C-Class (W204) 2008 - 2014: C180K, C200K, C230, C280, C300, C350, C200CDI, C220CDI, C320CDI

Oil Vicosity and warranty question

Thread Tools
 
Search this Thread
 
Rate Thread
 
Old Oct 24, 2013 | 02:54 PM
  #1  
Mikephinney's Avatar
Thread Starter
Member
 
Joined: Sep 2013
Posts: 129
Likes: 1
From: So Cal
2012 C250
Oil Vicosity and warranty question

I purchased my 2012 c250 from Carmax of all places last month. It has 17,200 Miles on it now. (approx) I found that it was purchased at Mercedes of West Covina in the So Cal area last October. I called them to see if it had been serviced there and the answer was no. So I called Carmax and asked them if they had serviced it. They said yes and that they used a "Synthetic 5-30" and changed the filter at 17061 miles. no other details available. I know that this is the wrong oil, will this effect my warranty? should I change it immediately for the recommended 0-40?
Reply
Old Oct 24, 2013 | 03:42 PM
  #2  
Carsy's Avatar
MBWorld Fanatic!
 
Joined: Mar 2008
Posts: 3,714
Likes: 56
From: 1 hours drive north of Sydney Australia
2007 W204 220CDI Classic Sedan
You have got on to it early & at very little cost will gain a lot by changing to a MB approved oil.

Changing to the MB oil filter is a must too.

It's sleep at night stuff.
Reply
Old Oct 24, 2013 | 03:51 PM
  #3  
Mikephinney's Avatar
Thread Starter
Member
 
Joined: Sep 2013
Posts: 129
Likes: 1
From: So Cal
2012 C250
Originally Posted by Carsy
It's sleep at night stuff.
Totally agree, just thinking about it is aggrevating! I guess I didn't have anything planned for the wekend anyway.

Do you know if it will cause warrany issues though? if something goes haywire and they ask about service, I will have to disclose this as it is the only proof that the oil was changed; albeit late...

Last edited by Mikephinney; Oct 24, 2013 at 03:52 PM. Reason: none
Reply
Old Oct 24, 2013 | 07:01 PM
  #4  
Carsy's Avatar
MBWorld Fanatic!
 
Joined: Mar 2008
Posts: 3,714
Likes: 56
From: 1 hours drive north of Sydney Australia
2007 W204 220CDI Classic Sedan
Thinking practically it could/should only affect the warranty on the engine , then only parts of the engine which are lubricated. Other warranty items should be unaffected.

Make sure the new oil service is logged in the service book . If the other service is unlogged , why mention it. In that short time no damage would have been done anyway.

Look upon it that you have given your engine an oil flush & forget it.

Enjoy your new Benz .

John
Reply
Old Oct 24, 2013 | 07:25 PM
  #5  
Glyn M Ruck's Avatar
Super Moderator
MBWorld Ambassador

 
Joined: Jun 2008
Posts: 19,942
Likes: 192
From: Llandudno, Cape Town, South Africa
late 2009 CLK 350 Coupe Elegance, '65 Jaguar S Type wires
^ wise advice.
Reply
Old Oct 25, 2013 | 09:35 AM
  #6  
clarkz71's Avatar
Junior Member
 
Joined: Sep 2007
Posts: 51
Likes: 1
From: Ft Lauderdale, Florida
1993 400E
0W40 Mobil 1 is recommended for gas engine going back
even to the 90's and before. Check the Mobil 1 website pick oil tool.

Dealers vary on which Mobil 1 they use.

I've used both 0W40 and 15W50 Mobil 1 in my M119.

*Diesel engines (642) absolutely require low SP Ash oils. Use oils with optimal viscosity protection and MB approval number – 229.51, 229.52.

**Diesel engines (642) Bin 5 Model 164.125/ .825; Model 251.125 only use 229.52 or "Mercedes-Benz Motorenöl MB 229.51 BlueTec."

