Body Styles Covered:
Sedan, Wagon (Estate)
Engine Variants Covered:
Various gasoline and diesel engines (e.g., E200, E240, E270 CDI, E320, E500, E55 AMG)
Model Years Covered:
2002-2009 (Facelift models 2006-2009 also included)
Vin Decode Information:
Likely includes guidance on VIN interpretation specific to W211.
Segment:
Executive/Luxury Sedan and Wagon
Brand Perception:
Represents Mercedes-Benz's core offerings in the mid-to-large luxury segment, known for comfort, build quality, and advanced technology for its time.
Key Competitors:
BMW 5 Series (E60), Audi A6 (C6), Lexus GS, Volvo S80, Jaguar S-Type.
Premium Appointments:
High-quality interior materials, sophisticated design, extensive customization options.
Advanced Technology:
Introduction of systems like SBC, AIRMATIC, COMAND, and early driver assistance systems.
Ride Comfort:
Renowned for a smooth and refined ride, particularly with the optional AIRMATIC suspension.
Powertrain:
Engine operation, cooling system, fuel system, exhaust system, engine management.
Drivetrain:
Automatic transmission (e.g., 7G-TRONIC), rear-wheel drive, 4MATIC all-wheel drive system.
Brakes:
ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), ESP (Electronic Stability Program), SBC (Sensotronic Brake Control) on early models, brake pad wear indicators.
Suspension Steering:
Standard suspension, optional AIRMATIC DC (Dual Control) air suspension, power steering operation.
Electrical Electronics:
Battery, lighting systems (headlights, taillights, interior), dashboard indicators and warning lights, fuse box locations and functions.
Comfort Convenience:
Climate control (THERMATIC, THERMOTRONIC), power windows, central locking, seats (adjustment, heating, ventilation), mirrors, sunroof.
Infotainment Navigation:
COMAND APS (Cockpit Management and Navigation Display), Audio systems, CD changer, telephone pre-installation.
Safety Security:
Airbags, seatbelts (including PRE-SAFE system), child seat anchorage (ISOFIX), anti-theft alarm system.
Basic Operation:
Starting and stopping the engine, gear selection, operating wipers and lights, adjusting mirrors and seats.
Instrumentation:
Understanding dashboard layout, interpreting warning lights and messages, using the trip computer.
Fluid Checks:
Checking and topping up engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, windshield washer fluid.
Tire Maintenance:
Checking tire pressure, changing a flat tire (including jack and spare tire/repair kit usage), tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS).
Lighting Operation:
Headlight aiming, fog light operation, interior lighting controls.
Climate Control:
Operating manual and automatic climate control systems, using heated/ventilated seats, defroster functions.
Infotainment Operation:
Operating the radio, CD player, navigation system, Bluetooth phone connectivity.
Safety Features Usage:
Operating cruise control, understanding seatbelt pretensioners, using child seat restraints.
Depth:
Owner-level maintenance and operation, troubleshooting common indicators, understanding vehicle systems without deep mechanical knowledge.
Focus:
User-centric guidance on everyday operation, features, and basic vehicle care.
Common Gasoline Engines:
M271 (1.8L Supercharged I4), M112 (2.6L V6, 3.2L V6), M272 (2.5L V6, 3.5L V6), M113 (5.0L V8), M155 (5.4L Supercharged V8 - AMG).
Common Diesel Engines:
OM646 (2.1L I4 CDI), OM647 (2.7L I5 CDI), OM648 (3.2L I6 CDI).
Horsepower Range:
Approximately 163 hp (E200 Kompressor) to 469 hp (E55 AMG).
Torque Range:
Approximately 240 Nm (E200 Kompressor) to 700 Nm (E55 AMG).
Injection Type:
Multi-point fuel injection (MPI) for gasoline, Common Rail Direct Injection (CDI) for diesel.
Standard Transmission Type:
5-speed automatic (early models, e.g., 722.6 for V6/V8) or 7-speed automatic (7G-TRONIC) for most gasoline and later diesel models.
