Vehicle Segment:
Compact Executive Car (C-segment)
Target Audience:
Consumers seeking premium build quality, advanced safety, and sophisticated engineering in a compact luxury package
Key Competitors:
BMW 3 Series, Audi A4, Lexus IS, Volvo S60, Acura TL
Vehicle Selling Points:
Agility, comfort, premium interior, advanced safety systems, efficient yet powerful engine options
Manual Value Proposition:
Authoritative, vehicle-specific repair and maintenance data for DIY enthusiasts and professional technicians.
Comprehensive Coverage:
All Models & All Repairs A-Z
Model Variants Covered:
C230, C240, C280, C320, C350, C32 AMG, C55 AMG (Sedan and Wagon/T-Model)
Estimated Page Count:
1500+
Manual Type:
Official Service and Repair Manual
Equivalent To Oem Documentation:
Yes, same used by dealership technicians
Format:
Digital (likely PDF, searchable)
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanical, engine management, fuel injection, ignition, emissions control, cooling, lubrication, forced induction (where applicable)
Drivetrain Systems:
Automatic transmissions (5-speed 5G-TRONIC, 7-speed 7G-TRONIC), manual transmissions, drive axles, differentials, transfer case (if applicable)
Chassis Systems:
Suspension (front and rear), steering, brakes (hydraulic, ABS, ESP), wheels and tires
Electrical Systems:
Wiring diagrams, power distribution, battery, alternator, starter, lighting, instrument cluster, comfort systems, body control modules (BCM)
Body And Interior:
Body panels, doors, windows, seats, trim, climate control (HVAC), airbags, safety restraints
Diagnostics And Troubleshooting:
OBD-II diagnostics, trouble codes (DTCs), diagnostic procedures, symptom-based troubleshooting
Maintenance Procedures:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, belt inspections and replacement, spark plug replacement
Repair Procedures:
Engine rebuilds, transmission overhaul, brake system repairs, suspension component replacement, electrical component diagnostics and replacement, bodywork and collision repair guidance
Troubleshooting Procedures:
Step-by-step diagnostic flowcharts, common problem diagnosis, electrical circuit testing
Special Tool Requirements:
Identification of specialized tools required for specific repairs
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Advanced diagnostic procedures, sensor data interpretation, module programming basics
Repair Level:
Complete repair, from basic maintenance to major component overhauls and rebuilds
Data Accuracy:
Vehicle-specific technical data, specifications, and torque values
Engine Families:
M271 (4-cylinder), M112 (V6), M272 (V6), M113 (V8), M112 E32 ML (AMG V6 Supercharged)
2005 C230 Engine:
2.0L Supercharged Inline-4 (M271)
2005 C240 Engine:
2.6L V6 (M112)
2006-2007 C230 Engine:
2.5L V6 (M272)
2006-2007 C280 Engine:
3.0L V6 (M272)
2005-2007 C320 Engine:
3.2L V6 (M112)
2006-2007 C350 Engine:
3.5L V6 (M272)
C32 Amg Engine:
3.2L Supercharged V6 (M112 E32 ML)
C55 Amg Engine:
5.4L V8 (M113)
C230 Sc Hp:
189 hp @ 5500 rpm
C230 Sc Torque:
200 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm
C320 Hp:
215 hp @ 5700 rpm
C320 Torque:
221 lb-ft @ 3000-4500 rpm
C350 Hp:
268 hp @ 6000 rpm
C350 Torque:
258 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm
C32 Amg Hp:
349 hp @ 6100 rpm
C32 Amg Torque:
332 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm
C55 Amg Hp:
362 hp @ 5750 rpm
C55 Amg Torque:
376 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI) or Direct Injection (later models, depending on market)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)
Ignition System:
Electronic ignition with coil-on-plug (COP) design
Standard Transmission Type:
5-speed Automatic (5G-TRONIC) for most models
Standard Transmission Type Specific:
7-speed Automatic (7G-TRONIC) introduced on some models during this period (e.g., C280, C350)
Optional Transmission Type:
6-speed Manual Transmission (available on select models, e.g., C230 Sport)
Automatic Transmission Modes:
Comfort (C) and Sport (S) modes
Amg Transmission:
AMG SPEEDSHIFT 5-speed Automatic
Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:
MB Spec 236.10, MB Spec 236.12, or MB Spec 236.14 (refer to manual for exact model/year)
Manual Transmission Fluid Type:
MB Spec 235.10 or equivalent manual transmission fluid (refer to manual)
Wheelbase:
106.9 inches (2715 mm)
Length Sedan:
179.1 inches (4550 mm)
Width:
68.5 inches (1739 mm)
Height:
55.7 inches (1415 mm)
Curb Weight Range:
Approx. 3300 - 3700 lbs (1497 - 1678 kg) depending on engine and trim
