Segment:
Compact Executive / Compact Luxury Sedan
Segment Competitors:
BMW 3 Series, Audi A4, Lexus IS, Alfa Romeo Giulia, Volvo S60
Strengths:
Refined ride, luxurious interior, advanced technology, strong safety features, efficient engine options
Design Philosophy:
Sensual purity, modern luxury, dynamic athleticism
Interior Highlights:
High-quality materials, ambient lighting, optional widescreen cockpit, intuitive COMAND interface
Exterior Highlights:
Fluid lines, sculpted surfaces, distinctive LED lighting signature
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, cooling system, lubrication system, exhaust system, engine control systems (ECU/ECM)
Transmission:
Automatic transmission (7G-TRONIC PLUS, 9G-TRONIC), clutch (if applicable for specific variants), transfer case (4MATIC AWD)
Drivetrain:
Driveshafts, differentials, axles, constant velocity joints
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, springs, shock absorbers, control arms, bushings, air suspension (AIRMATIC)
Steering:
Power steering system, steering column, steering rack, electric power steering (EPS)
Brakes:
Brake system components (discs, pads, calipers), hydraulic system, ABS, ESP, brake assist, parking brake (electric)
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system (alternator), starter motor, lighting (headlights, taillights, interior), fuses, relays, wiring diagrams, CAN bus system
Body And Chassis:
Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, interior trim, glass, chassis components, rust prevention
Climate Control:
HVAC system, air conditioning, heating, ventilation, climate control unit
Infotainment And Electronics:
COMAND infotainment system, audio system, navigation, instrument cluster, sensors, control modules (SAM, BCM, etc.)
Safety Systems:
Airbags, seatbelts, ADAPTIVE BRAKE, COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST PLUS, PARKTRONIC, Blind Spot Assist, Lane Keeping Assist
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance intervals, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, brake inspections
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnosis, fault code interpretation, diagnostic tool usage (XENTRY/DAS)
Repair:
Component removal and installation, adjustments, system repairs, rebuild procedures
Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, component tolerances
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed electrical wiring schematics for all systems
Depth:
Comprehensive (dealer-level technical information)
Accuracy:
Vehicle-specific, not generic
NHTSA Rating:
5-Star Overall Safety Rating (when equipped with specific packages)
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
Often awarded Top Safety Pick or Top Safety Pick+ (depending on specific equipment)
Driver Assistance Examples:
Active Brake Assist, ATTENTION ASSIST, Blind Spot Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, DISTRONIC PLUS (Adaptive Cruise Control)
Airbag Systems:
Front airbags, side airbags, knee airbags, front and rear side curtain airbags
Seatbelt Pretensioners:
Standard front seatbelt pretensioners
Primary System:
COMAND (Cockpit Management and Navigation)
Display Size:
Standard 8.4-inch display, optional 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster
Connectivity Options:
Bluetooth, USB ports, optional Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Wi-Fi hotspot
Adaptive Cruise Control:
DISTRONIC PLUS (optional)
Lane Departure Prevention:
Active Lane Keeping Assist (optional)
Parking Assistance:
PARKTRONIC with Parking Assist (optional)
Telematics:
Mercedes-Benz emergency call system (eCall)
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000 miles or 1 year, whichever comes first (flexible service system - ASSYST PLUS)
Major Service Interval:
Often around 30,000-40,000 miles for more comprehensive checks and replacements (e.g., spark plugs, transmission fluid)
Engine Oil Type:
MB 229.5, MB 229.51, MB 229.52 (e.g., Mobil 1 ESP Formula 0W-40 or 5W-40, depending on engine variant and emissions requirements)
Coolant Type:
MB 325.0 / MB 326.0 (Antifreeze/Coolant, blue or green)
Transmission Fluid Type:
MB 236.14 (for 7G-TRONIC) or MB 236.15 (for 9G-TRONIC)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 Plus (or DOT 4 ISO 4925 Class 6)
Common Wear Items:
Brake pads and rotors, front control arm bushings, wheel bearings, tires
Potential Electrical Issues:
Occasional issues with sensors, CAN bus communication faults, and battery drain can occur if not properly diagnosed.
Climate Control Concerns:
Blend door actuators and A/C refrigerant leaks can be points of failure.
