Restyling at the beginning of 2004.
Produced in Germany, Brazil, Egypt, India, Indonesia. Malaysia, Mexico, South Africa and Thailand.
Body
The galvanized body does not rust.
On cars manufactured before 2004, paint becomes cloudy and peels off. After restyling, the problem went away.
The drain holes behind the front fenders under the hood become clogged and the fuse box and the battery are submerged.
Over time, the plastic creaks in the cabin.
Electrician
On cars of the first years of production, the SAM signal processing units ($ 500-700) fail, because of which the lamps themselves can turn on, the battery runs out, the fuel level sensor fails, the car does not start and does not open. Disconnecting the battery while the engine is running or "lighting up" is guaranteed to destroy the SAM units.
The EIS ignition control unit ($ 1000) refuses and the FBS3 authorization system does not allow the car to start. In case of failure or loss of the ignition key, a new one ($ 130) will have to wait for more than a month.
If the lamps on the panel light up ABS , stabilization systems and an amplifier during emergency braking, then a possible reason is the failure of the brake light switch under the brake pedal ($ 30). Less often, the control unit for these systems fails ($ 1500).
The wiring of the electric seat adjustments inside the seats themselves is destroyed, the electric drives of the rear head restraints, rear window curtains and mirrors fail. Control units for windows and mirrors ($ 160) do not tolerate dampness.
The trunk lock and the fuel transfer pump between the halves of the gas tank fail, the springs of the mechanism for automatically lifting the trunk lid weaken.
Headlights are sweating. On pre-styling cars, the sockets of the direction indicator lamps burn out and the reflectors fade.
The hood end switch refuses, because of which the wipers and the windshield washer stop working, the standard EDW / ATA alarm system panics.
The plastic rods of the climatic servos break (more often on the flaps at the feet) and you have to disassemble half of the front panel ($ 700).
The ignition control unit fails. Will cost $ 1000.
If you lose a branded key, you will have to wait for it from 1 to 1.5 months and pay $ 130. Therefore, it is better to ask for both sets of keys when buying.
Engine
Refuses the throttle body ($ 800-1300) without regular cleaning every 15-20 tons. Km.
By 80-100 t. Km, the poly V-belt tensioner and the mass air flow sensor ($ 400-550) will wear out.
By 100-120 t. Km, the rear engine mount wears out.
On engines with a mechanical compressor, the exhaust gas recirculation valve is overgrown with soot by 40-50 t. Km.
The compressors themselves run for a long time, provided that the air filter is replaced every 30 tons. Km. Otherwise, there will be loud operating noise. The repair will cost $ 500-700, and the replacement will cost $ 900-1800.
After 200 t. Km, the oil in the compressor should be changed (they have a hidden drain plug).
By 120-140 t. Km, the cooling system pump wears out and the valve cover gasket leaks.
Timing chain wears out on four-cylinder petrol M 111 to 150 t. Km, on V6 (M112 and M272) and V8 (M113) to 180-200 t. Km. On diesel engines even later.
Engine M 271 1.8 will cause the most problems.
On cars manufactured before 2005, the timing chain stretches to 60-80 t. Km and a knock appears when the engine is cold. If started, the chain may break. Along the way, with the timing chain, they change the drive chain of the balancing mechanism and all this will cost $ 1000.
On the first motors M 271 to 100 tons km, valve stems coke and the valves lose their mobility. Because of this, at high revs, the engine loses traction. It is treated by replacing valves with grooved valve stems and valve springs.
The crankcase ventilation hose bursts on M 271, after which there is a hiss from under the air filter housing, difficult cold start and floating idle speed. To 100 t. Km, the generator pulley with a built-in freewheel clutch is noisy.
Engines behave much better V 6 series M 112 (2.6 and 3.2). They have an unsuccessful crankcase ventilation system (like V 8 M 113) and oil consumption 1l / 10t. km is considered the norm.
Crankshaft sensor refuses, delaminateselastic damper of the crankshaft pulley to 60-80 t. km. If the pulley is not replaced in time, it will make a hole in the engine front cover.
These engines have 3 valves and 2 plugs per cylinder. Platinum candles are enough for 30 tons. Km and it is better not to save on them, otherwise oxygen sensors and a neutralizer will fail, fragments of the insides of which can get into the cylinders.
Injectors are demanding on the quality of fuel.
After 3-4 years, the tips of the candles are destroyed.
