drivetrain:
The 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system provides enhanced traction and stability in varying weather conditions.
Primary Coverage:
Owner's Operations and Maintenance
Secondary Coverage:
Safety Features, Climate Control, Entertainment, Basic Maintenance
Estimated Pages:
Approximately 400-500 pages (typical for this model's factory manual)
Type:
Owner's Manual / User Guide
Instrument Cluster:
Detailed explanation of all gauges, warning lights, and displays.
Entertainment Systems:
Operation of COMAND infotainment system, radio, CD player, and auxiliary inputs.
Climate Controls:
Operation of automatic climate control, air conditioning, and heating.
Lighting:
Control and function of headlights (including adaptive), interior lights, and fog lamps.
Driver Controls:
Functionality of steering wheel controls, cruise control, and other driver interfaces.
Locks And Security:
Operation of central locking, keyless entry, immobilizer, and alarm system.
Seating And Safety Restraints:
Adjustment of front seats, operation of seat belts, and explanation of airbags and SRS system.
Driving:
Recommendations for driving in various conditions, parking assistance, and ECO start/stop functionality (if equipped).
Customer Assistance:
Information on roadside assistance, dealer services, and contacting Mercedes-Benz.
Cleaning:
Guidelines for interior and exterior cleaning and care.
Engine Compartment:
Identification of major components and basic checks (e.g., fluid levels).
Maintenance And Specifications:
General maintenance advice and key vehicle specifications.
Basic Checks:
Checking engine oil, coolant, windshield washer fluid.
Tire Maintenance:
Recommended tire pressures, basic tire care.
Refueling:
Proper fuel selection and refueling procedure.
Fuse Replacement:
Location and replacement of fuses.
Bulb Replacement:
Basic instructions for replacing common exterior and interior bulbs.
Troubleshooting Indicators:
Explanation of dashboard warning lights and their meaning.
Depth:
Focuses on user operation, basic maintenance, and understanding vehicle functions. Does not cover in-depth repair procedures or diagnostics.
Readability:
Searchable text, zoomable pages, compatible with standard PDF readers.
Quality:
High-resolution digital reproduction of factory original.
Binding:
Not Applicable (Digital Download)
Paper:
Not Applicable (Digital Download)
Engine Code:
M272 (Common for C300 models)
Engine Type:
3.0L V6 SOHC
Displacement:
2996 cc (3.0 Liters)
Horsepower:
Approximately 228 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque:
Approximately 221 lb-ft @ 2700-5000 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane Recommended)
Part Number Example:
A2720940104 (Illustrative, check specific vehicle for exact fitment)
Transmission Type:
7-Speed Automatic (7G-TRONIC)
Manual Transmission:
Not typically offered on the C300 4MATIC in North America.
Modes:
Comfort (C) and Sport (S) modes.
Fluid Type:
MB-Approval 236.14 (e.g., Pentosin ATF1, Fuchs Titan ATF 4134)
Fluid Capacity:
Approximately 7-8 liters (dry fill), check manual for specific fill procedure and quantity.
NHTSA Overall Rating:
Likely 5-Star (based on typical Mercedes-Benz safety for this era, check specific test results).
IIHS Ratings:
Likely Good in most categories for the Frontal Offset crash test.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Esp:
Electronic Stability Program (ESP)
Traction Control:
ASR (Anti-Slip Regulation) / Traction Control System
Airbags:
Frontal airbags, side airbags, window airbags, driver knee airbag.
Seat Belts:
3-point inertia-reel seat belts with belt tensioners and force limiters.
Child Seat Anchors:
ISOFIX/LATCH child seat anchoring system.
System Name:
COMAND (Cockpit Management and Navigation)
Features:
Radio, CD player, optional navigation system, Bluetooth connectivity (often via adapter), auxiliary audio input.
Adaptive Cruise Control:
Optional DISTRONIC PLUS available on some models.
Parking Assistance:
Optional PARKTRONIC parking sensors and rearview camera.
Lighting Technology:
Optional Bi-Xenon headlamps with active curve illumination and LED daytime running lights.
Bluetooth:
Often integrated or available as an option for hands-free calling and audio streaming.
Usb Aux:
Auxiliary audio input standard, USB ports may be optional or part of a technology package.
Major Service Interval:
Typically every 10,000 miles or 1 year, whichever comes first (based on Mercedes-Benz Service A/B schedule). Refer to the manual for exact intervals and driving condition adjustments.
Engine Oil Type:
MB-Approval 229.5 or 229.51 (e.g., Mobil 1 0W-40, Castrol Syntec 0W-40) - check manual for precise specification for engine and climate.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 6.5 liters (6.9 US quarts) with filter change.
Coolant Type:
MB-Approval 325.0 or 326.0 (typically a silicate-free, ethylene glycol-based antifreeze concentrate mixed with distilled water).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 Plus (MB-Approval 331.0)
Common Concerns:
Potential for balance shaft issues in M272 engines (check for specific recalls or service bulletins), oil leaks from valve cover gaskets, and transmission control module (TCM) issues.
Maintenance Recommendations:
Adherence to the Mercedes-Benz Service A and B schedule is crucial for longevity. Regular inspection of the cooling system and drive belts is advised.
Heritage:
Mercedes-Benz has a long-standing reputation for engineering excellence, luxury, and safety, dating back to the invention of the automobile.
Generation:
W204 generation, introduced for the 2008 model year, replacing the W203.
Design Language Shift:
This generation marked a significant aesthetic departure, featuring sharper lines and a more athletic stance, influenced by the flagship S-Class.
Production Years:
2007-2014 (for the W204 generation)
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Germany (Sindelfingen, Bremen), South Africa, and Hungary.
