2003 MERCEDES-BENZ C-Class Problems & Complaints
Real owner complaints and problems reported to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). View common issues by component.
VIN Decoder
105
Complaints Reported
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Complaints by Component
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
17 complaints
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 MERCEDES BENZ C230. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THERE WAS AN EXCESS OF SMOKE COMING FROM THE TAIL PIPE, BLINDING THE CONTACTS VIEW OF VEHICLE FOLLOWING. THE VEHICLE THEN BEGAN TO LOSE POWER ABNORMALLY AND WAS MOVED FROM THE ROADWAY WHERE IT WAS TOWED TO THE DEALER. THE DEALER ADVISED THAT AN ENGINE VALVE HAD MELTED INTO TWO PIECES AND A PIECE OF THE VALVE WAS FOUND IN THE MANIFOLD. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE AND CURRENT MILEAGES WERE 90,000.
Jul 12, 2011
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 MERCEDES BENZ C240. THE CONTACT STATED THE COOLANT WAS LEAKING FROM THE RADIATOR INTO THE TRANSMISSION. THE DEALER WAS CONTACTED AND INFORMED HER THAT SHE HAD TO FLUSH THE RADIATOR AND THE TRANSMISSION OR REPLACE THE TORQUE CONVERTER. IF THE FAILURE WAS NOT REPAIRED BY FLUSHING THE SYSTEM, THE TRANSMISSION WOULD NEED TO BE REPLACED FOR OVER $2,000 AT THE CONTACTS EXPENSE. THERE WEE NO RECALLS OR WARRANTIES RELATED TO HER VEHICLE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED BUT OFFERED NO ASSISTANCE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 70,000. UPDATED 08/31/11 *BF THE CONSUMER HAS TRADED THE VEHICLE. UPDATED 09/07/11.*JB
Jul 11, 2011
I HAVE 2003 MERCEDES BENZ C230. WHENEVER I WOULD START THE VEHICLE IT WOULD GIVE ME JERK OR MAKE NOISE AND FINALLY JUST BEFORE TAKING IT TO A DEALER IT STALLED. I HAD IT TOWED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A LOCAL SHOP, WHICH SUGGESTED THAT THE PROBLEM IS MUCH LARGER AND NEEDS THE ATTENTION OF THE MANUFACTURER AND HENCE TO TAKEN TO THE DEALER. IT WAS DIAGNOSED AS THE TIMING CHAIN WAS DEFECTIVE AND THE LOCAL SHOP OWNER SAID THIS WAS A COMMON PROBLEM WITH THIS VEHICLE AND A SERIOUS PROBLEM WITH MAJOR COST TO FIX. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED WHO DID NOT OFFER ANY ASSISTANCE. THE VEHICLE IS NOT REPAIRED AS THE COST OF FIX IS AS LARGE AS THE CARS CURRENT VALUE. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGE IS 68,000. *TR
Mar 23, 2011
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 MERCEDES BENZ C230. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHENEVER SHE WOULD START THE VEHICLE, IT WOULD JERK VIOLENTLY. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A LOCAL REPAIR SHOP WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE CAM SHAFT SENSOR WAS LEAKING AND THE TIMING CHAIN WAS DEFECTIVE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED WHO DID NOT OFFER ANY ASSISTANCE. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE VIN WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 92,000.
Feb 23, 2011
LEAK ON THE ANTIFREEZE COOLANT TANK WHERE THE THIN HOSE CONNECTS TO THE COOLANT TANK ON TOP, THE STEEL TUBE THAT IS MOLDED INTO THE PLASTIC SLIPPED OUT AND THE PLASTIC PART CRACKED CREATING A LEAK. THE ANTIFREEZE MAY LEAK AND ACCUMULATE UNDER THE CAR, IT CAN DAMAGE THE ENGINE, ALSO IT CAN LEAK WHILE DRIVING CAUSING HAZARDOUS / SLIPPERY CONDITIONS, ALSO CHILDREN OR PETS / ANIMALS MAY DRINK THE LEAKED ANTIFREEZE. THIS IS DANGEROUS. *TR
Nov 23, 2010
+ 12 more complaints for this component
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
7 complaints
There is an open recall on my brand of Mercedes-Benz but my Vin number isn’t included it’s on the sunroof where it stays open or it could possibly fly off it gets off track or whatever happens well mine will not go down I have to manually open it or manually close it it is a safety issue because it will refuse to go down completely and will be shaking while I am driving it puts me and others at risk but the dealership is refusing to fix it under A recall even though my brand and type is included in the recall
Jun 11, 2021
JUST LIKE OTHER REPORTS HERE - ELECTRICAL MALFUNCTION. 50K MILES. TOOK TO MB DEALER FOR ROUGH IDLE AT COLD START UP AND LOW SPEEDS; LOUDER THAN NORMAL IDLE AT START AND IN REVERSE. NO CHECK ENGINE LIGHT, NO ERROR OR PROBLEM INDICATED IN DASH AT ALL. SAME DIAGNOSIS - DEALER REPORTED CAM SOLENOIDS LEAKING ENGINE OIL INTO THE WIRING HARNESS SHORTING HARNESS COMPONENTS (O2 SENSORS ETC.), HIGH $$$ $3600-$4000 REPAIR. ISSUE SHOULD BE RESOLVED AND PAID FOR BY MB SINCE THIS IS KNOWN DEFECT THAT SEVERELY REDUCES THE DRIVE-ABILITY AND VALUE OF THE VEHICLE. *TR
May 31, 2009
CHECK ENGINE LIGHT ON, WITH OCCASIONAL POOR GAS MILEAGE, ROUGH RUNNING. WHEN ENGINE STARTS ROUGH, ENGINE STOP/RE-START GETS ENGINE TO IDLE/RUN PROPERLY. DEALER REPORTED CAM SOLENOIDS LEAKING ENGINE OIL INTO THE WIRING HARNESS SHORTING HARNESS COMPONENTS (O2 SENSORS ETC.), HIGH $$$ REPAIR. FIRST OCCURRENCE AT 57K MILES (JUST OUT OF WARRANTY). CONTACTED MB, NO CONCERN, TOO BAD FOR YOU. SPORADIC RED LED WARNING ABOUT GAS CAP, BLINKING INDICATOR IN FUEL GAUGE, STOP/RESTART ENGINE, GOES AWAY (ERROR NOT IN OWNERS MANUAL). CAR STILL RUNNING AT 78K MILES AND USUALLY 35 MPG DURING NORMAL COMMUTE SO FAR (WITHOUT REPAIR SO FAR, DO NOT HAVE TAIL PIPE EMISSION CHECK IN AREA YET, SO NOT MANDATED TO FIX MIL LIGHT ISSUE), CLEAR ECM CODES OCCASIONALLY, COME BACK AFTER 3 KEY CYCLES. STUCK WITH CAR THAT IS NOT WORTH FIXING TO HAVE SAME PROBLEM COME BACK. THIS CAM SOLENOID/WIRING HARNESS/O2 SENSOR/CHECK ENGINE LIGHT ISSUE SHOULD BE RESOLVED AND PAID FOR BY MB SINCE THIS IS KNOWN DEFECT THAT SEVERELY REDUCES THE DRIVABLILTY AND VALUE OF THE VEHICLE. *TR
May 21, 2009
CHECK ENGINE LIGHT LEAD TO ROUGH IDLING AND INABILITY TO DRIVE VEHICLE. 2003 MERCEDES BENZ C230 WITH 61,650 MILES ON IT. ALL CAM SENSORS, O2 SENSORS, MAF SENSOR, ENGINE WIRING HARNESS REPLACED WITH NECESSARY O-RINGS AT DEALER. CAR WAS LAID UP 5 DAYS AND AT A COST OF $2,500. *TR
Apr 24, 2009
CAR SEAT AND STEERING WHEEL WOULDN'T ADJUST WITH THE KEY PUT IN THE IGNITION..THIS WENT ON FOR THREE DAYS...THEN THE CAR DIED..HAD TO GET A JUMP..THE SERVICE REP SAYS THE MODEL# 320 C HAS A PROBLEM WITH THE SEAT MODULE FAILING ON THE PASSENGER AND DRIVERS SIDE..WHEN THE CAR WAS JUMPED ALL ELECTRICAL WAS WORKING PROPERLY AND FIND...TOOK TO DEALER AND THEY INFORMED ME THAT YES THE PASSENGER SEAT MODULE WAS BAD AND ALSO NEEDED A NEW BATTERY..THEY ALSO STATED THAT THE DRIVERS SEAT MODULE COULD GO OUT WITHIN THE NEXT FEW MONTHS...THE CAR ONLY HAS 13,703 MILES ON IT AND THIS PROBLEM IS BEEN KNOWN TO MB USA YET IS NOT ADDRESSED. *TR
Nov 10, 2008
+ 2 more complaints for this component
AIR BAGS
6 complaints
TAKATA RECALL SRS WARNING LIGHT ON
Feb 05, 2017
THE PASSENGER SIDE DOOR HANDLE IS LOOSE AND THE AIRBAG SRS LIGHT CAME ON. THE SRS MESSAGE SAID URGENT GO TO MARKET PLACE.
Feb 26, 2016
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 MERCEDES BENZ C320. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 35 MPH, THE CONTACT CRASHED INTO THE REAR OF ANOTHER VEHICLE AND THE AIR BAGS FAILED TO DEPLOY. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED HEAD AND CHEST INJURIES WHICH REQUIRED MEDICAL ATTENTION. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 50,000.
Oct 16, 2014
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 MERCEDES-BENZ C320. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE SUPPLEMENT RESTRAINT SENSOR LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 174,254.