New V6 engines of the M272 series (2.5 3.0 3.5) appeared after restyling.
The control unit, camshaft position sensors fail, the intake manifold flaps wear out.
By 80-100 t. Km, the teeth of the balancer shaft sprockets wear out and the valve timing is shifted. The chain starts to make rumbling sounds. The repair will cost $ 3,000, since the sprockets and shaft change only when the engine is removed and disassembled.
Diesel engines OM646 (four-cylinder in-line) and V6 series OM642 are very demanding on fuel quality. Fuel filters need to be changed frequently. Injection pump ($ 1300-2600) serve 160-200 tons km, pressure regulators and nozzles ($ 500-650 each) serve 100-120 tons km.
Diesel engines of the ОМ611 and ОМ612 series (in-line "four" and "five") have an unsuccessful tapered fastening of the injectors in the cylinder head. It is necessary at each maintenance to change the seals of the injectors and lubricate the seat with heat-resistant grease. Otherwise, by 100-120 t. Km when dismantling the nozzle, you can damage not only the valve cover, but also the cylinder head ($ 1,500).
The drive of the intake manifold flaps with variable geometry fails and smoke and loss of thrust will appear.
The seals of the vacuum lines are worn out and the turbocharger stops blowing normally or a clean valve of the recirculation system (EGR) hangs.
The turbocharger serves 200 tons km and will cost $ 1,500.
The diesel engines themselves run up to 500 tons km.
Transmission
Control selector electrician ESM ($ 800) Automatic transmission fails when liquid spills on it.
The manual transmission 716 is reliable. It was installed on engines up to 3.2 liters.
Oil change every 100 t. Km.
The backstage mechanism wears out with age ($ 300).
Manual transmission Sequentronic 716.6 works with jerks. The electronically controlled hydraulics of the Magneti Marelli gear shift fails and the car stands up, since the emergency mode is not provided.
The clutch ($ 400-500) runs 150-180 t. Km. At the same time, the gearshift hydraulic drive may fail ($ 500).
The automatic transmission 5 Mercedes 722.6 has the following problems.
On cars produced in 2000, the freewheel clutches break and the gearbox is pushed when shifting.
Thin single-sided friction discs introduced in 2001 wear out quickly during slipping and sharp acceleration.
On pre-styling cars, the radiator of the automatic transmission and engine cooling system is destroyed, because of which antifreeze enters the box and destroys it.
Oil is leaking from the automatic transmission through the wiring connector. Oil can get to the automatic transmission control unit EGS.
The speed sensors of the primary and secondary shafts fail.
In 2005, Mercedes automatic transmission5 was replaced by automatic transmission7 7G-Tronic 722.9 series.
The new box features an updated electronic control unit and an additional planetary gear set, which turned out to be unreliable.
On 4Matic versions closer to 200 tons km, gearbox oil seal leaks and wear of the propeller shaft intermediate support ($ 55) appear.
Chassis
On rear-wheel drive cars manufactured before 2004, stabilizer struts wear out by 20-30 tons km, levers with ball bearings wear out by 30-40 tons km ($ 750), silent blocks of these levers serve 40-50 tons km.
Upgraded parts last 2-2.5 times longer. With the exception of the upper supports of the front shock absorbers, which also travel 80-100 t. Km.
The front suspension of the 4Matic versions is different, more durable.
Shock absorbers ($ 300 front, $ 250 rear), tie rod ends ($ 65 each) and outer silent blocks of the lower wishbones of the rear suspension (reinforced in 2004) go 100 t. Km.
Control mechanisms
The steering rack is reliable, although there are knocks. But if it does, the replacement will cost $ 2,500.
Other
The best options are post-styling cars with manual transmissions with V 6 M 112 or turbo diesel 2.2.
In January 2001, in the Mercedes C-Class model line, the W202 model was replaced with a restyled version of the W203. The world premiere of the novelty took place a year earlier in March 2000. Unlike its predecessors, the Mercedes C-class of the W203 series was built on a redesigned platform, it became larger and more dynamic.
