🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Mercedes-Benz Model: C280 Year: 1998 Codes Chassis Code: W202 Engine Code: M104.941 👋 Introduction Market Position Vehicle Segment: Compact Executive Sedan (E-Segment in European classification) Target Audience: Professionals, luxury car buyers seeking German engineering and build quality. Competitive Analysis Direct Competitors: BMW 3 Series (E36/E46), Audi A4 (B5), Lexus IS200, Volvo S40. Key Features Brand Reputation: Mercedes-Benz known for engineering excellence, safety, and durability. Premium Appointments: High-quality interior materials, sophisticated design, and advanced features for its era. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Manual Type: Service and Repair Manual Language: English Format: Digital (Likely PDF, though not explicitly stated in description) Page Count Estimated Page Count: 500-1000+ pages (typical for comprehensive service manuals) 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine Mechanical: Complete overhaul, component testing, specifications, disassembly, assembly Engine Management: Fuel injection system (EFI/MPI), ignition system, engine control module (ECM) diagnostics, sensor testing Transmission Automatic: Operation, diagnosis, removal, installation, component overhaul, fluid specifications Suspension And Steering: Front and rear suspension components, steering gear, power steering system, alignment specifications Brakes: Brake system operation (ABS likely), disc brake service, drum brake service (if applicable), hydraulic system, components Electrical System: Wiring diagrams, component location, testing procedures, battery, charging system, starting system HVAC System: Air conditioning, heating, ventilation, component testing, refrigerant handling (safety precautions) Body And Interior: Panel removal/installation, interior trim, doors, locks, glass, exterior trim Maintenance Procedures: Scheduled maintenance, fluid checks and changes, filter replacements, tune-up procedures Diagnostics And Troubleshooting: Symptom-based troubleshooting charts, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) if applicable, common problems and solutions Procedures Included Routine Maintenance: Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, fluid level checks and top-offs Major Repairs: Engine rebuilds, transmission overhaul, suspension component replacement, brake system repairs Component Diagnostics: Testing of sensors, actuators, electrical components, mechanical assemblies Wiring Diagrams: Detailed circuit diagrams for all electrical systems Technical Specifications: Torque values, clearances, fluid capacities, diagnostic parameters Special Tools: Identification of any specialized tools required for specific repairs Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive, covering from basic maintenance to in-depth engine and transmission overhauls, including electrical diagnostics. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Digital Format: Presumed PDF, optimized for digital viewing and printing. Print Quality Image Clarity: Expected to be high, with clear diagrams and illustrations. Binding Type Physical Binding: N/A (Digital Format) Paper Type Physical Paper: N/A (Digital Format) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Type: Inline-6 Cylinder, Naturally Aspirated Displacement: 2.8 Liters (2799 cc) Bore X Stroke: 89.9 mm x 73.5 mm Compression Ratio: 10.0:1 Valve Train: DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder Performance Horsepower: 201 hp @ 5,700 rpm Torque: 199 lb-ft @ 3,500 rpm Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Bosch Motronic Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with Sequential Fuel Injection (SFI) Fuel Type: Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended) Ignition System: Distributorless Electronic Ignition (EIS) with individual coil packs per cylinder. 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type Std: 5-Speed Automatic Transmission (722.6 '5G-TRONIC') Optional Transmission Type Opt: 5-Speed Manual Transmission (Less common in the US market) Features Automatic Features: Electronic control, torque converter lock-up, selectable drive programs (e.g., Comfort/Sport). Fluid Specifications Automatic Transmission Fluid: MB Specification 236.10 or 236.12 (e.g., Pentosin ATF1, Mobil ATF 220/3309 - check manual for exact superseded spec) Fluid Capacities Automatic Transmission Capacity: Approximately 7-8 liters (dry fill, check manual for exact capacity). 📐 Dimensions Exterior Wheelbase: 106.9 inches (2715 mm) Length: 179.1 inches (4550 mm) Width: 67.5 inches (1715 mm) Height: 55.4 inches (1407 mm) Weights Curb Weight Auto: Approximately 3400 - 3500 lbs (1542 - 1588 kg) Gross Vehicle Weight Rating: Approximately 4500 lbs (2041 kg) Cargo Trunk Volume: Approximately 15.0 cubic feet (0.42 cubic meters) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Frontal Crash: Likely 4-star for driver and passenger (based on era testing for similar vehicles, exact data may vary). Active Features ABS: Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) Traction Control: Optional or standard depending on market and specific options (ASR - Acceleration Skid Regulation). Passive Features Airbags: Driver and front passenger airbags. Side airbags may be optional. Seatbelts: Pretensioning front seatbelts with force limiters. Rollover Protection: Reinforced body structure, though specific rollover ratings were less common in this era. 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: Factory premium audio system with cassette player, optional CD changer. Basic AM/FM radio functionality. Navigation: Optional factory navigation system (Becker Traffic Pilot) was available, a rarity for the era. Driver Assistance Cruise Control: Standard electronic cruise control. Connectivity Phone Integration: Optional provisions for early car phones or hands-free kits. Convenience Features Climate Control: Optional automatic climate control (Thermatic or Thermotronic) with cabin air filter. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Typically every 7,500 to 10,000 miles (12,000 to 16,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first, depending on driving conditions. Transmission Fluid Change: Recommended every 40,000 to 60,000 miles (64,000 to 96,000 km), or per manual's severe service schedule. Spark Plug Replacement: Platinum or iridium plugs typically...