Segment:
Executive Sedan / Mid-size Luxury Sedan
Target Audience:
Affluent individuals seeking comfort, performance, advanced technology, and a prestigious brand image.
Key Competitors:
BMW 5 Series, Audi A6, Lexus GS, Jaguar XF, Cadillac CTS.
Design Philosophy:
Elegance, sophisticated engineering, driver comfort, and safety. The W211 facelift introduced subtle styling enhancements and updated technology.
Purpose:
To provide owners with essential information for the safe and efficient operation, maintenance, and enjoyment of their 2008 Mercedes-Benz E320.
General Coverage:
Introduction, Instrument Cluster, Entertainment Systems, Climate Controls, Lights, Driver Controls, Locks and Security, Seating and Safety Restraints, Driving, Customer Assistance, Reporting Safety Defects (U.S. only), Cleaning, Maintenance and Specifications, Engine Compartment, Engine Oil, Battery, Fuel Information, Air Filter(s), Part Numbers, Refill Capacities, Lubricant Specifications, Accessories.
Estimated Page Count:
Approx. 300-400 pages (typical for this model/year).
Format:
Digital PDF (Instant Download)
Powertrain Systems:
Engine operation, fluid types, basic maintenance checks (oil, coolant), fuel recommendations, air filter location and replacement. Specific diesel engine (OM642) nuances might be covered.
Chassis Systems:
Braking system overview, steering system, suspension basics. Tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) operation and reset.
Electrical Systems:
Instrument cluster indicators and warning lamps, exterior and interior lighting operation, power windows, locks, mirrors, seat adjustment controls, entertainment system (COMAND/Audio), climate control system.
Safety Systems:
Airbag system operation, seat belt usage and adjustments, child seat installation (ISOFIX/LATCH), advanced safety features (e.g., ESP, ABS) basic explanations.
Routine Maintenance:
Checking fluid levels (oil, coolant, washer fluid), tire pressure checks, basic cleaning procedures, jump starting procedures, spare tire/mobility kit usage.
User Interface Operation:
Operating the COMAND infotainment system, climate control adjustments, setting the clock, adjusting seats and mirrors, using cruise control, operating the power windows and sunroof.
Troubleshooting Basic:
Understanding dashboard warning lights, basic troubleshooting for common issues (e.g., battery drain, fuel cap warnings).
Depth:
Designed for the end-user. Covers operation, features, and basic maintenance. Does not include in-depth diagnostic procedures, wiring diagrams, or detailed repair instructions typically found in a Service Manual.
Engine Type E320 Diesel:
3.0L (2987cc) V6 Turbocharged Diesel (OM642)
Horsepower Hp:
208 HP @ 4000 RPM
Torque Lb-Ft:
380 lb-ft @ 1600-2400 RPM
Fuel Type:
Diesel (ULSD - Ultra-Low Sulfur Diesel)
Injection System:
Common Rail Direct Injection (CDI)
Valvetrain:
DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder
Specification:
MB 229.51 or MB 229.52 (Low SAPS diesel engine oil)
Viscosity:
Commonly 5W-30 or 0W-30
Capacity Quarts:
Approx. 8.5 quarts (8.0 Liters)
Cetane Rating:
Minimum 51 (per manufacturer recommendations)
NHTSA Overall Rating:
Likely 5-Star (for 2008 models)
IIHS Front Crash Rating:
Good
IIHS Side Crash Rating:
Good
IIHS Rear Crash Rating:
Good
Traction Control:
All-Season Traction Control (ASR)
Stability Control:
Electronic Stability Program (ESP)
Braking:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Brake Assist System (BAS)
Airbags Front:
Dual-stage front airbags
Airbags Side:
Front side-impact airbags
Airbags Curtain:
Window airbags (front and rear)
Head Restraints:
Active head restraints (NECK-PRO)
Primary System:
COMAND (Cockpit Management and Navigation) NTG 2.5
Features Included:
AM/FM/Weather Band radio, CD player, optional DVD navigation, optional Harman Kardon surround sound, Bluetooth interface (for phone calls), auxiliary audio input.
Display Type:
High-resolution LCD screen integrated into the dashboard.
Parking System:
PARKTRONIC parking assist (front and rear parking sensors)
Lighting Technology:
Optional Bi-Xenon headlamps with Active Curve Illumination, automatic headlights, cornering lights.
Telephony:
Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling (may require optional adapter or integrated system).
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first, or as indicated by the Flexible Service System (ASSYST PLUS).
Major Service Interval:
Refer to the 'Service A', 'Service B', etc. schedule indicated by the ASSYST PLUS system. Common major services occur around 20,000-30,000 miles and progressively thereafter, involving more extensive checks and fluid changes.
Coolant:
MB Spec 325.0 or 326.0 (Antifreeze/Coolant)
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 (refer to manual for specific MB approval)
Power Steering Fluid:
MB Spec 236.3 (or Dexron III H equivalent)
Windshield Washer Fluid:
Approved washer fluid concentrate or plain water.
Known Issues Common To W211 E320 Diesel
Intake Manifold Swirl Flaps:
Plastic swirl flaps in the intake manifold can fail, leading to reduced performance or engine damage. Replacement with updated metal flaps or removal is a common repair.
E Grille Cracking:
The plastic intake manifold may crack near the E.G.R. (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) cooler connection, causing vacuum leaks and rough running.
Oil Cooler Seals:
Leaking oil cooler seals can result in coolant loss and contamination of the cooling system.
Glow Plugs And Module:
Failure of glow plugs or the control module can lead to hard starting in cold weather.
Driveshaft Center Bearing:
Can wear out, causing vibration, particularly under acceleration.
Air Filter Primary:
Typical part numbers may include A2110920201, or equivalent aftermarket. Refer to specific VIN for exact part.
Oil Filter:
Typical part numbers may include A0001802609, A2721800009, or equivalent aftermarket. Refer to specific VIN for exact part.
Foundation:
Founded in 1886, Mercedes-Benz is one of the oldest automobile manufacturers in the world, renowned for luxury, engineering, and innovation.
W211 Introduction:
The W211 generation of the E-Class was introduced for the 2003 model year, replacing the W210. The E320 model typically featured the 3.2L V6 gasoline engine in its early years, transitioning to the 3.0L V6 turbo-diesel (OM642) for 2007/2008 in many markets.
W211 Facelift:
The 2007 model year brought a significant facelift (often referred to as 'pre-facelift' for 2003-2006 and 'facelift' for 2007-2009). The 2008 model falls into this facelifted period, featuring revised styling (e.g., more sculpted front bumper, updated grille, LED lighting elements) and technological updates.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primary manufacturing plants included Sindelfingen, Germany, and Tuscaloosa, Alabama, USA. Assembly also occurred in other global locations.
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
The W211 E-Class generation frequently received IIHS Top Safety Pick awards during its production run for excellent crash test performance.
Consumer Reports Ratings:
Often received above-average or excellent reliability ratings from publications like Consumer Reports, though specific model years can vary.