2016 Mercedes-benz C300 problems

General information about Mercedes-benz-C300
Overview of popular issues
Recalls list

The Mercedes-Benz C-Class is a series of compact executive cars produced by Mercedes-Benz Group AG. Introduced in 1993 as a replacement for the 190 (W201) range, the C-Class was the smallest model in the marque's line-up until the W168 A-Class arrived in 1997. The C-Class has been available with a "4MATIC" four-wheel drive option since 2002. The third generation (W204) was launched in 2007 while the current W206 generation was launched in 2021.

Initially available in sedan and a station wagon configurations, a fastback coupé (SportCoupé) variant followed and was later renamed to Mercedes-Benz CLC-Class. It remained in production until 2011 when a new W204 C-Class coupé replaced it for the 2012 model year.

First generation (W202; 1993)

In October 1986, three years into Mercedes-Benz 190 (W201)'s production run, work began on a successor. Design work began in 1987, with the final design by Murat Günak selected in 1989 and the production design by Olivier Boulay delayed in January 1990, finally being patented on 19 December 1990. Rough prototypes went into testing in 1989, with first production design prototypes commencing trial in 1990. In May 1993, the first generation W202 C-Class was introduced as a replacement for the 190. The first C-Class (W202) sedan was manufactured on 1 June 1993. The C-Class sedan was the company's entry-level model up until 1997 when Mercedes launched the A-Class. Styling themes were carried over from the previous W201 series, but the new series had a smoother and rounder design than the last generation of compact Mercedes, with styling cues from the W124 E-Class (short, high trunk and taller tail lights), W140 S-Class (front end), and R129 SL-Class (headlights).

During the 1996 and 1997 Formula 1 season, the C36 AMG served as the sport's Safety Car.

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Common 2016 Mercedes-benz C300 problems

The Mercedes-Benz C300 is a popular luxury vehicle, but like any car, it has its share of common problems. Here are some issues that C300 owners have reported, based on search results:

Engine and Transmission Issues: Some C300 owners have reported issues with the engine and transmission, including stalling, shaking, and difficulty shifting gears. These problems can be caused by various factors, such as faulty sensors, worn-out clutch components, or software glitches. In some cases, these issues may require expensive repairs or replacement parts.
Electrical Problems: The C300 is known for having electrical issues, including malfunctioning lights, windows, and infotainment systems. Some owners have reported that their car's electrical system can drain the battery quickly, leading to unexpected breakdowns. These issues can be challenging to diagnose and may require specialized tools and expertise to fix.
Suspension and Steering Issues: Some C300 owners have reported issues with the suspension and steering systems, including excessive noise, vibration, and poor handling. These problems can be caused by worn-out bushings, bearings, or other components. In some cases, these issues may require extensive repairs or replacement parts.
Interior and Exterior Trim Issues: The C300's interior and exterior trim can be prone to wear and tear, including loose panels, squeaky noises, and rattles. These issues can be caused by various factors, such as poor quality materials, improper installation, or wear and tear from regular use.
Braking System Issues: Some C300 owners have reported issues with the braking system, including soft or spongy pedals, pulsating brakes, and excessive noise. These problems can be caused by various factors, such as worn-out brake pads, warped rotors, or leaking brake lines.

It's important to note that not all C300s will experience these issues, and many owners report having positive experiences with their cars. However, these common problems are worth considering when purchasing a used C300, especially if the car has high mileage or a history of repairs. It's also essential to perform a thorough inspection of the car before purchasing, including checking the engine and transmission, brakes, suspension, electrical system, and interior and exterior trim.

What is the common problem with Mercedes C300?

Mercedes-Benz C 300 Power Steering Malfunction

Over time, this operation can get damaged due to power steering fluid leaks and power steering belt damage. The most common issues to look for when diagnosing a power steering malfunction in your C 300 are: Power Steering Fluid Leaks. Noises When Turning the Steering Wheel.

Is Mercedes C-Class 2016 reliable?

Reliability Survey have found the Mercedes C-Class to be mostly reliable, maintaining its dependability over several years. However, some owners reported faults, notably with exhaust gas sensors failing, particularly in cars with less than 50,000 miles, which could lead to costly repairs.

How many miles can a 2016 Mercedes C300 last?

150,000-200,000 mile

The Mercedes C-Class is considered to have the shortest lifespan of any Mercedes model, usually hovering closer to the 150,000-200,000 mile range. On the other hand, a Mercedes Benz E-Class can have a long lifespan, edging closer and even past the 250,000 mile range.

Are Mercedes C300 expensive to fix?