Engine Oil Viscosity Range Chart

The oils and viscosity grades with MB approval numbers are for the US market. Use the newest oils with optimal viscosity protection and with the latest MB approval numbers, such as MB approval 229.5 or 229.51 (except SLR 155 engine). Select oil viscosity grades according to the lowest and highest air temperature expected before your next oil change.


Engine Type
MB Approval Number
Approved Oil Viscosity Range

113 / 229.5

0W-30, 0W-40, 5W-30, 5W-40


152 / 229.5

0W-40, 5W-40


155 SLR / 229.3

5W-50


156 / 229.5, 229.51, or 229.52

0W-40, 5W-40, 0W-30


157 / 229.5

0W40, 5W-40


159 / 229.5, 229.51, or 229.52

0W-40, 5W-40, 0W-30


271 / 229.3, 229.5, 229.51, or 229.52

0W-40, 5W-30, 5W-40, 5W-50, 0W-30


272 / 229.3 or 229.5

0W-40, 5W-30, 5W-40


273 / 229.3 or 229.5

0W-40, 5W-30, 5W-40


275 / 229.5

0W-40, 5W-40


276 / 229.3, 229.5

0W-40, 5W-30, 5W-40


278 / 229.5

0W-40, 5W-30, 5W-40


285 / 229.5

0W-40, 5W-40

Diesel Engines*

642 / 229.51 or 229.52

0W-30, 5W-40


642** / 229.52

0W-30


651 / 229.51 or 229.52

0W-30, 5W-40

Last edited by clarkz71; Oct 25, 2013 at 09:52 AM.
Reply
Old Oct 25, 2013 | 10:38 AM
  #7  
Pete7874's Avatar
Super Member
 
Joined: Jan 2008
Posts: 702
Likes: 3
From: Illinois
'08 C300 4Matic Sport, '02 530i
Originally Posted by Mikephinney
will this effect my warranty?
I doubt it. If anything, the dealer would have to prove that it was the oil that caused the issue at hand. Considering the fact that this non-MB spec oil was in there for a very short amount of time, I wouldn't really worry. Just get it changed when you get a moment.

I'd be more worried about the fact that the car hasn't had an oil change at all in 17K miles. Isn't 10K miles/1 year the current MB limit? This in itself would be a bigger reason to give you grief over any possible engine warranty claim.

Buying an expensive car with no service records is always a gamble, IMO.

Last edited by Pete7874; Oct 25, 2013 at 10:40 AM.
Reply
Old Oct 25, 2013 | 01:33 PM
  #8  
Mikephinney's Avatar
Thread Starter
Member
 
Joined: Sep 2013
Posts: 129
Likes: 1
From: So Cal
2012 C250
Thanks to Carsy, Clarkz71 and Pete7874 for the advise. I called and spoke to the SA and she stated that as long as it was a pure synthetic it shouldn't be a problem. She also stated that they either use a 0-40 or a 5-40 with no explanation why they would use one or the other. I am not buying that totally, so I got on Amazon last night and ordered a 8qt MightyVac pump and a Mann Filter. When those items arrive I'll knock out this oil change. After which, how do I reset the service clock? (there's probably a better name for that) I am under the impression that Mann Filter is actually the OEM manufacturer for the oil filters; is this correct?

@Clarkz71 what engine model# is in my 2012 c250 sport (non deisel) sorry for not knowing; it's my first Benz.

Thanks again everybody..

Last edited by Mikephinney; Oct 25, 2013 at 01:36 PM. Reason: additional question
Reply
MB World Stories

