2000 ACCESSORIES/SAFETY EQUIPMENT
Mercedes-Benz - Air Bag Restraint Systems
DESCRIPTION & OPERATION
All models are equipped with Supplemental Restraint System (SRS). The main components of SRS are driver-
side air bag module, passenger-side air bag module, side air bag modules (located in doors), SRS control
module, side air bag sensors, SRS warning light, driver knee bolster, passenger knee bolster, and Emergency
Tensioning Retractor (ETR) seat belt assembly. Additionally, some vehicles may be equipped with head impact
(curtain type) air bags (located around door windows behind door frame trims).
Both SRS and ETR are electronically activated by a single control module. There are 2 thresholds which must
be exceeded to trigger an ETR action, air bag deployment, or both. If a moderately severe frontal collision
occurs exceeding first triggering threshold where protection from safety belt is sufficient, only Emergency
Tensioning Retractor (ETR) is activated if safety belt is buckled. If a moderately severe frontal collision occurs
exceeding first triggering threshold where protection from safety belt is sufficient, but safety belt is not buckled,
air bag is deployed and ETR is not activated.
If a severe frontal collision occurs exceeding second triggering threshold where protection from safety belt is
insufficient, air bag is deployed. ETR is activated if safety belt is buckled. If safety belt is not buckled, ETR is
not activated when second triggering threshold is reached. Passenger air bag will deploy even if passenger seat
is not occupied when a triggering threshold is exceeded. If during a severe frontal collision the power supply is
interrupted, the driver and passenger air bag can still be deployed, but ETR cannot be activated.
The side air bag on the driver-side deploys whenever the driver-side air bag module is deployed and when there
is a substantial side impact crash. The air bag on the passenger-side will activate only when a sensor (Occupied
Seat Recognition Sensor) in the passenger seat sends a signal to the SRS control module that the passenger-side
seat is occupied. During a collision, the side air bag will then deploy.
COMPONENT LOCATIONS
WARNING: To avoid injury from accidental air bag deployment, read and carefully
follow all WARNINGS and AIR BAG SAFETY PRECAUTIONS .
1994-2000 Mercedes-Benz C230 C180 C280 C43 REPAIR MANUAL
Fig. 1: Locating Restraint System Components (E Class Shown; Others Are Similar)
Courtesy of MERCEDES-BENZ
SERVICING
2000 Mercedes-Benz C230
2000 ACCESSORIES/SAFETY EQUIPMENT Mercedes-Benz - Air Bag Restraint Systems
SRS AIR BAG label on driver-side door latch post indicates SRS replacement date for driver and passenger air
bag units. All SRS components must be thoroughly inspected, including wiring harness. Before component
replacement, check for SRS fault codes by performing system operation check. See SYSTEM OPERATION
CHECK . SRS service life is 10 years from manufactured date, or 10 years from SRS replacement date after
accident related repairs are completed.
SYSTEM OPERATION CHECK
SRS warning light indicates air bag and Emergency Tensioning Retractor (ETR) system readiness. Turn
ignition on. SRS warning light will illuminate, then turn off after approximately 4-20 seconds indicating system
is functioning properly. If SRS warning light does not illuminate, illuminates while driving or is continuously
illuminated, there is a system fault. Repair malfunctioning system. See DIAGNOSTICS .
AIR BAG SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
Observe following precautions when working with air bag systems:
When working around steering column components and before any repairs are performed, disable air bag
system. See DISABLING & ACTIVATING AIR BAG SYSTEM .
Before straightening any damage to body, or before performing electrical arc-welding, disable air bag
system. See DISABLING & ACTIVATING AIR BAG SYSTEM .
Always wear safety glasses and gloves when handling a deployed air bag module. Air bag module may
contain sodium hydroxide deposits which are irritating to the skin.
DO NOT repair any portion of SRS wiring harness.
Always handle air bag module with trim cover away from your body. Always place air bag module on
workbench with trim cover up, away from loose objects.
DO NOT expose any SRS component to temperatures in excess of 212 F (100 C).
DO NOT expose any SRS component to cleaning agents such as solvents, gasoline, lye, etc.
DO NOT connect Hand-Held Tester (6511 0001 99) to Data Link Connector (DLC) with ignition on.
Damage to HHT may result.
DO NOT connect HHT (6511 0001 99) to vehicle if a battery charger is connected to vehicle battery.