May 08, 2014
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 MERCEDES BENZ C230. THE CONTACT STATED THAT HE WAS DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 30 MPH WHEN HE CRASHED INTO A TREE THAT HAD FALLEN IN THE STREET. THE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY AND HE SUFFERED FOUR BROKEN BONES AS A RESULT; THE VEHICLE WAS ALSO DESTROYED. HE WAS TOLD BY THE MANUFACTURER THAT THE SECONDARY THRESHOLDS WERE NOT EXCEEDED TO DEPLOY THE AIR BAGS. AN INDEPENDENT INSPECTOR STATED THAT THE AIR BAGS SHOULD HAVE DEPLOYED. THE VEHICLE IDENTIFICATION NUMBER WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE APPROXIMATELY 120,000. UPDATED 3/24/10 *CN UPDATED 06/11/10.*JB
Feb 12, 2010
+ 1 more complaint for this component
VISIBILITY
5 complaints
The contact owns a 2003 Mercedes-Benz C320. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V954000 (Visibility) however, the contact was advised by the dealer that he needed to open and close the sunroof to perform the recall however, if the motor failed the contact would pay for the repair of the motor. The contact called the manufacturer and was provided with the same information. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.
Jul 13, 2023
The contact owns a 2003 Mercedes-Benz C320. The contact stated that the moonroof made an abnormal sound and failed to open properly. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where the moonroof was permanently sealed. The contact received NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V954000 (Visibility) and the dealer confirmed that the VIN was included in the recall; however, the dealer informed the contact that the failure was unrelated to the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 105,000.
Feb 23, 2023
The contact owns a 2003 Mercedes-Benz C230. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 22V954000 (Visibility) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The dealer was made aware of the issue. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
Jan 05, 2023
2003 MERCEDES BENZ C240. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO SUNROOF GLASS BONDING SAFETY RECALL. *LD THE CONSUMER STATED THE ROOF CONTIUOUSLY BECAME RUSTED DUE TO A WATER LEAK. *JS
Oct 06, 2020
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 MERCEDES-BENZ C240. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 19V918000 (VISIBILITY) HOWEVER, THE PART TO DO THE RECALL REPAIR WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN MERCEDES-BENZ OF CHARLOTTESVILLE (1381 RICHMOND RD, CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA 22911, (434) 290-4156) WHERE IT WAS CONFIRMED THAT THE PART WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PARTS NOT AVAILABLE.
Jun 01, 2020
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
5 complaints
AFTER FILLING MY GAS TANK, THERE'S A VERY STRONG RAW GAS ODOR INSIDE THE CAR WHILE DRIVING, AND WHEN PARKED. SEEMS STRONGER IN THE BACKSEAT. I SEE THERE'S A EXTENDED WARRANTY FOR THIS ISSUE FROM MERCEDES BENZ ON THE E CLASS FOR MY YEAR (2003). THAT WARRANTY EXTENSION SHOULD HAVE COVERED ALL CLASSES WITH SIMILAR DESIGN OR THE SAME PROBLEM. THE FUMES ARE SO STRONG I AM AFRAID ANY SPARK COULD IGNITE THE VAPORS. I REALLY NEED YOUR HELP! IF MERCEDES BENZ ACKNOWLEDGED PROBLEMS WITH MY YEAR (2003), IT SHOULD INCLUDE MY C CLASS UNLESS THEY CAN ESTABLISH THE ISSUES ARE TOTALLY UNRELATED IN NATURE. THANK YOU FOR YOUR ASSISTANCE.
Nov 22, 2016
I OWN A A 2003 MERCEDES BENZ C240. THE FOLLOWING DAY AFTER THE VEHICLE WAS REFUELED, THERE WAS A STRONG FUEL ODOR. IT HAS HAPPEN SUDDENLY OUT OF NOWHERE AFTER MY OTHER ELECTRICAL FAILURES OF SHOWING UP IN MY MALFUNCTION PANEL, IN WHICH I HAVE A COMPLAINT. THE SRS THEN THE ESP NOW. THEN THE FUEL SMELL. I SEEM TO NOTICE IT MORE WHEN I WOULD IDLE HEATING UP THE CAR IN THE WINTER, THEN WHEN I JUST TURN IT ON AND DRIVE. I NOTICE IT AT STOP LIGHTS AS WELL. IF THERE IS ANY RECALL ON ANY MERCEDES THAT HAS SOMETHING TO DO WITH THIS OR ANY ISSUE, IT SHOULD FALL ACROSS THE LINE OF OTHER YEARS AND MODELS AS WELL. SAFETY IS THE ISSUE AND QUALITY IS WHY WE CHOOSE A CERTAIN MAKE.
Mar 29, 2016
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 MERCEDES BENZ C240. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THERE WAS A STRONG FUEL ODOR IN THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 103,000.
Sep 18, 2015
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 MERCEDES BENZ C240. WHEN THE VEHICLE WAS REFUELED, A STRONG FUEL ODOR EMITTED INSIDE THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 102,000.
Jun 04, 2015
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 MERCEDES BENZ C240. THE FOLLOWING DAY AFTER THE VEHICLE WAS REFUELED, THERE WAS A STRONG FUEL ODOR AND THERE WAS A LARGE PUDDLE OF FUEL UNDER THE REAR CENTER OF THE VEHICLE. THE FAILURE RECURRED CONTINUOUSLY. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A DEALER WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE FUEL SENSOR NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 100,000.
Jun 01, 2015
POWER TRAIN
5 complaints
2003 MERCEDES C320. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO A SAFETY RECALL TRANSFER CASE *TGW THE CONSUMER WAS INFORMED THAT DUE TO THE MILEAGE ON THE VEHICLE, THEY WOULD NOT BE WILLING TO ASSIST WITH ABSORBING SOME OF THE COST FOR THE REPLACEMENT PART. *JB
Feb 24, 2011
ROUGH IDLE; RATTLING NOISE IN ENGINE AREA, HARSH SHIFTING, NO THROTTLE RESPONSE, HESITATES WHEN ACCELERATING WITH A CLICKING SOUND, WINDOW CONTROS SCRATCH WINDOW TINT
May 22, 2005
THIS IS A 2003 C230 KOMPRESSOR; MANUAL TRANSMISSION. CHECK ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON; IN FOR SERVICE 4 TIMES; CYLINDER HEAD NEEDS TO BE REPLACED/ VALVES NOT SEATED PROPERLY. NOW MB SAYS THEY CAN'T FIND PARTS.*AK
Apr 16, 2004
2003 C230 HAS TRANSMISSION THAT JERKS, AND REQUIRES EXCESSIVE EFFORT TO GET VEHICLE TO MOVE WHEN IN REVERSE, ALSO HAS WEAK RIM DESIGN, AND BEND EASILY, HIT POT HOLE ON HIGHWAY AND BENT FRONT RIM. *AK
Oct 28, 2003
I BOUGHT MY MERCEDES C230 KOMPRESSOR 9 DAYS AGO. IT HAS ONLY 380 MILES ON IT. 2 DAYS IN A ROW WHEN THE CAR IS PLACED INTO DRIVE THE ENTIRE VEHICLE SHAKES VIOLENTLY. MERCEDES IS GOING TO ATTEMPT TO FIX THE PROBLEM. SS. *AK
Jul 28, 2003
ENGINE
4 complaints
HARMONIC BALANCER /CRANK PULLEY WOBBLING VERY BAD . AFRAID IT WILL COME APART AND CAUSE CATASTROPHIC DAMAGE WHILE MY KIDS ARE DRIVING. MERCEDES COVERED THIS PART UNDER SAME ENGINE FAMILY BUT ONLY FROM MODEL YEARS 1998-2001. WOULD LIKE THEM TO TAKE RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE SAME FAULTY PART AS THE OTHERS.
Jul 25, 2017
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 MERCEDES BENZ C230. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE CHECK ENGINE WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED AND THE VEHICLE STALLED WITHOUT WARNING. THE FAILURE OCCURRED ON SEVERAL OCCASIONS. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER, WHO REPAIRED THE ENGINE WIRING HARNESS AND THE ENGINE CAM SHAFT ADJUSTMENT SOLENOID, BUT THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT APPROXIMATELY 75 MPH, THE VEHICLE STALLED. THE VEHICLE WAS ABLE TO RESTART. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS NOT AVAILABLE.