In the trim levels of the Mercedes-Benz C-Class W203, three standard assembly options were assumed: Classic, Elegance and Avantgarde, plus a wide selection of all kinds of options. The list of basic equipment of the second generation of the C-class W203 included a multifunctional steering wheel, adjustable in height and reach, a center front armrest, remote control of doors and trunk lock, rear head restraints, a system of tensioning and limiting the force of seat belts, Window-Bag side airbags, automatic heating and ventilation system with recirculation mode, automatic climate control, outside temperature sensor, automatic child seat recognition system, automatic passenger recognition system in the front seat. The interior of the Mercedes W203 was trimmed with the noble wood of Calyptus Linea. The car was equipped with an automatic dipped beam system, fog lights. The basic configuration of the Mercedes-Benz C-Klasse W203 included a trip computer, an ELCOD system, repeaters in the side mirrors, and a SPEEDTRONIC system that controls the maximum speed.
In 2000, two luxury assemblies from AMG and Designo tuning studios were added to the standard configurations of the Mercedes W203. By 2002, modifications of the C-class W203 were replenished with all-wheel drive versions with the proprietary Mercedes system 4MATIC and a seven-speed automatic transmission 7G-Tronic. In March 2005, Mercedes-Benz prepared two sports small-scale assemblies of the C-Class model: Sport Edition and Sport Edition +.
The basic configuration of the Mercedes-Benz C W203 includes more than twenty innovative solutions previously used in higher class cars. The cabin has two two-stage front airbags and two side airbags, plus side rods for the front passengers. As an option, two side airbags for the rear passengers could be ordered.
Compared to its predecessors, the second generation of the C-class has received significant changes in the body structure and chassis. The Mercedes-Benz W203 is equipped with a new MacPherson-type front suspension with triple wishbones. The steering gear is sharper and the ventilated disc brakes are oversized. The structure of the front part of the Mercedes C-Klasse W203 body is built on the principle of combined replaceable deformation modules, which made it possible to replace them quickly and without significant investments in the event of an accident. According to the results of crash tests, the front replaceable module in a frontal collision extinguished the impact energy, leaving the side members and body of the W203 intact. A special aluminum subframe on which the power unit and suspension are attached, used in the production of the second generation of the C-Class W203 series, guaranteed a decrease in the level of body vibrations from the front wheels and the power unit.
After four years of production, the Mercedes C-Class W 203 model underwent a "facelift", or as the Germans called MoPf (an abbreviation for "Modellpflege"). The C-Class Model T W203 station wagons were assembled at DaimlerChrysler's Bremen plant, while the main production of the MB W203 sedans (including left-hand drive versions) from April 2004 to December 2006 was moved to the plant in the South African division of Daimler & Mercedes in East London. The CL203 sports coupe was manufactured at a plant in Sindelfingen until the spring of 2007, after which production was transferred to a plant in Juiz de Fora (Brazil).
Unlike the previous generation, in the Mercedes C-Klasse W203 version, much attention was paid to the problem of corrosion. Structural elements, fastening systems were changed, new materials were used for molding and stamping panels, doors, wheel arches, hood and trunk lids. In 2006, the 2 millionth copy of the C-Class W203 was assembled. The modification is considered the best in the history of the production of the model family of the Mercedes C-class.
The W203 sedan was available with engines ranging from 102 to 367 hp. (75 - 270 kW). The luggage compartment of the C-Class W203 was 455 liters. Thanks to its excellent streamlining and aerodynamic drag coefficient Cx = 0.26, the Mercedes-Benz W203 was distinguished by its indicative characteristics of directional stability, maneuverability and handling.
"Combi", i.e. Mercedes-Benz C-Class W203 Model T, in the front and inside the cabin, was identical to the base sedan and was equipped with similar engines. The trunk volume of the Model T W203 station wagon was 470 liters in normal condition and 1350 liters with the rear row seats folded.
From May 2008 to February 2011, a modification of the CL203 coupe was assembled on the platform of the Mercedes C W203 sedan. The two-door coupe based on the C-Class sedan was produced at the Bremen plant and at Mercedes' partner plant in Brazil. A sports coupe based on the W203 - the Mercedes-Benz CL203 model differed from its "older brothers" by three doors and the design of the rear part of the body. The rear of the coupe was decorated with a spoiler integrated into the rear door, made of transparent plastic. The compartment's trunk could accommodate a cargo volume of 310 liters. Compared to the sedan and station wagon, the Mercedes CL203 coupe had a limited choice of powertrains. Customers were offered gasoline engines in the range of 90-200 kW, four diesel modifications and two charged versions from AMG (C32 AMG and C30 CDI).
