Vehicle Segment:
Compact Executive Sedan
Brand Positioning:
Premium Luxury Vehicle
Key Competitors 2007:
BMW 3 Series, Audi A4, Lexus IS, Infiniti G35
Distinctive Attributes:
Advanced safety features, sophisticated interior, powerful yet efficient V6 engine, refined ride quality
Manual Value Proposition:
Empowers owners and independent mechanics with comprehensive, dealership-level repair information, reducing reliance on expensive dealer service.
Engine Mechanical:
Full overhaul, component testing, timing, lubrication, cooling system
Engine Management:
ECU diagnostics, sensor testing, fuel injection, ignition system
Transmission Automatic:
7G-TRONIC (722.9), diagnostics, fluid service, control module
Drivetrain:
Driveshafts, differential, CV joints, wheel bearings
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, alignment specifications, shock absorbers, springs
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, column, troubleshooting
Brakes:
ABS, ESP, brake system hydraulics, pad/rotor replacement, bleeding procedures
Electrical System:
Battery, alternator, starter, wiring diagrams, component testing
Climate Control:
HVAC system operation, refrigerant service, component replacement
Body And Interior:
Panel removal, trim, seats, glass, door mechanisms
Safety Systems:
Airbags, seatbelts, SRS system troubleshooting
Infotainment And Electronics:
Audio, navigation, instrument cluster, control modules
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Code) interpretation, symptom-based diagnosis
Repair:
Component replacement (e.g., water pump, alternator, starter, brake calipers), gasket replacement, seal replacement
Overhaul:
Engine rebuild procedures, transmission overhaul
Electrical Troubleshooting:
Circuit tracing, testing, wiring harness repair
Alignment:
Front and rear wheel alignment specifications and procedures
Timing Belt Chain:
Timing chain inspection and replacement procedures (M272 uses a chain)
Brake Service:
Brake pad and rotor replacement, brake bleeding, caliper service
HVAC Service:
Refrigerant charging, component replacement (compressor, evaporator, heater core)
Bodywork Repair:
Panel removal and installation, trim replacement
Depth Level:
Professional Technician Level
Detail Level:
Detailed step-by-step instructions, torque specifications, wiring diagrams, component locations
Diagnostic Tools:
References to Mercedes-Benz specific diagnostic tools (e.g., STAR Diagnosis) and generic OBD-II scanners
Infotainment System:
COMAND (Cockpit Management and Navigation) system
Display Type:
Color LCD Screen (5.8 inch or 7 inch, depending on options)
Audio Features:
AM/FM radio, CD player, optional MP3 capability, optional Harman Kardon surround sound
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control, optional DISTRONIC adaptive cruise control
Parking Assistance:
Optional front and rear parking sensors (PARKTRONIC)
Bluetooth:
Optional Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling
Auxiliary Input:
Standard auxiliary audio input jack
Oil Change Interval:
Flexible, typically based on Mercedes-Benz's 'Service A' and 'Service B' indicators (often around 10,000 miles / 1 year)
Transmission Service Interval:
Recommended every 40,000-60,000 miles (consult specific maintenance schedule for exact interval)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically around 60,000-100,000 miles depending on plug type
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 Plus (MB-Approval 331.0)
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 7.5 Liters (for 50/50 mix)
Common Wear Items:
Front control arm bushings, power steering hoses, O2 sensors, EPROM/CDM module failure (older units)
Engine Related Concerns:
Balance shaft wear (on some M272 engines, but less prevalent on later versions), intake manifold flap issues, oil cooler seals
Transmission Concerns:
Valve body issues or conductor plate failure (less common on early 722.9 compared to later models, but still possible).
Brand History:
Founded in 1926, Mercedes-Benz is renowned for its innovation, luxury, and engineering excellence in the automotive industry.
C Class History:
The C-Class, introduced in 1993, represents Mercedes-Benz's entry-level luxury sedan, evolving through multiple generations to offer advanced technology and refined performance.
Production Years W204:
2007-2014
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Germany (Sindelfingen), also South Africa, China, and USA for specific markets.