2013 Mercedes-Benz C250

Above average

Owners filed 278 complaints about this vehicle with federal regulators, most often about the airbags. It has been recalled 7 times.

When it fails
020k40k60k90k120k200k
60,850 milesMedian miles at failure

109 complaints record an odometer reading. Failures cluster around 60,000–75,000 miles.

Most common 2013 Mercedes-Benz C250 problems

160 of the 278 complaints (58%) are about the airbags.

ComponentReportsCrashesFiresInjuries
Air Bags · airbags160
11213
Engine39
012
Fuel/Propulsion System · fuel and propulsion system14
000
Unknown or Other12
000
Structure › Body · body and frame9
010
Steering8
001
Power Train · transmission6
000
Electrical System6
010
Suspension4
000
Vehicle Speed Control · throttle and acceleration2
000

7 safety recalls

Part 573 reports
Air Bags › Frontal21V638000
Filed Aug 13, 2021205 vehiclesMercedes-Benz USA, LLC

Defect. Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2015-2016 E400 Coupe, 2012-2015 C250 Coupe, C350 Coupe, C63 AMG Coupe, 2011-2014 E350 Coupe, and 2012-2014 E350 Cabrio vehicles. An incorrect front passenger air bag may have been installed during a prior repair.

Risk. An incorrect air bag may not function properly in a crash, increasing the risk of injury.

Remedy. Dealers will replace the front passenger air bag on the affected vehicles, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on September 10, 2021. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372.

Communication19V787000
Filed Nov 1, 201924,226 vehiclesMercedes-Benz USA, LLC.

Defect. 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

Risk. 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.

Air Bags › Frontal › Passenger Side › Inflator Module19V010000
Filed Jan 9, 2019288,779 vehiclesMercedes-Benz USA, LLC.

Defect. Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2014 C250, C300 4Matic, C350, C63 AMG, E350 4Matic Coupe, E350 Cabrio, E350 Coupe, SLS AMG Cabrio, SLS AMG Coupe, 2014-2015 C250 Coupe, C350 4Matic Coupe, C350 Coupe, C63 AMG Coupe, GLK 350, GLK250 BlueTec 4Matic, GLK350 RWD, 2015-2017 E400 4Matic Coupe, E400 Cabrio, E400 Coupe, 2014-2017 E550 Cabrio, and 2014-2016 E550 Coupe vehicles sold, or ever registered, in the states of AL, CA, FL, GA, HI, LA, MS, SC, TX, PR, AS, GU, the MP, and VI or "Zone A." Additionally, MBUSA is recalling certain 2012-2014 C250, E350 4Matic Coupe, SLS AMG Cabrio, 2012-2015 C250 Coupe, C350 4Matic Coupe, C350 Coupe, C63 AMG Coupe, 2011 C300, 2011-2014 C300 4Matic, C350, C63 AMG, E350 Cabrio, E350 Coupe, SLS AMG Coupe, 2015-2016 E400 4Matic Coupe, E400 Cabrio, E400 Coupe, 2011-2016 E550 Cabrio, E550 Coupe, 2011-2015 GLK350 4Matic, GLK350 RWD, and 2013-2015 GLK250 BlueTec 4Matic vehicles ever registered in the states of AZ, AR, DE, DC, IL, IN, KS, KY, MD, MO, NE, NV, NJ, NM, NC, OH, OK, PA, TN, VA, and WV or "Zone B." MBUSA is also recalling certain 2012-2014 C250, E350 4Matic Coupe, SLS AMG Cabrio 2012-2015 C250 Coupe, C350 4Matic Coupe, C350 Coupe, C63 AMG Coupe, 2010-2011 C300, 2010-2014 C300 4Matic, C350, C63 AMG, E350 Coupe, 2011-2014 E350 Cabrio, SLS AMG Coupe, 2015-2016 E400 4Matic Coupe, E400 Cabrio, E400 Coupe, 2016-2017 E550 Cabrio, 2010-2016 E550 Coupe, 2010-2015 GLK350 4Matic, GLK350 RWD, and 2013-2015 GLK250 BlueTec 4Matic vehicles ever registered in the states of AK, CO, CT, ID, IA, ME, MA, MI, MN, MO, NH, NY, ND, OR, RI, SD, UT, VT, WA, WI and WY or "Zone C." These vehicles are equipped with air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules that may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, temperature and temperature cycling.