After the transfer of production to South America, the coupe received a number of significant changes in the exterior and technical terms, and was brought to a separate model line CLC-Class. The four petrol engine variants and two diesel engines inherited by the CLC coupe from the W203 and W204 modifications have been redesigned and optimized. The fuel consumption of the modernized power units has decreased by an average of 11%. Inside the coupe, new original interior details have appeared - sporty, anatomically contoured seats, generous interior trim made from new textile materials, leather and polished aluminum. Unlike the sedan and station wagon, the coupe was equipped with a sports three-spoke steering wheel and the latest generation of infotainment systems. Navigation information was displayed on a large color display. The on-board computer of the car received a capacious hard disk, a CD / DVD reader, a synchronization system with an iPod, USB ports, a multimedia system. In mid-2011, the Mercedes CLC (W203) coupe was replaced by a successor model, a coupe based on the Mercedes-Benz C-Class W204 series.
The successor to the W203 series, the Mercedes-Benz C-Class W204 series was unveiled in March 2007 at the Geneva Motor Show. At the end of 2007, the second generation Mercedes C-Class W203 was withdrawn from the Mercedes-Benz lineup in favor of the next third generation of the model.
SPOON FEEDING
The mechanics of "Mercedes" engines are traditionally reliable, and the motors of the 203 are no exception. The timing drive is a chain drive, there are no problems with it. And an increased oil appetite for motors is a rarity. But the power supply and ignition systems on our fuel often fail.
The most common culprit for engine interruptions is candles that have drank metal-containing additives. To protect the catalytic converter in the event of a misfire, the engine control unit simply turns off the injector of the faulty cylinder. And even if you missed the burning Check Engine light, it is difficult not to feel the "shortage".
In case of deposits of tar on the injectors (again from bad gasoline), the control unit adjusts the time of their opening, but only for the time being. When the adaptation limits, hardwired into the ROM, are exhausted, the Check Engine lights up (error code - lean mixture). The DFID may also be the culprit for the same mistake - over time, it begins to "ascribe" excess air masses.
Most often, a sensor defect manifests itself in a hot season with a frequency of two seasons or 50 thousand km. In engines with a mechanical supercharger (compressor), the EGR valve is clogged with soot (error - failure during afterburning). It makes no sense to change the valve, its resource does not exceed 20 thousand km on our fuel, this function is easier and cheaper to disable.
To extend the life of candles and injectors, you can "reflash" the control unit for 92nd gasoline, which is not so "watery" (issue price - 40 euros). True, you will have to come to terms with some deterioration in dynamics.
We extinguish Check Engine only using a special scanner (Star Diagnosis, hereinafter - SD). By removing the terminal from the battery, you can break the wood: without power, the engine control unit resets the correction data for the mixture composition (adaptation) and goes to the standard factory settings. If before that the car was operated for a long time with the Check Engine turned on or the problem arose quickly, then the correction could be far beyond the normal values. Then you risk not starting at all - you will need new candles, nozzles, mass air flow sensor and, possibly, a gas pump. Compared to the savings on a visit to the dealer, such a set of parts is much more expensive.
Alas, the fuel equipment of modern "Mercedes" diesels is also poorly adapted to Russian fuel, the first problems with it happen already by 100 thousand km. Considering the high cost of repairs and spare parts, it is better to refrain from buying a car with a diesel engine.
ELECTRONIC DEMOCRACY
Wiring harnesses familiar to many are not found here. Electronics is in charge of everything: many individual units are connected by a multiplexed CAN (Controller Area Network) bus over a "twisted pair", but there is no main manager. Any unit can take the reins of government (more precisely, microcircuits). For example, when braking, everything is subject to the ABS / ESP unit, and during acceleration, to the engine control unit.
If you want to install non-original additional equipment (alarm, navigation system, music, etc.), you will have to purchase a CAN BUS matching device ($ 100-250). To implant a new organ into smart wiring, it is better not to meddle with ordinary wires and a soldering iron.
When MOT approaches, a symbol (wrench) lights up on the instrument panel, which will easily and correctly extinguish only SD, while the mileage is recorded in the depths of the non-volatile memory of the EZS units and the KI instrument panel. In the presence of SD, one can indirectly verify the truth of the mileage by comparing it with the marks of the passage of MOT. In case of illogical discrepancies, it is better to refuse to buy such a car.