What Are the Maintenance Costs for a Mercedes-Benz C 300? According to Edmunds True Cost to Own, a Mercedes-Benz C-Class costs roughly $7,786 in maintenance over a five-year period; here we are focusing on C 300 maintenance costs specifically. Repairs total in at about $3,007—also over a five-year period.

2016 Mercedes-benz C300 complaints

The NHTSA has received 0 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2016 Mercedes-benz C300.

You can leave your car complaint via the special form below.

2016 Mercedes-benz C300 recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 13 recalls for different components of the 2016 Mercedes-benz C300.

2023-12-15

Manufacturer: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC
Components: STRUCTURE:BODY:ROOF AND PILLARS
Summary: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2014-2020 C-Class, CLA, GLA, S-Class, GLC, and GLE vehicles. Please refer to MBUSA's recall report for specific vehicle details. The front roof panel located between the windshield and the panoramic sunroof may not have been bonded correctly to the vehicle during a prior repair, allowing the front panel to detach from the vehicle.
Consequence: A detached roof panel can become a road hazard, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the front panel, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on August 2, 2024. Owner notification letters will be mailed in phases, on, March 22,2024, and August 2, 2024. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. This recall is an expansion of NHTSA recall number 21V-197.

2021-12-13

Manufacturer: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC
Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:FUEL INJECTION SYSTEM:FUEL RAIL
Summary: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2019 AMG G63, C300, E300, G550, AMG GT63, AMG GT53, 2019-2020 A220, GLA250, GLC300, 2016 C300, 2020 AMG A35, AMG C43, AMG C63, CLA250, E350, E450, GLB250, GLE450, GLS450, GLS580, S560, and SL550 vehicles equipped with a gasoline engine. During the manufacturing process, particles may have been trapped between the fuel rail and injectors, which can cause a fuel leak.
Consequence: A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source, such as hot engine or exhaust components, can increase the risk of a fire.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the fuel rail and fuel injectors, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 22, 2022. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for the recall is 2022030003.

2021-03-19

Manufacturer: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC
Components: STRUCTURE:BODY:ROOF AND PILLARS
Summary: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2017-2020 C300 Coupe, C43 Coupe AMG, C43 AMG, 2015-2020 C300, GLA250, 2016-2018 C350e, CLA45 Coupe AMG, 2015 C400, S65 AMG, 2015-2019 C63 AMG, 2016 C450, 2015-2016 GLA45 AMG, S600, 2016-2020 GLC300, 2017-2019 GLC43 AMG, GLE43 Coupe AMG, 2014-2019 CLA250 Coupe, 2014-2015 CLA45 AMG, 2018 GLC63 AMG, 2014-2017 S550, 2018-2020 S450, 2016-2019 GLE63 Coupe AMG, 2016 GLE450 Coupe, 2014-2020 S63 AMG, 2018-2019 S560, and 2019 GLC350e vehicles equipped with a panoramic sunroof. The front roof panel located between the windshield and the panoramic sunroof may not have been bonded correctly to the vehicle during a prior repair.
Consequence: The adhesive bonding of the front panel might deteriorate, possibly causing the front panel to detach from the vehicle and become a road hazard, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Mercedes-Benz dealer will remove the bonded panel and will install a new front panel by following the detailed repair instructions and using the approved primer, cleaner and adhesive, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on September 3, 2021 and October 26, 2021. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372.

2021-02-05

Manufacturer: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC
Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE
Summary: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2016 - 2021 CLA-Class, GLA-Class, GLE-Class, GLS-Class, SLC-Class, A-Class, GT-Class, C-Class, E-Class, S-Class, CLS-Class, SL-Class, B-Class, GLB-Class, GLC-Class, and G-Class vehicles. Please refer to the Part 573 report for specific vehicle model details. The software design of the communication module may fail to communicate the correct vehicle location for the emergency call system (eCall) in the event of a crash.
Consequence: Failure of the eCall system may result in emergency responders being dispatched to the wrong location, increasing the risk of injury following a crash.
Remedy: MBUSA will notify owners, and the communication module software will be updated by a dealer, or through an over-the-air (OTA) update, free of charge. The recall began March 12, 2021. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-877-762-8267. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2021020025.

2019-11-01

Manufacturer: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC.
Components: COMMUNICATION
Summary: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC. (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2013-2017 vehicles due to a software fault that may cause the date and time for the emergency call system (eCall) to differ from the actual date and time, potentially relaying an inaccurate vehicle location. For a full list of the affected models visit: https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/rcl/2019/RMISC-19V787-4620.pdf
Consequence: An inaccurate vehicle location may delay emergency responders, increasing the risk of injury.
Remedy: MBUSA has initiated an Over the Air (OTA) remote update. MBUSA will also notify owners, and dealers will check software for a successful OTA or update the communication module software as needed, free of charge. The recall began December 23, 2019. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2019120008.