Dec 15, 2014
DEC 2013, WITH "OUR NEW" 2003 MB C240 TRAVELING 55MPH ON CRUISE, I ACCELERATED, "POOF". MY BROTHER DRIVING BEHIND US DISAPPEARED IN A CLOUD OF WHITE SMOKE FROM MY EXHAUST. HE HAD TO PULL OVER, HE COULD NOT SEE THE ROAD. THE "CLOUD OF SMOKE" APPEARS EVERY TIME I USE THE CC OR MAINTAIN A CONSTANT SPEED FOR ANY LENGTH OF TIME. ON A RECENT TRIP OF 2000 MILES, IT CONSUMED 7 QTS OF OIL. WITH ONLY 75K MILES, ITS HARDLY BROKEN IN. THE PROBLEM IS "SLUDGE" BUILT UP INSIDE THE ENGINE BECAUSE OF A "POOR" ENGINE DESIGN. THERE IS/WAS AN "ACTIVE CLASS ACTION SETTLEMENT": IN 2003, BY "O'KEEFE", TO REPAIR/REPLACE ALL 1998-2001 MB MOTORS WITH THIS SLUDGE BUILD UP. DAIMLER CHRYSLER "DID NOT" FIX THE DEFECTS IN THE ENGINE DESIGN, THEY SIMPLY SHIFTED THE "PROBLEM" TO THE OWNERS BY TELLING THEM WHICH BRAND OF OIL TO USE. IF YOU "GOOGLE" MERCEDES WITH "SLUDGE/CONSUMPTION" OR SMOKING, YOU WILL FIND SCORES OF MB VEHICLES NEWER THAN 2001 THAT STILL EXHIBIT THESE SAME SMOKING/ SLUDGE PROBLEMS EVEN THOUGH THEY HAVE COMPLIED WITH ALL OF THE NEW MB MAINTENANCE REQUIREMENTS. SO THE PROBLEM WAS NEVER "FIXED". IT SHOULD HAVE BEEN EXPANDED! THE PROBLEM STEMS FROM THE SLUDGE BUILT UP IN THE MOTOR (INSIDE VALVE COVERS AND OIL DRAIN GALLERY'S). IT DOES NOT ALLOW OIL PUMPED UP TO LUBRICATE THE ROCKERS/ CAMS TO RETURN BACK DOWN TO THE "SUMP". THIS "EXCESS/TRAPPED" OIL HAS NO WHERE TO GO, IT SLOWLY SEEPS INTO THE INTAKE MANIFOLD WHERE IT COLLECTS, WHEN THE VACUUM IS RIGHT, GETS SUCKED INTO INTAKE RUNNERS, SENT TO THE COMBUSTION CHAMBERS, IGNITED AND EXPELLED AS EXHAUST, OVERWHELMING THE CATALYTIC CONVERTERS. THERE ARE 2 PROBLEMS: 1) RIDICULOUS AMOUNTS OF UNWANTED ILLEGAL/EMISSIONS 2) THE IMMEDIATE "PERIL" OF ANYONE TRAVELING BEHIND YOU BEING INSTANTLY "BLINDED" AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS ALL MB VEHICLES WITH SIMILAR MOTORS SHOULD BE IMMEDIATELY TESTED & REPAIRED! *TR
Oct 04, 2014
I WAS DRIVING THE VEHICLE HOME FROM WORK AND HEADING UPHILL. MY AUTOMATIC AIR CONDITIONING CLICKED OFF, AND THEN I NOTICED A STRONG CHEMICAL SMELL. SMOKE CAME OUT FROM UNDER MY HOOD. THERE WAS NO SAFE PLACE TO PULL OVER, SO I DROVE ANOTHER 1/4 MILE UNTIL I CRESTED THE HILL AND CAME TO A DIP. I NOTICED FLAMES COMING TOWARD ME FROM BETWEEN THE DRIVER DOOR AND THE DASH. I IMMEDIATELY PULLED MY CAR OVER AND PUT IT IN PARK, GRABBED MY STUFF AND GOT OUT. THE CAR COMPLETELY BURNED UP. I GET MY CAR REGULARLY MAINTENANCED BY THE DEALER, AND IT SAID I HAD 1800 OR 1900 MILES UNTIL MY NEXT SERVICE. *TR
Jun 05, 2014
TIRES
3 complaints
The PRINX tires and the dealer - Mavis Tires, Auburn Avenue, Columbus, Georgia, are equally to blame for the flat I had in traffic endangering myself and other motorists with Brand New Prinx Tires, and also the skid I had at an intersection in Columbus Georgia. It's the old story of Chinese aftermarket parts that do not fit causing accidents. Prinx pushes Mavis to make sales of their 205/55/16 even though my Mercedes C240 door panel sticker shows the brands Mercedes lists for safety as in climates averaging 39 degrees and above for traction size 225/50/16 has to be placed in the rear (205 only on the front) and I did by buying more tires I didn't need and that stopped the skidding. MAVIS also installed the Prinx tires pretending to have replaced the dry-rotted stems, I had a flat at an intersection endangering other drivers, my wheel was also damaged. I have replaced the other stems and the rear tires which did not fit and had poor traction, but MAVIS will not exchange with me for a proper fit. I think Mavis should be fined as they are endangering motorists by not replacing dry-rotted stems to pinch pennies and deliberately placing tires on the rear despite the door sticker warning for size and fit and brand. The Prinx tires are also low on the ground like a go-cart, making the car harder to maneuver. The Better Business Bureau has so many complaints against Mavis Tire, home office New York, that I didn't bother. Air Force Veteran [XXX] , [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Mar 28, 2024
THE BACK SIDE OF THE TIRES CRACK OPEN AROUND THE RIM.
Jun 03, 2018
EXCESSIVE WEAR ON REAR TIRES AFTER ONLY 15000 MILES. THE BRAND IS MICHELIN PILOTS SPORT.THE SIZE IS 225-45ZR-17 THE CAR IS DRIVEN NORMALLYAND THE MAKE IS MERCEDES C230KK SEDAN. EXAMINED TIRES DURING WASHING CAR AND NOTICE WEAR AFTER ONLY 15000 MILES . BOTH LEFT AND RIGHT REAR.PRESSURE WAS CHECKED REGULARLY. CAR CANNOT SPIN TIRES DUE TO TRACTION CONTROL. PLEASE DETERMINE IF THERE IS A DEFECT IN THIS BRAND OF TIRE. *AK
Jun 22, 2004
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
3 complaints
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 MERCEDES BENZ C230. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING, IT WAS INFORMED THAT THE TAIL LIGHTS FAILED TO FUNCTION. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE CONTACT REPLACED THE TAIL LIGHT HOWEVER, THE FAILURE PERSISTED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 225,262.
Feb 22, 2016
WHEN SIGNALING TO TURN LEFT OR RIGHT, ONLY THE LEFT TURN SIGNAL WILL FLASH. THE RIGHT TURN SIGNAL NEVER FLASHES. HOWEVER, BOTH LIGHTS WILL FLASH WHEN HAZARD LIGHTS ARE ON AND WHEN LOCKING/UNLOCKING CAR DOORS. *TR
Aug 18, 2010
1. THE HEADLIGHT CANNOT BE TURN ON AS I DROVE INTO A 1-MILE DARK TUNNEL IN US WEST. 2. IT PERSISTS FOR ABOUT 1-DAYS DURING A TRIP TO THE US WEST IN THE DRY HEAT ENVIRONMENT. AFTER THAT, THE HEADLIGHT WORK NORMAL AGAIN AS I CAME BACK TO CALIFORNIA. 3. NOTHING HAS BEING DONE SINCE THEN SINCE I WILL PROBABLY NOT DRIVE TO US WEST IN THE VISIBLE NEAR FUTURE. THE OLD PARTS ARE STILL AVAILABLE IN MY CAR. *TR
Feb 28, 2010
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
3 complaints
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 MERCEDES C240. SHE STATED THAT HER VEHICLE WOULD NOT ACCELERATE FAST ENOUGH TO SAFELY MERGE IN AND OUT OF TRAFFIC. THE MANUFACTURER STATED THAT THEY WOULD BE UNABLE TO ASSIST HER AND THEY WOULD NOT ACCEPT THE EXTENDED WARRANTY. THE CONTACT STATED THAT SHE WOULD FILE A COMPLAINT WITH THE STATE ATTORNEY GENERALS OFFICE DUE TO HER VEHICLE BEING A LEMON. THE FAILURE WAS 77 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 40,900.
Aug 07, 2007
WHILE VISITING SOUTH EASTERN UTAH IN A PERIOD OF ONE WEEK THERE WAS NO THROTTLE RESPONSE ON THREE SEPARATE OCCASIONS. THROTTLE RESPONDED ON THE THIRD PRESS OF GAS PEDAL ON EACH OCCASION. CAR HAD ONLY 7,500 MILES ON IT. ON FIRST OCCASION, THERE WAS A STRONG SMELL OF GAS INSIDE THE CAR. DASH BOARD INDICATOR DID NOT SHOW ANY MALFUNCTION DURING ANY OF THESE OCCASIONS. *AK
Jun 09, 2003
THE THROTTLE LINKAGE AND CONTROL PEDAL MALFUNCTION NEARLY RESULTED IN A SERIOUS ACCIDENT. THE BRAKES HAD TO BE VIOLENTLY APPLIED WITH BOTH FEET TO PREVENT THE SURGING VEHICLE FROM REAR-ENDING A VEHICLE IN FRONT OF MINE AT A TRAFFIC INTERSECTION.*AK
Sep 05, 2002
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS
2 complaints
The contact owns a 2003 Mercedes-Benz C320. The contact stated that the sunroof had failed to open, and the sunshade cover failed to close, causing the sunrays to penetrate the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where an unknown assessment was made. The vehicle was not repaired. Additionally, the contact stated that the horn was inoperable. The SRS warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed with front driver's side air bag failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 124,000.
Aug 06, 2024
TAKATA RECALL. CARS WITH THIS ISSUE SHOULD BE PART OF THE RECALL. I HAVE SAME EXACT PROBLEM AS THE 7TH COMPLAINER.CASE #10574681. SRS LIGHT CAME ON WITH 1 MALFUNCTION. THE RESTRAINT SYSTEM. I TOOK IT TO THE WORKSHOP TO HAVE THE SCAN CODES CHECKED. THE CODE READER SAID THAT THERE IS A PROBLEM WITH ONE OF THE AIRBAGS. THE MECHANIC THINKS THAT THE AIRBAGS ARE DISABLED. BUT THE OWNERS MANUAL SAYS THERE IS A POSSIBILITY THAT AN AIRBAG COULD GO OFF WHILE DRIVING. I JUST READ THAT MERCEDES INCLUDED 814000 VEHICLES IN THE RECALL. MY CAR IS NOT INCLUDED. I THINK THAT THIS CAR MIGHT NOT BE SAFE TO DRIVE. WOULD YOU PLEASE HELP OUT AND HAVE AN INVESTIGATION. THANKS IN ADVANCE.