Circuit protection against short circuits is managed by two SAM signal processing units, in which, in addition to the usual fuses, there are also electronic fuses (most of them). If after replacing, for example, a burned-out light bulb, the circuit still does not work, restart the engine in order to "charge" the corresponding fuse.
HE DOESN'T SLEEP, DOESN'T GIVE TO OTHERS
The weak link in the electronics is the rear SAM unit mounted in the trunk. Surprisingly, his colleague works under the hood in the worst climatic conditions, and breaks down much less often. The block can "end" in different ways: honestly, when it starts to openly lie about the fuel readings and burned out bulbs, and despicably, when at one moment it leaves the driver with a completely discharged battery. According to the "job description", SAM units should "fall asleep" in a few minutes after turning off the ignition, going into energy-saving mode. But the back has insomnia: it bothers the neighbor and other control units, endlessly demanding self-diagnosis protocols from them. The accumulator honestly feeds energy to all who are awake. With shallow discharges, when after parking it is possible to start without assistance, SAM is still able to return to normal life. If you cannot do without "lighting" - keep in mind that for SAM this can become a "control shot".
THE KEY TO Tranquility
If for some reason there is only one key left for the car, do not hesitate to order a duplicate. Firstly, this procedure is lengthy: all checks on the criminal base and delivery take 40 days (the cost of the key is 100 euros). Secondly, in case of problems with reading the transponder in the key head, it becomes impossible to determine the culprit of the failure; another key is needed. And the EZS ignition control unit (800 euros), where the key is inserted, can also fail. In this case, waiting for a new key is a waste of time. True, even in the presence of several keys, errors occur in identifying the culprit, but their probability is the less, the earlier the diagnosis is made. Do not hesitate with her!
STAR, STILL STAR
With safety at the "tseshka" - order. The systems working on it are enough even in the basic configuration. They all interact in a single complex, intervening in the protection of riders in stages. The magazine has already written about this in detail (ZR, 2004, No. 6), we only note that according to the results of the EuroNCAP crash test in 2001 (see Model History) on the first try, the car earned 31 points and four stars (five points!). A year later, the EuroNCAP Commission revised the methodology and added 2 more points and one star for the Intelligent Seat Belt Warning, which was introduced shortly before.
However, you should not blindly rely on a five-star safety shield without additional checking at the dealer. There are cases when the airbags and belt tensioners that worked after an accident were not changed, and the “specialists” simply turned off their self-diagnosis function.
SALVATION OF THE DROWNERS
A large part of the cars came to us from the secondary markets in Europe after the floods. If you do not find a trace of the waterline on the upholstery, do not flatter yourself, it may be on their inner side, although the most zealous sellers washed out sludge even from hidden cavities with an almost complete disassembly of the car. But no one changed the bearings of the hubs, and if under normal conditions they live over 100 thousand km, then the "drowned" may end up unpredictably. The rear bearings are changed separately, the front ones are assembled with the hub. When replacing, we check the condition of the brake discs, their maximum permissible wear is 3 mm. Usually the front ones serve 60 thousand km, the rear ones - about 90.
According to the German control organization (TU..V), two-three-year "tseshki" take 50th place in the reliability rating (out of 113), and 4-5-year-olds - 11th, that is, major breakdowns occur during the warranty period ... We have a similar picture, so used Mercedes are getting cheaper slowly.
2000 Mercedes С-Klasse, factory index W203. Body: sedan and sports coupe. Engines (car model in brackets): petrol P4: 1.8 l, 95 kW / 129 hp (C180); 1.8 l, 120 kW / 163 hp (C200); 1.8 l, 125 kW / 170 hp (C200 CGI); 1.8 l, 141 kW / 192 hp (C230K); V6: 2.6 L, 125 kW / 170 PS (C240); 3.2 l, 160 kW / 218 hp (C320); 3.2 l, 260 kW / 354 hp (C32 AMG); diesel with "common rail" and turbocharged P4: 2.1 l, 90 kW / 122 hp (C200 CDI) and 2.1 l, 105 kW / 143 hp. (C220 CDI). Rear-wheel drive, M6 or A5.
2001 EuroNCAP crash test, 4 stars, 14 and 17 points for frontal and side impact, respectively. Station wagon (model ST).
2002 EuroNCAP added 2 points and 1 star for the seat belt reminder system, which takes into account the presence of a passenger at each seat. In the C220 CDI model, the engine power is 110 kW / 150 hp, in the C180 - 105 kW / 143 hp. New diesel engines P5: 2.7 l, 125 kW / 170 hp (C270 CDI) and 3.0 L, 170 kW / 231 hp (C30 CDI AMG). 4matic all-wheel drive model.
