Suspension (AIRMATIC, ABC - Active Body Control depending on spec), Steering, Brakes (ABS, ESP, SBC - Sensotronic Brake Control), Wheels, Tires
Electrical:
Vehicle Electrical System, Battery, Alternator, Starter, Lighting, Fuses, Relays, CAN Bus Network, SAM Units (Signal Acquisition and Actuation Modules)
Body:
Exterior Body Panels, Interior Trim, Doors, Windows, Seats, HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning)
Electronics:
Infotainment System (COMAND), Navigation, Audio, Climate Control Electronics, Keyless Go, Cruise Control (Distronic - if equipped)
8.0 - 9.5 Liters (Dry Fill, varies with torque converter)
๐ Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
191.7 inches (4869 mm)
Width:
71.7 inches (1821 mm)
Height:
57.4 inches (1458 mm)
Wheelbase:
112.4 inches (2854 mm)
Weights
Curb Weight:
3704 lbs (1680 kg) - approx.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
4806 lbs (2180 kg) - approx.
๐ก๏ธ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Frontal Crash Rating:
5-Star (Driver and Passenger)
IIHS Front Moderate Overlap Crash Rating:
Good
Active Features
Electronic Stability Program:
Standard (ESP)
Antilock Braking System:
Standard (ABS)
Brake Assist:
Standard (BAS)
Sensotronic Brake Control:
Standard (SBC) - a significant feature with specific maintenance requirements
Passive Features
Airbags:
Frontal (Driver/Passenger), Side (Front), Curtain (Front/Rear)
Seatbelts:
Pretensioners, Force Limiters
๐ก Technology Features
Infotainment
Primary System:
COMAND (Cockpit Management and Navigation)
Navigation Type:
DVD-based Navigation System
Audio System:
Harman Kardon Logic 7 Surround Sound System (optional)
Driver Assistance
Adaptive Cruise Control:
Distronic (optional)
Parking Assistance:
Parktronic Parking Assist (optional)
Connectivity
Bluetooth:
Factory Bluetooth integration (optional, may require teleaid module)
Convenience
Keyless Entry Start:
Keyless-Go (optional)
๐ง Maintenance
Service Intervals
Major Service A:
Service A: Approx. every 10,000 miles or 12 months. Includes oil and filter change, inspection of various components.
Major Service B:
Service B: Approx. every 20,000 miles or 24 months. Includes Service A items plus cabin filter, engine air filter, brake fluid change.
Transmission Service:
Recommended every 40,000-60,000 miles, including fluid and filter change.
Spark Plugs:
Typically replaced around 60,000 - 100,000 miles depending on type (e.g., iridium).
Known Issues
Common Problems 2006:
SBC system failure (requiring replacement or refurbishment), CAN bus communication errors, ERL failure (exhaust flap actuator), oil leaks from valve covers or oil cooler seals, transmission conductor plate issues, rust on wheel arches.
Fluid Specifications
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 Plus (MB 331.0)
Power Steering Fluid Type:
MB 236.3 (Green)
Differential Fluid Type:
MB 235.7 Specification (75W-85 GL-5)
๐ Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Marque Reputation:
German luxury and engineering excellence, known for safety and durability.
Model Evolution
W211 Introduction:
The W211 E-Class replaced the W210 in 2002 and was produced through 2009. The 2006 model year received a mid-cycle refresh.
Production
Production Plant:
Sindelfingen, Germany
๐ Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
Not specifically listed for 2006, but sister models often performed well.
Ratings
Consumer Reports Reliability:
Varies by year and specific components; earlier W211 models had higher reported issues than later ones.