Feb 22, 2016
STRUCTURE
2 complaints
2003 MERCEDES BENZ C240. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARD TO RUST ISSUE WITH VEHICLE.
Mar 17, 2023
AS A TIME MY VEHICLE NEEDS TO BE RENEWAL WITH CALIFORNIA DMV , THE RECALL PART HAS NOT BEEN AVAILABLE FROM MERCEDES MANUFACTURE. MERCEDES BENZ DOES NOT PROVIDE ANY FUTURE TIME FRAME FOR THE RECALL PART THAT WILL EFFECTS ON MY VEHICLE REGISTRATION RENEWAL WITH DMV (IT ALSO MEANS MY RENEWAL WITH DMV WILL BE ON HOLD AND I DON NOT HAVE ANY OTHER VEHICLE TO DRIVE IF IT HAPPENS BY THE TIME THE CURRENT VEHICLE REGISTRATION EXPIRED). I ALREADY CONTACTED WITH LOCAL MERCEDES DEALER AND MERCEDES BENZ US BUT THEY CAN NOT DO ANYTHING WITH THE RECALL ANY TIME SOON BEFORE MY CURRENT REGISTRATION ENDS. MY VEHICLE IS CURRENTLY USING AND HAVE NO ISSUE BUT I NEED TO REDEEM A RECALL PART SO I CAN GET A NEW VEHICLE REGISTRATION AT DMV. *TR
May 27, 2020
POWER TRAIN,ENGINE
2 complaints
AT 178,000 MILES THE TIMING CHAIN TENSIONER FAILED WHILE THE CAR DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 25 MPH AND ALLOWED THE TIMING CHAIN TO SKIP SEVERAL TEETH LEAVING THE CAR STRANDED AND POTENTIALLY CAUSING THOUSANDS OF DOLLARS WORTH OF DAMAGE TO THE ENGINE INTERNALS. THE CAR WAS DEALER SERVICED SINCE NEW AND ALWAYS HAD MAINTENANCE ON TIME. THERE IS THOUSANDS OF PEOPLE ONLINE THAT HAVE HAD THE EXACT SAME ISSUE AND MERCEDES BENZ USA REFUSES TO DO ANYTHING ABOUT IT YET THEY ACKNOWLEDGE THEY MADE THEM WRONG BECAUSE THEY HAVE UPDATED THE CHAINS AND TENSIONERS.
Apr 11, 2020
"CHECK COOLANT LEVEL" LEVEL WARNING SIGN WAS ON. APPARENTLY, THERE IS LEAKING OF COOLANT SOME WHERE. IT WAS AT THE WATER PUMP, WHICH WAS REPLACED ON JUNE 20, 2019. IT HAPPENS AGAIN NOW, ABOUT 9 MONTHS LATER.
Mar 12, 2020
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
2 complaints
MERCEDES BENZ POSSIBLE RECALL / EXTENDED WARRANTY FOR FUEL SYSTEM... INVOLVING A C CLASS 2003 WITH SAME ENGINE AS THE E CLASS. THE CAR FUEL SYSTEM IS TOTALLY MESSED UP, WILL ONLY FILL A HALF TANK AND RUNS OUT OF GAS BECAUSE THE FUEL TANK SYSTEM IS NOT WORKING CORRECTLY. CAR WILL NOT FILL. ONLY ONE TANK TAKING AND SENDING FUEL APPARENTLY. DASH IS MESSED UP, LIGHTS OUT, FUEL SYSTEM TOTALLY MESSED UP. I ALMOST WENT OFF A CLIFF IN THE CAR, SLID BACKWARDS ON A HILLSIDE WHEN THE CAR RAN OUT OF FUEL UNEXPECTEDLY. NO GAS, NO POWER, MY CAR WENT BACKWARDS, BRAKES NOT WORKING, I WENT INTO A DITCH AND ALMOST INTO A STEEP HILLSIDE, VERY SCARY. A CAR BRANCH SAVED MY DEMISE, HOLDING THE TOP OF THE CAR AND KEPT ME FROM GOING DOWN INTO A RAVENE. DENT ON THE BACK ROOF IS STILL THERE. MERCEDES BENZ REFUSES TO ACKNOWLEDGE ANY PROBLEMS ALTHOUGH THE PROBLEM IS APPARENTLY PROLIFIC IN CARS THIS YEAR AND TYPE. SAME FUEL SYSTEM ON A C320 AS AN E320 SAME YEAR. SAME ENGINE TOO. MY MECHANICS ARE BAFFLED, NO ONE CAN FIX IT, MERCEDES SHOPS DON'T WANT TO HELP, NO ONE CAN HELP.
Aug 31, 2017
I BOUGHT THE CAR YESTERDAY, AND TODAY REALIZED THE CAR IS LEAKING FUEL, POOLING UNDER THE BACK SEAT AND SPILLING OUT UNDER THE CAR. THE PASSENGER HEADLIGHT WILL NOT WORK; WE TRIED 3 BULBS. THE PANEL DISPLAYS A MESSAGE STATING ONE OF THE TAG LIGHTS IS OUT, BUT IT ACTUALLY WORKS.
Oct 06, 2016
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
2 complaints
I WAS DRIVING MY CAR AND IT SUDDENLY TURNED OFF ON ME. I TRIED TO START IT AGAIN BUT IT WOULD CRANK BUT NOT TURN ON. I HAD A LIL LESS THAN HALF A TANK OF GAS BUT THERE WAS NO GAS BEING DELIVERED TO THE ENGINE. AFTER INSPECTING THE FUEL SENDING UNIT I NOTISED THAT THE PLASTIC AROUND THE WIRE CONNECTOR PINS WAS A BIT MELTED AND THERE WAS A SMALL HOLE THAT WENT STRAIGHT TROUGH THE SENDING UNIT COVER. I REPLACED THE SENDING UNIT BUT THE MELTING STILL CONTINUES. IT SEEMS LIKE THE WIRE GETS TOO HOT AND THE PLASTIC MELTS AROUND THE PINS. IM AFRAID THIS CAN EVEN CAUSE A FIRE SINCE ALL THE FUEL IS JUST INCHES BELLOW IT.
Jun 08, 2017
I DON'T KNOW THAT MY CAR WAS A RECALL AND WHEN I FIRST GOT IT MY GAS GAUGE WHEN OUT AND STUFF START TO GO BAD. THE CAR PLACE I PURCHASE THE CAR FROM KNEW ALL THIS STUFF AND DON'T INFORM ME AT ALL. I KNOW I BOUGHT A USED CAR BUT I WAS HOPE THEY WILL LET ME KNOW . NOW THAT MY WARRANTY UP THEY IS GIVING THE RUN ALWAYS . WHAT SHOULD ABOUT IT . SO WHEN I GO PUT GAS IN MY CAR I DON'T KNOW HOW MUCH GAS IT IS IN MY CAR BECAUSE MY GAS READ AND METER IN THE CAR DON'T WORK AND ALSO HAVE A SHORT IN IT. *TR
Mar 26, 2015
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
2 complaints
THE LCD DISPLAY FOR SAFETY ITEMS SUCH AS CHECKING THE OIL LEVEL FADES OUT AND CAN NOT BE READ. THERE IS NO OTHER WAY TO CHECK THE OIL LEVEL ON THIS VEHICLE. REPAIR SHOPS DO NOT WANT TO SERVICE AS THEY CAN NOT CHECK OIL LEVEL. NO DIP STICK ON THESE VEHICLES.
