The 2002 C32 AMG represented Mercedes-Benz's entry into the high-performance compact executive sedan segment, competing with BMW's M3 and Audi's S4. It offered a potent blend of luxury, comfort, and significant V6 power.
Competitive Analysis
Competitors:
BMW M3 (E46), Audi S4 (B6), Cadillac CTS-V (first generation).
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), front and rear vented discs, AMG high-performance braking system
Passive Features
Airbags:
Dual front airbags, front side airbags, optional head curtain airbags.
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia-reel seat belts with pre-tensioners and belt force limiters
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Factory Mercedes-Benz Audio 10, Audio 20, or optional COMAND 2.0 navigation system. Features AM/FM radio, CD player, and optional cassette player.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control with steering wheel mounted buttons.
Parking Sensors:
Optional PARKTRONIC parking assist system.
Connectivity
Telephony:
Optional integrated Bluetooth or analog cellular phone system (often requiring specific cradles/modules).
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (check specific vehicle service record, dealer recommendations may vary).
Major Service A:
Scheduled around 10,000 miles (synthetic oil, filter, tire rotation, check fluids, brakes).
Major Service B:
Scheduled around 20,000 miles (includes Service A items plus cabin air filter, more in-depth inspection).
Transmission Service:
Recommended every 40,000-60,000 miles, including fluid and filter change.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Viscosity:
SAE 0W-40 or 5W-40 (API SJ or higher, ACEA A3-98 or higher)
Coolant Type:
Mercedes-Benz Specification 325.0 (Glysantin G05 or equivalent)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 (MB Specification 331.0)
Power Steering Fluid Type:
Pentosin CHF 11 S or MB Specification 343.0 (often specified as Dexron III for earlier models, but check specific VIN)
Known Issues
Intercooler Pump:
The supercharger intercooler system's electric pump is known to fail, leading to reduced engine performance.
Oil Cooler Seals:
Leaking oil cooler seals can be a source of oil leaks.
Transmission Conductor Plate:
The conductor plate in the 5-speed automatic transmission can fail, causing shifting issues.
Crankshaft Position Sensor:
Failure of the crankshaft position sensor can lead to starting problems or the engine stalling.
Part Numbers
Engine Oil Filter Example:
Mann-Filter: HU 715/1 X; Mercedes-Benz: A1121800009
Air Filter Example:
Mann-Filter: C 25 324; Mercedes-Benz: A2030940104
Cabin Air Filter Example:
Mann-Filter: CU 25 002; Mercedes-Benz: A2038300218
Refill Capacities
Engine Oil Capacity:
8.5 Liters (with filter change)
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 8.0 Liters
Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approx. 7.5 Liters (for torque converter drain and refill)
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Mercedes Benz Legacy:
Mercedes-Benz has a long history of producing luxurious, well-engineered, and performance-oriented vehicles.
Model Evolution
W203 Generation:
The W203 C-Class generation (introduced in 2000) represented a significant departure from its predecessor with a more modern design and improved technology. The C32 AMG was a potent performance variant introduced later in this generation.
Production
C32 Amg Production Years:
2001-2004 (W203 platform)
Manufacturing Location:
Germany
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Car And Driver 10 Best:
While not specifically awarded in 2002, the C-Class platform generally received positive reviews from automotive publications for its blend of performance and luxury.
Ratings
Jd Power Dependability:
Mercedes-Benz models of this era generally performed moderately in dependability ratings, with some specific issues noted on AMG variants.
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