Damage to HHT may result.
ADJUSTMENTS
If fixing screws were not used during clockspring removal or clockspring was rotated during removal, turn
clockspring clockwise until resistance is detectable. Turn clockspring counterclockwise 2-2.5 turns until fixing
screws can be unscrewed holding clockspring in this position.
DISABLING & ACTIVATING AIR BAG SYSTEM
DISABLING SYSTEM
CAUTION: On CL500, open doors before disconnecting battery. Opening doors
2000 Mercedes-Benz C230
2000 ACCESSORIES/SAFETY EQUIPMENT Mercedes-Benz - Air Bag Restraint Systems
1. Before proceeding, follow air bag service precautions. See AIR BAG SAFETY PRECAUTIONS . Turn
ignition off. On CL500, open doors to allow side windows lower. On all models, disconnect and shield
negative battery cable. Remove passenger foot mat. Remove passenger footrest. Disconnect SRS system
connector located at passenger footwell area. System is now disabled.
ACTIVATING SYSTEM
1. Turn ignition off. Reconnect SRS system connector. Reconnect negative battery cable. System is now
activated. Perform See SYSTEM OPERATION CHECK .
2. On CL500, side windows must be synchronized after battery is reconnected. To synchronize side
windows, hold window switch in Close position for one second after side window is fully closed.
DISPOSAL PROCEDURES
Several situations may arise requiring some form of disposal action, including:
Scrapping a vehicle containing a deployed air bag module and-or ETR.
Scrapping a vehicle with a live air bag module and-or ETR.
Disposal of a live but electrically faulty air bag module and-or ETR.
Disposal of a deployed air bag module and-or ETR.
DEPLOYED AIR BAG OR ETR
Deployed air bag module and-or ETR unit can be thrown away. None of its components are reusable. Deployed
air bag module is NOT classified as hazardous material.
SCRAPPED VEHICLE
1. Before proceeding, follow service precautions. See AIR BAG SAFETY PRECAUTIONS . Move
vehicle outdoors to a remote area, away from workshop and other personnel. Disconnect and shield
negative battery cable. Open all vehicle windows and doors.
2. Ensure air bag module is secured to steering wheel, and passenger air bag is secured to dash. Ensure ETR
allows windows to automatically lower thus preventing roof seal damage.
WARNING: An undeployed air bag module or ETR should never be disposed of
without first being deployed. See SCRAPPED VEHICLE . If deployment is
not possible, contact vehicle manufacturer for further instructions.
WARNING: An undeployed air bag module and-or ETR seat belt CANNOT be disposed
of without first being deployed. If this is not possible through procedures
outlined below, contact vehicle manufacturer for further instructions.
Perform remote deployment outdoors. Keep personnel at least 20 feet
away.
2000 Mercedes-Benz C230
2000 ACCESSORIES/SAFETY EQUIPMENT Mercedes-Benz - Air Bag Restraint Systems
seat belt assemblies are secured to "B" pillars and all seat belt buckles are latched. Remove loose objects
from front seat. DO NOT allow anyone inside vehicle.
3. Disable air bag system. See DISABLING & ACTIVATING AIR BAG SYSTEM . Connect Trigger
Device (126-589-00-90-00) and Adapter Cable (126 589 21 63 00) to SRS system connector (X29-9)
located at passenger footwell area. Move away from vehicle as far as trigger device wiring will allow.
4. To deploy driver air bag and ETR, turn rotary knob on trigger device to position No. 1. Push battery
check push button and ignition push button simultaneously. Trigger light should illuminate indicating
driver air bag and ETR deployed. If trigger light is illuminated and driver air bag and-or ETR did not
deploy, driver air bag module and-or ETR is faulty. See UNDEPLOYED AIR BAG - ETR .
5. To deploy passenger air bag detonator No. 1, turn rotary knob on trigger device to position No. 2. Push
battery check push button and ignition push button simultaneously. Trigger light should illuminate
indicating passenger air bag detonator No. 1 deployed. If trigger light is illuminated and passenger air bag
detonator No. 1 did not deploy, passenger air bag module is faulty. See UNDEPLOYED AIR BAG -
ETR .
6. To deploy passenger air bag detonator No. 2, turn rotary knob on trigger device to position No. 3. Push
battery check push button and ignition push button simultaneously. Trigger light should illuminate
indicating passenger air bag detonator No. 2 deployed. If trigger light is illuminated and passenger air bag
detonator No. 2 did not deploy, passenger air bag module is faulty. See UNDEPLOYED AIR BAG -
ETR .