Mercedes-Benz C-Class (W202) lasted seven years on the assembly line. During this time, more than 1.8 million vehicles left the production line. The new generation C (W203) appeared in 2000. A year later, along with a sedan and a station wagon, a three-door coupe entered the market. In 2004, the "tseshka" underwent restyling, which, in addition to light stylistic adjustments, brought an increase in the level of equipment and an increase in quality. The modernization did not pass by the side of the chassis: stronger bearings, silent blocks and a reinforced rear stabilizer began to be used. The manual transmission has been improved.
Diesel units comply with Euro IV emission standards, and power has increased by 7-150 hp. A year later (in 2005) the engine range was adjusted. In particular, a new six-cylinder turbodiesel with 225 hp has appeared. (320 CDI), which was combined with a 6-speed manual or 7-speed automatic transmission 7G-Tronic. The C-Class was offered in four trim levels: Classic, Elegance, Avantgarde, Sportline. In 2007, the W203 gave way to the next generation W204.
Appearance and Body:
Unlike the two previous generations, the W203 was produced not only as a sedan and station wagon, but also as a hatchback. When buying a Mercedes in the two hundred and third body, first of all, you should pay attention to cars not older than 2004, the fact is that after the restyling of 2004, a new painting technology and new paints and varnishes were used. Rust may appear on dorestyling "shops". The body of Mercedes W203 is galvanized by 85%, for comparison - the body of the previous "shop" was galvanized by 65%. The two hundred and third Mercedes behaves much better at high speeds, because the lift has decreased by 57%. The two hundred and third Mercedes in comparison with the two hundred and second became 10 mm longer, the wheelbase of the "tseshka" increased by 25 mm.
After restyling, the diameter of the base rims increased, if the pre-styling cars in the base were shod in tires with a dimension of 195/65 R15, then after restyling, the Mercedes began to shoe in tires with a dimension of 205/55 R16. The drag coefficient of the Mercedes W203 is 0.26, which is comparable to the drag indicators of the Mercedes E-class W211, which is the same age as the monitored car. You can pay attention to the photo, the photos show all three types of Mercedes W203 bodies.
What is it good for?
The driving characteristics of the car are the envy of all classmates. On the one hand, excellent handling, which BMW will envy, and on the other - very good comfort, if, of course, the wheels are not too big. Don't expect a very smooth ride, this car is quite tough, but thanks to the new steering with a rack and excellent chassis tuning, the car is really capable of delighting the driver on the go.
Of course, the back here is cramped, there is not enough room for the feet, but this once again emphasizes the focus of the C-class on the driver - he is great here, there is no less space than in larger cars. In addition, there is good sound insulation, very decent quality materials and well-thought-out ergonomics.
There were three body types to choose from - a traditional sedan, a utility wagon and a “coupe”, which in fact turns out to be a typical three-door hatchback, very practical in the city, since the length of such a car is noticeably shorter than with “classic” bodies. Interior trim levels to choose from, upholstery materials from high-quality but simple fabric to excellent leather. The list of additional equipment is not outdated at all: here is the advanced Comand system, and rain sensors, and a rear-view camera, and dual-zone climate control, and heated seats, and electric drives with memory ... Yes, here, in general, there is everything to what owners of cars of this level are accustomed, and even a little more - the level of comfort is quite modern.
With age, "crickets" start up in the cabin, especially on cars with a sports suspension and large wheels, but frankly it will not start to rattle even after unsuccessful reinforcement work. In general, the car seems perfect, and given its price - even better than a new one. Well, it's time to take a closer look at the nuances of the operation of various units.
Technical part and characteristics of Mercedes C-class W203
It was at the Two hundred and third Mercedes that the CommonRail injection system was installed for the first time on gasoline engines. The line of power units is quite extensive, compressors were often installed on the "tseshki", which allowed the four-cylinder Mercedes W203 to keep up with its counterparts with gasoline V6s. The base engine of the M111 series with a volume of 1.8 liters produces 129 horsepower. The power of the C180K compressor is 143 horsepower, the C200K produces 163 horsepower, in the period from 2000 to 2002 the C200K had a volume of 2.0 liters and produced a torque of 230 N.M, after 2002 the volume of the engine decreased by 200 cubes, the torque increased by 10 N.M, power indicators have not changed.