Risk. An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the passenger or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.

Remedy. MBUSA will notify owners, and dealers will replace the passenger frontal air bag module, free of charge. The recall began March 29, 2019. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372.

Air Bags › Frontal › Passenger Side › Inflator Module18V043000
Filed Jan 10, 2018132,167 vehiclesMercedes-Benz USA, LLC.

Defect. Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2013 C250, C250 Coupe, C350 Coupe 4Matic, C300 4Matic, C350, C350 Coupe, C63 AMG, C63 Coupe, E350 Cabrio, E350 Coupe, E550 Cabrio, E350 Coupe 4Matic, E550 Coupe, GLK350 4Matic, GLK250 Bluetec 4Matic, GLK350, SLS Coupe, SLS AMG GT Coupe, and SLS Roadster vehicles sold, or ever registered, in the states of Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands or "Zone A." Additionally, MBUSA is recalling certain 2010 C300, C300 4Matic, C63 AMG, E350 Coupe, E550 Coupe, GLK350, and GLK350 4Matic vehicles ever registered in the states of Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia or "Zone B." MBUSA is also recalling certain 2009 C300, C300 4Matic, C63 AMG, and C350 vehicles ever registered in the states of AK, CO, CT, ID, IA, ME, MA, MI, MN, MO, NH, NY, ND, OR, RI, SD, UT, VT, WA, WI and WY or "Zone C." In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the passenger frontal air bag, these passenger air bag inflator may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.

Risk. An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.

Remedy. MBUSA will notify owners, and dealers will replace the passenger frontal air bag module, free of charge. Mercedes issued an interim notification to owners on February 23, 2018. A second notice will be mailed when remedy parts are available. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-877-496-3691.

Air Bags › Frontal17V627000
Filed Oct 6, 2017495,290 vehiclesMercedes-Benz USA, LLC.

Defect. 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.

Risk. 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.

Steering17V252000
Filed Apr 12, 2017168 vehiclesMercedes-Benz USA, LLC.

Defect. Mercedes-Benz USA LLC. (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2013-2014 C250, C300 4MATIC, GLK250 4MATIC BLUETEC and GLK350 vehicles, 2013 C250 Coupe, C350, C350 4MATIC Coupe, C350 Coupe and C63 AMG Coupe vehicles, and 2013-2015 GLK350 4MATIC vehicles. The steering coupling connecting bolt may have been insufficiently tightened, possibly resulting in a loss of steering.

Risk. A loss of steering can increase the risk of a crash.

Remedy. MBUSA will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the steering coupling connecting bolt, tightening it as necessary, free of charge. The recall began May 2017. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372.

Electrical System › Software17V177000
Filed Mar 14, 201751 vehiclesMercedes-Benz USA, LLC.

Defect. 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.

Risk. 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.

All 7 campaigns on file, newest first.

What owners reported

Newest filings
Air BagsCrash1 injured
Filed Sep 19, 2026GA

Airbags didn’t deploy during accident, vehicle hit on drivers side, greatly impacted, driver seatbelt was on. All recalls were completed. Impact from other vehicle that hit my vehicle had deployed airbags.

Electrical System
Filed Jun 14, 2026FL

Over the past few weeks Ive had instances where the car has power but wont crank, Ive had the SRS light come on the dash but after it starting it goes away.

Suspension
Filed Jun 9, 2026MO

REAR SUB FRAME RUST NEEDS INSPECTED SUPER CLANKY

Electrical System
Filed Feb 2, 2026CA

ESL emulator is bad. Keeps no crank Steering lock Also sunroof water spouts are not working as they should they do no open to release water.

Engine
Filed Nov 2, 2025CA

The vehicle was represented to me as safe to drive, with no major mechanical issues, and that it would pass emissions after only a simple minor fix. After I took possession, the check engine light came on. The car began running rough and showing hesitation. A scan immediately showed a camshaft position sensor fault, cylinder misfire, lean fuel condition, and oxygen sensor/emissions faults. I was also told by a professional shop that the timing chain may be failing. I was then warned that these problems can cause power loss or engine stalling while driving, and that the vehicle in this condition would likely not pass a legal emissions inspection. I was never told about any of these safety or emissions problems before taking the vehicle. This situation creates a safety risk because sudden loss of engine power or stalling can happen in traffic.