UNDEPLOYED AIR BAG-ETR
After deploying procedures and-or diagnostic testing have confirmed air bag module and-or ETR is
undeployable, contact vehicle manufacturer for proper disposal instructions.
POST-COLLISION INSPECTION
See Air Bag-SRS Component Inspection & Replacement Tables in Reference Information section.
REMOVAL & INSTALLATION
CLOCKSPRING ASSEMBLY
Removal & Installation
1. Before proceeding, See AIR BAG SAFETY PRECAUTIONS . Disable air bag system. See
DISABLING & ACTIVATING AIR BAG SYSTEM .
2. Remove driver air bag module. See DRIVER - SIDE AIR BAG MODULE . Remove steering wheel bolt.
Using a puller, remove steering wheel. Disconnect lower clockspring connector. Turn 2 fixing screws
(locating on clockspring) counterclockwise until clockspring cannot be rotated. Remove clockspring
mounting screws as necessary. Disconnect all necessary electrical connectors. Remove clockspring
WARNING: Failure to follow service precautions may result in air bag deployment and
personal injury. See AIR BAG SAFETY PRECAUTIONS . After component
replacement, check system operation. See SYSTEM OPERATION CHECK .
2000 Mercedes-Benz C230
2000 ACCESSORIES/SAFETY EQUIPMENT Mercedes-Benz - Air Bag Restraint Systems
assembly. To install, reverse removal procedure. Activate air bag system. See DISABLING &
ACTIVATING AIR BAG SYSTEM . Perform system operation check to ensure system is functioning
properly. See SYSTEM OPERATION CHECK .
CONTROL MODULE
Removal & Installation Class
1. Before proceeding, See AIR BAG SAFETY PRECAUTIONS . Disable air bag system. See
DISABLING & ACTIVATING AIR BAG SYSTEM . Remove ignition key. Remove shift lever cover
bezel. Lift shift lever cover enough to disconnect electrical connector. Remove shift lever cover.
2. Remove storage compartment mounting screws from center console. Remove storage compartment.
Remove ashtray. Disconnect electrical connectors as necessary. Disconnect SRS control module electrical
connector. Remove SRS control module mounting bolts. Remove SRS control module.
3. To install, reverse removal procedure. Ensure SRS control module arrow points to front of vehicle. Set
parameters and program new SRS control module with Hand-Held Tester (965 589 00 01 00). Activate
air bag system. Perform system operation check to ensure system is functioning properly. See SYSTEM
OPERATION CHECK .
Removal & Installation Class
1. Before proceeding, See AIR BAG SAFETY PRECAUTIONS . Disable air bag system. See
DISABLING & ACTIVATING AIR BAG SYSTEM . Remove ignition key. Remove gear shift cover
panel. Remove ashtray and ashtray housing at front of console. Remove radio (if necessary).
2. Remove center console right side cover screws and right side cover. Disconnect electrical connector for
control module. Remove 2 control module mounting screws. Remove control module.
3. To install, reverse removal procedure. Ensure SRS control module arrow points to front of vehicle. Set
parameters and program new SRS control module with Hand-Held Tester (965 589 00 01 00). Activate
air bag system. Perform system operation check to ensure system is functioning properly. See SYSTEM
OPERATION CHECK .
Removal & Installation Class
1. Before proceeding, See AIR BAG SAFETY PRECAUTIONS . Disable air bag system. See
DISABLING & ACTIVATING AIR BAG SYSTEM . Remove ignition key. Remove radio. Remove
ashtray. Remove wooden surround for ashtray. Remove shift lever cover mounting screws. Push shift
lever cover toward rear of vehicle and remove in an upward direction.
2. Remove center console cover screws. Remove center console cover by pulling from bottom in an upward
direction. When removing covers, disconnect electrical connectors as necessary. Disconnect SRS control
module electrical connector. Remove SRS control module.
3. To install, reverse removal procedure. Ensure SRS control module arrow points to front of vehicle. Set
parameters and program new SRS control module with Hand-Held Tester (965 589 00 01 00). Activate
air bag system. Perform system operation check to ensure system is functioning properly. See SYSTEM
OPERATION CHECK .
