Positioning:
Premium Compact Executive Sedan, competing with BMW 3 Series, Audi A4, Lexus IS.
Competitors 2002:
BMW 330i (E46), Audi A4 3.0 quattro (B6), Lexus IS300, Cadillac CTS.
Vehicle Features:
Smooth V6 power, refined interior, advanced safety features, comfortable ride, Mercedes-Benz prestige.
Target Audience:
DIY enthusiasts, independent repair shops, Mercedes-Benz owners seeking in-depth repair knowledge.
Primary Coverage:
Service, Repair, Diagnostics, Troubleshooting
Secondary Coverage:
Maintenance, Electrical Systems, Bodywork, Specifications
Type:
Factory Service Manual (FSM) / Digital Repair Manual
Format:
Software/Digital (likely PDF or proprietary viewer)
Powertrain:
Engine (M112 E32), Fuel System, Ignition System, Exhaust System, Transmission (722.6 5G-Tronic Automatic)
Chassis:
Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering, Brakes (ABS, ESP), Wheels & Tires
Electrical:
Engine Control Module (ECM), Body Control Module (BCM), Lighting, Instrumentation, HVAC Controls, Power Accessories, CAN Bus Communication
Body:
Exterior Body Panels, Interior Trim, Doors, Glass, Seats, Safety Restraints (Airbags, Seatbelts)
Routine Maintenance:
Oil Change, Filter Replacements (Oil, Air, Fuel, Cabin), Spark Plug Replacement, Coolant Flush, Brake Fluid Flush
Major Repairs:
Engine Rebuild, Transmission Overhaul, Suspension Component Replacement, Brake System Repair, Steering System Repair, Electrical Component Diagnosis and Replacement
Diagnostics:
OBD-II Diagnostics, Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) Interpretation, Symptom-Based Troubleshooting, Component Testing
Specifications And Data:
Torque Specifications, Fluid Capacities and Types, Component Tolerances, Wiring Diagrams, Vacuum Diagrams
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic maintenance to complete overhaul and advanced diagnostics, including wiring diagrams and schematics.
File Type:
Software/Digital (Likely proprietary application or searchable PDF)
Quality:
High Resolution, Searchable Text, Printable Pages (dependent on software functionality)
Binding:
Not Applicable (Digital Format)
Paper:
Not Applicable (Digital Format)
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated V6, SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft) with 3 valves per cylinder
Displacement:
3.2 Liters (3199 cc)
Horsepower:
215 hp @ 5750 rpm
Torque:
229 lb-ft @ 3000-4500 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Recommended Fuel:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher)
Coolant Type:
Mercedes-Benz approved Glycol/Silicate free coolant (e.g., G05 or equivalent)
Oil Type:
SAE 0W-40 (API SM or higher, MB 229.5 specification)
Spark Plugs:
Platinum or Iridium tipped (e.g., NGK PFR5G-11 or Bosch FGR5-N10G)
Transmission Type:
5-Speed Automatic (722.6 / NAG1)
Optional Transmission:
None offered for C320 in 2002.
Transmission Features:
TouchShift (manual shifting mode), Comfort and Sport modes, Electronic control unit (TCU).
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron III/Mercon compatible or MB Approved ATF (e.g., MB 236.10 or MB 236.12)
NHTSA Front Impact Rating:
5-Star (Driver), 4-Star (Passenger)
IIHS Side Impact Rating:
Good
Electronic Stability Program:
Standard (ESP)
Antilock Braking System:
Standard (ABS)
Traction Control System:
Standard (ASR)
Airbags:
Frontal airbags, Side airbags, Window airbags (optional on some trims).
Seatbelts:
Front seatbelt pretensioners and load limiters, Rear 3-point seatbelts.
Body Structure:
High-strength steel safety cage, crumple zones.
Infotainment System:
COMAND (Cockpit Management and Navigation Display) audio and navigation system, optional CD changer.
Driver Assistance Features:
Rain-sensing wipers, Automatic climate control, Cruise control, Optional Xenon headlights with cornering function.
Connectivity Options:
Optional Tele Aid (emergency services), Optional CD changer.
Headlight Technology:
Halogen projector headlights standard, optional Xenon HID headlights with auto-leveling and cornering.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 10,000 miles or 1 year (whichever comes first), using the specified synthetic oil. Flex service system ('Service A' and 'Service B' indicators).
Transmission Fluid Service:
Recommended every 60,000 miles, though some sources suggest earlier for longevity, especially with heavy use. Refer to manual for specific interval and procedure.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically around 100,000 miles for platinum/iridium plugs.
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 miles or 2 years.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 (MB Approved)
Power Steering Fluid:
MB approved hydraulic fluid (e.g., CHF 11S or equivalent, check specific reservoir)
Common Wear Items:
Ignition coils, Mass Airflow Sensor (MAF), PCV valve, Drive belt tensioner, Crankshaft position sensor, ABS wheel speed sensors, Rear main seal oil leaks, Sunroof drains clogging.
Transmission Issues:
Mechatronic unit issues in the 722.6 transmission can sometimes occur, often related to electrical connections or fluid contamination. Torque converter seal leaks.
Suspension Components:
Worn control arm bushings, ball joints, and sway bar links are common due to mileage and road conditions.
Heritage:
Mercedes-Benz has a long history of producing high-quality, technologically advanced vehicles, particularly in the luxury and executive segments.
C Class Evolution:
The W203 C-Class replaced the W202 and introduced a more modern design language, improved safety, and increased technology. The C320 represented the mid-range, naturally aspirated V6 offering in this generation.
Production Years W203:
2000-2007 (for the W203 generation).
Manufacturing Locations:
Germany (Sindelfingen, Rastatt), South Africa, Brazil, China.
Safety Awards:
Consistent high safety ratings from NHTSA and IIHS for the W203 platform.
Consumer Reports Ratings:
Variable, often praised for performance and luxury but sometimes cited for reliability concerns compared to Japanese competitors of the era. Manual would detail specific diagnostic and repair procedures for these known areas.
Manual Certification:
Officially Licensed Service and Repair Manual Software