Engine
Filed May 3, 2025CA

News Channel Update | Warranty Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC A Mercedes-Benz AG Company One Mercedes-Benz Drive Sandy Springs, GA 30328 770.705.0600 IMPORTANT EXTENDED WARRANTY INFORMATION Mercedes-Benz AG (“MBAG”), the manufacturer of Mercedes-Benz vehicles, has determined that on certain Model Year (“MY”) 2012-2015 Mercedes-Benz Model 204 and 172 vehicles (C250 and SLK250), the warranty on the camshaft adjuster will be extended from the original 4 years/50,000 miles to 10 years/120,000 miles (whichever occurs first) from the original warranty start date. This camshaft adjuster extended limited warranty applies to all conditions that necessitate the replacement of the camshaft adjuster under the standard warranty terms and conditions. The extended warranty is applicable to the following vehicles: Model Years Sales Designation Engine Type C-Class 2012-2014 C250 M271 C-Class 2012-2015 C250 Coupe M271 SLK-Class 2012-2015 SLK271 Please be advised that all camshaft adjusters being claimed under warranty must have a short test with fault code attached and will be inspected. All camshaft adjusters found to be functioning properly or without proper documentation will be returned and the claim debited in full. The following damage codes and parts kit can only be claimed for the replacement of the camshaft adjuster: Damage Code: 05050 – Camshaft adjustment, intake camshaft Damage Code: 05052 – Camshaft adjustment, exhaust camshaft Parts: A 271 050 21 00 80 – Camshaft adjuster, kit IMPORTANT:

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Apr 21, 2025WA

Hola a todos. hace 3 meses compre un mercedes benz c250 año 2012 en argentina. A eso de tener un mes el auto salí a la ruta. (Acá en argentina es muy normal que las rutas sean de un solo carril y doble mano, por lo que hacer un adelantamiento tiene que ser una maniobra muy precisa). Al querer acelerar mi auto a fondo se me cortó la aceleración bruscamente. Perdió la potencia y me encendió la luz amarilla del check engine. Por suerte pude llegar a pasar. Legué a mi casa sorprendido e investigué en las redes. Me encuentro con que la bomba de alta presion de mi vehículo tiene una falla (aparentemente le pasó a mucha gente) Espero que estas quejas lleguen a las autoridades de mercedes benz y se hagan responsables antes de que esta falla provoque un accidente mortal. ENGLISH TRANSLATION: Hello everyone. Three months ago, I bought a 2012 Mercedes-Benz C250 in Argentina. About a month after I had the car, I hit the road. (Here in Argentina, it's very common for roads to be single-lane, two-way, so overtaking requires very precise maneuvering.) When I tried to accelerate my car fully, the acceleration abruptly cut out. I lost power and the yellow check engine light came on. Luckily, I was able to get through. I arrived home, surprised, and I did some research online. I discovered that my vehicle's high-pressure pump was faulty (apparently, it's happened to a lot of people). I hope these complaints reach the Mercedes-Benz authorities and they take responsibility before this fault caus

Engine
Filed Apr 14, 202575,000 milesMI

The contact owns a 2013 Mercedes-Benz C250. The contact stated while driving approximately 50 MPH, there was an abnormal knocking sound and a metal-on-metal grinding sound coming from the vehicle. The contact slowed down and stopped the vehicle. The contact restarted the vehicle and heard the same abnormal sounds coming from the vehicle. The contact stated that there was no warning light illuminated. The contact had the vehicle towed to a local dealer, where it was diagnosed and determined that the camshaft needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was informed of the failure and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 75,000.

