There are no safety recalls for the 2003 Mercedes-Benz C Class, but owners have filed 9 complaints with NHTSA.
2003 Mercedes-Benz C Class problems reported by owners
| Problem area | Reports | |
|---|
| Electrical System | 3 | |
| Engine and Engine Cooling | 2 | |
| Unknown or Other | 1 | |
| Power Train | 1 | |
| Equipment | 1 | |
| Vehicle Speed Control | 1 | |
| Fuel System, Other | 1 | |
| Air Bags | 1 | |
| Seat Belts | 1 | |
Most reported parts
- Power Train › Driveline — 1
- Electrical System › Alternator/Generator/Regulator — 1
- Equipment › Appliance › Air Conditioner — 1
- Vehicle Speed Control › Accelerator Pedal — 1
- Engine and Engine Cooling › Exhaust System — 1
- Engine and Engine Cooling › Cooling System — 1
Typical mileage at the time of the problem: 32,073 miles (median of owner reports).
Problems that are not covered by a recall are paid repairs; labor rates follow local mechanic pay — see what auto mechanics earn in each state.
Recent 2003 Mercedes-Benz C Class complaints
Owner reports filed with NHTSA, as written (personal details removed). Complaints are not verified by NHTSA.
Engine and Engine Cooling · at 70,000 miles · reported Jul 11, 2011
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 the consumer has traded the…
Air Bags · at 20,000 miles · reported Jun 1, 2011
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
Fuel System, Other · reported Mar 10, 2009
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.
Electrical System · at 70,003 miles · reported Dec 29, 2008
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.
Vehicle Speed Control · at 77 miles · reported Aug 7, 2007
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.
Frequently asked questions
Does the 2003 Mercedes-Benz C Class have any recalls?
No. NHTSA has no safety recalls for the 2003 Mercedes-Benz C Class as of this update. Check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls for the latest status.
What is the most common problem with the 2003 Mercedes-Benz C Class?
Owners report electrical system problems most often (3 reports), followed by engine and engine cooling (2). The typical mileage when problems were reported is about 32,073 miles.
Are Mercedes-Benz recall repairs free?
Yes. Safety recall repairs are free at authorized Mercedes-Benz dealers, whether you are the first owner or bought the car used.