2018-11-29

Manufacturer: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC.
Components: STEERING:RACK AND PINION:RACK
Summary: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2015-2016 Mercedes Benz C300, 2017-2019 C300 Cabrio, C300 Coupe, C63 Cabrio, 2015 C63S AMG, 2018-2019 C300, C350e, C63 AMG, C63S AMG Cabrio, 2018 C63 AMG Cabrio, C63 AMG Coupe, C63S AMG, C63S AMG Coupe, E300, E400 Cabrio, E400 Coupe, 2019 CLS450, E450 Cabrio, and E450 Coupe rear-wheel drive vehicles. A locknut in the steering rack may break under high load, possibly causing the steering to become stuck in one position.
Consequence: A car that cannot be properly steered has an increased risk of a crash.
Remedy: MBUSA will notify owners, and dealers will replace the steering rack, free of charge. The recall began August 23, 2019. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2019080012.

2017-10-06

Manufacturer: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC.
Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL
Summary: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC. (MBUSA) is recalling these vehicles: 2014-2018 CLA250, CLA250 4Matic, CLA45 AMG 4Matic, 2015-2018 GLA250, GLA250 4Matic, GLA45 AMG 4Matic, C300 4Matic, C63S AMG, 2012-2014 C250, C350, C300 4Matic, E550 4Matic, 2013-2014 C63 AMG, 2012-2015 C250 Coupe, C350 Coupe, C63 AMG Coupe, 2013-2015 C350 4Matic Coupe, GLK250 4Matic BlueTec, GLK350, GLK350 4Matic, 2016-2017 C350e, C43 AMG, 2015 C400 4Matic, 2016-2018 C63 AMG, GLC300, GLC300 4Matic, 2017-2018 C300 Coupe, C300 4Matic Coupe, C43 AMG, C63 AMG Coupe, C63S AMG Coupe, C300 Cabriolet, C300 4Matic Cabriolet, C43 AMG Cabriolet, C63 AMG Cabriolet, C63S AMG Cabriolet, GLC300 4Matic Coupe, GLC43 AMG, GLC43 AMG Coupe, 2014 E350 Coupe, E350 4Matic Coupe, E350 Cabriolet, E400 Hybrid, 2015-2017 E400 Coupe, E400 4Matic Coupe, E400 Cabriolet, 2014-2017 E550 Coupe, E550 Cabriolet, B250e, 2014-2016 E250 BlueTec, E63 AMG 4Matic Wagon, 2012-2013 E350 BlueTec, 2012-2016 E350, E350 4Matic, 2015-2016 E400, E400 4Matic, 2012 E63 AMG, 2014-2015 E250 4Matic BlueTec, 2013-2016 E350 Wagon, 2017 GLC300d 4Matic, and 2018 GLC350e 4Matic. The driver's air bag may unexpectedly deploy due to insufficient grounding of the steering components if an electrostatic discharge occurs and the air bag clockspring is broken.
Consequence: If the driver air bag inadvertently deploys, it can increase the risk of injury and a crash.
Remedy: MBUSA will notify owners, and dealers will add sufficient grounding to the steering components, free of charge. The recall began in December 6, 2017. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-877-496-3691.

2017-04-11

Manufacturer: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC.
Components: STEERING:ELECTRIC POWER ASSIST SYSTEM
Summary: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC. (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2016-2017 C300 vehicles. The electrical contacts for the power steering electric motor may not have been properly welded, possibly resulting in a loss of electrical contact.
Consequence: A loss of electrical contact will cause the electric power steering assist to deactivate, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: MBUSA will notify owners, and dealers will replace the electric power steering rack, free of charge. The recall began June 2017. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372.

2017-03-14

Manufacturer: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC.
Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE
Summary: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2016 AMG GT-S, GLC300, CLA250 and GLE300d 4Matic vehicles, 2013 C250, E350 BlueTec and G63 AMG vehicles, 2008-2014 C300 vehicles, 2013-2014 C300 4Matic and ML350 4Matic vehicles, 2009 C350 vehicles, 2014 CLS550, E350 4Matic, E350 Coupe 4Matic, E350 Wagon 4Matic, GLK350 and SL550 vehicles, 2012 CLS550 4Matic vehicles, 2012-2016 E350 vehicles, 2016-2017 GL450 4Matic vehicles, 2012-2014 ML350 4Matic BlueTec vehicles, 2015 S550, S550 4Matic and C300 4Matic Sedan vehicles, 2015-2016 C300 Sedan vehicles, and 2017 SL63 AMG vehicles. Various control units on these vehicles may have been updated with incorrect software, potentially affecting the correct deployment of the air bags in the event of a crash.
Consequence: If the air bags do not deploy as intended in the event of a crash, there would be an increased risk of injury in the event of a crash.
Remedy: MBUSA will notify owners, and dealers will update software in the affected control units, free of charge. The recall began April 21, 2017. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372.

