🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mercedes-Benz

Model:

E-Class

Chassis Code:

W212

Model Year:

2012

Generation Code:

Fourth Generation (W212/S212)

Platform:

Mercedes-Benz Modular Rear-wheel drive architecture

👋 Introduction

Market Segment:

Executive/Luxury Mid-size Sedan and Estate

Key Competitors:

BMW 5 Series, Audi A6, Lexus GS, Jaguar XF, Volvo S80.

Design Philosophy:

Elegance, comfort, advanced technology, and refined performance, continuing Mercedes-Benz's heritage.

Target Audience:

Discerning professionals, executives, and families seeking a premium and reliable vehicle.

📋 Manual Details

Covered Models:

All 2012 Mercedes-Benz E-Class (W212) Sedan, Wagon (S212), Coupe (C207) and Cabriolet (A207) variants

Page Count:

Estimated 2000+ pages (indicative for comprehensive dealer-level manuals)

Manual Type:

Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (PDF) - Searchable and Printable

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

All gasoline and diesel engine variants, including diagnosis, overhaul, timing, lubrication, cooling, fuel injection, emissions control.

Transmission:

Automatic Transmission (7G-TRONIC PLUS, 722.9 series), diagnosis, overhaul, fluid service, control module.

Drivetrain:

Rear-wheel drive (RWD) and 4MATIC all-wheel drive (AWD) systems, including differentials, driveshafts, CV joints.

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, bushings, air suspension (if equipped), wheel alignment specifications.

Brakes:

Hydraulic brake system, ABS, ESP, EBD, SBC (if applicable to specific variants), brake pads, rotors, calipers, lines, master cylinder, parking brake.

Steering:

Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, steering column, power steering fluid.

Electrical System:

Battery, alternator, starter, wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, lighting (headlights, taillights, interior), horn, wipers, power windows/locks/mirrors.

Body And Chassis:

Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, glass, interior trim, structural components, corrosion protection, torque specifications for body fasteners.

Climate Control:

HVAC system, air conditioning, heater core, blower motor, climate control module, refrigerant R134a.

Infotainment And Navigation:

COMAND system, audio components, navigation system, speaker replacement, antenna systems.

Safety Systems:

Airbags (SRS), seatbelts, occupant restraint systems, pre-tensioners, post-collision safety features.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotations, brake inspections, spark plug replacement, battery testing.

Diagnostic Procedures:

Troubleshooting guides for common and uncommon faults, OBD-II diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), live data interpretation, sensor testing.

Repair And Overhaul:

Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and rebuilding (e.g., engine components, transmission, suspension arms, brake calipers).

Electrical Troubleshooting:

Detailed wiring diagrams, component testing, signal tracing, module diagnosis and replacement.

Bodywork And Interior:

Panel replacement, trim removal and installation, glass replacement, upholstery repair.

Special Tools And Equipment:

Identification and usage of Mercedes-Benz specific tools and diagnostic equipment (e.g., STAR Diagnosis System - XENTRY).

Depth Of Coverage:

Dealer-level comprehensive coverage, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts.

Diagnostic Capabilities:

In-depth diagnostics for all major ECUs (Engine Control Unit, Transmission Control Unit, ABS/ESP, Body Control Module, etc.).

Rebuild Specifications:

Detailed specifications for engine and transmission rebuilds, including clearances, torque values, and assembly procedures.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Searchability:

Fully searchable text for quick access to information.

Image Resolution:

High-resolution for clear diagrams and illustrations.

Printable:

Printable pages for convenient workshop use.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options 2012:

E350 (3.5L V6 M272/M276), E550 (5.5L V8 M273), E350 BlueTEC (3.0L V6 turbodiesel OM642), E250 BlueTEC (2.1L Inline-4 turbodiesel OM651).

E350 Horsepower:

268 hp @ 6000 rpm (M272), 302 hp @ 6500 rpm (M276)

E350 Torque:

258 lb-ft @ 2400-5000 rpm (M272), 273 lb-ft @ 3500-5250 rpm (M276)

E550 Horsepower:

382 hp @ 6000 rpm

E550 Torque:

391 lb-ft @ 2800-4000 rpm

E350 Bluetec Horsepower:

210 hp @ 3400 rpm

E350 Bluetec Torque:

369 lb-ft @ 1600-2800 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Bosch/Siemens high-pressure direct injection (for BlueTEC), multi-point fuel injection (for M272 gasoline), direct injection (for M276 gasoline).

