Class:
Compact Executive Sedan/Coupe/Wagon
Segment Competitors:
BMW 3 Series, Audi A4, Lexus IS, Infiniti G37 (Q40/Q50)
Strengths:
Refined interior, strong safety features, comfortable ride, efficient engine options, luxury brand prestige
Weaknesses:
Can be more expensive than competitors, some engine variants less engaging than rivals, infotainment interface can be complex for some
Design Language:
Subtle evolution of Mercedes-Benz styling, known for elegance and understated luxury
Powertrain Options:
Range of efficient 4-cylinder and 6-cylinder gasoline engines, potentially diesel and AMG variants
Interior Quality:
High-quality materials, excellent fit and finish, ergonomic design
Engine Mechanical:
Complete overhaul, diagnostics, component replacement (e.g., cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, timing system)
Engine Management:
Fuel injection, ignition system, emissions control, ECU diagnostics, sensor testing, troubleshooting
Transmission Manual:
Internal components, clutch, gearbox overhaul, diagnostics, fluid service
Transmission Automatic:
Torque converter, valve body, planetary gears, mechatronics unit, diagnostics, fluid service, control module troubleshooting
Drivetrain:
Driveshafts, differential, axle components, AWD system (if applicable), troubleshooting
Suspension:
Struts, shock absorbers, control arms, bushings, springs, steering knuckles, alignment specifications
Steering:
Power steering system (hydraulic/electric), steering rack, tie rods, steering column, diagnostics, fluid specifications
Brakes:
Brake system hydraulics, ABS, ESP, brake pads, rotors, calipers, parking brake, bleeding procedures, diagnostics
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system, starter, lighting, horns, power windows, mirrors, seats, wiring diagrams, component testing
Body And Chassis:
Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, interior trim, chassis components, corrosion prevention
Climate Control:
HVAC system, A/C compressor, condenser, evaporator, blower motor, climate control unit, refrigerant R134a (or equivalent), charging procedures
Restraint Systems:
Airbag system, seatbelts, SRS module diagnostics, replacement procedures
Infotainment And Electronics:
Audio system, navigation (if equipped), COMAND system, instrument cluster, sensor integration, diagnostics
Scheduled Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, service B intervals (or equivalent Mercedes-Benz terminology)
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting, electrical system diagnostics, component failure analysis
Repair Procedures:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for all major component replacements and overhauls
Diagnostic Procedures:
Use of diagnostic scan tools (e.g., STAR Diagnosis/XENTRY), data stream analysis, actuator testing
Technical Specifications:
Torque values, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical resistance, pressure specifications
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical schematics for all vehicle systems
Maintenance Schedule:
Detailed service intervals based on mileage and time, covering all major maintenance items
Depth:
Factory-level detail, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts
Component Level:
Covers complete disassembly and reassembly of all major components and systems
Special Tools:
Lists and specifies necessary Mercedes-Benz specific special tools for various procedures
NHTSA Overall:
5-Star (typically across all categories for this model year)
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
Yes (for models equipped with specific optional safety features)
ABS:
Yes, 4-wheel anti-lock braking system
Esp:
Yes, Electronic Stability Program (ESP)
Traction Control:
Yes, Acceleration Skid Control (ASR)
Airbags:
Front, side, and curtain airbags; knee airbag for driver
Seatbelts:
Pretensioners and force limiters on front seats
Driver Assistance Optional:
Distronic PLUS, Lane Keeping Assist, Blind Spot Assist, Parking Assist
System Name:
COMAND (Cockpit Management and Navigation)
Features:
CD/DVD player, AM/FM radio, Bluetooth connectivity, optional navigation, auxiliary input, USB integration (on some later models)
Standard Features:
ABS, ESP, Traction Control, Attention Assist (driver fatigue detection)
Optional Features:
Adaptive Cruise Control (Distronic PLUS), Lane Departure Warning, Blind Spot Monitoring, Active Parking Assist
Bluetooth:
Standard for hands-free calling, audio streaming on most trims
Usb Aux:
Available on select trims and via adapter options for media playback
Oil Service:
Typically every 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (using synthetic oil)
Major Service Intervals:
Service B (includes cabin filter, brake fluid flush, etc.) typically around 20,000 miles or 24 months, but depends on driving conditions and model year specifics.
Engine Oil:
MB 229.5 or 229.51 approved synthetic oil (e.g., Mobil 1 0W-40, 5W-40)
Coolant:
MB Approved Antifreeze/Coolant (e.g., G48 - Blue)
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 Plus (MB 331.0)
Common Problems:
Oil leaks from valve cover or oil filter housing gasket, EPROM/ESP module failures, HVAC blower motor resistor issues, catalytic converter issues (especially on early models), timing chain guide wear (on some specific engine codes like M271)
Preventive Maintenance:
Regular oil changes with correct specification oil, timely brake fluid replacement, monitoring for oil leaks.