Segment:
Compact Executive Sedan
Target Audience:
Premium compact car buyers seeking comfort, technology, and brand prestige.
Key Competitors:
BMW 3 Series, Audi A4, Lexus IS, Infiniti G Sedan
Design Philosophy:
Modern interpretation of Mercedes-Benz design language, emphasizing sportiness and elegance.
Interior Appointments:
High-quality materials, ergonomic design, user-friendly interface.
Primary Coverage:
Owner's Information, Operation, Maintenance, Safety Features, Specifications
Secondary Coverage:
Instrument Cluster, Climate Control, Lighting, Locks & Security, Seating & Restraints, Driving Aids, Customer Assistance, Cleaning, Engine Compartment, Fluids, Battery, Fuel, Air Filter, Accessories
Estimated Page Count:
Approximately 300-400 (typical for this model/year)
Digital Format:
PDF (Portable Document Format)
Powertrain:
Engine operation, fuel system, cooling system, lubrication system, exhaust system basics.
Chassis:
Braking system overview, steering system overview, suspension system overview.
Electrical:
Lighting controls, instrument cluster indicators, basic electronic accessory operation.
Comfort And Convenience:
Climate control system operation, power locks, seating adjustment, entertainment system basics.
Safety:
Airbag system, seat belt usage, child restraint systems, general safety precautions.
Operation:
Starting and driving, parking, fuel filling, operation of vehicle features.
Maintenance:
Checking fluid levels (oil, coolant, washer fluid), tire pressure checks, basic cleaning instructions.
Troubleshooting:
Understanding dashboard warning lights and indicators, basic troubleshooting steps for common issues.
Emergency:
Jacking and tire changing procedures, jump starting, emergency assistance information.
Depth:
Consumer-focused, covering operation, maintenance, and safety. Not a repair or diagnostic manual.
Engine Code:
M272 (for many W204 C300 variants)
Engine Type:
3.0L V6 SOHC (Aluminum block and cylinder heads)
Horsepower:
Approx. 228 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque:
Approx. 221 lb-ft @ 2700-5000 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Recommended Fuel:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher)
NHTSA Overall:
Generally high ratings for its era (e.g., 5-star front/side impact).
IIHS:
Good ratings in crashworthiness tests.
Electronic Stability Program:
Standard (ESP/Electronic Stability Program)
Anti Lock Braking System:
Standard (ABS)
Traction Control:
Standard (ASR/Acceleration Slip Regulation)
Airbags:
Front, side, and curtain airbags; Pre-Safe system (predictive occupant protection).
Seat Belts:
3-point seat belts with pretensioners and force limiters.
System Name:
COMMAND (optional, depending on trim/packages)
Features:
CD player, AM/FM radio, auxiliary input, optional navigation, Bluetooth connectivity.
Adaptive Cruise Control:
Optional DISTRONIC PLUS
Parking Assist:
Optional PARKTRONIC parking sensors.
Blind Spot Monitoring:
Optional BLIND SPOT ASSIST.
Bluetooth:
Standard or optional for hands-free calling and audio streaming.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first, based on Flexible Service System (FSS).
Major Service:
Refer to FSS indicators (Service A, Service B, etc.) which depend on driving conditions.
Engine Oil Type:
MB 229.5 or 229.51 approved synthetic engine oil (e.g., SAE 0W-40, 5W-40, 5W-30).
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 6.9 US quarts (7.2 liters)
Coolant Type:
Mercedes-Benz approved Antifreeze/Coolant (e.g., G48).
Transmission Fluid Type:
MB Approved ATF (e.g., MB 236.14 for 7G-TRONIC).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 Plus (MB 331.0).
M272 Engine Balance Shaft:
Early production M272 engines had issues with the camshaft adjusters/sprockets (potential software update or replacement needed).
Oil Leaks:
Oil filter housing seals and valve cover gaskets can develop leaks over time.
Suspension Components:
Control arm bushings and sway bar links may wear and require replacement.
Oil Filter:
Example: Mann-Filter HU715/1X, Mahle OX 153/3D (verify with VIN).
Air Filter:
Example: Mann-Filter C35108, Mahle LX 1452 (verify with VIN).
Heritage:
Mercedes-Benz has a long-standing reputation for luxury, engineering, and safety dating back to the late 19th century.
Generation:
W204 generation, introduced for the 2008 model year, replacing the W203.
Facelift:
The 2012 model year received a significant facelift, so this 2011 manual covers the pre-facelift W204.
Manufacturing:
Primarily manufactured in Germany (Sindelfingen, Bremen).