Engine
Filed Apr 2, 2025CA

I was told this from a BENZ dealer. There was a warranty extension on this VIN: [XXX] that ended on 03/02/2023 which, had to do with adjustment units for the camshafts. Nothing we could assist with goodwill on this due to the age of vehicle. This is NOT fair and I’m experimenting this exact process and Mercedes Benz does not want to take responsibility and get this fixed for me. Now my vehicle can not pass a smog test required. Please help INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Jan 27, 2025TX

HIGH pressure fuel pump malfunctions Yes it is available for inspection The car was put in limb mode when at high speed this could have caused an accident with many drivers do to the loss of power Yes it’s been re produced 3 times and others by me No it has not been inspected by a dealer or police or insurance No lamps or symptoms that may be super noticeable, but reduce power and as soon as the high pressure pump fails a check engine light goes off and car has trouble changing gears and accelerating,

Engine and Engine Cooling
Filed Jan 15, 2025GA

The contact owns a 2013 Mercedes-Benz C250. The contact stated while the independent mechanic was performing an oil change on the vehicle, the mechanic informed the contact of a coolant leak. The vehicle was not diagnosed of repaired. The dealer and the manufacturer were not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.

Engine
Filed Jan 10, 202560,000 milesWI

The contact owns a 2013 Mercedes-Benz C250. The contact stated while driving at approximately 40 MPH, the vehicle shuddered and stalled. The failure occurred on several different occasions. The check engine warning light was intermittently illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a dealer however, the diagnosis was pending. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 60,000.

Engine
Filed Nov 20, 202494,328 milesCA

The contact owns a 2013 Mercedes-Benz C250. The contact stated while driving 25 MH, the check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed that the camshaft adjuster had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was being repaired. The dealer was notified of the failure. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that the vehicle was not covered under an Extended Warranty because the 10-year time frame had been exceeded. The failure mileage was approximately 94,328.

Engine
Filed Nov 18, 202440,000 milesCA

The contact owns a 2013 Mercedes-Benz C250. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked, there was an abnormal sound coming from the vehicle. The check engine warning light was intermittently illuminated. The contact was made aware of an unknown recall; however, the VIN was not included. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed that the cam shaft adjusters needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline to report the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 40,000.

Air Bags1 injured
Filed Nov 4, 2024CA

I was driving in a parking lot and suddenly my air bag deployed for no reason I did not hit anyone or get hit for the airbag to deploy. Suffered some bruising on my right forearm and in my left ear I still hear ringing from the airbag deploying.

Air Bags1 injured
Filed Oct 25, 2024100,000 milesCA

The contact owns a 2013 Mercedes-Benz C250. The contact stated that while driving 10 MPH, the front passenger's side air bag unexpectedly deployed with no impact on the vehicle. The air bag warning light was illuminated. The contact parked and then restarted the vehicle before driving to the residence. The contact sustained bruises and scratches on his forearm, but medical attention was not received. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 100,000.

Engine
Filed Aug 2, 2024100,000 milesAZ

The contact owns a 2013 Mercedes-Benz C250. The contact stated while starting the vehicle, there was an abnormal sound coming from the engine. The dealer was notified of the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The contact related the failure to an unknown Extended Warranty Coverage. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and advised the contact there would be no assistance due to the mileage on the vehicle. The failure mileage was approximately 100,000.

Electrical System
Filed Apr 17, 2024CA

My wife and the kids we're stranded for hours because of the ESL systems lock the steering wheel and did not allow the car to start or steering wheel to move. She smelled something and pulled over and turned car off. No lights, no way to charge cell phone because no power to the car at all. My family was stranded because of this seems like it's a very very serious issue with a lot of Mercedes-Benz vehicles. As a consumer Mercedes-Benz is using cheap parts which can cause people to lose their lives if the steering wheel is to lock up while driving the motor burns out inside of the ESL module

Air Bags
Filed Dec 2, 2023CA

The glue that suppose to make sure my windshield is secure is no longer secure. The windshield moves as I am driving. It’s only on the corner of the driver side. Everything else is secured. Also my airbags (passenger and driver). There is a recall but its not showing when I run the Vin # .

