versalock

Hi guys/gals, first time poster and I was wondering when I'm searching for parts for my 02 C230k which other models/years would work for cross reference. Thanks in advance!!

Plutoe

Not that simple Biff, you need to work with MB EPC to search by VIN or no VIN for each part and in the search result you will see a where used by model.

Make good friends with the donut girl at any dealership!!

versalock

Say that again?

Plutoe

Not that simple Biff, you need to work with MB EPC to search by VIN or no VIN for each part and in the search result you will see a where used by model.

Make good friends with the donut girl at any dealership!!

versalock

First time poster here and I haven't a clue what you're talking about so please explain in lamens terms, what the he'll is MB EPC? And how do I use it?

Plutoe

As you know if you want to know any thing about an MB you use two dealer level software programs---A---EPC(electronic parts catalogue) and ---B-----WIS(workshop information system)

Do a google search and learn!! or go to startekinfo.com and learn!!

If you don't have the programs or access---you then go to a dealer and talk with the donut girl for help and with patience they may help you on a part by part basis(what you want to compare)

versalock

Alright thanks much I'll check out those programs when I get home.

slammer111

MB is notorious for having many different versions of the same part for a given car. Some parts are dependent on chassis number, while others are revised versions of superseded parts. To give you an example, there are 5 versions of brakes that I know of for the W203. Regular 2002-2004, 2004.5, 2005-2007, AMG, and 4Matic (no idea which years). There are 2 front brake disc part numbers I know of for my 2003, and my understanding is that both will fit my car. No idea what the difference is between the two.

Other examples include wiper blades (2 versions which are incompatible with each other), alternator (at least 2 versions), transmission pilot seal (3 versions), vacuum hoses (5 versions), and vacuum pump (2 versions with 3 versions of gasket). I can think of several other examples besides these ones, off the top of my head. The silver lining to this is that (I think) it shows that MB is still doing research and revising parts, even on their older cars, which is definitely nice. Of course this also means that one should not purchase parts years in advance, in case they revise and improve the part.

If you get to know the parts guys at your local dealership, many of them are happy to provide part numbers so you can shop around a bit. As others have mentioned, if you provide the VIN, they will know the latest version of what fits on your car, and from there they can cross-reference.