Recommended Fuel:

Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane or higher) for gasoline engines, Ultra Low Sulfur Diesel (ULSD) for BlueTEC models.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Std:

7-speed Automatic Transmission (7G-TRONIC PLUS)

Transmission Type Opt:

N/A for 2012 E-Class (7G-TRONIC PLUS was standard across most models)

Transmission Features:

Driver-adaptive shift programs (Comfort, Sport), manual mode with steering-wheel shift paddles (optional/standard depending on trim).

Transmission Fluid Type:

MB 236.14 Automatic Transmission Fluid

Transmission Fluid Capacity:

Approximately 7.5 - 9.0 liters (dry fill) / 5.5 - 7.0 liters (service fill), refer to manual for exact capacity.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

115.7 inches (2939 mm)

Overall Length:

191.7 inches (4868 mm)

Overall Width:

73.0 inches (1854 mm)

Overall Height:

57.7 inches (1466 mm)

Trunk Capacity:

Approx. 15.9 cubic feet (452 liters)

Curb Weight:

Varies by model, approx. 3700 - 4100 lbs (1680 - 1860 kg)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Rating:

Generally 5-star overall safety rating (specific year/model may vary slightly).

IIHS Top Safety Pick:

Typically awarded 'Top Safety Pick' designation for its model year.

Active Safety Systems:

ABS, EBD, Brake Assist, ESP (Electronic Stability Program), Traction Control (ASR), Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).

Airbags:

Driver and front passenger airbags, front side airbags, front and rear side curtain airbags, knee airbags (driver).

Seatbelts:

Pre-tensioning front seatbelts with load limiters, rear seatbelt reminders.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

COMAND (Cockpit Management and Navigation) system with a central display, HDD navigation, CD/DVD player, USB/SD card interfaces, Bluetooth connectivity.

Driver Assistance Features:

Optional DISTRONIC PLUS (Adaptive Cruise Control), PARKTRONIC (Parking Assist), Lane Keeping Assist, Blind Spot Assist, PRE-SAFE® (predictive occupant protection system).

Connectivity Options:

Bluetooth for hands-free calling and audio streaming, optional Mercedes-Benz Mbrace telematics system.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Variable Service Interval (VSI) based on driving conditions, typically every 10,000 miles or 12 months. Refer to the flexible service system (ASSYST PLUS) for precise intervals.

Major Service A:

Scheduled around 10,000 miles/1 year. Includes synthetic oil and filter change, tire rotation, comprehensive inspection.

Major Service B:

Scheduled around 20,000 miles/2 years (or following Service A). Includes Service A items plus cabin air filter replacement, brake fluid flush every 2 years.

Engine Oil Type:

MB 229.5 or MB 229.51 (Full Synthetic) - SAE 0W-40 or 5W-40 depending on climate.

Coolant Type:

MB 325.0 / 326.0 (Ethylene Glycol-based coolant, typically 50/50 mix with distilled water).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 4 Plus (MB Spec 331.0)

Common Problems:

M272 V6 engine: Balance shaft wear (pre-2007 but can affect early W212), oil leaks from valve covers and oil cooler seals, intake manifold flap actuator failure. M278 V8 engine: Timing chain tensioner wear. Diesel (OM642/OM651): EGR valve issues, NOx sensor failures, injector sealing ring issues, glow plug failures.

Transmission Issues:

7G-TRONIC: Torque converter lock-up issues, valve body solenoids failing, mechatronics unit issues (though 722.9 series is generally robust).

Suspension Issues:

Early W212 models could experience front suspension component wear (e.g., control arm bushings), though generally improved over previous generations.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Legacy:

Mercedes-Benz, a pioneer in automotive engineering and luxury, established in 1926.

W212 Introduction:

The W212 generation was introduced for the 2010 model year, replacing the W211. The 2012 model represents a refinement of this generation, incorporating updated styling and technology.

Manufacturing Locations:

Germany (Sindelfingen), USA (Tuscaloosa, Alabama - for certain export markets and hybrid models).

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Industry Awards:

The E-Class typically receives positive reviews and awards for safety, luxury, and performance from automotive publications worldwide.

Consumer Reports Rating:

Generally rated as above average to excellent in reliability and owner satisfaction by organizations like Consumer Reports.