Steering
Filed Sep 26, 2023CO

Mercedes has had an issue with the steering lock for years and continue to not fix the issue. My vehicle would not turn on at random times, and this is due to a fault with the steering lock and key. The worst part of the issue, it’s only solved by Mercedes due to security issues and costs $2000. I was locked out of my car for hours, missing a doctors appointment, and if this was during a snow storm or heavy freeze (I live in CO), this is a potential fatal flaw. I also learned they cannot fix my vehicle for months due to high demand and coming from Germany. Looking online this is a continued problem for over a decade of vehicles and this needs to be resolved either by recall, a price adjustment due to this being a Mercedes flaw, or give the capability to certified maintenance locations to do the job for a fraction of the price (I see the price of the part is marginal compared to the upcharge by the dealer.

Engine
Filed Jul 6, 2023TX

CAMSHAFT ADJUSTER breakdown with only 70k miles on engine. Dealership asking for 6k for repair as extended warranty expired last year.

Exterior Lighting
Filed May 17, 2023IL

Rear passenger side brake lights and turn signal stopped working due to ground wire burning out post. Ground wire seems to be to weak and gets overheated. I'm not the only one found this issue on YouTube with many other Mercedes C class vehicles

Unknown or Other
Filed Mar 28, 2023TX

UNKNOWN: Transmission malfunction on the computer for the car. Seems like a sensor problem

Suspension
Filed Feb 24, 2023SC

Car violently shakes

Air Bags
Filed Jan 9, 2023SC

"Front Right Malfunction Service Required." Recently purchased vehicle, dealer performed recalibration before sale (error did not display during test drive or before purchase). 30 minutes after purchase notification popped up, dealer agreed to pay for repair. Took to non-purchasing Mercedes dealer, they were able to reproduce and quoted for $4179. Repair included seat replacement and height adjustment replacement. Purchasing dealer then refused repair The error pops up randomly, with person in passenger seat and without. Afraid to have anyone ride as a passenger, if a wreck occurs the airbag could not deploy.

Structure › Body
Filed Dec 13, 2022VA

Our garage housed C250 4d SDN year 2013 had its service B performed 12-5-22 and revealed rust on Chassis. Was informed that this has been seen frequently on cars of this genre. Was told deterioration could result in chassis breaking and causing an accident. A recall for this issue occurred in Europe...why not here?

Suspension
Filed Oct 15, 2022MD

Rear subframe rusted through. This is a safety issue. The driver side is rusted through but not other. This a design flaw and Mercedes Benz should have recall. Many other people have reported this problem. I have serviced my vehicle via the MB dealership since owning the car. The only owner. No one told about the rust issue for years. I was recently just told recently. This is dangerous and will cause an accident.

Suspension
Filed Oct 5, 2022NC

Rotted subframe rear

Structure › Body
Filed Sep 6, 2022AZ

The interior driver side door handle broke and I was trapped inside my vehicle. Upon checking with the local Mercedes-Benz repair shop, this is a known problem with this type of vehicle and the design of the door handle is prone to this kind of a problem. As of now, the contact has stated that their current solution for the issue is to roll down the window and open the door with the exterior handle.

Air Bags
Filed Aug 23, 2022CA

Per the attached Repair Order 948486 dated May 13, 2020, when I brought in the car to Fletcher Jones in Newport Beach for the airbag recall, I thought both of the Takata airbags were replaced and not just the passenger airbag. In fact, Repair Bill Job A states: “Replace Driver and Front Passenger Airbag”. “No Charge” I did not notice that they only replaced the passenger airbag. I would not have known the driver’s side was not replaced if the airbag warning light did not come on. Please direct Fletcher Jones to finish this repair properly. Per the enclosed photos, my dash display now has an image of the airbag and it says “Front Left Malfunction Service Required”. I am very worried what will happen if we get into an accident. Per the highlighted text attached, on April 14, 2021, a driver reported: “Front drivers air bag malfunction light is illuminated and horn nor any controls on steering wheel work at all.” I checked the horn and the steering wheel controls on our C250 when I read this. I discovered they do not work on our car as well. This drivers report goes on to say: “…repairman states this is a common issue with this car. I believe this is a serious safety issue with this vehicle as the airbag malfunction can possibly cause serious injury to the driver and the horns inability to function prevents the driver from alerting any other drivers if they stray from lane, are backing out of parking space, or distracted at a red traffic signal.” On Repair Order 948486 Fletcher J