2017-02-23

Manufacturer: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC.
Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:STARTER ASSEMBLY
Summary: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC. (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2015-2017 C300 4Matic, C300, CLA250, CLA250 4Matic and CLA45 AMG vehicles, 2017 C300 4Matic Cabrio, C300 4Matic Coupe, C300 Cabrio, C300 Coupe, E300, E300 4Matic, E400 4Matic Wagon, E43 AMG 4Matic, GLA250, GLA250 4Matic and GLC300 4Matic Coupe vehicles and 2016 C350e and GLC300 vehicles and 2016-2017 C450 4Matic AMG Sport and GLC300 4Matic vehicles. In the event that the engine or transmission cannot turn over, the starting current limiter may overheat from the repeated attempts of the starter motor attempting to start the vehicle.
Consequence: If the starting current limiter overheats, the surrounding components can melt, increasing the risk of a fire.
Remedy: MBUSA will notify owners, and dealers will install an additional fuse in the electrical line to the starter, free of charge. The recall began August 31, 2017. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2017080002.

2016-08-16

Manufacturer: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC.
Components: ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
Summary: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain model year 2016 GLC 300 SUV, GLC 300 4Matic SUV, C300 Sedan and C300 4Matic vehicles manufactured February 8, 2016, to May 18, 2016. The affected vehicles may be equipped with an Electronic Stability Program (ESP) control unit that may have been damaged before being installed.
Consequence: A damaged ESP control unit may inadvertently activate the stability control altering the vehicle's path. Additionally, the electronic parking brake may not function. Either condition may increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy: MBUSA will notify owners, and dealers will replace the ESP Hydraulic control units, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin in October 2016. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372.

2016-06-15

Manufacturer: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC.
Components: STEERING:ELECTRIC POWER ASSIST SYSTEM
Summary: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain model year 2016 C300 4Matic vehicles manufactured November 4, 2015, to March 1, 2016. In the affected vehicles, the electric power steering assist system may shutdown due to a software error.
Consequence: If the vehicle experiences a loss of power steering assist, extra steering effort will be required at lower speeds, increasing the risk of a vehicle crash.
Remedy: MBUSA will notify owners, and dealers will update the software for the electric power steering control unit, free of charge. The recall began January 2017. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372.

2016-02-16

Manufacturer: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC.
Components: VISIBILITY:SUN/MOON ROOF ASSEMBLY
Summary: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain model year 2016 C300 vehicles manufactured December 11, 2015, to December 23, 2015, C300 4Matic vehicles manufactured December 12, 2015, to December 29, 2015, and C450 AMG 4Matic vehicles manufactured December 12, 2015, to December 22, 2015. The affected vehicles may be equipped with a panoramic sunroof that may not be properly bonded, allowing the glass to detach and fall from the vehicle during operation.
Consequence: If the panoramic glass detaches during vehicle operation, it can increase the risk of injury or crash.
Remedy: MBUSA will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the bonding of the rear sunroof glass panel, replacing it as necessary, free of charge. The recall began on April 12, 2016. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372.

Additional sources

More sources of information about 2016 Mercedes-benz C300 problems:

2016 Mercedes C300 reliability? : r/mercedes_benz

https://www.reddit.com/r/mercedes_benz/comments/566chz/2016_mercedes_c300_reliability/

Oct 6, 2016 ... As far as the E-Class goes, the only issues it has ever had are: Around the time we bought it, it had an ESP System failure caused by a broken ...

Is buying a used 2016 C300 a good idea? - MBWorld.org Forums

https://mbworld.org/forums/c-class-w205/854665-buying-used-2016-c300-good-idea.html

Nov 29, 2022 ... Known problems I didn't experience with my 2016 W205 but others have: ... 2016 Mercedes Benz C300 w/ 55,000 miles ... Mercedes c300 2019 - common ...

2016 Mercedes-Benz C300 Engine Problems | CarComplaints.com

https://www.carcomplaints.com/Mercedes-Benz/C300/2016/engine/engine.shtml

Engine code P052E has come on at 60k miles. After researching the problems this is a very common problem with the 2016 c300 that mercedes refuses to address. To ...

2016 Mercedes-Benz C-Class Problems | Kelley Blue Book

https://www.kbb.com/mercedes-benz/c-class/2016/common-problems/

How reliable is the 2016 Mercedes-Benz C-Class? See the most common repairs performed and learn if your vehicle is at risk for major repairs in the next 12 ...