🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Mercedes-Benz Model: C230 Year: 1997 Codes Chassis Code: W202 Generation Generation Designation: First Generation (W202) 👋 Introduction Market Position Vehicle Segment: Compact Executive Sedan/Coupe Target Audience: Discerning car owners seeking performance and luxury in a compact package Competitive Analysis Key Competitors: BMW 3 Series (E36), Audi A4 (B5), Lexus IS200/IS300, Alfa Romeo 155 Key Features Distinguishing Features: Supercharged engine, robust build quality, sophisticated suspension, premium interior appointments, hallmark Mercedes-Benz safety and comfort Manual Value Proposition: Provides factory-level diagnostic and repair data for DIY enthusiasts and professional technicians, ensuring accurate and efficient maintenance. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Coverage Scope: Comprehensive Service and Repair Page Count Estimated Pages: 1500+ Manual Type Type: Official Service and Repair Manual Software Language Language: English Format Format: Digital Software (likely PDF or proprietary executable) 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine: 2.3L M111 Inline-4 (Supercharged) Engine Management: DME (Digital Motor Electronics), ignition system, fuel injection (Bosch Motronic M2.8.3) Transmission: 5-Speed Automatic (722.6 '5G-TRONIC') Drivetrain: Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) Suspension: Front: MacPherson strut, Rear: Multi-link independent Brakes: Front: Ventilated Discs, Rear: Solid Discs; ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) Steering: Hydraulic Power Steering Electrical: 12V System, battery, alternator, starter, lighting, wiring diagrams HVAC: Climate Control System (manual and automatic variants) Body And Chassis: Body panels, doors, windows, interior trim, structural components Safety Systems: Airbags (driver and passenger), seatbelt pre-tensioners Procedures Included Routine Maintenance: Oil and filter changes, air filter replacement, spark plug service, fluid checks and top-offs Engine Repair: Top-end rebuilds, bottom-end repairs, component replacement (e.g., belts, hoses, sensors, injectors, supercharger) Transmission Service: Fluid and filter changes, diagnostic procedures, solenoid testing Brake System Service: Pad and rotor replacement, caliper service, brake fluid flush and bleeding Suspension And Steering Repair: Component replacement (struts, shocks, control arms, tie rods), alignment procedures Electrical Diagnostics: Troubleshooting electrical faults, component testing, wiring harness repair, ECU diagnostics HVAC System Repair: Refrigerant system service, blower motor replacement, control module diagnostics Bodywork And Interior: Panel removal and installation, trim repair, glass replacement Troubleshooting: Diagnostic flowcharts, symptom-based problem solving Technical Depth Depth: Factory-level diagnostics, detailed component specifications, torque values, special tool requirements, rebuild procedures 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Type: Proprietary Software/PDF Print Quality Quality: High-resolution, clear diagrams and text Binding Type Binding: N/A (Digital Software) Paper Type Paper: N/A (Digital Software) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Code: M111.920 Engine Type: Inline-4, DOHC (Double Overhead Camshafts), 16 Valves Displacement: 2295 cc (2.3 Liters) Aspiration: Roots-type Supercharger with Intercooler Performance Horsepower: 148 hp @ 5500 rpm Torque: 205 Nm (151 lb-ft) @ 3500 rpm Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Sequential Multi-Point Fuel Injection (Bosch Motronic M2.8.3) Recommended Fuel: Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane or higher) Fluid Specifications Engine Oil Type: MB 229.1 / API SG or SH Engine Oil Capacity: 5.5 Liters (5.8 US Quarts) with filter Coolant Type: MB 325.0 (Antifreeze/Coolant Concentrate) 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Type: 5-Speed Automatic (722.6 '5G-TRONIC') Optional Optional Transmission: None for C230 Kompressor in this year. Features Transmission Features: Electronic control, Comfort/Sport modes, lock-up torque converter Fluid Specifications Transmission Fluid Type: MB 236.10 (Shell ATF 134 or equivalent) Transmission Fluid Capacity: Approximately 7.5 Liters (Dry fill) / 5.5 Liters (Drain and fill) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Wheelbase: 2715 mm (106.9 inches) Length: 4488 mm (176.7 inches) Width: 1722 mm (67.8 inches) Height: 1421 mm (55.9 inches) Weights Curb Weight: 1480 kg (3263 lbs) Gross Vehicle Weight Rating: Approx. 1970 kg (4343 lbs) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings Crash Test Ratings: While specific 1997 IIHS/NHTSA ratings are scarce, the W202 chassis was known for robust safety engineering, exceeding many contemporary standards. Mercedes-Benz's commitment to safety was a hallmark. Active Features Active Safety Features: Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Traction Control System (ASR - Automatic Slip Regulation) Passive Features Passive Safety Features: Driver and front passenger airbags, crumple zones, side-impact protection bars, three-point inertia-reel seat belts with pre-tensioners 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Infotainment System: Factory-installed AM/FM/Cassette or CD player, optional Becker sound systems Driver Assistance Driver Assistance Features: Cruise control, optional parking assist sensors (on later W202 variants, less common on 1997 C230) Connectivity Connectivity Options: Limited by era; primarily analog cellular phone integration ports, no modern Bluetooth or USB connectivity. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil And Filter Interval: Every 15,000 km (9,300 miles) or 12 months, whichever comes first (using synthetic oil) Air Filter Interval: Every 30,000 km (18,600 miles) or 24 months Spark Plug Interval: Every 60,000 km (37,000 miles) (using long-life spark plugs) Transmission Fluid Interval: Every 60,000 km (37,000 miles) or 48 months Brake Fluid Interval: Every 24 months Known Issues Common Complaints: MAF sensor failures, OVP relay issues, rear axle mounting point rust, blower motor resistor failure, transmission conductor plate issues (on 722.6), oil cooler leaks, fuel distributor leaks (on earlier models). Fluid Specifications Power Steering Fluid: MB 236.3 (MB Power Steering Fluid) Brake Fluid Type: DOT 3...