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Varies by model, consult manual or vehicle placard
Towing Capacity:
Not typically specified or recommended for US models, check regional specifications
Trunk Volume Sedan:
Approx. 12.6 cubic feet (357 liters)
Cargo Volume Wagon:
Approx. 17.4 - 47.0 cubic feet (492 - 1331 liters) with seats up/down
NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver:
Good (2005 model year)
NHTSA Frontal Impact Passenger:
Good (2005 model year)
IIHS Frontal Offset Score:
Good
IIHS Side Impact Score:
Good (with optional side airbags)
Electronic Stability Program:
Standard (ESP - Electronic Stability Program)
Antilock Braking System:
Standard (ABS - Anti-lock Braking System)
Traction Control:
Standard (ASR - Anti-Slip Regulation)
Airbag Count:
Standard: Front airbags, side airbags. Optional: Curtain airbags, front-seat side-impact airbags (NECK-PRO active head restraints also available)
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia-reel seat belts with pre-tensioners and belt-force limiters
Head Restraints:
Active front head restraints (optional on some models), adjustable rear head restraints
Infotainment System:
COMAND APS (optional), Audio 20, Audio 50 APS, Becker MAP PILOT (later models/options)
Navigation:
Optional DVD-based navigation system (COMAND APS)
Audio Features:
CD player, AM/FM radio, optional CD changer, optional Harman Kardon sound system.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control, optional DISTRONIC (adaptive cruise control) on some models.
Parking Assistance:
Optional PARKTRONIC parking sensors (front and rear)
Lighting:
Standard halogen headlights, optional Bi-Xenon headlamps with cornering illumination.
Bluetooth:
Optional Bluetooth hands-free communication system (often integrated with COMAND or Audio systems).
Telematics:
Optional Mercedes-Benz Tele Aid system for emergency assistance.
Oil Change Interval:
Variable depending on driving conditions, typically every 10,000 miles or 1 year, indicated by the 'Service A' or 'Service B' reminder system.
Major Service Intervals:
Spark plugs, transmission fluid changes, brake fluid flush typically scheduled at specific mileage intervals (e.g., 40,000-100,000 miles, refer to manual).
Engine Oil Specification:
MB 229.5 or MB 229.51 (e.g., Mobil 1 0W-40 or 5W-40 synthetic, consult manual for exact grade and viscosity).
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 6.5 - 8.5 quarts (6.2 - 8.0 liters) depending on engine, with filter.
Coolant Specification:
MB Spec 325.0 or 326.0 (Antifreeze/Coolant - typically a silicate-free, organic acid technology based coolant, often blue or green).
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 4 Plus (MB Spec 331.0)
Common W203 Issues:
Mass airflow sensor (MAF) issues, ignition coil failures, ABS/ESP sensor failures, oil cooler leaks (M272 engines), camshaft position sensors, sunroof drain blockage, climate control actuator failures.
Amg Specific Issues:
Supercharger belt tensioner, intercooler leaks (C32 AMG), crankshaft position sensor (C55 AMG).
Oil Filter Part Number Example:
Mann-Filter HU 718/5 y, Mahle OX 932 D (verify for specific engine)
Cabin Air Filter Part Number Example:
Mann-Filter CU 25 010, Mahle LAK 179 (verify for specific vehicle)
Manufacturer Legacy:
Mercedes-Benz is a renowned German automotive manufacturer with a long history of producing luxury vehicles, known for engineering, safety, and durability.
W203 Introduction:
The W203 C-Class succeeded the W202 and was produced from 2000 to 2007. The facelifted W203, which this manual covers, debuted for the 2005 model year.
Facelift Changes:
The 2005 facelift brought revised styling (front and rear fascias, headlights), updated interior trim, new engine options (M272 V6), and improved technology.
Production Period:
2000-2007 (W203 generation). Manual covers 2005-2008 facelifted models.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primary assembly in Germany (Sindelfingen, Bremen), with production also occurring in other global locations.
IIHS Top Safety Pick Mention:
The W203 C-Class generally performed well in safety tests of its era, often earning good ratings from IIHS and NHTSA.
Jd Power Dependability Mention:
Mercedes-Benz vehicles are typically recognized for build quality and engineering, though specific model year awards vary. This manual assists in maintaining that quality.
Consumer Reports Reliability:
Varies by year and specific component; this manual is crucial for understanding potential weak points and proper maintenance to enhance reliability.