Removal & Installation Sl Class
2000 Mercedes-Benz C230
2000 ACCESSORIES/SAFETY EQUIPMENT Mercedes-Benz - Air Bag Restraint Systems
1. Before proceeding, See AIR BAG SAFETY PRECAUTIONS . Disable air bag system. See
DISABLING & ACTIVATING AIR BAG SYSTEM . Remove ignition key. Remove radio. Push up
and pull out heater control panel. Unplug 2 connectors. Remove screw in middle of storage tray.
2. Bend up at top corners and lift out storage tray. Remove screws below storage tray. Lift wood trim panel
at rear, pull down and out of catches. Unplug switch connectors and remove wood trim panel. Unplug
connectors at control module and remove Torx mounting screws. Remove control module.
3. To install, reverse removal procedure. Ensure SRS control module arrow points to front of vehicle. Set
parameters and program new SRS control module with Hand-Held Tester (965 589 00 01 00). Activate
air bag system. Perform system operation check to ensure system is functioning properly. See SYSTEM
OPERATION CHECK .
Removal & Installation Clk & Slk
1. Before proceeding, See AIR BAG SAFETY PRECAUTIONS . Disable air bag system. See
DISABLING & ACTIVATING AIR BAG SYSTEM . Remove ignition key. Remove cover on center
console. Remove cover on shift lever. Remove ash tray housing with storage compartment at front of
center console. Unplug connectors at control module and remove Torx mounting screws. Remove control
module.
2. To install, reverse removal procedure. Ensure SRS control module arrow points to front of vehicle. Set
parameters and program new SRS control module with Hand-Held Tester (965 589 00 01 00). Activate
air bag system. Perform system operation check to ensure system is functioning properly. See SYSTEM
OPERATION CHECK .
DRIVER-SIDE AIR BAG MODULE
Removal & Installation
1. Before proceeding, See AIR BAG SAFETY PRECAUTIONS . Disable air bag system. See
DISABLING & ACTIVATING AIR BAG SYSTEM . Remove ignition key. Remove 2 Torx screws
from rear of steering wheel. Lift off air bag module enough to unplug connector from rear of module.
Place module away from work area, with pad facing upward.
2. To install, reverse removal procedure. Tighten Torx screws to specification. See TORQUE
SPECIFICATIONS . Activate air bag system. Perform system operation check to ensure system is
functioning properly. See SYSTEM OPERATION CHECK .
SIDE AIR BAG UNIT (DRIVER-SIDE & PASSENGER-SIDE)
Removal & Installation
1. Before proceeding, See AIR BAG SAFETY PRECAUTIONS . Disable air bag system. See
DISABLING & ACTIVATING AIR BAG SYSTEM . Remove ignition key. Drill out rivets at
retaining plate of side air bag unit. Pull air bag unit out of door. Disconnect connector at driver-side air
bag squib. Remove unit from vehicle. See Fig. 2 .
NOTE: Air bag module and steering wheel must be replaced following a collision in
which air bag was deployed.
2000 Mercedes-Benz C230
2000 ACCESSORIES/SAFETY EQUIPMENT Mercedes-Benz - Air Bag Restraint Systems
2. To install, connect connector so that connector audibly clicks when connector engages. Install unit in
door trim panel and rivet using only special rivets (Part No. 003 990 0097). Perform system operation
check to ensure system is functioning properly. See SYSTEM OPERATION CHECK .
Fig. 2: Removing Side Air Bag Unit
2000 Mercedes-Benz C230
2000 ACCESSORIES/SAFETY EQUIPMENT Mercedes-Benz - Air Bag Restraint Systems
Courtesy of MERCEDES-BENZ
SIDE AIR BAG SENSOR (DRIVER-SIDE & PASSENGER-SIDE)
Removal & Installation
1. Before proceeding, See AIR BAG SAFETY PRECAUTIONS . Disable air bag system. See
DISABLING & ACTIVATING AIR BAG SYSTEM . Remove ignition key. On SLK 230, remove
door sill moulding. On all models, remove front seat. Fold floor covering in area toward rear. Unclip
connector on side bag sensor. Remove 2 mounting screws. Remove sensor from vehicle.
2. To install, reverse removal procedure. Ensure that arrow on sensor points toward outside. Perform system
operation check to ensure system is functioning properly. See SYSTEM OPERATION CHECK .