Feb 10, 2016
VEHICLE WAS DAMAGED WHILE BEING SHIPPED. *MR *SC *JB
Jun 04, 2004
SUSPENSION
2 complaints
TL-THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 MERCEDES BENZ C230. THE CONTACT OBSERVED THAT AFTER EXITING THE VEHICLE, THE FRONT PASSENGER'S SIDE WHEEL DISENGAGED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC, WHO INFORMED THAT THE BALL JOINT SEPARATED FROM THE CONTROL ARM. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. ON A SEPARATE OCCASION THE FAILURE RECURRED WITH THE FRONT DRIVER'S SIDE AND THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE CONTACT STATED THE DEFECTIVE PARTS AND PHOTOGRAPHS WERE AVAILABLE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE AND VIN WERE UNAVAILALBE. JS
Mar 08, 2015
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 MERCEDES BENZ C230K. WHILE DRIVING 72 MPH, THE CONTACT HEARD A POPPING SOUND AND THE WARNING LIGHT FOR THE BRAKES ILLUMINATED ON THE INSTRUMENT PANEL. SHE WAS ONLY ABLE TO STOP THE VEHICLE BY USING THE HAND BRAKE. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE DEALER AND THEY STATED THAT THE FRONT WHEEL BEARING BECAME DAMAGED AND CAUSED DAMAGE TO THE SPINDLE. THE BEARING NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE CONTACT HAS PICTURES. THE PURCHASE DATE WAS UNKNOWN. THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 61,500 AND FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 60,500. UPDATED 4/21/08 *CN THE CONSUMER STATED WOULD LIKE TO BE REIMBURSED FOR ALL COSTS INCURRED DUE TO THE DEFECT. UPDATED 04/21/08 *TR
Mar 20, 2008
AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS
2 complaints
CERTIFIED PRE-OWNED DEALERSHIP BOUGHT MERCEDES BENZ 2003 C-240 4-MATIC. PURCHASED WITH 41K MILES IN 2008. APPROXIMATELY 6/2013 THE SRS LIGHT CAME ON STATING 1 MALFUNCTION ON THE CLUSTER RELATING TO RESTRAINT SYSTEM. ADVISED OF NUMEROUS CASES OF THIS DEFECT IN MODEL YEAR 2003. DUE TO WARRANTY EXPIRATION THE ISSUE HAS YET TO HAVE PROFESSIONAL DIAGNOSTICS. THE LIGHT AND CLUSTER NOTIFICATION REMAINS TO DATE AT 76K MILES. *TR
Mar 25, 2014
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 MERCEDES BENZ C240. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING 15 MPH THE VEHICLE IN FRONT OF HIM SUDDENLY STOPPED CAUSING HIM TO CRASH INTO THE REAR OF THE VEHICLE. THE PASSENGER SEAT BELT DID NOT HOLD THE PASSENGER IN THE FRONT SEAT WHICH CAUSED HER HEAD TO HIT THE WINDSHIELD. BOTH THE DRIVER AND PASSENGER SIDE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED. THE PASSENGER WAS TAKEN TO THE HOSPITAL FOR A HEAD INJURY. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED BY THE INSURANCE COMPANY. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 20,000. UPDATED 07/08/11 *BF
Jun 01, 2011
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
2 complaints
THE FUEL TANK ON MY 2003 C32 LEAKED. THE SYMPTOM WAS A STRONG GAS ODOR INSIDE THE VEHICLE. UPON FURTHER INSPECTION, THERE WAS FUEL LEAKING FROM UNDER THE VEHICLE. I TOOK IT TO THE MECHANIC, AND HE DIAGNOSED IT AS A LEAKING FUEL TANK. WHEN HE REMOVED IT, HE SHOWED IT TO ME AND I SAW THE PART THAT WAS CRACKED, WHICH WAS BELOW THE REAR SEAT OF THE CAR. THERE APPEARS TO BE A WIDELY KNOWN MALFUNCTION WITH FUEL TANKS FOR MERCEDES. THIS WAS A VERY STRESSFUL EVENT, ESPECIALLY WITH FUEL LEAKING OUTSIDE THE CAR AND NOT KNOWING WHAT COULD HAPPEN (FIRE RISK, ETC). *TR
Oct 01, 2013
CONSUMER STATES THAT VEHICLE IS TWO WEEKS OLD AND HAS A FUEL TANK PROBLEM. THE ENGINE LIGHT STAYS ILLUMNIATED. THE DEALER STATES A PART NEEDS TO BE REPLACED IN THE PLASTIC GAS TANK. PLEASE PROVIDE MORE INFORMATION. MR
Oct 10, 2002
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN
2 complaints
I HAVE A 2003 C 320 MBNZ, THE RADIATOR LEAKS INTO THE TRANSMISSION. THE RADIATOR NEEDS TO BE REPLACED. THIS LEAKING RADIATOR FLUID DAMAGED THE TRANSMISSION, AND IT HAS TO BE REPLACED. THIS PROBLEM CAUSED A LACK OF POWER AND THEREFORE A LOSS OF ACCELERATION. IT HAPPENED WITHOUT ANY WARNING, LEAVING YOU VULNERABLE DUE TO THE LOSS OF POWER, A VERY DANGEROUS SITUATION WHICH MAY CAUSE AN ACCIDENT. THE CAR HAS ONLY 50026 MILES ON IT. *TR
Apr 19, 2013
ON A 2003 C 320 MBNZ, THE RADIATOR NOW LEAKS INTO THE TRANSMISSION. THIS IS GOING TO REQUIRE THE RADIATOR TO BE REPLACED AND FOR THE TRANSMISSION TO BE FLUSHED. THIS LEAKING RADIATOR FLUID COULD HAVE ALREADY DAMAGED THE TRANSMISSION, AND IF SO, IT WILL HAVE TO BE REPLACED. THIS PROBLEM CAUSES A LACK OF POWER AND THEREFORE A LOSS OF ACCELERATION. IT HAPPENS WITHOUT ANY WARNING, OFTEN LEAVING YOU VULNERABLE DUE TO THE LOSS OF POWER, A POTENTIAL ACCIDENT WAITING TO HAPPEN. *TR
Sep 27, 2009
TIRES,WHEELS
2 complaints
TIRE SYSTEM IS UNSAFE ON MY 2003 MERCEDES BENZ C230 COMPRESSOR. TIRES POP WHEN HITTING CURBS BECAUSE OF 17" RIMS AT ONLY 2 MPH AND TIRE WEAR IS ONLY 15K PER TIRE. REPLACED TWO TIRES WHILE TRAVELING ONLY MINIMAL SPEED. TIRES HAVE ONLY 10K MILES. *JB
Dec 11, 2004
1)7/29/03 A.PURCHASE OF CAR B.SALESMAN TOLD ME THAT AM THE ONLY CAR HE HAS FOR THE C2 CONVENIENCE PACKAGE. HE ALSO WENT ON TO SAY THAT THIS PARTICULAR CAR IS EQUIPPED WITH A WHEELS PACKAGE. WHEN I ENQUIRED WHAT IT WAS, HE SAID IT IS A PREMIUM DESIGN, WHICH ENABLES ME TO HANDLE TURNS BETTER. I WAS NOT ENTIRELY EXCITED AT THE OFFER, BUT SINCE THE DEALERSHIP SAID CARS COME WITH PRE-DESIGNED PACKAGES, I HAVE TO TAKE THE CAR WITH THE WHEELS PACKAGE, IF I WANTED THE OTHER EXTRAS I WAS LOOKING FOR. 2)01/15/04 A.FIRST OCCURRENCE OF CAR TIRE GOING FLAT. B.THERE WERE NO HOLES ON THE TIRE; IT WAS CONFIRMED THAT THE TIRE WENT FLAT AS A RESULT OF A DENT ON THE RIMS OF THE CAR. C.I ARGUED MY CASE IN VAIN, SAYING THAT IT WAS A MANUFACTURERS DEFAULT; BUT SERVICE CENTRE(INCLUDING SUPERVISORS) COLDLY SAID THAT IT WAS DUE TO EXTERNAL INFLUENCES AND THUS IT WAS NOT EVEN COVERED IN THE WARRANTY. THEY MADE ME PAY FOR A NEW TIRE AND A RIM (INVOICE ATTACHED). 3)03/17/04 A.I DROPPED THE CAR OFF AT THE SERVICE CENTRE, AS I FELT THE CAR WAS WOBBLING. B.THE SERVICE GUY CALLED ME BACK AND SAID THAT IT WAS DUE TO ANOTHER DENT ON ANOTHER TIRE. I TOOK THE CASE ALL THE WAY TO HQ (MONTVALE), BUT TO NO EFFECT. C.WORSE STILL, THE SERVICE CENTRE MADE ME PAY FOR THE TIRE, RIM AND THE ALIGNMENT OF THE WHEELS. THEY CLAIMED THE REALIGNMENT WAS NECESSARY, AS IT WAS THE IMPACT FROM THE DENT THAT CAUSED THE MISALIGNMENT, AND THUS IT IS NOT COVERED UNDER WARRANTY. D.I WAS PISSED, AS I FAILED TO UNDERSTAND WHAT THE WARRANTY WAS FOR, IF I HAD TO PAY FOR EVERYTHING. IF EVERYTHING THAT WENT WRONG ON THE CAR WAS AS A RESULT OF UNEVENNESS OF THE SURFACE (WHICH AGAIN I CANNOT CONTROL), THEN ITS AS GOOD AS HAVING NO WARRANTY. 4)05/06/04 A.MOST RECENT CASE OF A FLAT TIRE B.CLEARLY, AGAIN, THERE WAS NO EVIDENCE OF ANY HOLES ON THE TIRE. HOWEVER, I AM PRETTY SURE; IT WAS CAUSED BY A DENT ON THE RIM. *AK
May 13, 2004
VISIBILITY/WIPER
1 complaint
The contact owns a 2003 Mercedes-Benz C230. The contact stated that the windshield wipers inadvertently stopped working. The contact jiggled the windshield wiper arm, and the windshield wipers wiped the windshield twice and then stopped operating. There were no warning lights illuminated. The contact called an independent mechanic, who replaced the calipers, but no assistance was provided regarding the windshield wipers. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was approximately 166,000.
Oct 16, 2023
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
1 complaint
MY PANORAMIC ROOF IS MALFUCTIONING AND IS SUCK SLIGHTLY OPEN WONT CLOSE OR BUDGE AND NOW I'M HAVING MULITPLE ELECTRICAL ISSUES MY LIGHTS ARE FLICKERING CIGARETTE LIGHTER DOESNT WORK MY AC WORKS SOMETIMES BUT THEN IT DOESN'T AND OTHER THINGS AS WELL. THERE IS AN OPEN RECALL ON THE PANORAMIC ROOFS WITH MY MAKE AND MODEL BUT MY VIN NUMBER ISNT SHOWING UP..
