Positioning:
The COMAND APS system was Mercedes-Benz's premium infotainment and navigation solution for the E-Class, offering advanced features for its time.
Competitors:
Competed with similar integrated systems from BMW (iDrive), Audi (MMI), and Lexus (Remote Touch/Navigation).
Navigation:
Integrated hard-drive or DVD-based navigation with European maps (often requiring separate map updates).
Connectivity:
Bluetooth telephony, optional CD changer, radio, and MP3 playback capabilities.
Display:
High-resolution color display integrated into the dashboard.
Navigation Features:
Map display, route planning, destination entry, points of interest (POI), traffic information (if equipped with TMC receiver).
Audio System:
Radio operation (AM/FM/SW), CD player/changer, MP3 playback, auxiliary input (if equipped).
Telephone Integration:
Bluetooth connectivity (if equipped), phone book management, call functions.
Vehicle Settings Access:
Basic vehicle customization options accessible through the COMAND interface (e.g., lighting, comfort settings).
Estimated Pages:
Approximately 150-250 pages (typical for a comprehensive system operator's manual of this era, but exact count not provided).
Type:
Operator's Manual / Owner's Manual (System Specific)
Format:
Digital PDF (Instant Download)
Infotainment System:
COMAND APS multimedia system, including display unit, control knob, and steering wheel controls.
Navigation System:
Detailed operation of the integrated GPS navigation system.
Audio Sources:
All integrated audio sources: Radio, CD, potentially CD Changer, and Aux input.
Communication Features:
Operation of integrated telephone system (if factory-installed and equipped with Bluetooth).
Basic Operation:
Step-by-step guides for powering on/off, adjusting volume, tuning radio, inserting/ejecting CDs.
Navigation Setup:
Setting destinations, planning routes, understanding navigation prompts, customizing map views.
Audio Management:
Selecting audio sources, managing playlists (for MP3), adjusting sound settings (bass, treble, balance).
Telephone Pairing:
Pairing a mobile phone via Bluetooth, managing contacts, making and receiving calls.
Depth:
User-focused operational procedures, system customization, and feature explanations. Not a repair or diagnostic manual.
Engine Options 2004 E Class:
2004 E-Class (W211) offered various engines: E320 (3.2L V6/3.2L CDI V6), E500 (5.0L V8), E350 (3.7L V6 - may vary by market/late intro), E240 (2.6L V6), E270 CDI (2.7L I5 Diesel), E320 CDI (3.2L I6 Diesel).
Horsepower Range:
170 HP (E240) to 302 HP (E500). Diesel variants typically 224 HP (E320 CDI).
Torque Range:
Approx. 265 lb-ft (E240) to 339 lb-ft (E500). Diesel variants offering significant torque (e.g., 369 lb-ft for E320 CDI).
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) for gasoline engines, Common Rail Direct Injection (CDI) for diesel engines.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (RON 91 or higher recommended), Diesel fuel (ULSD recommended for CDI).
Standard Transmission:
5-speed Automatic (e.g., 722.6 - '5G-TRONIC') was common across many models, especially V6 variants. Some V8 models and diesel might have had it as standard.
Optional Transmission:
7-speed Automatic ('7G-TRONIC') became available on certain models (e.g., E350, E500) in later production or as an option.
Transmission Modes:
Comfort (C) and Sport (S) modes, allowing different shift points and throttle response.
Length:
Approx. 190.7 inches (4844 mm) for sedan.
Width:
Approx. 71.7 inches (1821 mm).
Height:
Approx. 57.0 inches (1448 mm) for sedan.
Curb Weight:
Varies significantly by engine and options, ranging from approximately 3500 lbs (1590 kg) to over 4000 lbs (1815 kg).
NHTSA Front Crash Test:
5 Stars (likely for driver and passenger frontal impact, based on W211 safety standards).
IIHS Front Offset Crash Test:
Good (likely, as W211 platform was known for strong safety performance).
Traction Control:
ASR (Anti-Slip Regulation), ESP (Electronic Stability Program).
Braking System:
ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), Brake Assist (BAS).
Airbags:
Frontal airbags, side airbags, front and rear head curtain airbags (window airbags).
Seat Belts:
3-point inertia-reel seat belts with front belt tensioners and belt force limiters.
Display Technology:
High-resolution LCD screen, controlled via central dial and buttons, often with steering wheel remote controls.
Audio System Features:
AM/FM tuner, CD player, MP3 compatibility, optional CD changer, auxiliary input, Harman Kardon sound system often available.
Parking Assistance:
Optional Parktronic parking sensors (front and rear), sometimes integrated with the COMAND display.
Adaptive Cruise Control:
Optional DISTRONIC adaptive cruise control system available on some models.
Bluetooth:
Integrated Bluetooth for hands-free calling and phonebook access (requires compatible phone).
Navigation Updates:
Navigation map updates were typically provided on DVD and required purchase from Mercedes-Benz or authorized dealers. Often expensive.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000 miles (16,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first, using synthetic oil. Varies based on driving conditions and oil type. The car's Flexible Service System (FSS) would indicate specific needs.
Major Service Interval:
Refer to the specific service schedule (e.g., 'Service A', 'Service B' in the owner's manual). Major services often around 30,000, 60,000, 90,000 miles, including spark plugs, brake fluid, coolant, transmission fluid changes.
Engine Oil Specification:
MB 229.5 (for gasoline engines, e.g., Mobil 1 0W-40 or equivalent) or MB 229.51/228.51 (for diesel engines, depending on DPF). Check manual for exact grade based on engine variant.
Transmission Fluid Specification:
MB 236.10 or MB 236.12 for automatic transmissions (e.g., ATF 4G/5G-TRONIC fluid).
Coolant Specification:
MB 325.0 or MB 326.0 (Antifreeze/Coolant, typically blue or green).
Common Wear Items:
Air suspension components (struts, compressor) on models equipped with Airmatic, various electrical sensors, catalytic converters, intake manifold flaps (on certain V6 engines).
Interior Electronics:
COMAND system glitches, button wear, screen delamination are possible with age and mileage.
Mercedes Benz History:
Founded in 1926, Mercedes-Benz is synonymous with luxury, engineering excellence, and pioneering automotive safety and technology.
E Class Evolution:
The E-Class lineage traces back to the mid-20th century, evolving through generations like the W123, W124, W210, and this W211, consistently representing the core executive sedan and wagon offering.
W211 Production Years:
2002-2009 (model years 2003-2009 typically).
Manufacturing Locations:
Primary assembly in Sindelfingen, Germany. Other plants may have contributed globally.
E Class Awards General:
The W211 E-Class generally received positive reviews for its safety, comfort, and build quality, often appearing on 'best of' lists for luxury sedans and wagons.
Safety Awards:
Consistently performed well in independent safety crash tests (NHTSA, IIHS), contributing to its reputation.
Reliability Ratings:
Reliability varied by specific engine and options. Some models faced more issues than others, but generally considered well-built. Consumer Reports and J.D. Power ratings should be consulted for specific years and configurations.
