Segment:
Compact Executive Sedan/Coupe (C-Segment)
Target Audience:
Professionals, luxury car buyers seeking a balance of performance, comfort, and brand prestige in a smaller package.
Key Competitors:
BMW 3 Series (E90/E92), Audi A4 (B8), Lexus IS, Infiniti G35/G37.
Sport Package Highlights:
The 'Sport' designation typically indicates a more aggressive styling package, sport-tuned suspension, larger alloy wheels, sport seats, and potentially sportier interior trim elements. For the C350, this would likely include the AMG styling package.
Powertrain Positioning:
The C350 represents a strong mid-range engine option, offering a good balance of power and efficiency compared to the C300 and the higher-performance AMG models.
Primary Coverage:
Owner's Information, Operation, Maintenance, Basic Specifications
Specific Sections Listed:
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
Estimated Page Count:
N/A (Digital PDF)
Type:
Factory Owner's Manual
Infotainment And Comfort:
Detailed explanations of the COMAND infotainment system (if equipped), climate control operation (including THERMATIC/THERMOTRONIC), audio system functions, and navigation (if equipped).
Driver Controls And Ergonomics:
Operation of steering wheel controls, cruise control, wipers, lights, mirrors, and seat adjustments.
Safety And Security:
Explanation of airbags, seatbelts, ISOFIX child seat anchors, ABS, ESP, immobilizer, central locking, and alarm system.
Instrumentation And Warnings:
Identification and meaning of all dashboard warning lights, indicators, and the multi-function display.
Engine And Powertrain Basic Operation:
Information on engine start-up, operation, fuel recommendations, and basic checks like oil level and coolant.
Lighting And Visibility:
Operation of headlights (including cornering lights if equipped), fog lights, interior lighting, and adjustment of mirrors.
Routine Maintenance:
Guidance on checking and topping up fluids (oil, coolant, washer fluid), tire pressure checks, and filter replacement intervals.
Basic Troubleshooting Indicators:
Explanation of what common warning lights mean and basic steps to take.
Vehicle Care And Cleaning:
Instructions for interior and exterior cleaning, paint care, and upholstery maintenance.
Locking And Unlocking:
Operation of keyless-go, remote key fob, and manual locking procedures.
Fueling And Refueling:
Correct fuel type and procedure for refueling.
Level:
Owner-focused, covering operation, basic maintenance checks, and system explanations. Does not include detailed repair procedures or diagnostic steps found in a service manual.
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated V6
Engine Code:
M272 (Common for 2009 C350)
Displacement:
3.5 Liters (3498 cc)
Horsepower:
Approx. 268 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque:
Approx. 258 lb-ft @ 2400-5000 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Recommended Fuel:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane or higher recommended)
Valvetrain:
4 Valves per Cylinder, DOHC (Double Overhead Camshafts) with Variable Valve Timing (VVT)
Length:
Approx. 180.7 inches (4590 mm)
Width:
Approx. 70.7 inches (1796 mm)
Height:
Approx. 56.1 inches (1425 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 108.7 inches (2760 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3571 lbs (1620 kg) (Varies with options)
Trunk Volume:
Approx. 12.4 cubic feet (350 liters)
NHTSA Front Crash Rating:
5-Star (for 2009 Model Year)
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
Yes (for 2009 Model Year)
Electronic Stability Program:
Standard (ESP)
Antilock Braking System:
Standard (ABS) with Brake Assist (BAS)
Traction Control:
Standard (ASR)
Airbags:
Front airbags, side airbags, front and rear head curtain airbags (windowbags), driver knee airbag.
Seatbelts:
Pretensioners and load limiters for front seats.
Child Seat Anchors:
ISOFIX/LATCH system in rear outboard seating positions.
System Name:
COMAND (Cockpit Management and Navigation)
Features Common:
CD/DVD player, AM/FM radio, auxiliary input, optional navigation system, Bluetooth connectivity (for phone calls, potentially audio streaming depending on package).
Adaptive Headlights:
Optional Bi-Xenon headlamps with cornering function.
Parking Assistance:
Optional Parktronic parking sensors (front and rear).
Cruise Control:
Standard Cruise Control with SPEEDTRONIC variable speed limiter.
Bluetooth:
Integrated Bluetooth for hands-free calling and phone book access.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000 miles or 1 year, whichever comes first, based on 'Service A' or 'Service B' indicators in the vehicle's ASSYST (Active Service System).
Major Service Intervals:
Major services (e.g., spark plug replacement, transmission fluid service, brake fluid flush) are generally recommended around 40,000 - 60,000 miles, but specific intervals vary. The manual will detail the ASSYST prompts.
Engine Oil Specification:
MB 229.5 or MB 229.51 approved synthetic engine oil (e.g., 0W-40, 5W-40, 5W-30, depending on climate and specific engine needs).
Coolant Specification:
Mercedes-Benz approved coolant (e.g., MB 325.0 or MB 326.0 - typically a G05 type antifreeze).
Transmission Fluid Specification:
MB 236.14 (for 7G-TRONIC)
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 4 Plus (MB 331.0)
M272 Engine Balance Shaft Issue:
While more prevalent in earlier M272 engines (pre-2008), some 2009 models might still be affected by premature wear of the balance shaft sprocket, leading to engine misfires or check engine lights. This often requires engine disassembly for repair.
Oil Cooler Leaks:
Leaking oil cooler seals or the oil cooler itself can be a concern, leading to oil loss or coolant contamination.
Window Regulator Failures:
Power window regulators can sometimes fail, causing windows to retract or become stuck.
Electronic Modules:
As with many modern luxury vehicles, electronic modules (e.g., SAM units) can occasionally develop faults requiring diagnosis and potential replacement.
Oil Filter Example:
e.g., Mann-Filter HU 718/5 y, Mahle KL 1050/2 D, Mercedes-Benz A 272 180 00 09 (check specific vehicle VIN for exact fitment)
Air Filter Example:
e.g., Mann-Filter C 24 013, Mahle LX 1158, Mercedes-Benz A 272 094 01 04 (check specific vehicle VIN for exact fitment)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 6.9 US quarts (6.5 liters)
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 7.4 US quarts (7.0 liters)
Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approx. 7.4 US quarts (7.0 liters) (refer to manual for fill procedure)
Manufacturer:
Daimler AG (Mercedes-Benz)
Generation:
Second generation C-Class (W204) launched for the 2008 model year, replacing the W203. The 2009 model year represents early production of this generation.
Sport Package Introduction:
The 'Sport' designation, often paired with AMG styling, became a prominent feature of the W204 generation, offering a more aggressive and driver-oriented alternative to the 'Luxury' trim.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily manufactured in Germany (Sindelfingen, Bremen) and South Africa (East London).
Safety Awards 2009:
As mentioned in safety section, recognized as a Top Safety Pick by IIHS and received 5-star NHTSA ratings for the 2009 model year.
Consumer Reviews Typical:
Generally well-regarded for its interior quality, driving dynamics (especially in Sport trim), and strong V6 engine. Common criticisms might include the complexity of some electronic systems and the cost of maintenance.