May 14, 2021
AIR BAGS,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC),FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
1 complaint
TAKATA RECALL. CARS WITH THIS ISSUE SHOULD BE PART OF THE RECALL. I HAVE SAME EXACT PROBLEM AS THE 7TH COMPLAINER.CASE #10574681. SRS LIGHT CAME ON WITH 1 MALFUNCTION. THE RESTRAINT SYSTEM. I TOOK IT TO THE WORKSHOP TO HAVE THE SCAN CODES CHECKED. THE CODE READER SAID THAT THERE IS A PROBLEM WITH ONE OF THE AIRBAGS. THE MECHANIC THINKS THAT THE AIRBAGS ARE DISABLED. BUT THE OWNERS MANUAL SAYS THERE IS A POSSIBILITY THAT AN AIRBAG COULD GO OFF WHILE DRIVING. I JUST READ THAT MERCEDES INCLUDED 814000 VEHICLES IN THE RECALL. MY CAR IS NOT INCLUDED. I THINK THAT THIS CAR MIGHT NOT BE SAFE TO DRIVE. WOULD YOU PLEASE HELP OUT AND HAVE AN INVESTIGATION. THANKS IN ADVANCE. (THIS I COPIES AND PASTED FROM A RECENT CONSUMER) I DIDN'T THINK ANYTHING ABOUT CHECKING ON MY MERCEDES UNTIL I GOT A RECALL LETTER FROM BMW 2 DAYS AGO AND THOUGHT WOW. I NEED TO CHECK NO THE BENZ. I HAVE HAD THIS SAME PROBLEM. FIRST THE SRS LIGHT. CODES ARE READING SAFETY RESTRAINT AND WONT TURN OFF. THEN I HAVE MY ESP LIGHT THAT CAME ON AND WHEN READ ON THE COMPUTER, IT HAD READ THAT THIS WAS ALSO SHOWING UP AS A LONG TERM PROBLEM IN THE HISTORY OF THIS CARS COMPUTER SYSTEM. I CAN PULL EVERY PAPER WORK EVER DONE TO THIS CAR. I AM THE SECOND OWNER AND MY CLOSE FRIEND IS THE FIRST OWNER, WHO BOUGHT IT AFTER LAW SCHOOL. I HAVE OWNED IT 5 YEARS. THIS MADE NERVOUS, SO I BOUGHT ANOTHER CAR. A BMW AND KEPT THIS ONE, BECAUSE SHE IS A GREAT CAR. HOWEVER, MERCEDES OR SOMEONE BETTER INVESTIGATE THIS ISSUE THAT SEEMS TO BE RECALLED IN A BIASED MANNER AND IN SAFETY AND DEATH POSSIBILITIES, MERCEDES NEEDS TO TAKE CARE OF THEIR LOYAL CUSTOMERS.MY ENTIRE FAMILY OWNS AND BUYS THESE AND NEVER CHANGED, BECAUSE ALL OF OUR GERMAN MADE AND SHIPPED CARS HAVE BEEN THE BEST SINCE 1980 OF OUR 1ST ONE WE PURCHASED. I BOUGHT A BMW. NEVER AGAIN. PLEASE INVESTIGATE THIS ASAP, THIS IS DANGEROUS. I OWN 2 DANGEROUS EXPENSIVE CARDS.
Mar 29, 2016
SERVICE BRAKES
1 complaint
BRAKING SYSTEM FAILURE MY WIFE WAS DRIVING TO WORK. SHE ATTEMPTED TO STOP AT AN INTERSECTION, HER FOOT WENT TO THE FLOOR WHILE BRAKING, RED LIGHT AND WARN BUZZER WENT OFF... NO BRAKES. LUCKILY AND THANK GOD, SHE AVOIDED BEING T-BONED IN THE INTERSECTION AND WAS ABLE TO GET IT INTO A PARKING LOT AND DOWN SHIFT TO USE E-BRAKE. THE CAR HAS ONLY 70,000MILES ON IT. THE REPAIR OF THE SYSTEM SOUNDS LIKE IT IS $2500+. NOT HAPPY AT ALL SINCE MB KNOWS IT IS A PROBLEM AND SHOULD HAVE A REPLACEMENT BRAKING SYSTEM FOR IT OR REPAIR. THIS IS NOT JUST A OLD MASTER CYLINDER GOING OUT. THIS IS A WHOLE SENSOR UNIT FAILING
Feb 19, 2016
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,AIR BAGS
1 complaint
I WAS ALWAYS GETTING AN ERROR MESSAGE TELLING ME MY REAR LIGHTS WERE NOT WORKING. I EXPERIENCED AN ELECTRICAL FIRE IN MY TRUNK, WHICH CAUSED THE AIR BAGS TO DEPLOY AND THE ENTIRE LEFT SIDE OF MY CAR CAUGHT FIRE. THE CAR WAS TOTALED. CAR WOULD NOT START, TRUNK WOULD NOT OPEN. CAR WAS TOTALED BY DEALER AND INSURANCE COMPANY. I KNOW THERE IS A RECALL NOTICE FOR NEW C CLASS CARS, BUT BECAUSE OF WHAT I EXPERIENCED, I BELIEVE OLDER MODELS MAY ALSO HAVE THE SAME PROBLEM. *TR
May 03, 2014
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,POWER TRAIN,ENGINE
1 complaint
FUEL IS LEAKING FROM THE SENDING UNIT OF THE VEHICLE AND DOWN ONTO THE REAR WHEELS DIFFERENTIAL, THE VEHICLES FUEL TANK AND SENDER UNIT HAD BEEN REPLACED BY MERCEDES UNDER WARRANTY ON 11/25/03 MILEAGE IN 43088 MILEAGE OUT 43092 AT THE HOEHN CARLSBAD CA DEALER SHIP: INVOICE NUMBER 465553. THIS HAS NOW HAPPENED AGAIN AND I HAVE FOUND THAT THIS ISSUE IS NOT A LIMITED ISSUE TO MY VEHICLE BUT ONE THAT HAS IMPACTED ALL C CLASS AND E CLASS VEHICLES AND HAS AN ESTIMATED REPAIR COST OF $2,073.30. HOW IS DAIMLER AG ALLOWED TO SELL THESE VEHICLES THAT POSE AN EXTREME RICK THE PUBLIC AND PROPERTY IN THE US. I HAVE BEEN TOLD MY VEHICLE IS NOW NO LONGER COVERED UNDER ANY WARRANTY AND I WILL HAVE TO FOOT THE BILL TO REPAIR THIS OBVIOUS DESIGN FLOOR AND SUBSEQUENT MALFUNCTION THAT POSSES A LIFE THREATENING RISK TO ME AND MY FAMILY IF NOT RESOLVED ASAP. I DREAD TO THINK ABOUT ALL THE PRESENT MERCEDES C-CLASS AND E-CLASS OWNERS DRIVING AROUND IN A TICKING TIME BOMB JUST WAITING TO GO OFF, THERE MUST BE HUNDREDS OF THOUSANDS OF VEHICLES THAT HAVE DEFECTIVE FUEL SENDING UNITS/GAS TANKS LEAKING GAS DOWN AND AROUND HOT EXHAUST PIPES OF THEIR VEHICLES AND THEY ARE NOT AWARE OF THIS PERENNIALLY LIFE THREATENING MALFUNCTION BECAUSE DAIMLER AG HAS NOT RECALLED ALL VEHICLES OUTFITTED WITH RECOGNIZED DEFECTIVE FUEL SENDING UNITS/GAS TANKS AND RESOLVED THE TICKING TIME BOMBS. IT'S OBVIOUS TO ME WHATEVER ATTEMPT DAIMLER AG HAS TAKEN IS NOT ENOUGH TO MITIGATE ANY FURTHER DEFECTIVE FUEL SENDING UNITS/GAS TANKS. PLEASE ADVISE ON ANY WHETHER WE HAVE ANY RE-CAUSE WITH DAIMLER AG OR MERCEDES U.S.A TO GET THIS FRIGHTENING ISSUE RESOLVED FOR NOT ONLY ME BUT ALSO THE HUNDREDS OF THOUSANDS OF AMERICAN MOTORIST PRESENTLY DRIVING TICKING BOMBS. YOU MAY CONTACT ME ON DAYTIME PHONE NUMBER TO DISCUSS THIS ISSUE. [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR
Dec 14, 2013
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,EQUIPMENT
1 complaint
THE CAM SENSORS ON THE MERCEDES M271 ENGINE LEAK OIL WHICH SPREADS TO OTHER COMPONENTS VIA THE WIRE HARNESSES CONNECTED TO CAM SENSORS. OIL CONTAMINATION WILL DAMAGE OTHER ELECTRICAL COMPONENTS (NAMELY THE ECU AND EXHAUST OXYGEN SENSORS) IF THE CAM SENSORS AND WIRE HARNESSES ARE NOT REPLACED. A NEW CAM SENSOR AND WIRE HARNESS HAS BEEN DESIGNED AS THE CORRECTIVE ACTION. THE DEFECTIVE CAM SENSOR AND WIRE HARNESS WERE USED ON THE PREVIOUS ENGINE DESIGN (M111). THERE IS A TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN FOR M111 ENGINE BUT NOT THE M271 ENGINE. MERCEDES REFUSES TO RECALL THIS DEFECTIVE DESIGN ON THE M271 ENGINE CAUSING OWNERS TO PAY FOR THE $900 PREVENTATIVE MAINTENANCE. WITHOUT THIS REPAIR THE ECU (PART COST $2000) AND OXYGEN SENSORS (QTY 2 @ $238 EA) WILL BE EVENTUALLY DAMAGED AND WILL NEED TO BE REMOVED AND REPLACED. WITHIN THE PAST WEEK, PAID MORE THAN $ 2,400.00 TO REPLACE 2 CAM SENSORS, 2 OXYGEN SENSORS, AND WIRING HARNESS. REPAIR SHOP SAYS THAT THIS IS A DEFECT THAT MB HAS KNOWN ABOUT FOR YEARS. *TR
Jul 30, 2010
SUSPENSION,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SEATS
1 complaint
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 MERCEDES C320. WHEN DRIVING OVER A POT HOLE OR BUMP IN THE ROAD AT SPEEDS OF 20 MPH AND HIGHER, THE CONTACT STATED THAT HE HEARD A LOUD "METAL TO METAL" NOISE COMING FROM THE FRONT OF THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER WHERE THE BUSHINGS WERE REPLACED UNDER THE FACTORY WARRANTY. FOUR YEARS LATER, THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT TECHNICIAN WHO REPLACED THE BUSHINGS FOR THE SECOND TIME AS WELL AS THE FRONT CONTROL ARMS. THE FRONT DRIVER'S SIDE POWER SEAT FAILED AND WHEN TAKEN TO THE DEALER, HE WAS ADVISED THAT THE DRIVER'S SIDE FRONT SEAT ELECTRONIC CONTROL UNIT WOULD NEED TO BE REPLACED. THE REPAIRS TO THE SEAT WERE MADE AT THE OWNER'S EXPENSE. THERE WERE NO RECALLS FOR THE FAILURE FOR HIS PARTICULAR YEAR, MAKE AND MODEL VEHICLE. THE RIGHT FRONT TURN SIGNAL ALSO FAILED. HE ATTEMPTED TO REPLACE THE BULB BUT TO NO AVAIL. WHEN THE VEHICLE WAS DIAGNOSED BY AN INDEPENDENT TECHNICIAN, IT WAS CONFIRMED THAT THE WIRING HARNESS WAS DEFECTIVE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED AND PROVIDED NO ASSISTANCE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 80,000 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 87,000.
