Segment:
Executive Sedan / Mid-size Luxury Sedan
Competitors:
BMW 5 Series, Audi A6, Lexus GS, Cadillac CTS, Volvo S80.
Design Philosophy:
Elegance, performance, advanced technology, and safety, characteristic of Mercedes-Benz.
Target Audience:
Discerning buyers seeking a sophisticated, comfortable, and technologically advanced luxury vehicle.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, cylinder head, block, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, camshafts, timing systems (chain/belt), valve train.
Engine Management:
Fuel injection (MPI/Direct), ignition system, emissions control (catalytic converter, EGR, O2 sensors), engine control module (ECM) diagnostics and programming.
Transmission Automatic:
722.6 (5-speed automatic) or 722.9 (7-speed automatic) - removal, installation, overhaul, electronic controls, hydraulic systems, torque converter.
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), ESP (Electronic Stability Program), SBC (Sensotronic Brake Control - if applicable), brake pads, rotors, calipers, lines, bleeding procedures.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, struts, control arms, ball joints, bushings, springs, air suspension (if equipped).
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, steering column, alignment specifications.
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), lighting, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams for all circuits.
Body And Interior:
Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, interior trim, seats, airbags, climate control, power accessories.
Climate Control:
HVAC system, A/C compressor, refrigerant, blower motor, climate control module, operation and diagnosis.
Diagnostics:
OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics II) procedures, fault code interpretation, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), use of diagnostic scan tools (e.g., Mercedes-Benz STAR diagnosis).
Scheduled Maintenance:
Routine service intervals (A, B, etc.), oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, belt inspections/replacements.
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, repair, and reinstallation for all covered systems.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts and symptom-based troubleshooting for common and complex issues.
Component Replacement:
Detailed guides for replacing specific parts like spark plugs, brake pads, suspension components, sensors, and modules.
Wiring Diagrams:
Complete and detailed electrical wiring schematics for all vehicle systems.
Specifications And Tolerances:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, and other critical technical data.
Depth:
Professional-level repair and diagnostic information suitable for technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts.
Engine Code:
M272 (E350 4MATIC Sedan/Wagon, E350 Sedan)
Engine Type:
3.5L V6 (24-valve) SOHC with variable valve timing (VVT).
Horsepower:
Approximately 268 hp @ 6000 rpm.
Torque:
Approximately 258 lb-ft @ 2400-5000 rpm.
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) - Sequential Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI).
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended).
Coolant Type:
Mercedes-Benz approved silicate-free antifreeze (e.g., ZEREX G-05 or equivalent) mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
NHTSA Front Crash:
5 Stars (for comparable W211 models).
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
Yes (for comparable W211 models).
Stability Control:
Standard ESP (Electronic Stability Program) with traction control.
Braking Assist:
Standard ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), BAS (Brake Assist System).
Airbags:
Front airbags, side airbags, curtain airbags, front pelvic airbags.
Seat Technology:
Pretensioning seatbelts, active head restraints (NECK-PRO).
Service A:
Approximately every 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first. Typically includes synthetic oil and filter change, tire rotation, inspection of various components.
Service B:
Approximately every 20,000 miles or 24 months, building upon Service A with additional checks and replacements (e.g., cabin air filter, brake fluid flush at specified intervals).
Engine Oil:
SAE 0W-40 or 5W-40, MB-Approval 229.5 (e.g., Mobil 1 FS 0W-40, Castrol SLX Professional 0W-30).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 Plus (MB Spec 331.0).
M272 Balance Shaft Wear:
Potential wear of the balance shaft in the M272 engine, leading to check engine lights and timing-related fault codes. Requires engine disassembly for repair or replacement of the camshaft adjusters and related parts.
Esd Control Module Failure:
In earlier W211 models, the SBC (Sensotronic Brake Control) system could experience module failure, requiring specialized diagnostics and replacement. Later models typically have conventional hydraulic brakes.
Oil Leaks:
Common areas for oil leaks include the valve cover gaskets, oil cooler seals, and oil pan gasket.
Suspension Component Wear:
Bushings, ball joints, and tie rod ends can experience wear over time, leading to noise or steering issues.
Air Matic Suspension:
If equipped with Air-Matic, leaks in air springs or compressor failure can occur, leading to a sagging suspension.