The Best of Mercedes & AMG

story-0

6 Mercedes Models That Did NOT Age Well (But Are Somehow Still Cool)

 Verdad Gallardo
story-1

Manual Mercedes? 6 Times Sindelfingen Let Drivers Have All The Fun

 Verdad Gallardo
story-2

Mercedes SLR McLaren 722 S Is Extremely Rare Example Modified by McLaren

 Verdad Gallardo
story-3

8 Classic Boxy Mercedes Designs That Have Aged Like Fine Wine

 Verdad Gallardo
story-4

Flawlessly Restored Mercedes 190E Evo II Heads to Auction

 Verdad Gallardo
story-5

Electric Mercedes C-Class Unveiled: 11 Things You Need to Know

 Verdad Gallardo
story-6

Mercedes EQS Gets A Major Update: Everything You Need to Know

 Verdad Gallardo
story-7

5 Underrated Mercedes-Benz Models That Don't Get the Love They Deserve

 Verdad Gallardo
story-8

Mercedes 300D Has Pushed Well Past 1 Million Miles and It Ain't Stopping

 Verdad Gallardo
story-9

10 Most Reliable Mercedes-Benz Models You Can Buy Used

 Verdad Gallardo
Old Oct 25, 2013 | 01:42 PM
  #9  
Pete7874's Avatar
Super Member
 
Joined: Jan 2008
Posts: 702
Likes: 3
From: Illinois
'08 C300 4Matic Sport, '02 530i
Originally Posted by Mikephinney
I called and spoke to the SA and she stated that as long as it was a pure synthetic it shouldn't be a problem. She also stated that they either use a 0-40 or a 5-40 with no explanation why they would use one or the other.
In my experience, most shops and dealers are fairly clueless when it comes to engine oil. As was said earlier, stick to an oil meeting MB 229.5 spec, and you'll be good to go. M1 0w-40 is a good example of this and easily found at walmart at a good price ($25/5qt jug).

I am under the impression that Mann Filter is actually the OEM manufacturer for the oil filters; is this correct?
MB uses several manufacturers, but yes, Mann is one of them.
Reply
Old Oct 25, 2013 | 02:17 PM
  #10  
Mikephinney's Avatar
Thread Starter
Member
 
Joined: Sep 2013
Posts: 129
Likes: 1
From: So Cal
2012 C250
Thanks Pete7874
Reply
Old Oct 25, 2013 | 03:26 PM
  #11  
Carsy's Avatar
MBWorld Fanatic!
 
Joined: Mar 2008
Posts: 3,714
Likes: 56
From: 1 hours drive north of Sydney Australia
2007 W204 220CDI Classic Sedan
Mike, you can use the 'Search this Forum' link at the top of the W 204 page for commonly asked problems /procedures.

Resetting service indicator :- https://mbworld.org/forums/c-class-w...el-models.html

While the Mann Filter may be the correct oil filter you are playing with fire not using a MB branded filter during your warranty. Keep all oil & filter receipts too. I had a similar issue with my Peugeot dealer. Purflux manufactured the filters for Peugeot but they would not accept a Purflux filter whilst under warranty ,only one in a Peugeot box !! .

Last edited by Carsy; Oct 25, 2013 at 03:31 PM.
Reply
Old Oct 25, 2013 | 03:39 PM
  #12  
Mikephinney's Avatar
Thread Starter
Member
 
Joined: Sep 2013
Posts: 129
Likes: 1
From: So Cal
2012 C250
Word to the wise!

Thanks Carsy
Reply
Old Oct 25, 2013 | 05:26 PM
  #13  
Glyn M Ruck's Avatar
Super Moderator
MBWorld Ambassador

 
Joined: Jun 2008
Posts: 19,942
Likes: 192
From: Llandudno, Cape Town, South Africa
late 2009 CLK 350 Coupe Elegance, '65 Jaguar S Type wires
Mann + Hummel developed the blown polyester "fleece" filter for Benz & I suggest you use that.