Engine2 injured
Filed Aug 12, 2022FL

The components of the engine being the camshaft adjusters, timing guide, timing chain, valves and pistons that all work to deliver power are faulty and have failed literally mid-drive. I was on a busy interstate during rush hour and nearly lost control of the vehicle as it just powered out while driving at 70 mph then forcing a semi to nearly terminate myself and family. The dependability and safety is abruptly ripped out from underneath you. Without even being able to control the vehicle and it coming to an abrupt, unsafe hault. There were no warning signs. The vehicle has since been looked at and informed me that an extended warranty is in place for half of all the parts and labor above.all should be covered and for safety.my nerves are a wreck and without a way to afford an entirely new engine I am left to contend with car payments for an unsafe undrivable vehicle. Since then the dealership recognized my concerns but has since stated that without a modification to the extended warranty or it being made a recall that there is nothing that can be done.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Aug 2, 2022FL

Intermittently the idle will vibrate the car and acceleration will quit and sputter. Very dangerous in many conditions. cannot drive car safely.

Air Bags
Filed Jul 11, 2022CA

2013 MERCEDES BENZ C250. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO TAKTA AIRBAG SAFETY RECALL. THE CONSUMER STATED IT WAS DIFFICULT GETTING IN CONTACT WITH THE DEALER IN ORDER TO HAVE THE RECALL REPAIR COMPLETED. THE CONSUMER REQUESTED TO HAVE THE VEHICLE TOWED OR, PICKED UP BY THE DEALER, DUE TO HAVING MEDICAL ISSUES.

Unknown or Other
Filed Jul 3, 2022CA

The door handle on the driver side stopped opening. I believe it became broken on the inside. Upon researching it I found that this is a recurring problem in many cars of my same make and model. Additionally I took the car to a mechanic to be fixed and apparently the dealerships are keeping the part in stock because this is a common issue. The car will not open from the inside without purchasing an entire new panel to repair it. This seems like a recall issue as a present safety concerns. This cost over $1200 to repair.

Fuel System, Gasoline › Delivery › Fuel Pump
Filed Jun 14, 2022143,775 milesIL

The contact owns a 2013 Mercedes-Benz C250. The contact stated while driving 60-65 MPH, the vehicle stalled inadvertently. There were no warning lights illuminated. The contact was able to restart the vehicle and continued driving. The contact stated that the failure had occurred twice while driving. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed that the high-pressure fuel pump needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 143,775.

Air Bags
Filed May 27, 202279,000 milesNC

The contact owns a 2013 Mercedes-Benz C250. The contact stated while driving approximately 5 MPH, the driver’s side air bags were inadvertently deployed. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure; however, no assistance was provided. The approximate failure mileage was 79,000.

Engine
Filed Mar 24, 2022CA

The camshaft adjuster failed on my vehicle and created start up issues and had to be replaced at 123K miles. While not an immediate safety concern, the camshaft adjuster failure could lead to engine failure and is an inherent issue in this vehicle make and model. This is a flaw in the vehicle and Mercedes did not notify me of any recall or warranty terms.The repair code was confirmed and repaired by an authorized Mercedes dealer for $2800.There were no warning lamps however I experienced engine start up issues. I contacted Mercedes as was advised they would open a case to review potentially partial warranty coverage however did not receive any type of resolution.

Engine
Filed Nov 14, 2021CA

MB have 51 000 miles at 1300 rpm acceleration getting rattling noise, just started two week.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Nov 11, 2021AZ

Over the last week I noticed a strong gas smell outside the car as I walk around in the back I check the gas cap and it seals normally and stronger than the smell that comes out of the gas cap

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Aug 31, 2021CA

High pressure fuel pump failure causes unsafe driving conditions

Unknown or Other
Filed Aug 29, 2021CA

As I sat in my vehicle waiting for the traffic light. I felt a sudden hit on my head. At that moment I was confused, and thought someone had rear ended me. So like anybody would, I pulled over only to find out that the headrest on my 2013 Mercedes Benz C250 had came apart. It seems like the plastic inside tore apart from the springs causing pressure for it to deploy.