Optional Transmission Type:
Some earlier models might have had a manual transmission option in specific markets, but automatic was dominant.
Transmission Features:
Tiptronic (manual shifting mode), Comfort/Sport modes.
Length Sedan:
Approx. 4818 mm (189.7 in)
Width:
Approx. 1799 mm (70.8 in)
Height:
Approx. 1450 mm (57.1 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2854 mm (112.4 in)
Trunk Volume Sedan:
Approx. 540 liters (19.1 cu ft)
Cargo Volume Wagon:
Approx. 630 liters (22.2 cu ft) seats up, 1950 liters (68.9 cu ft) seats down.
Curb Weight Range:
Approx. 1585 kg (3494 lbs) to over 1900 kg (4189 lbs) depending on engine and configuration.
NHTSA Rating:
Typically achieved good ratings in frontal and side crash tests (e.g., 5-star ratings in relevant categories).
IIHS Rating:
Often rated 'Good' in front, side, and rear impact tests. 'Top Safety Pick' status possible.
Active Safety Systems:
ABS, BAS (Brake Assist System), ESP (Electronic Stability Program), ASR (Anti-Slip Regulation), optional Distronic (adaptive cruise control), Parktronic.
Passive Safety Features:
Dual front airbags, side airbags, window airbags (curtain airbags), front active head restraints, seatbelt pretensioners, optional PRE-SAFE® system.
Infotainment System:
COMAND APS (Cockpit Management and Navigation Display) with color screen, CD/DVD player, navigation, radio, optional TV tuner and CD changer.
Audio Options:
Standard 8-speaker system, optional Harman Kardon surround sound system.
Driver Assistance Features:
Optional Distronic (adaptive cruise control), Parktronic (parking sensors), optional Lane Keeping Assist, optional Active Bi-Xenon Headlights.
Connectivity Options:
Bluetooth hands-free calling (via teleaid or optional phone modules), optional Media Interface for external devices (late models).
Comfort Technology:
Multi-zone THERMOTRONIC automatic climate control, optional heated, ventilated, and dynamic multi-contour front seats.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000-15,000 miles or 12 months, as indicated by the 'Service A' or 'Service B' indicator on the dashboard (ASSYST PLUS system).
Major Service Intervals:
Spark plug replacement (e.g., every 60,000-100,000 miles), transmission fluid service (e.g., every 40,000-60,000 miles, depending on driving conditions), brake fluid flush (every 2 years).
Engine Oil:
Specific MB 229.5 or MB 229.51 approved synthetic oils (e.g., 0W-40, 5W-40, 5W-30 depending on engine and climate). Refer to manual for exact grade.
Coolant:
MB 325.0 or 326.0 approved (e.g., G05 or similar antifreeze/coolant concentrate).
Transmission Fluid:
MB 236.14 for 7G-TRONIC, MB 236.12 for earlier 5-speed transmissions. Always use genuine or approved fluid.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 Plus (MB 331.0 approved).
Common Wear Items:
PCV valve issues (especially with M272/M273 engines), oil cooler seals, front suspension components (e.g., control arm bushings), mass airflow sensor (MAF).
Electrical Faults:
SBC unit failure (early models, can be very expensive), SAM module issues, conductor plate in transmission.
Engine Specific Concerns:
M272 V6 intake manifold runner flaps sticking, balance shaft wear. Oil leaks from valve cover gaskets or oil pan gasket.
Heritage Context:
Follows Mercedes-Benz's long history of producing luxury and executive vehicles, building on the success of the W210 E-Class.
Predecessor:
Mercedes-Benz W210 E-Class (1995-2002)
Successor:
Mercedes-Benz W212 E-Class (2009-2016)
Facelift Details:
Significant facelift for the 2006 model year, featuring updated front and rear styling, new bumpers, redesigned headlights and taillights, and interior refinements. Early models (2002-2005) featured quad round headlights.
Production Years:
2002-2009
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Germany (Sindelfingen), also plants in the USA and other locations.