Mar 23, 2010
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES,EQUIPMENT
1 complaint
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 MERCEDES C320. THE CONTACT WAS UNABLE TO TURN THE RADIO OFF. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER TO BE REPAIRED. IN ORDER TO AVOID DRAINING THE BATTERY, SHE HAD TO REMOVE THE FUSE. ALSO, IN WARM TEMPERATURES, THE POWER LOCKS FAILED INTERMITTENTLY. UPON LOCKING THE DOORS, THEY WOULD UNLOCK WITHOUT INTENT. SHE HAD TO ENGAGE THE POWER LOCKS SEVERAL TIMES BEFORE THEY WOULD ACTUALLY STAY LOCKED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN BACK TO THE DEALER WHERE WHO STATED THAT THE RADIO WOULD BE REPAIRED AT HER EXPENSE. NO REPAIRS MADE TO THE VEHICLE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 31,000 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 72,000.
Mar 11, 2010
FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER
1 complaint
MY 2003 C240 MERCEDES PILOT BUSHING IS EXPERIENCING HEAVY OIL LEAK - THERE IS A CURRENT RE-CALL ON SAME ISSUE WITH OTHER MODELS. THE DEALER I USE TO SERVICE MY CARE, REFUSE TO REPAIR BECAUSE THEY SAID MY MODEL IS NOT INCLUDED IN THE RE-CALL. 2ND ISSUE - MY DRIVER SIDE DOOR HANDLE IS BROKEN BECAUSE OF MANUFACTURE DEFECTS . SOMETIMES HARD TO OPEN AND HAVE TO USE OTHER DOOR TO GET INTO CAR, DEALER REFUSE TO REPLACE THE DEFECT HANDLE WITH GOOD HANDLE. *TR
Mar 10, 2009
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
1 complaint
I HAVE A 2003 MERCEDES BENZ C230 KOMPRESSOR SEDAN. TODAY MY REAR DOOR OPENED BY ITSELF WHILE IN THE CAR. I CLOSED IT AND IT OPENED AGAIN. THIS IS VERY DANGEROUS, SINCE IT CAN OCCUR WHILE DRIVING AT HIGH SPEEDS. THIS IS THE FIRST TIME THIS HAS HAPPENED TO ME. *TR
Jan 30, 2009
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
1 complaint
2003 MERCEDES C240 STALLS IMMEDIATELY AFTER PROLONGED TURNPIKE TRAVEL ( 1.5 HOURS) AT EXIT RAMP TO AN ARTERIAL ROADWAY. THIS INCREASES REAREND ACCIDENT POTENTIAL. MERCEDES CHECKED VEHICLE BUT NO REPORT CODES INDICATED. SUGGESTED THAT IT MAY BE COMPUTER OF SENSOR RELATED. MERCEDES SUGGESTED PULLING OVER FOR 30 MIN. TO LET COMPUTER RESET. FIRST INCIDENT 12/17/08 SECOND INCIDENT 12/28/08. *TR
Dec 29, 2008
SUSPENSION,FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,POWER TRAIN,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,VISIBILITY,STRUCTURE
1 complaint
I PURCHASE MY 2003 MERCEDES FROM CARMAX IN 2 YEARS AGO. IT HAD 45,000 MILES WHEN I PURCHASED IT. FROM THE TIME I PURCHASE THIS CAR I HAD TO REPLACE THE SUNROOF MOTOR, REPLACE THE SHOCKS, REPLACE THE TRUCK LOCK, REPLACE THE FUEL TANK, AND I HAD SOME TRANSMISSION WORK DONE. MY BIGGEST PROBLEM IS HAVING TO REPLACE THE LOW BEAM LIGHTS EVERY 6 MONTHS. I SUSPECT THERE IS AN ELECTRICAL PROBLEM, BUT CANNOT COMPLETELY PROVE IT WITH THE MANUFACTURER. WITH 1 YEAR, I HAD TO REPLACE THE BULBS 3 TIMES. I HAD TO REPLACE THE FRONT LOW BEAM BULBS AND THE BRAKE LIGHTS. THIS IS SURPRISING SINCE THIS CAR (UNDER MY OWNERSHIP) HAS NEVER BEEN IN AN ACCIDENT. I AM SO DISAPPOINTED I PURCHASED THIS CAR! *TR
Sep 11, 2008
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
1 complaint
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 MERCEDES BENZ C230. THE VEHICLE WOULD ONLY START AFTER SEVERAL ATTEMPTS. SOMETIMES AFTER THE VEHICLE WAS STARTED, IT WOULD FAIL AND NOT RESTART. THE DEALER STATED THAT THERE WAS A CRACK IN THE PCV HOSE. THE COST FOR THE REPAIR WAS $404.27. THE SAME DAY THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED, IT FAILED WHILE APPROACHING A RED LIGHT. THE FOLLOWING DAY, SHE RETURNED TO THE DEALER AND THEY STATED THAT THE FUEL PUMP NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE REPAIR COST WAS $389.82. THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 47,022 AND FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 46,646. UPDATED 05/05/08. *LJ UPDATED 05/05/08 *JB
Mar 27, 2008
EQUIPMENT
1 complaint
WHILE DRIVING WITH A/C SET ON "AUTO" THE A/C SYSTEM WOULD SUDDENLY TURN OFF BY ITSELF AND WOULD TURN OF REPEATEDLY WHEN STARTED AGAIN. DURING SUCH EPISODES THE A/C WOULD ACT ERRATIC WITH FANS TURNING ON AND OFF AT DIFFERENT OUTLETS, CYCLES BETWEEN HEATING AND COOLING, AND MAKES HISSING SOUNDS. THIS WOULD OCCUR MANY TIMES A DAY ON A DAILY BASIS IN SUMMER WEATHER (EXCEPT WHEN THE CAR IS TAKEN TO THE DEALER, IT SEEMS). IT TOOK ABOUT 2 YEARS FOR THE DEALER TO FINALLY FIX THE PROBLEM SINCE THEY COULD NOT AVOID ADMITTING ITS EXISTENCE AFTER I HAD VIDEO TAPED THE MALFUNCTION AND SHOWED THEM THE VIDEO.. *JB
Aug 06, 2007
SEAT BELTS
1 complaint
2003 MERCEDES C230. SEAT BELT COMES UN-BUCKLED AT RANDOM TIMES WHILE DRIVING AND DEALER WILL NOT FIX BECAUSE DEFECT CANNOT BE DUPLICATED AT DEALERSHIP. I NOTE THAT THE 2004 MODELS WERE RECALLED FOR THIS SAME DEFECT. WHY DOESN'T THE RECALL COVER THE 2003 MODEL?*JB
Oct 26, 2005
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,AIR BAGS
1 complaint
DT: THE CONTACT STATES THE AIRBAG SYSTEM FAILED TWICE IN THE PAST TEN MONTHS. THE ONBOARD COMPUTER SAID SRS WARNING DID NOT DRIVE AT THAT TIME,. THE VEHICLE HAD TO BE TOWED TO THE DEALERSHIP. THERE WAS A CODE RESET IN THE COMPUTER. THIS HAPPENED AGAIN, AND THEY REPLACED A FUSE BOX IN THE DASHBOARD. THE GAS GAUGE HAS ALSO GONE OUT TWICE IN ONE MONTH. THE DEALERSHIP DRAINED THE GAS AND RESET A COMPUTER CODE. WHEN IT HAPPENED AGAIN THEY HAD TO REPLACE A PART IN THE GAS TANK AND RESET THE COMPUTER CODE AGAIN. BOTH ITEMS WERE WORKING CORRECTLY AT THIS TIME.*AK
Oct 25, 2005
STEERING,SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,PARKING BRAKE,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,EQUIPMENT
1 complaint
