Engine Control Module (ECM) diagnosis, sensor identification and testing, ignition system, fuel injection system (electronic), emission control systems, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).
Transmission Automatic:
Automatic transmission (e.g., 7G-TRONIC 722.9) overhaul, diagnosis, hydraulic system, torque converter, electronic control unit (TCU), shift solenoids, fluid specifications.
Transmission Manual:
Manual transmission (if applicable to specific engine variants) overhaul, diagnosis, clutch system, gear ratios, fluid specifications.
Drivetrain:
Driveshafts, CV joints, differential, axle shafts, transfer case (if applicable), wheel bearings.
Brakes:
Hydraulic brake system, ABS, ESP (Electronic Stability Program), SBC (Sensotronic Brake Control - less common on W204 but covered if applicable), brake calipers, rotors, pads, bleeding procedures, parking brake.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, struts, shock absorbers, control arms, ball joints, tie rods, sway bars, bushings, alignment specifications.
Steering:
Power steering system (hydraulic or electric), steering rack, steering column, steering wheel, power steering fluid specifications.
Electrical System:
12V battery system, alternator, starter motor, wiring diagrams, fuse and relay identification, lighting systems (headlights, taillights, interior), horn.
Body Electrical:
Power windows, power locks, central locking, remote keyless entry, sunroof operation, interior lighting, seat adjustment systems.
Climate Control:
HVAC system diagnosis, air conditioning (A/C) system refrigerant recharge and service, heater core, blower motor, climate control panel, cabin air filter replacement.
Bodywork Interior:
Body panel removal and installation, interior trim panel removal, seat removal, dashboard removal, door panel removal, headliner replacement.
Bodywork Exterior:
Bumpers, fenders, hood, trunk lid, doors, quarter panels, door handles, mirrors, glass replacement (windshield, side glass), seals.
Safety Restraints:
Airbag system diagnosis, SRS (Supplemental Restraint System) components, seat belt service, airbag module replacement (cautionary procedures).
Infotainment Navigation:
COMAND (Cockpit Management and Navigation Display) system, radio, CD changer, navigation unit, speaker system, Bluetooth connectivity, instrument cluster.
Procedures Included
Scheduled Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotations, brake inspections, spark plug replacement, belt replacement, service indicator reset.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts, common fault diagnosis, symptoms-based troubleshooting, electrical system diagnostics, engine performance issues.
MB 236.14 Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) for 7G-TRONIC.
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Wheelbase:
Approximately 108.7 inches (2760 mm).
Length:
Approximately 180.0 - 183.5 inches (4575 - 4662 mm) depending on body style.
Weights
Curb Weight:
Approximately 3300 - 3700 lbs (1500 - 1680 kg) depending on engine and equipment.
Gvw:
Gross Vehicle Weight (check specific model data).
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Rating:
Generally achieved 5-star ratings in front and side impact tests (check specific year and test data).
IIHS Rating:
Often received 'Good' ratings in IIHS crash tests (Top Safety Pick potential).
Active Features
Stability Control:
Standard ESP (Electronic Stability Program) with traction control.
Braking Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Brake Assist (BAS).
Driver Assistance Options:
Optional features included DISTRONIC cruise control, PARKTRONIC parking assist, Lane Keeping Assist, Blind Spot Assist.
Passive Features
Airbags:
Front airbags, side airbags, front and rear side curtain airbags, driver's knee airbag.
Seat Belts:
3-point inertia-reel seat belts with pretensioners and force limiters, active head restraints (NECK-PRO).
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Infotainment System:
COMAND NTG 4.0 or similar, offering CD/DVD playback, radio, optional navigation, Bluetooth audio and telephony.
Display:
Central dashboard display (7-inch or 8-inch).
Driver Assistance
Standard Assistance:
ABS, ESP, Traction Control.
Optional Assistance:
Adaptive Cruise Control (DISTRONIC), Parking Assistance (PARKTRONIC), Lane Departure Warning, Blind Spot Monitoring.
Connectivity
Connectivity Features:
Bluetooth hands-free calling and audio streaming, optional USB interface, auxiliary audio input.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 10,000 miles (16,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first (based on Mercedes-Benz flexible service schedule, often triggered by the Service A/B indicators).
Pentosin CHF 11S or MB 343.0 hydraulic fluid (check specific model for electric power steering).
Coolant Capacity:
Approximately 7.5 - 8.5 liters (2.0 - 2.2 gallons) depending on engine.
Known Issues
Common Complaints W204:
Cylinder head bolt issue on certain M271 engines (requiring specific repair), oil cooler seals, differential leaks, occasional ABS/ESP sensor failures, aging plastic interior components, transmission conductor plate issues on 7G-TRONIC.
Manual Benefit For Issues:
Provides diagnostic procedures and repair instructions for addressing these common issues.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Manufacturer:
Daimler AG (Mercedes-Benz).
Legacy:
Mercedes-Benz has a long-standing reputation for engineering excellence, safety, and luxury.
Model Evolution
Generation:
Third generation of the C-Class compact executive model.
Facelift Timing:
W204 received a significant facelift for the 2012 model year, so this manual covers the pre-facelift models.
Production
Production Years:
2007-2014 (W204 chassis).
Manufacturing Locations:
Various plants globally, including Germany, USA, China, South Africa.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Safety Awards:
Often recognized by safety organizations like IIHS and NHTSA for its strong safety performance.
Design Accolades:
Received positive reviews for its styling and premium interior appointments.
Ratings
Consumer Reports Ratings:
Consumer Reports ratings varied by year and specific model, often citing good performance but occasional reliability concerns in certain areas for its class.
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