Engine
Filed Aug 2, 2021MD

I was told by the Mercedes Benz service center I take my car to that the timing chain and cam adjusters failed. I have a Mercedes Benz 2013 C250, with only 58,000 miles on it. I have my car serviced on time. I was driving my car on the highway, thank God I stopped at a local drugstore and when I tried to turn my car back on, only the lights will come on. It would not start up, and I had to have my car towed to the MB Hunt Valley service center where I get my car serviced. The Service Rep told me I had to have the timing chain, camadjusters, and lower guide rails replaced costing $6000. There is a extended warranty on the camadjusters which took the price down to 3600 which is still pricey. Which makes me wonder shouldn't the timing chaing also be under extended waranty. This type of event should only happen at least after the car reaches 100,000 miles. I have called Mercedes Benz customer service and awaiting for someone to call me back to see if they can assist. Awaiting a response as of 8/2/2021. I called after getting diagnoses which was 7/30/21. I have read numerous other reports of this same exact issue happening to other people. This is a extreme risk and safety matter that needs to be addressed by Mercedes Benz as a recall. Being newer model cars, the timing chain and camshaft adjusters should not fail, and most definitely not fail at 58,000 miles. Please look into this before someone gets hurt.

Steering
Filed Apr 28, 202174,156 milesGA

WHILE PULLING INTO GARAGE, THE STEERING WHEEL LOCKED IN PLACE AND WOULD NOT TURN. THE DEALER DIAGNOSED A FAULTY ESL (ELECTRONIC STEERING LOCK), THE REPAIR WAS COMPLETED AT A COST TO ME OF $1,140.70. MERCEDES BENZ USA REFUSED TO REIMBURSE.

Air Bags
Filed Apr 28, 202167,000 milesFL

DRIVING VEHICLE NORMALLY AND TURN THE WHEEL AND HEAR CLICKING SOUND FROM AROUND STEERING WHEEL. FRONT, DRIVERS AIR BAG MALFUNCTION LIGHT IS ILLUMINATED AND HORN NOR ANY CONTROLS ON STEERING WHEEL WORK AT ALL. ERROR MESSAGE DISPLAYED "FRONT LEFT MALFUNCTION, SERVICE REQUIRED" SYMBOL FOR AIRBAG DISPLAYED. TOOK VEHICLE TO MERCEDES OF PALM BEACH DEALERSHIP AND THEY STATED THEIR WERE NO OPEN RECALLS ON THIS MODEL. I MENTIONED CAMPAIGN 2017120024 (ELEC) CAMPAIGN DESC. 1709P46C62 (ELEC) AND THEY STATE NO OPEN RECALLS ON MY VEHICLE. TOOK VEHICLE TO REPUTABLE ESTABLISHED MERCEDES REPAIR SHOP AND THEY DIAGNOSED THE ISSUE AS "NO COMMUNICATION WITH STEERING CONTROL MODULE" REPAIRMAN STATES THIS IS A COMMON ISSUE WITH THIS CAR. I BELIEVE THIS IS A SERIOUS SAFETY ISSUE WITH THIS VEHICLE AS THE AIRBAG MALFUNCTION CAN POSSIBLY CAUSE SERIOUS INJURY TO THE DRIVER AND THE HORNS INABILITY TO FUNCTION PREVENTS THE DRIVER FROM ALERTING ANY OTHER DRIVERS IF THEY STRAY FROM LANE, ARE BACKING OUT OF PARKING SPACE, OR DISTRACTED AT A RED TRAFFIC SIGNAL.

Seats
Filed Feb 2, 202180,000 milesCA

II WAS DRIVING AND CAR STEERING WHEEL GET STUCK DID NOT MOVE UP AND DOWN AND ALSO FRONT RIGHT SEAT DID NOT MOVE.

