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Mercedes-Benz C-Class: Common Problems, Recalls, and Service Bulletins

The newly introduced Mercedes-Benz C-Class offers an impressive mix of performance and luxury. As with many cars, the kinks haven't been completely worked out yet. Here's a closer look at the common problem areas reported by w205 owners.

By Kate Halse - April 27, 2015
Contributors: konigstiger

This article applies to the Mercedes-Benz C-Class C300/C400 w205 (2014-Present).

The Mercedes-Benz C-Class isn't the cheapest car on the road. As with most luxury cars, you'll want to avoid the typically high repair costs as long as possible. For the most part, the new C-Class has enjoyed average to slightly above average reliability ratings. However, a few issues have cropped up since the car was introduced to the public in 2014. Read on to see the greatest areas of concern for the w205 latest generation C-Class.

Common Problems and Recalls

Steering Coupling Interlocking Mechanism

Roughly 11,000 of the 2015 C-Class sedans have been recalled over a steering coupling interlock mechanism. The problem—resulting from a production error—causes issues like squeaky and hard-to-turn steering wheels. If you own a 2015 C-Class, you can expect a notification from Mercedes-Benz. Your local dealership will then repair the vehicle for free. If you're concerned about the recall or want to know more information, Mercedes-Benz suggests calling the company (800-367-6372) for additional info. The recall number is 2014090008.

Figure 1. Several reported 2015 models have been recalled for faulty steering mechanism.

Bleeding Seats

A growing problem among late model C-Class owners is bleeding seats. It appears that the fault lies within a plasticizer designed to soften the car's MBTex seat material. At least one owner reports that the issue often occurs after a period of very cold, followed by very warm temperatures. The "bleed" in the seats is due to an additive that leaks out of the fabric. At first, it looks like a shiny spray coating the seat, but the material ultimately hardens after cooling down.

Figure 2. Vinyl MBTex bleeding seats in a 2015 C-Class.

Water Leaks

A slightly less reported problem is water leaks, especially in the front of the car. Most owners who experience this issue notice it mostly after a rain storm or car wash. Some owners have noted leaks on all four door panels, and the floor's carpets. Affected owners are currently in the process of finding an explanation for the problem.

Figure 3. C-Class door panel water leaks.

Scheduled Maintenance

General C-Class maintenance information prompts owners to change the oil every 3,000 miles. However, many owners find this to be a bit excessive, except during the break-in period when the car will generally consume more oil. Mercedes-Benz recommends changing the oil every 10,000 miles or one year, whichever comes first. The air filters should be replaced every 40,000 miles or four years. Fuel filters should be replaced every 150,000 miles or 15 years. Spark plugs are often replaced every 60,000 miles or six years.

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