Segment:
Compact Executive Sedan
Target Audience:
Buyers seeking premium materials, advanced technology, comfort, and sophisticated styling in a compact luxury sedan.
Key Competitors:
BMW 3 Series, Audi A4, Lexus IS, Infiniti G37/Q50
Styling:
Sporty yet elegant design, a departure from previous C-Class generations, emphasizing dynamism and modern aesthetics.
Technology:
Introduction of advanced infotainment (COMAND system), safety features (PRE-SAFE), and driver assistance systems common in higher Mercedes-Benz models.
Powertrain:
Focus on refinement and efficiency, with a strong emphasis on the V6 engine for the C300 model.
General:
Introduction, Instrument Cluster, Entertainment Systems, Climate Controls, Lights, Driver Controls, Locks and Security, Seating and Safety Restraints, Driving, Customer Assistance, Reporting Safety Defects (US Only), Cleaning, Maintenance and Specifications, Engine Compartment, Engine Oil, Battery, Fuel Information, Air Filter(s), Part Numbers, Refill Capacities, Lubricant Specifications, Accessories
Estimated:
Approximately 300-400 pages (typical for a Mercedes-Benz owner's manual of this era)
Format:
Digital PDF (Instant Download)
Powertrain:
Engine compartment overview, engine oil, battery, fuel information, air filter, refill capacities, lubricant specifications
Interior Controls:
Instrument cluster (indicators, warning lights), entertainment systems (radio, CD, optional navigation), climate controls (HVAC operation), driver controls (steering wheel, pedals, transmission shifter), locks and security (keyless entry, alarm system, central locking), seating and safety restraints (seat adjustment, seatbelt operation, airbags, child seat installation)
Exterior Features:
Lights (headlights, taillights, interior lighting), exterior accessories
Operation:
Starting and stopping the engine, driving techniques, parking, using various controls and features, fuel economy tips
Maintenance:
Checking fluid levels (oil, coolant, brake fluid, washer fluid), tire pressure checks, basic cleaning instructions, introduction to maintenance and specifications
Troubleshooting:
Understanding warning lights and messages, basic advice for common situations
Level:
Owner-level information for day-to-day operation, maintenance checks, and feature understanding. Does not include in-depth diagnostic procedures or repair instructions typically found in a service manual.
Requirements:
Requires a PDF reader (e.g., Adobe Acrobat Reader, Foxit Reader, or comparable)
Compatibility:
Works on any device capable of reading PDF files (computers, tablets, smartphones)
Quality:
High-resolution digital reproduction of factory original
Engine Code:
M272 (Common for C300 4MATIC in North America)
Configuration:
3.0L V6 (Naturally Aspirated)
Horsepower:
Approximately 228 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque:
Approximately 221 lb-ft @ 2500-5000 rpm
Type:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Octane Rating:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ Octane Recommended)
System:
California Emissions Certified (typical for US models), potentially others depending on region.
Coolant Type:
Mercedes-Benz approved coolant (e.g., ZEREX G-05 or equivalent)
Coolant Capacity:
Approximately 7.5 - 8.0 liters (depending on engine variant and cooling system components)
Type:
7-speed Automatic (7G-TRONIC)
Type:
None for C300 in most markets for 2010.
Modes:
Comfort (C) and Sport (S) modes
Fluid Type:
MB 236.14 Automatic Transmission Fluid (e.g., Pentosin ATF 1, Mobil ATF 134)
Capacity:
Approximately 7.0 - 8.0 liters (fill amount may vary, torque converter fill critical)
Length:
Approx. 180.9 inches (4595 mm)
Width:
Approx. 70.7 inches (1796 mm)
Height:
Approx. 56.3 inches (1430 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 108.7 inches (2760 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3500 - 3650 lbs (1588 - 1656 kg), varies by drivetrain (RWD/4MATIC)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approx. 4600 - 4750 lbs (2087 - 2154 kg)
Trunk Volume:
Approx. 13.0 cubic feet (368 liters)
NHTSA Overall:
Likely 5-Star (based on typical W204 performance in crash tests, though specific 2010 C300 ratings may vary by configuration and year of testing)
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
Likely 'Good' ratings in front, side, rear, and roof strength tests, qualifying for Top Safety Pick.
Airbags:
Frontal airbags (driver & passenger), side-impact airbags, front and rear head protection airbags (window airbags), potentially knee airbags (driver)
Seat Restraints:
3-point inertia-reel seat belts with pretensioners and force limiters, ISOFIX child seat anchors
Braking System:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Brake Assist (BAS), Electronic Stability Program (ESP), Traction Control System (TCS)
Driver Assistance:
PRE-SAFE® system (predictive occupant protection), Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
System Name:
COMAND (Cockpit Management and Navigation)
Features:
AM/FM Radio, CD Player, MP3 compatibility, optional Bluetooth connectivity, optional Hard-Drive Navigation, optional Harman Kardon sound system.
Systems:
Optional Adaptive Cruise Control (DISTRONIC PLUS), Lane Keeping Assist, Blind Spot Assist, Parktronic (parking sensors).
Options:
Bluetooth for hands-free calling and audio streaming, optional SiriusXM satellite radio.
Headlights:
Halogen projector-beam headlights standard, optional Bi-Xenon Adaptive Headlights with LED daytime running lights.
Features:
Keyless-Go (push-button start, optional), power-adjustable seats with memory, automatic climate control, rain-sensing wipers.
Oil Change Frequency:
Variable Service Interval System (ASSYST PLUS) – typically every 10,000 miles or 1 year, whichever comes first, depending on driving conditions and oil quality.
Major Service Intervals:
Inspection A (e.g., around 10,000 miles), Inspection B (e.g., around 20,000 miles), and subsequent service intervals involving more comprehensive checks (e.g., spark plugs at higher mileage, brake fluid flush).
Engine Oil Type:
Mercedes-Benz Approved Synthetic Oil (e.g., MB 229.5 or MB 229.51 specification, typically SAE 0W-40 or 5W-40)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 6.5 liters (1.7 gallons)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 Plus (or MB Approved equivalent)
Power Steering Fluid Type:
MB Approved Hydraulic Fluid (e.g., Pentosin CHF 11S, check specific vehicle application)
Common Maintenance Items:
PCV valve failure (can lead to oil leaks and rough idle), intake manifold flap failures (M272 engine), balance shaft issues (in earlier M272 engines, less common by 2010 but possible), various electronic module issues, transmission conductor plate problems.
Part Numbers Examples:
Oil Filter: A2721800009 (example, verify for specific VIN). Air Filter: A2048300124 (example, verify for specific VIN).
Legacy:
Mercedes-Benz has a long-standing reputation for engineering excellence, safety, and luxury. The C-Class represents the entry point into the brand's sedan lineup, embodying many of its core values.
Generation:
W204 generation, launched for the 2008 model year in North America. The 2010 model represents a continuation of this generation, with minor updates often occurring throughout a model cycle.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily manufactured in Germany (Sindelfingen, Bremen) and also in other locations globally to serve specific markets (e.g., South Africa, China).