Air Bags
Filed Feb 1, 2021GU

I HAVE SEVERAL SAFTEY RECALLS AND PERFORMANCE RECALLS. RIGHT NOW MY CAR IS NOT OPERABLE DUE TO THESE RECALLS. THERE IS NO DEALER ON MY ISLAND. THIS VEHICLE WAS PURCHASED BRAND NEW FROM HAWAII AND SHIPPED TO GUAM. THE DEALER IS REQUESTING US TO SHIP BACK THE VEHICLE TO FIX THESE RECALLS. WHICH WILL COST ME ABOUT 10,000.00 FOR SHIPPING. HOW DO I GO ABOUT THIS.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Dec 31, 202090,000 milesTX

I WAS DRIVING ON THE FREEWAY I10 I WAS DOING 65 MPH I TRY TO PASS A CAR SO I ACCELERATED THE CAR BUT THE CAR WAS NOT GETTING THE POWER AND MY CHECK ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON SO I SAFELY PULL OUT OF THE FREEWAY AND INSPECTED THE CAR WITH A SCANNER AND IT SHOWED A CODE SO I SEARCH IN GOOGLE AND IT APPEARS A FAILURE OF THE HIGH PRESSURE FUEL PUMP, I MANAGED TO TAKE THE CAR TO MY HOUSE DISCONNECTED THE BATTERY AND THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT DISAPPEARED BUT THE RPM'S WHERE IRREGULAR AND THE ACCELERATION WAS FAILING MORE OFTEN. IT APPEARS THAT I'M NOT THE ONLY ONE THAT HAVE HAD THIS PROBLEM WHILE I WAS LOOKING IN GOOGLE AND YOUTUBE MANY PEOPLE HAD THE SAME PROBLEM WHILE TRYING TO ACCELERATE.

Steering
Filed Nov 29, 2020100,000 milesTX

ELV LOCK FAILURE ON THE IN THE STEERING COLUMN, VEHICLE DISABLED

Engine
Filed Nov 12, 202069,000 milesFL

HELLO, I BOUGHT MY CAR FROM LOCAL DEALER, USED WITH 69K MILES. DELIVERED IT WITH CHECK ENGINE LIGHT. DEALER CLAIMED IT WAS LOW WINDSHIELD WASHER FLUID. I TEST DRIVE IT AND TOOK CAR TO MY HOUSE. AFTER A MONTH, I WENT TO MERCEDES BENZ SERVICE STATION WHERE I FOUND OUT THE CAMSHAFT ADJUSTER IS OUT. COSTING ANOTHER $4900. I RESEARCH MORE ON THIS ISSUE; THIS IS A FLAW IN THE MERCEDES M271 ENGINE. AFTER A CERTAIN AMOUNT OF MILEAGE, THE CAMSHAFT AND TIMING CHAIN HAVE BEEN MALFUNCTIONING IN MOST MERCEDES C250 CARS. MERCEDES DID A RECALL ON IT YEARS AGO THE CAMSHAFT ADJUSTER SOLENOID IS VERY FAULTY AS IT HAPPENS TO MOST C250 VEHICLE OWNERS. THE CHECK ENGINE STAYS ON EVERY DAY, THERE ARE 1000S OF PEOPLE REPORTED THIS ISSUE WITH MERCEDES.

Air Bags1 injured
Filed Oct 27, 2020100,000 milesCA

AIRBAG WAS DEPLOYED ONCE THEY CAR WAS TURN ON, AS I SHIFTED TO REVERSE TO BACK AWAY FROM A PARKING SPOT, AIRBAG DEPLOYED. NO IMPACT, NO COLLISION, NO POT HOLES. VEHICLE WAS ABOUT TONREVERSE. AIRBAG STRUCK PRIMARILY IN THE CHEST, NECK, AND THROAT. WHIPLASH EFFECT HAS ALSO CAUSE LOWER BACK PAIN.

Complaints 1-50 of 278, newest first, reproduced as filed.

Across model years

Worst on record: 2013
YearComplaintsRecallsFiresDeathsAssessment
20161000Routine
201512400Routine
2014163540Routine
2013 — this page278750Above average
2012272520Above average

Compare every C250 year →

Reading this record

Complaint volume is well above typical for a single model year.

Complaint counts track how many cars were sold and how long they have been on the road as much as they track quality. A common model from 2013 has had a decade to accumulate reports; a rare one from last year has not. The signal worth weighing is in the severity columns, in whether the same component keeps appearing, and in whether the manufacturer eventually opened a recall for it.

Recall repairs are free for as long as the recall stands. Check whether a specific car still has open work at NHTSA's VIN lookup.

Most recent recall on file: Aug 13, 2021. Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation.