🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mercedes-Benz

Model:

C-Class

Model Variant:

C250

Year:

2011

Chassis Code:

W204

Engine Code:

271.860 (M271 DE18 AL)

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact Executive Sedan/Coupe

Target Audience:

Consumers seeking a premium, well-engineered, and stylish compact vehicle with Mercedes-Benz's reputation for quality and safety.

Key Competitors:

BMW 3 Series, Audi A4, Lexus IS, Infiniti G Sedan/Coupe, Acura TL.

Distinguishing Features:

Sophisticated interior design, advanced safety features, powerful yet efficient turbocharged engine, renowned Mercedes-Benz ride quality and handling, iconic brand prestige.

Trim Levels Offered In 2011:

C250 (available as Sedan and Coupe, depending on market)

📋 Manual Details

Systems Covered:

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, Service Information and Specifications, Maintenance Information and Specifications.

Estimated Pages:

Approximately 300-400 (typical for this model year and scope)

Type:

Owner's Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine operation, lubrication, cooling, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system. Transmission operation and basic maintenance.

Chassis:

Braking system, steering system, suspension system, wheels and tires.

Electrical:

Instrument cluster, lighting systems, power windows, locks, mirrors, infotainment system, climate control, warning indicators, battery maintenance.

Safety Systems:

Airbag system, seat belts, child restraint systems (ISOFIX), ABS, ESP (Electronic Stability Program).

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance recommendations, fluid checks and top-offs (engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, windshield washer fluid), tire pressure checks and inflation, wiper blade replacement, cabin air filter replacement, general cleaning and care.

Operation:

Starting and stopping the engine, gear selection, operating climate control, using infotainment features, adjusting seats and mirrors, using cruise control, understanding driver assistance systems.

Troubleshooting Basic:

Understanding dashboard warning lights and messages, basic troubleshooting for common issues like battery drainage or system malfunctions.

Depth:

Covers essential owner-level maintenance, operation, and safety information. Provides specifications for fluids, capacities, and basic checks, but does not include detailed diagnostic procedures or repair instructions typically found in a service manual.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Searchable text within the PDF

Printability:

Printable pages

Quality:

High-resolution digital reproduction of factory original

Binding:

N/A (Digital PDF)

Paper:

N/A (Digital PDF)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Inline-4, Turbocharged, Direct Injection

Displacement:

1.8 Liters (1796 cc)

Bore X Stroke:

82.0 mm x 85.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

10.3:1

Horsepower:

201 hp @ 5500 rpm

Torque:

229 lb-ft @ 2000-4300 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Direct Injection (Bosch Common Rail)

Fuel Type:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)

Fuel Tank Capacity:

Approx. 17.4 gallons (66 liters)

Emission Control:

Catalytic Converter, On-Board Diagnostic (OBD-II)

🔧 Transmission

Type:

7-Speed Automatic (7G-TRONIC PLUS)

Drive Type:

Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) or 4MATIC All-Wheel Drive (AWD) (check specific vehicle)

Transmission Options:

No manual transmission option typically available for C250 in 2011.

Shifting Modes:

Comfort (C), Sport (S), Manual (M) via paddle shifters or gear selector.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Sedan: Approx. 180.7 in (4590 mm) / Coupe: Approx. 181.5 in (4612 mm)

Width:

Approx. 70.7 in (1796 mm)

Height:

Sedan: Approx. 56.4 in (1433 mm) / Coupe: Approx. 54.4 in (1382 mm)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 108.7 in (2760 mm)

Trunk Volume:

Sedan: Approx. 12.4 cu ft (351 liters) / Coupe: Approx. 11.7 cu ft (331 liters)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 3400-3600 lbs (1542-1633 kg) depending on configuration

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Varies by specific model and options

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact Driver:

5 Stars

NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:

5 Stars

NHTSA Side Impact Front Driver:

5 Stars

NHTSA Side Impact Front Passenger:

5 Stars

NHTSA Side Impact Rear Driver:

5 Stars

NHTSA Side Impact Rear Passenger:

5 Stars

IIHS Top Safety Pick:

Yes (for models equipped with optional systems)

Electronic Stability Program:

Standard (ESP - Electronic Stability Program)

Anti Lock Braking System:

Standard (ABS)

Brake Assist:

Standard (BAS - Brake Assist)

Traction Control:

Standard (ASR - Acceleration Skid Control)

Airbags:

Dual front, front-side, front-knee, side-curtain airbags. (Specific count and placement may vary by market/option.)

Seat Belt Pretensioners:

Standard, with force limiters

Child Seat Anchors:

Standard (ISOFIX/LATCH)

💡 Technology Features

Head Unit:

Audio 20 or COMAND NTG 4.5 (depending on option)

Display Type:

Central color display (5.8" or 7" screen)

Features:

CD/DVD player, AM/FM radio, USB interface, Bluetooth connectivity (audio streaming and hands-free calling), SD card slot, optional navigation. Interface controlled via steering wheel buttons, center console knob, or voice command (with COMAND).

Adaptive Headlights:

Optional (Optional ILS - Intelligent Light System)

Parking Assist:

Optional (PARKTRONIC)

Blind Spot Monitoring:

Optional (BLIND SPOT ASSIST)

Lane Keeping Assist:

Optional (LANE KEEPING ASSIST/ASSISTANT)

Adaptive Cruise Control:

Optional (DISTRONIC PLUS)

Bluetooth:

Standard for hands-free calling and audio streaming.

Usb Port:

Standard, for media playback and device charging/interface.

Mbrace:

Optional telematics and connectivity services available through Mercedes-Benz mBrace.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 10,000 miles (16,000 km) or 1 year, whichever comes first, based on the flexible FSS (Flexible Service System) monitoring.

Major Service Intervals:

Key services like spark plug replacement, transmission fluid change, and coolant flush typically occur at intervals of 30,000 to 60,000 miles, with specifics outlined in the service schedule.

Engine Oil Specification:

MB 229.5 (e.g., Mobil 1 ESP Formula 5W-30, Castrol EDGE Professional A3 0W-30) - Always verify with the manual for exact spec.

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 6.3 US quarts (6.0 liters) with filter change.

Coolant Specification:

MB 325.0 (Antifreeze/Coolant, Phosphate-free, ethylene glycol based - typically blue or green)

Transmission Fluid Specification:

MB 236.14 (for 7G-TRONIC PLUS)

Brake Fluid Specification:

DOT 4 Plus (MB 331.0)

Power Steering Fluid:

MB 236.3 (if applicable, some models use ATF)

Common Problems:

Potential issues can include early-model timing chain stretch (less common on later W204s), oil leaks from valve cover gaskets or oil cooler seals, and occasional electronic gremlins related to sensors or control modules. Fuel injectors can sometimes become problematic. Some owners report water pump failures. (These are potential issues, not guaranteed to occur).

Oil Filter Example:

Mann-Filter HU 715/1 x, Mahle Ox 180 D, Mercedes-Benz A 271 180 01 09

Cabin Air Filter Example:

Mann-Filter CU 25 011, Mahle LAK 273, Mercedes-Benz A 204 830 00 18

Spark Plug Example:

NGK PLZKR7B11 (or equivalent)

📚 Vehicle History

Heritage:

Mercedes-Benz has a long-standing reputation for engineering excellence, luxury, and safety dating back to the late 19th century.

C Class Lineage:

The C-Class is Mercedes-Benz's compact executive car, succeeding models like the 190 (W201) and continuing the tradition of offering a smaller, more accessible entry into the brand's premium offerings.

W204 Generation:

The W204 generation of the C-Class was introduced in 2007 and received a significant facelift in 2011, which included updated styling, interior enhancements, and new powertrain options, including the C250 with the 1.8L turbo engine.

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily Germany (Sindelfingen, Bremen), with production also occurring in other global facilities depending on market.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

General Awards:

The W204 C-Class generation, including the 2011 model year, consistently received praise from automotive journalists for its driving dynamics, interior quality, and safety, often appearing on 'best of' lists within its segment.