Compressor C230 with a volume of 1.9 liters produces 192hp, torque is 260N.M. Consider the performance of Mercedes six-cylinder gasoline engines. The six-cylinder naturally aspirated C230 produces 204 horsepower with a volume of 2.5 liters. The C240 has a volume of 2.6 liters, its naturally aspirated V6 produces 170 horsepower at the output. The C280 with a volume of 3.0 liters develops 231 power, the power of the C320 - 218 horsepower, the C350 produces 272hp, and the top-end C32AMG - 354 horsepower and 450N.M. The diesel C200CDI 2.2l develops 115hp, the C220CDI, with a volume of 2.4l, produces 144hp, and the five-cylinder C270CDI - 170hp. It is worth saying that the six-cylinder modifications of the "tseshka" cost as much as the base E-class, so when buying a new car, most buyers chose four-cylinder engines, often with compressor supercharging. 
In the basic configuration, the "tseshka" was equipped with a six-speed manual transmission, as an option, five, and later a seven-speed automatic transmission were available. For the C320, an automatic machine was already offered in the database. MCP two hundred and third are considered not serviced, but still every 80,000 km it is worth changing the oil. Clutch two hundred and third with normal driving is 150 - 180 thousand.
The indisputable advantage of the two hundred and third shop is the presence of a timing chain drive; in the gas distribution mechanism, the chain tensioner should be changed every 60,000 km. It is not uncommon for the electronic control unit to turn off the injector in the cylinder due to bad spark plugs and, as a consequence, the fuel that has not burned out in the combustion chamber, because the afterburning of fuel in the exhaust system negatively affects the durability of the converter. On compressor motors, the air filter should be changed regularly. It is advisable for owners of diesel "tseshek" to flush the fuel tank every 5000 km.
The suspension of the Mercedes W203 is not as durable as on the Toyota Carina / Avensis. The stabilizer bushings usually do not live more than 60,000 km, and the silent blocks of the lower front levers sometimes have to be changed even after a mileage of 20,000 km, the ball bearings on the W203 are enough for 60 - 80 thousand. The front shock absorbers run 90,000 km, and the steering tips are enough for the same period. Silent blocks of rear Mercedes levers serve 100 thousand, two hundred and third wheel bearings usually do not disturb the owner up to 100,000 km of run. There are also enough brake discs for 100,000 km.
Let's pay attention to the technical characteristics of the Mercedes C200K W203 with MKP6.
Specifications:
Powerplant: 2.0 petrol, mechanical boost
Volume: 1998cube
Power: 163hp
Torque: 230N.M
Number of valves: 16v
Performance indicators:
Speed gain 0 -100km: 9.3s
Top speed: 230km
Combined fuel consumption: 9.7L
Fuel tank volume: 62L
Dimensions: 4530mm * 1730mm * 1430mm
Wheelbase: 2720mm
Curb weight: 1390kg
Ground clearance / clearance: 150mm
Chassis
The second generation Mercedes C-Class, in comparison with its predecessor, received an ideal chassis with a small share of sporty emotions. The designers replaced the pseudo McPherson trapezoidal arm with a pair of lower wishbones, with separately replaceable silent blocks. However, the first pancake came out lumpy. The silent blocks of the levers wore out quickly, and the suspension began to knock. The manufacturer soon refined the element with more wear-resistant materials and launched a revocable campaign to replace unreliable silent blocks. In addition, the stabilizer attachment had to be modified to exclude the ingress of dirt and sand, which contributes to the rapid wear of the stabilizer itself. Stabilizers still suffer from premature wear today, with the exception of the top AMG version. The rear suspension is not a problem, although light alloy components are used there.
After the modernization, the durability of the suspension increased slightly. The suspension settings have also changed slightly. The engineers managed to make the chassis tighter with little or no loss in comfort, resulting in lower roll and improved track stability.
Engines
Gasoline.