Approved 229.5 products in 0W-40 or 5W-40 are appropriate. A 0W-40 is more expensive to formulate & considered a world oil. You can use it from the Arctic to the Desert.
Reply
Old Oct 25, 2013 | 07:58 PM
  #14  
CraigRichard's Avatar
Junior Member
 
Joined: Jul 2013
Posts: 27
Likes: 1
From: Kelowna, BC Canada
2012 ML350 Bluetech
Originally Posted by Mikephinney
I purchased my 2012 c250 from Carmax of all places last month. It has 17,200 Miles on it now. (approx) I found that it was purchased at Mercedes of West Covina in the So Cal area last October. I called them to see if it had been serviced there and the answer was no. So I called Carmax and asked them if they had serviced it. They said yes and that they used a "Synthetic 5-30" and changed the filter at 17061 miles. no other details available. I know that this is the wrong oil, will this effect my warranty? should I change it immediately for the recommended 0-40?
I filled a vehicle with the wrong viscosity once and the only issue was a blown rear seal. $3 part and $500 in labour to replace. Should change it out immediately. Prolly wont effect warrenty but you'll have a hard time saying it should be covered.
Reply
Old Oct 25, 2013 | 08:05 PM
  #15  
Pete7874's Avatar
Super Member
 
Joined: Jan 2008
Posts: 702
Likes: 3
From: Illinois
'08 C300 4Matic Sport, '02 530i
Originally Posted by CraigRichard
I filled a vehicle with the wrong viscosity once and the only issue was a blown rear seal.
Have you actually been able to verify that it was in fact the wrong viscosity that caused it? Seems highly unlikely.

Last edited by Pete7874; Oct 25, 2013 at 08:07 PM.
Reply
Old Oct 25, 2013 | 09:00 PM
  #16  
Uncle's Avatar
Junior Member
 
Joined: Jul 2012
Posts: 71
Likes: 1
2010 C300
When people have seal problems, it is not the viscosity, but typically overfilling. No cars are designed to have the crank throws, bearings or thrust surfaces submerged.
The use of oil a weight (viscosity) up or down will not cause damage. It may not be optimal, but it is not the end of the world.
Mann is a reliable filter manufacturer and is one of the suppliers to MB. You can use these with confidence. Any dealer who would deny any claim because of a filter brand does not have a leg to stand on.
Most service writers are a little intimidating and are used to dealing with people who just don't know and cant discuss/challenge them on anything.
Reply
Old Nov 1, 2013 | 03:09 PM
  #17  
Eau_Rouge's Avatar
Member
 
Joined: Oct 2009
Posts: 131
Likes: 0
From: Toronto, ON
2002 C230 Coupe & 2010 C300 Sport
I've got a question, the first time I changed my oil my C300, I used the mobil oil that meets 229.5. I noticed when I was resetting the oil change interval in the car that I was given the choice of selecting either 229.3 or 229.5 as the oil that I used. My question is if the owner's manual says to use only 229.5 then why does the car essentially tell me that I can use 229.3 or 229.5?
Reply
Old Nov 1, 2013 | 03:18 PM
  #18  
Pete7874's Avatar
Super Member
 
Joined: Jan 2008
Posts: 702
Likes: 3
From: Illinois
'08 C300 4Matic Sport, '02 530i
Originally Posted by Eau_Rouge
I've got a question, the first time I changed my oil my C300, I used the mobil oil that meets 229.5. I noticed when I was resetting the oil change interval in the car that I was given the choice of selecting either 229.3 or 229.5 as the oil that I used. My question is if the owner's manual says to use only 229.5 then why does the car essentially tell me that I can use 229.3 or 229.5?
Wow. That's weird. So, does the Canadian owner's manual only list the 229.5 spec or also the 229.3 spec? The US C300 manual only mentions 229.5, if I remember correctly.

The 229.3 is an older spec and somewhat less demanding, so I'm guessing if you reset it to 229.3, your next oil change reminder will arrive sooner.
Reply
Old Nov 1, 2013 | 03:44 PM
  #19  
Eau_Rouge's Avatar
Member
 
Joined: Oct 2009
Posts: 131
Likes: 0
From: Toronto, ON
2002 C230 Coupe & 2010 C300 Sport
My owner's manual states only 229.5 but when I was resetting the computer in the car, the car made me select either 229.3 or 229.5. I selected 229.5 as this is the oil that I used. I just found it very strange that as part of resetting the interval in the car, that I was given the choice of 229.3 or 229.5...