2000 Mercedes-Benz C230
2000 ACCESSORIES/SAFETY EQUIPMENT Mercedes-Benz - Air Bag Restraint Systems
2000 Mercedes-Benz C230
2000 ACCESSORIES/SAFETY EQUIPMENT Mercedes-Benz - Air Bag Restraint Systems
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1994-2000 Mercedes-Benz C-Class C180, C230, C280, C43 AMG (W202) Service & Repair Manual
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Description
1994-2000 Mercedes-Benz C-Class C180, C230, C280, C43 AMG (W202) Service & Repair Manual
Models covered:
- Mercedes-Benz C180 (W202)
- Mercedes-Benz C230 (W202)
- Mercedes-Benz C280 (W202)
- Mercedes-Benz C43 AMG (W202)
Engines covered:
- 1.8L M111 Inline-4 16-Valve
- 2.3L M111 Inline-4 16-Valve
- 2.8L M112 V6 18-Valve
- 4.3L M113 AMG V8 24-Valve
The 1994-2000 Mercedes-Benz C-Class C180, C230, C280, C43 AMG (W202) Service & Repair Manual is the factory-style workshop reference used to diagnose, service, and repair W202-generation C-Class models. This manual is written the way Mercedes intended these cars to be worked on—clear procedures, measured specs, and system-by-system guidance that supports proper repair work.
It’s a solid fit for professional technicians and independent shops, but it’s also approachable for capable DIYers who want to understand the car before diving in. If you like doing things methodically and by the book, this manual keeps you on track.
What’s Inside the 1994–2000 Mercedes-Benz W202 Service & Repair Manual
General Vehicle Information & Specifications
Includes vehicle specifications, system overviews, service precautions, and workshop standards used as the foundation for all repair and diagnostic work.
Engine Mechanical Service & Overhaul
Comprehensive engine coverage including complete engine assemblies, lubrication and cooling systems, timing components, inspection procedures, and overhaul guidance for supported engines.
Fuel System & Air Intake
Service procedures for fuel delivery and air intake systems, including emissions-related components and engine breathing systems used across the W202 platform.
Transmission Systems & Driveline
Diagnostics and service procedures for automatic and manual transmissions, including removal, installation, inspection, and overhaul guidance. Driveline coverage includes propeller shafts, differentials, axle shafts, and drive belt routing.
Suspension & Chassis Systems
Front and rear suspension service covering control arms, bushings, springs, dampers, and wheel alignment-related components to maintain proper handling and ride quality.
Steering Systems
Service and diagnostics for steering components including steering column assemblies, switches, power steering gear, and related hydraulic or electronic systems.
Brake Systems & Vehicle Stability
Complete brake system coverage including mechanical brake components, hydraulic systems, ABS, traction control functions, and system diagnostics.
Electrical Systems & Power Distribution
Electrical system diagnostics covering engine management, body electronics, power distribution, fuses, relays, charging systems, generators, regulators, and component locations.
Heating, Ventilation & Climate Control
Service procedures for HVAC systems including heater components, air conditioning operation, cooling fans, and cabin air filtration.
Body, Interior & Exterior Components
Coverage of doors, seats, power seats, windows, mirrors, roof systems, paint-related service, and removable body components. Includes interior trim and fitment procedures.
Safety & Security Systems
Diagnostics and service procedures for airbags, anti-theft systems, shift interlock mechanisms, and cruise control components.
Interior Electronics & Driver Controls
Service information for instrument clusters, interior electronics, memory systems, switches, and power accessories.
Service Specifications & Adjustments
Detailed service specifications, adjustment procedures, and on-vehicle testing guidance to support accurate diagnostics and component servicing.
Why Use This Mercedes-Benz W202 OEM Service Manual?
This manual follows Mercedes-Benz factory service standards and is designed for proper, repeatable repair work. Whether you’re handling routine maintenance or deeper mechanical and electrical diagnostics, it provides the structure and technical detail needed to do the job correctly.
Format & Compatibility
Supplied as a searchable PDF suitable for use on desktops, laptops, tablets, or mobile devices. Practical for workshop use or home garage reference.
Download the 1994–2000 Mercedes-Benz C-Class (W202) Service & Repair Manual
If you’re maintaining or repairing a W202-generation Mercedes-Benz C-Class, this OEM service manual gives you the factory-level procedures and specifications needed to keep the car running as intended.
Language: English
Compatibility: Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android
Requirements: PDF Reader (e.g., Adobe Reader)