Inline four-cylinder:
C180 - 2.0 / 130 HP (10/2000 - 05/2002)
C180 Kompressor - 1.8 / 143 HP (from 05/2002)
C200 Kompressor - 2.0 / 163 HP (05/2000 - 05/2002)
C200 Kompressor - 1.8 / 163 HP (from 05/2002)
C230 Kompressor - 1.8 / 192 HP (from 02/2004)
Six-cylinder:
C230 - 2.5 / 204 hp (from 01/2005)
C240 - 2.6 / 170 hp (from 05/2000)
C280 - 3.0 / 231 hp (from 01/2005)
C320 - 3.2 / 218 hp (from 05/2000)
C350 - 3.2 / 272 hp (from 01/2005)
C240 4MATIC - 2.6 / 170 HP (from 07/2002)
C280 4MATIC - 3.0 / 231 HP (from 01/2005)
C320 4MATIC - 3.2 / 218 HP (from 07/2002)
C350 4MATIC - 3.2 / 272 HP (from 01/2005)
C32 AMG Kompressor - 3.2 / 354 hp
Eight-cylinder:
C55 AMG - 5.4 / 367 hp (from 02/2004)
Diesel.
Turbocharged four-cylinder:
C200 CDI - 2.1 / 116 HP (from 03/2001)
C200 CDI - 2.1 / 122 HP (from 04/2003)
C220 CDI - 2.1 / 143 HP (from 03/2001)
C220 CDI - 2.1 / 136 HP (from 08/2006)
C220 CDI - 2.1 / 150 HP (from 02/2004)
Five-cylinder turbocharged:
C270 CDI - 2.7 / 170 HP (from 12/2000)
C30 CDI AMG - 3.0 / 231 HP (from 01/2003)
Six-cylinder turbocharged:
C320 CDI 3.0 / 224 hp (from 01/2005)
C320 CDI 3.0 / 231 hp (from 01/2005)
Transmission
All engines (except C320) used a 6-speed manual transmission. Until 2002, there was a problem with the synchronizers of the first three speeds. After restyling, the flaw was eliminated. An alternative to the manual transmission will be the 5-speed 5G-Tronic automatic, which appeared in Mercedes in 1989. The automatic transmission works slowly and smoothly. According to many experts, it is less reliable than the previous 4-speed automatic. To keep the box in shape, it is necessary to regularly change the oil every 60,000 km, including the filter. Otherwise, repairs are inevitable - about $ 1000-2000. The 7-speed 7G-Tronic automatic is even less reliable, but it performs well and provides low fuel consumption.
Typical malfunctions
When inspecting a used Mercedes C class with a diesel engine, pay particular attention to the operation of the glow plugs and injectors. The lighted indicator should go out immediately after starting. Inspect the engine by removing the plastic cover. Any replacement of spark plugs or nozzles is not easy or cheap. For example, repairing injectors will cost about $ 140. Until 2003, diesel turbochargers quickly wore out.
A thorough inspection should also be carried out for wear on the front suspension components. In case of problems with the electronics, a message may appear indicating that the parking brake is engaged, although in fact it will be unlocked. This is typical for cars assembled before 2003. There are also fuel leaks from the high pressure pump of diesel modifications. In addition, problems with the ignition switch, fuel gauge and catalytic converter are common (in almost all cars before 2003). 
A 5-speed automatic should be checked for leaks. 6-speed mechanics can be troubling with knocking out gears, especially in Mercedes C-class of the first years of production.
Be careful with cars that have been recovered from an accident. In the future, such a copy can cause many problems. Spare parts for Mercedes are not cheap and not all can be obtained from the aftermarket.
Open the hood and be sure to inspect the water drain holes. If they are clogged with dirt, then there is a high probability of the presence of corrosion near the windshield. In addition, clogged drains contribute to the ingress of water on the electronic components.
In the early years, the real source of problems was dual-zone climate control. He ceased to regulate the temperature of the supplied air stream. The reason is a broken damper, which is responsible for mixing warm and cold air. Later, the manufacturer fixed the problem by modifying the node.
In 2003-2004 cars, there were problems with the buckles of the front seat belts. Mercedes solved it in the course of a revocable campaign. The first copies suffered from ridiculous flaws, for example, creaking pedals. The Mercedes C-class W203 has become hostage to the growing demand for electronics and multiplex networks - electronics fail from time to time.
Price
The price of a well-maintained Mercedes C-class W203 is about $ 20,000. Mercedes' price varies mainly from the condition of a particular car. 
Modifications Mercedes C-class W203
Mercedes C 180K MT W203
Mercedes C 180K AT W203
Mercedes C 200K MT W203
Mercedes C 200K AT W203
Mercedes C 230K MT W203
Mercedes Benz W203 C200K "Review" and operating experience, sores
