Compact Executive Sedan/Coupe (W203 generation) known for Mercedes-Benz build quality and luxury.
Competitive Analysis
Competitors:
BMW 3 Series (E46), Audi A4 (B6), Lexus IS300, Infiniti G35.
Key Features
Vehicle Highlights:
Sporty handling, advanced safety features for its time, supercharged engine offering a good balance of performance and efficiency, Mercedes-Benz premium interior.
Manual Value Proposition
Benefits:
Provides official Mercedes-Benz diagnostic and repair procedures, enabling accurate and efficient maintenance and repair, saving on dealership labor costs, and preserving vehicle value.
Replacement of major components such as engines, transmissions, alternators, starters, AC compressors, radiators, body panels, interior components.
Technical Depth
Depth:
Comprehensive coverage from routine maintenance and diagnostics to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed torque specifications, clearances, and adjustment procedures.
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
Software Type:
Proprietary executable or searchable PDF format, designed for automotive repair professionals and enthusiasts.
Print Quality
Digital Quality:
High-resolution diagrams, clear text, and detailed illustrations optimized for digital viewing and printing of specific sections.
Binding Type
Digital Format:
Not Applicable (Software-based)
Paper Type
Digital Format:
Not Applicable (Software-based)
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine Code:
M271 E23 ML
Configuration:
Inline-4 Cylinder
Displacement:
2295 cc (2.3 Liters)
Aspiration:
Supercharged (Twin-Screw Lysholm-type)
Performance
Horsepower:
194 hp @ 5500 rpm
Torque:
207 lb-ft (280 Nm) @ 3500 rpm
Fuel System
Injection Type:
Sequential Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 AKI or higher recommended)
Engine Management
ECU Type:
Bosch ME2.8 or similar
Timing System
Drive Type:
Timing Chain
Actuation:
Dual Overhead Camshafts (DOHC), 4 valves per cylinder, Variable Valve Timing (VVT) on intake camshaft.
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Type:
5-Speed Automatic (722.6 '5G-TRONIC')
Optional
Type:
6-Speed Manual (Rare for C230 Kompressor in North America)
Features
Automatic Modes:
Comfort (C) and Sport (S) modes.
Fluid Specifications
Fluid Type:
Mercedes-Benz MB 236.10 Specification ATF (e.g., Mobil 1 Synthetic ATF or equivalent)
Fluid Capacity
Capacity Approx:
8.5 Liters (Total system capacity, drain and fill will be less)
Every 10,000 miles or 1 year, whichever comes first (based on flexible service system, but often recommended at 7,500-10,000 miles for optimal protection).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles or as needed based on operating conditions.
Cabin Filter Replacement:
Every 20,000 miles or annually.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approximately 60,000 miles (refer to manual for specific type and gap).
Transmission Service:
MB recommends service every 70,000-100,000 miles, but many professionals advise earlier intervals (e.g., 50,000-70,000 miles) for longevity, especially the 722.6 transmission.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil:
SAE 0W-40 or 5W-40, API SN, ACEA A3/B4, MB-Approval 229.5 Specification (e.g., Mobil 1 Synthetic).
Coolant:
MB-Approved Antifreeze/Coolant (e.g., Mercedes-Benz/Pentofrost G05 or G48), typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 Plus (MB 331.0 Specification).
Known Issues
Common Wear Items:
Mass air flow sensor (MAF), ignition coils, spark plug wires, front suspension bushings (control arms), catalytic converter, supercharger clutch/pulley, oil cooler seals, crankcase ventilation (CCV) system (PCV).
Transmission Concerns:
Occasional hard shifts or delayed engagement, issues with the valve body or conductor plate in the 722.6 transmission.
Electrical Concerns:
Can bus communication issues, faulty SAM (Signal Acquisition Module) or K-Relay, window regulator failures.
Supercharger Specifics:
The supercharger clutch can wear out, leading to loss of boost. The supercharger pulley can also seize.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Heritage:
Mercedes-Benz has a long-standing reputation for engineering excellence, safety, and luxury vehicles dating back to the late 19th century.
Model Evolution
W203 Generation:
The W203 chassis, introduced in 1997 (for the 2000 model year in Europe, 2001 in North America), replaced the W202 C-Class. The C230 Kompressor was a key variant offering a blend of performance and efficiency.
Production
Production Years:
The W203 C-Class was produced from 1997 to 2007. The C230 Kompressor variant was prominent within this generation.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Germany (Sindelfingen, Bremen), South Africa, and others depending on market.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
General Brand Awards:
Mercedes-Benz consistently recognized for build quality, safety, and luxury features across its model lines.
Ratings
IIHS Ratings:
Generally received 'Good' ratings in frontal and side impact tests by the IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) for its generation.
Certifications
Manufacturer Certification:
Officially licensed by Mercedes-Benz, indicating authenticity and accuracy of repair procedures and specifications.
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