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Mercedes-Benz C-Class: Suspension Modifications

Shocks? Springs? Sway bars? Thankfully, the w204's significant following ensures it has a decent amount of aftermarket parts available. Unlike some Mercedes, the w204 is fairly nimble and will handle very well if given a bit of attention. Remember, this is the model which was chosen as the DTM race car of the late 2000's.

By Thomas Parry - June 15, 2015

This article applies to the Mercedes-Benz C-Class w204 (2007-2014).

With an easily identifiable body shape, the w204 marked Mercedes' entrance into the sports saloon market. While their executive sedans were always fancy enough for the King of England, they never really handled too well, even the AMG models. With too much weight and an excessively long wheelbase, they were somewhat wayward on track. The w204, however, utilized a compact body with minimal overhangs, which makes for a car with a far better ability to rotate mid-corner. In addition, the shorter wheelbase and extensive range of engine options made this an ideal car for track work. But unless you happen to own a C63 AMG, you might be disappointed by the inherently soft and supple suspension.

Figure 1. Even with mild modification to the suspension, the w204 looks sporty.

Coilovers, quite simply, are a great way to reduce the bounciness and excessive rebound that are seen with most stock Mercedes. If you want a car that hugs corners and is responsive to your steering wheel inputs, coilovers are a great investment. From there, you have fine tuning options in the form of swaybars and camber adjustment kits. The swaybar (anti-roll bars) attach between the front and rear shocks to reduce body lean, as well as to help keep the wheels in better contact with the ground. Camber adjustment kits, or aftermarket control arms, adjust the inward/outward tilt of the wheels known as camber. This is one of the values included in a wheel alignment. Generally speaking, you want to dial in additional negative camber to the axle that needs more tire grip. If the car seems to push in corners or not want to turn in readily, you would increase the negative camber of the front wheels to help them bite more. Conversely, if you want additional stability while cornering, adding more negative camber to the rear wheels will generally help in keeping the car planted.

KW V3 Coilovers

DIY Cost – $1,800 for the cost of parts

Professional Cost – $2,200+ for parts and labor

Skill Level – Easy; can be done with hand tools and rented spring compressors. Budget a few hours to complete.

KW makes for some pricey but versatile and enjoyable coilovers, which offers height adjustment, rebound adjustment, 14 levels of compression damping and a comfortable ride. Expensive, yes, but you want the best for your Mercedes. If you feel like taking your car to the track, enjoying spirited driving on mountain roads, and a sense of pleasure at all times when behind the wheel regardless of speed, the KWs are the most competent. Recommended for drivers who want to enjoy their ride.

Eibach Anti-Roll Kit

DIY Cost – $650

Professional Cost – ~$1,000

Skill Level – Moderate; the front sway bars are easy to install, but the rear requires the dropping of the rear subframe, which can take up to three hours of a professional's time.

Thicker sway bars tighten up the axle, which they're fitted to, and this can significantly alter the handling of the car in several ways. For instance, since Mercedes tend to be built on the soft side, they have a propensity to understeer. By tightening up the rear end, one can help mitigate some of this handling imbalance. Conversely, by adding a thicker front swaybar, the steering becomes more sensitive and responsive. According to some who have installed this bar only at the front, the inherent characteristics don't worsen. Recommended for drivers who want to alter the handling.

RENNtech Front Camber Kit

DIY Cost – $1,250

Professional Cost – $1,500

Skill Level – Moderate; the removal of the lower control arm bushings require some dexterity and precision, but it isn't over the head of the astute amateur.

Camber kits are necessary once that w204 has been lowered, due to the resulting negative camber of the lowered static ride height. If you're planning to utilize your ride on both the street and the track, having control of your camber angles is necessary. These modified bushings allow for adjustment within the new suspension geometry. Recommended for drivers who will drive on the street as well as the track.

Pro Tip

Keeping you camber optimized for whatever circumstances you drive your car in will save you money by avoiding prematurely-worn tires. Consider contacting a performance/race shop who specializes in suspension setup to get the most out of your investment.

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