Segment:
Compact Executive Sedan/Coupe/Estate
Brand Perception:
Premium, luxury, performance, technological innovation
Key Competitors:
BMW 3 Series, Audi A4, Lexus IS, Infiniti G35/G37, Cadillac CTS
Design:
Elegant and athletic styling, interior craftsmanship, advanced ergonomics
Technology:
Advanced safety systems, infotainment options, efficient engine technologies
Performance:
Comfortable ride, capable handling, range of powerful and efficient engines
Demographics:
Professionals, discerning car buyers seeking a blend of luxury, performance, and practicality
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, engine management (ECU), transmission (automatic), torque converter
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, braking system (ABS, ESP), wheels and tires, drivetrain (rear-wheel drive, optional all-wheel drive)
Electrical:
Body control module (BCM), instrument cluster, lighting systems (headlights, taillights, interior), power windows, power locks, central locking, mirrors, wipers, horn, battery, charging system, starter motor, fuse boxes, relays, wiring diagrams
Body:
Body structure, exterior panels, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, glass, interior trim, seats, HVAC system (heating, ventilation, air conditioning)
Infotainment And Comfort:
Audio system, navigation system (if equipped), climate control operation, seat adjustment, interior features
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance (oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks), lubrication, inspections
Repair:
Engine overhaul, transmission service and repair, brake component replacement, suspension repair, steering component replacement, electrical component diagnosis and repair, body panel repair and replacement, HVAC system repair
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation, electrical system diagnosis using wiring diagrams
Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues across all major systems
Technical Specifications:
Torque specifications for fasteners, fluid capacities, fluid types, electrical component data, engine specifications
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering from routine maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed electrical schematics and diagnostic procedures
Engine Family Gasoline:
M271 (Inline-4 CGI Turbocharged)
Engine Family Gasoline V6:
M272 (V6 Naturally Aspirated)
Engine Family Diesel:
OM642 (V6 Turbocharged Diesel)
Typical Horsepower Range:
156 hp (C180 CGI) to 306 hp (C63 AMG - though AMG is typically a different manual, this manual likely covers standard variants)
Typical Torque Range:
250 Nm (C180 CGI) to 470 Nm (C350)
Fuel Delivery:
Direct Injection (CGI), Port Injection (M272)
Fuel Type Gasoline:
Premium Unleaded (91+ octane recommended)
Bore Stroke M271:
82.0 mm x 83.0 mm
Bore Stroke M272:
88.0 mm x 88.3 mm
Compression Ratio M271 Cgi:
10.5:1 (approx.)
Compression Ratio M272:
10.7:1 (approx.)
Standard Transmission:
7-speed Automatic (7G-TRONIC PLUS for later models within this range)
Optional Transmission:
5-speed Automatic (722.6 - typically on earlier or base models)
Transmission Control:
Electronic control with manual shifting modes (e.g., 'M' mode) and comfort/sport settings
Transmission Fluid Type 7G Tronic:
MB-Approval 236.14 (e.g., Shell ATF 134, Fuchs Titan ATF 4134)
Transmission Fluid Capacity 7G Tronic:
Approx. 7.5-9.0 Liters (dry fill)
Sedan Length:
Approx. 4591 mm (180.7 in)
Sedan Width:
Approx. 1770 mm (69.7 in)
Sedan Height:
Approx. 1447 mm (57.0 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2760 mm (108.7 in)
Sedan Trunk Volume:
Approx. 450 Liters (15.9 cu ft)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1500-1700 kg (3300-3750 lbs) depending on engine and configuration
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
5x112
NHTSA Front Impact:
5-Star (for applicable models and testing)
IIHS Front Small Overlap:
Good (for models tested)
Brake Assist:
BAS (Brake Assist System)
Stability Control:
ESP (Electronic Stability Program), Traction Control
Driver Assistance Options:
Optional: Adaptive Cruise Control (DISTRONIC PLUS), Lane Keeping Assist, Blind Spot Assist, Parking Assist
Airbags:
Frontal airbags, side airbags, curtain airbags (front and rear), knee airbags (driver)
Seatbelts:
Pretensioners, force limiters
Head Restraints:
Active NECK-PRO head restraints (optional)
Infotainment System Name:
COMAND APS (Command, Control, and Navigation)
Display Type:
Central color display (often pop-up style)
Connectivity Options:
Bluetooth connectivity, optional USB interface, SD card slot
Standard Driver Assistance:
ABS, ESP, Cruise Control, ATTENTION ASSIST (drowsiness detection)
Advanced Options Availability:
Advanced features were often optional packages, including DISTRONIC PLUS, PARKTRONIC, Lane Keeping Assist, Blind Spot Assist
Telematics:
Optional: Mercedes-Benz Emergency Call System
Keyless Go:
Optional keyless entry and ignition system
Lighting Technology:
Bi-Xenon headlamps with active curve illumination (optional), LED daytime running lights
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (dependent on oil type and driving conditions, check manual)
Major Service Intervals:
Refer to 'Service A' and 'Service B' schedules, often around 20,000 miles/2 years and 40,000 miles/4 years respectively (includes spark plugs, transmission fluid service, etc.)
Engine Oil Type:
MB-Approval 229.5 or 229.51 (e.g., Mobil 1 0W-40, Castrol EDGE 5W-40)
Coolant Type:
MB-Approval 325.0 (typically blue or green ethylene glycol-based)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 Plus (MB-Approval 331.0)
Engine Oil Capacity M271:
Approx. 5.0 Liters (4.2 US Quarts) with filter
Engine Oil Capacity M272:
Approx. 6.5 Liters (6.9 US Quarts) with filter
Common Complaints:
M272 V6 balance shaft wear (earlier production years 2004-2008, less common in W204 range but can occur), oil leaks from valve cover gaskets and oil filter housing, ignition coil failure, transmission conductor plate issues (722.9), HVAC blower motor issues, water pump leaks
Maintenance Tips:
Adhering to recommended service intervals, using correct fluids, and addressing minor issues promptly can prevent major failures. Regular inspection of cooling system hoses and belts is recommended.
Manufacturer:
Mercedes-Benz AG, a division of Daimler AG (now Mercedes-Benz Group AG)
Generation:
Third generation of the C-Class
Predecessor:
W203 C-Class
Production Years:
2007-2014 (W204 platform)
Manufacturing Locations:
Germany (Sindelfingen, Bremen), USA (Tuscaloosa), South Africa (East London), China (Beijing)