Anyone else ever notice this? Can't be just me...
Reply
Old Nov 1, 2013 | 03:56 PM
  #20  
Carsy's Avatar
MBWorld Fanatic!
 
Joined: Mar 2008
Posts: 3,714
Likes: 56
From: 1 hours drive north of Sydney Australia
2007 W204 220CDI Classic Sedan
The 229.3 choice may shorten the interval until the next change ?
Reply
Old Nov 1, 2013 | 04:32 PM
  #21  
Glyn M Ruck's Avatar
Super Moderator
MBWorld Ambassador

 
Joined: Jun 2008
Posts: 19,942
Likes: 192
From: Llandudno, Cape Town, South Africa
late 2009 CLK 350 Coupe Elegance, '65 Jaguar S Type wires
The Assyst has allowed you to select oil quality for a long while. If you select 229.3 the system will halve your drain interval on most cars. (Just for good measure they are not all programmed the same although they should be consistent by market)
Reply

Currently Active Users Viewing This Thread: 1 (0 members and 1 guests)
 


You have already rated this thread Rating: Thread Rating: 0 votes,  average.


All times are GMT -4. The time now is 12:35 PM.

story-0
6 Mercedes Models That Did NOT Age Well (But Are Somehow Still Cool)

Slideshow: Not every Mercedes design becomes timeless, some feel stuck in the era they came from.

By Verdad Gallardo | 2026-05-12 18:09:07


VIEW MORE
story-1
Manual Mercedes? 6 Times Sindelfingen Let Drivers Have All The Fun

Slideshow: Yes, Mercedes built manual cars, and some of them are far more interesting than you'd expect.

By Verdad Gallardo | 2026-05-02 12:36:58


VIEW MORE
story-2
Mercedes SLR McLaren 722 S Is Extremely Rare Example Modified by McLaren

Slideshow: A one-of-one U.S.-spec Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren Roadster became even rarer after a factory-backed transformation at McLaren's headquarters.

By Verdad Gallardo | 2026-04-29 11:19:28


VIEW MORE
story-3
8 Classic Boxy Mercedes Designs That Have Aged Like Fine Wine

Slideshow: Before curves took over, Mercedes mastered the art of the straight line, and some of those shapes still look right today.

By Verdad Gallardo | 2026-04-25 12:05:49


VIEW MORE
story-4
Flawlessly Restored Mercedes 190E Evo II Heads to Auction

Slideshow: The 190E Evolution II shows how a homologation necessity became a six-figure collector icon.

By Verdad Gallardo | 2026-04-22 17:53:47


VIEW MORE
story-5
Electric Mercedes C-Class Unveiled: 11 Things You Need to Know

Slideshow: Mercedes is turning one of its core nameplates electric, and the details show just how serious this shift is.

By Verdad Gallardo | 2026-04-21 13:58:06


VIEW MORE
story-6
Mercedes EQS Gets A Major Update: Everything You Need to Know

Slideshow: Faster charging, longer range, and a controversial steer-by-wire system define the latest evolution of Mercedes-Benz EQS.

By Verdad Gallardo | 2026-04-15 10:35:34


VIEW MORE
story-7
5 Underrated Mercedes-Benz Models That Don't Get the Love They Deserve

Slideshow: These overlooked Mercedes-Benz models never got the spotlight, but they quietly delivered more than most remember.

By Verdad Gallardo | 2026-04-13 19:35:45


VIEW MORE
story-8
Mercedes 300D Has Pushed Well Past 1 Million Miles and It Ain't Stopping

Slideshow: A well-used 1991 Mercedes-Benz 300D with more than one million miles is now looking for a new owner, and it still appears ready for more.

By Verdad Gallardo | 2026-04-10 10:05:15


VIEW MORE
story-9
10 Most Reliable Mercedes-Benz Models You Can Buy Used

Slideshow: From bulletproof sedans to surprisingly tough SUVs, these Mercedes models proved that the three-pointed star can go the distance.

By Verdad Gallardo | 2026-04-08 09:55:49


VIEW MORE