I AM THE OWNER OF A C-230 4 DOOR SEDAN VIN#[XXX]. I HAVE AN ISSUE THAT I WAS LOOKING INTO ADDRESSING WHEN ANOTHER MAJOR ISSUE JUST AROSE THAT I NEED HELP FROM THE MANUFACTURER WHO I HAVE CONTACTED BUT NOT RECEIVED A RESPONSE. 1) LAST WEEK I DECIDED TO QUOTE INSURANCE AND MAKE A CHANGE TO ALLSTATE. ONCE THEY PUT IN THE VIN# MAJOR ISSUES CAME. THE PRICE WAS WAY DIFFERENT THEN WHAT I WAS PAYING WITH MERCURY. TO MAKE THIS SHORT, AFTER TALKING TO MY BROKER AT MERCURY, IT TURNS OUT MY 4 DOOR HAS THE VIN# OF A 2 DOOR COUPE. I CALLED BEVERLY HILLS LTD WHERE I PURCHASED THE CAR NEW. THEY DID NOTHING. I HAVE THE ORIGINAL TEMP REGISTRATION FROM THE DAY I PURCHASED THE CAR NEW, AND THE DEALER TYPED COUPE NOT FOUR DOOR AND ON THE LEASE AGREEMENT. I DID NOT NOTICE THIS. HERE ARE MY ISSUES. THE COUPE IS MORE EXPENSIVE ON INSURANCE - I HAVE BEEN OVERPAYING SINCE 2/2003. 2ND, AM I PAYING A FAIR LEASE RATE IF THE VIN# IS FOR ANOTHER BODY STYLE. THIS CAR HAS BEEN NOTHING BUT NIGHTMARE TO DEAL WITH SINCE THE DAY I PURCHASED IT. IT HAS BEEN SERVICED 8 TIMES, TRANSMISSION WORK, 2 COMPUTERS, CAMSHAFT, NEW RADIO, IDLE ISSUES, BRAKE SYSTEM FAILED, AND SO ON. IT'S A COMPLETE LEMON. IT IS GOING IN NEXT WEEK AGAIN. I HAVE ONLY 21,000 ON THE CAR, AND DRIVE MY 2ND CAR MORE A 79 300SD MERCEDES AS IT IS MORE RELIABLE THEN THIS NEW CAR. I NEED SOMEWHERE, SOMEONE TO GO TO, ANY INFORMATION WOULD BE GREATLY APPRECIATED. THANKS SO MUCH, [XXX] - PHONE OR EMAIL *JB UPDATED 07/18/2012 *JS INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Oct 14, 2005
POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
1 complaint
MY MERCEDES-BENZ C-240 (2003 MODEL), HAVING LESS THAN 18500 MILES, SUDDENLY LOST POWER AFTER SOME 2-HOUR WORTH OF FREE-WAY DRIVING. AROUND NOON ON FRIDAY, 8/26/05, I WAS DRIVING SOUTH -BOUND ON I-15 PAST VICTORVILLE (CA), ABOUT 9 MILES PAST THE EXIT FOR ROUTE 18, WHEN MY C-240 SUDDENLY LOST POWER. AS I DEPRESSED THE ACCELERATOR, I FELT NO POWER AND THE RPM WAS DECREASING. IT FELT LIKE THE ENTIRE ENGINE-TRANSMISSION SYSTEM WAS SHUTTING DOWN. THERE WAS NO PRIOR WARNING. I MADE RIGHT TURN SIGNAL LETTING OTHER VEHICLES KNOW I WAS COMING OFF THE FREE-WAY. I MANAGED TO PULL OFF TO THE RIGHT SHOULDER SAFELY AND CAME TO FULL STOP ON THE GRAVEL. AT THAT TIME, MY DIGITAL ODOMETER READ "1 MALFUNCTION". USING MY CELL PHONE, I IMMEDIATELY CALLED THE MERCEDES HOTLINE. THE ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE REPRESENTATIVE, KRISTIN, ADVISED ME NOT TO DRIVE THE VEHICLE, EVEN AFTER THE "1 MALFUNCTION" SIGN BECAME "NO MALFUNCTION" A LITTLE LATER. MY VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A MERCEDES-BENZ DEALER IN RIVERSIDE, SOME 50 MILES AWAY. AT THE DEALERS SERVICE DEPT, AFTER A BASIC CHECK INVOLVING COMPUTER AND ELECTRONICS, SOME FAULTY IDENTIFICATIONS WERE MADE, BUT IT WAS DETERMINED TO BE SAFE AND DRIVABLE. I DROVE MY VEHICLE HOME, PLANNING TO HAVE A MAJOR CHECK UP LATER. *JB
Aug 28, 2005
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,POWER TRAIN,EQUIPMENT
1 complaint
A YEAR AGO, I BROUGHT A C230 COMPRESSOR AT MERCEDES-BENZ AND SINCE THEN, I HAD TO REPAIR MY A/C TWICE, THE ABS LIGHT HAS BEEN FIXED TWICE IN ONE WEEK, AND NOW MY TRANSMISSION IS ACTING OUT. ALTHOUGH I HAVE BROUGHT MY CAR IN A GREAT DEAL, THE PROBLEM(S) STILL EXIST. IN ONE MONTH ALONE, I BROUGHT MY CAR IN ABOUT 3 TIMES TO FIX ALMOST THE SAME PROBLEM(S). MY LAST VISIT WAS THIS PAST WEEK, AND JUST TODAY, I GOT MY CAR BACK AND THE TRANSMISSION STILL FEELS FUNNY. IT JERKS WHEN I STEP ON THE ACCELERATOR AND FOR SOME REASON, I FEEL MORE UNSAFE NOW THEN BEFORE.*AK
Sep 21, 2004
SEATS
1 complaint
EXCESSIVE LOUD "SQUEAKING" COMING FROM FRONT DRIVER AND PASSENGER SEAT AREA. PROBLEM HAS BEEN ADDRESSED ONCE WITH DEALERSHIP AND HAS WAS NOT CORRECTED. TAKING VEHICLE BACK IN FOR SECOND ATTEMPT.*AK
Jul 09, 2004
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VISIBILITY,EQUIPMENT
1 complaint
CONSUMER DISAPPOINTED WITH HER PROBLEMATIC, UNRELIABLE AND POTENTIALLY UNSAFE VEHICLE. *PH THE WINDOW SEALS SCRATCHED THE GLASS TINT. THE RADIO RECEPTION WAS POOR AND THE KEYLESS ENTRY SYSTEM ONLY WORKED AT CLOSE RANGE. THE TECHNICIAN INDICATED THAT THE TINT WAS LIKELY THE CAUSE OF THE POOR RECEPTION AND INABILITY TO USE THE ENTRY SYSTEM AT FURTHER DISTANCES. THE DEALER INSTALLED SCRAPER SEALS TO ALLEVIATE THE SCRATCHING. THE VEHICLE SHUT OFF FIVE TIMES IN A 45 MIN PERIOD AND ALL THE SERVICE LIGHTS ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TOT HE DEALER WHO DETERMINED THAT A CYLINDER HAD MISFIRED AND WATER WAS IN THE SPARK PLUGS. THE DEALER REPLACED HE CYLINDER HEAD AND ALL VALVES. THE BAS, ESP AND ABS LIGHT ILLUMINATED WHILE DRIVING. THERE WAS A LACK OF AIRFLOW POWER WHEN THE A/C WAS USED. THE VEHICLE HESITATED WHEN ACCELERATING. THERE WAS A STRONG MILDEW ODOR COMING THROUGH THE VENTS. CD SKIPPED WHEN TURNING CORNERS. A RATTLING NOISE COULD BE HEARD FROM THE ENGINE WHILE THE A/C WAS ON. *NM
Mar 31, 2004
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
1 complaint
THE FUEL GAUGE FAILED TO FUNCTION. IT DIDN'T REGISTER THE CORRECT GAS LEVEL IN THE TANK. THE DIGITAL CONSOLE LIGHT MALFUNCTIONED. IT WOULD EITHER NOT ILLUMINATE WHEN THE VEHICLE WAS STARTED OR WHEN ILLUMINATED IT WILL SUDDENLY GO OUT. THE VEHICLE HESITATED UPON ACCELERATION WHEN DRIVEN FOR LONG DISTANCES. *NLM
Oct 03, 2003
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,POWER TRAIN,EQUIPMENT
1 complaint
VEHILE IS AN AUTOMATIC. VEHICLE "JERKS" HARD WHEN LIGHTLY APPLYING GAS. THIS CAN BE COMPARED TO STARTING IN FIRST GEAR (MANUAL TRANSMISSION) WHEN NOT FULLY DEPRESSING THE CORRECT COMBINATION OF GAS AND CLUTCH. THIS HAPPENS WHEN TRAVELING FROM A DEAD STOP AT A TRAFFIC LIGHT OR PULLING INTO A PARKING SPACE. HAVE HAD SEVERAL NEAR MISSES IN HITTING OTHER VEHICLES.*AK
Aug 06, 2003
STEERING
1 complaint
THE POWER STEERING WAS TIGHT AND IT WAS DIFFICULT TO CONTROL THE STEERING WHEEL. *JB *TT
Jun 09, 2003
Frequently Asked Questions
How many problems does the 2003 MERCEDES-BENZ C-Class have?
The 2003 MERCEDES-BENZ C-Class currently has 105 owner-reported complaints according to NHTSA database. These complaints are organized by component to help identify common issues.
What are the most common problems with 2003 MERCEDES-BENZ C-Class?
The most common problems reported for the 2003 MERCEDES-BENZ C-Class are organized by component above. Each component section shows owner-reported issues, crash reports, and fire incidents to help identify patterns and problem areas.
Where does this 2003 MERCEDES-BENZ C-Class problem data come from?
All problem and complaint data for the 2003 MERCEDES-BENZ C-Class comes directly from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) database. These are real complaints submitted by actual vehicle owners.
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