Ask the mechanic: The W202 Mercedes review, an entry level luxury car

What you need to know:

The Mercedes Benz is one of the cars that command respect. But given their price tag, most people mainly eye the C- Class W202 because it is somewhat affordable. Comparing the first generation of the W202 C-class to the BMW 3 Series E36 or the Audi A4 B5, Mercedes' best of them stood the test of the passage of time. Remember, however, that there are many failures that effectively extinguish the glow of a shining star.

W202 History

The first representative of the middle class of the Stuttgart brand was the 190 (W201) model, which became famous for its high-quality workmanship. In addition, it was offered at a slightly better price than the more prestigious W124 or the flagship W126 limousine, which only the richest cream could afford. In 1993, the C-class (W202) made its debut on the market for the first time, initially only as a sedan.

It was only in 1996 that a station wagon version with a characteristic hump appeared at dealerships. A year later, the car was modernised, and diesel engines marked with the CDI symbol with common rail injection were introduced to the engine offer.

Mercedes had to make sure it pulled out all the stops to convince potential buyers they are getting their money’s worth in an already advanced used car market. Truth is, ever since it replaced the beloved old 190, the Mercedes-Benz C-Class has been a perfectly competent entry-level luxury car. Anyone and everyone who is not really right there but feels the desire to get into the echelons of Mercedes Benz ownership, the Mercedes Benz C Class W202 (1993 – 2000) serves them right with its affordability.

W202 Specs

Which power units deserve attention? The choice of a petrol engine will largely depend on the size of your portfolio. Petrol engines enjoy a rather good reputation, although accessories such as a flow metre, throttle or ignition coil can always be used here. Unfortunately, when buying a W202 with this diesel unit, we have to get used to the very poor dynamics of the car. People who want to drive faster should consider buying a 2.5-liter TD unit, although here, in turn, there may be problems with the injection pump. The newer generation CDI engines can boast a high working culture, but repairs to the Common rail injection system will be much more expensive than repairs to other diesel engines.

W202 Engine

Petrol:

R4 1.8 (122 hp)

R4 2.0 (136 hp)

R4 2.0 Kompressor (180 hp)

R4 2.2 (150 hp)

R4 2.3 Kompressor (193 hp)

R6 2.8 (193 hp)

R6 3.6 (280 hp) 36 AMG

V6 2.4 (170 hp)

V6 2.8 (197 hp)

V8 4.3 (306 hp) 43 AMG

V8 5.4 (347 hp) 55 AMG

Diesels:

R4 2.0 (75 hp)

R4 2.2 (95 hp)

R4 2.2 CDI (102- 125 hp)

R5 2.5 (113 hp)

R5 2.5 TD 150 hp)

The W202 equipment offer does not include the 4-wheel drive known in Mercedes as 4-Matic, there is only the traditional rear drive. The torque is transmitted via a 5-speed manual or a 4- or 5-speed automatic. As befits the premium class in the first generation of the C class, both the front and rear have multi-link independent suspension, which ensures very high driving comfort. The models with the smallest engines weigh 1,350 kg.

W202 Problems & Reliability

The most common problems are the corrosion of the bodywork, which occurs mainly on the fenders, but also under the seals. In the models from the beginning of production, there is also play in the steering gear and premature wear of the steering rods. Users of the Mercedes W202 class must also prepare for failures of the flexible joint of the drive shaft and oil leaks from the rear axle.

Automatic gearboxes are also fail-safe, the main cause of their damage is old gear oil, which was not replaced by previous users. Interestingly, the old type 4-speed gearboxes are considered more durable than the new ones.

The biggest fault in this model is the defect of the electronic key, its damage prevents the car from starting, and the repair is usually not cheap. In addition, Mercedes W202 users complain about too delicate suspension, where metal-rubber elements, especially at the rear, require replacement. The fan’s viscous bearing, the engine temperature sensor or the central lock may also be damaged.

Conclusion

The Mercedes C-Class W202 is a luxury limousine that can be travelled comfortably provided that we invest some money in it. There is no need to count on maintenance-free operation, if we want to spend less on the service, we have to find a well-kept copy with a gasoline engine.

The greatest advantages of the C-class Mercedes are, of course, prestige, low value loss and high availability of cheap spare parts. The disadvantages are the low quality of the materials inside especially in cars from before the facelift and corrosion of the body. You can buy a W202 between 10-18M.

Nelson Xavier Ssenyange @NelsonSsenyange

Team Leader

Germax Auto Spares & Garage @GermaxASGarage

0779250886/0752088734

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