2010 Mercedes-Benz C300

Above average

Owners filed 453 complaints about this vehicle with federal regulators, most often about the airbags. It has been recalled 6 times.

Not among the Mercedes-Benz C300 years to avoid. Which Mercedes-Benz C300 years to avoid →

When it fails
020k40k60k90k120k200k
65,300 milesMedian miles at failure

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

Most common 2010 Mercedes-Benz C300 problems

196 of the 453 complaints (43%) are about the airbags.

ComponentReportsCrashesFiresInjuries
Air Bags · airbags196
1008
Electrical System66
030
Steering41
102
Fuel/Propulsion System · fuel and propulsion system22
100
Structure › Body · body and frame20
001
Exterior Lighting · headlights19
020
Suspension17
000
Unknown or Other15
003
Power Train · transmission11
100
Engine7
100

2010 Mercedes-Benz C300 airbags problems

43% of all complaints

196 of the 453 complaints are about the airbags. This is what owners describe:

  • shows an airbag warning light6% · 12
  • sets off warning lights on the dash4% · 8
  • did not deploy its airbags in a crash4% · 7

Share of the 196 airbags complaints whose text describes each symptom. One complaint can describe several.

Typical mileage
72,000 mi
median of 38 reports
Peak year of filing
2017
83 airbags complaints that year
Crashes · fires · injuries
10 · 0 · 8
in these complaints
“Aug 12, 2020 took c300 to fletcher jones motorcars of fremont. I paid for them to do an oil & filter change after they did perform recall 2018120017 ~ 18p9193104 cause: recall 2019120027. Paid $204.65 that day. 01/21/21- after driving, w my significant other, at city speed limit to fedex which is 1 mile from my house on same street, and back, my sig other couldn't put back the seat and the airbag lights were on.”
Owner complaint, filed Mar 20, 2021 at 171,500 miles
“****note - not enough information**** tl* takata recall. The contact owns a 2010 mercedes-benz. The contact stated that the air bag warning indicator illuminated. The contact received notification of NHTSA campaign number: 18v043000; however, the parts were not available for the recall remedy.”
Owner complaint, filed Dec 19, 2018 at 109,000 miles

Complaints and recalls over time

By year of filing
2009: 1 complaints, 0 about the airbags'092010: 2 complaints, 0 about the airbags2011: 5 complaints, 0 about the airbags'112012: 3 complaints, 0 about the airbags2013: 6 complaints, 0 about the airbags'132014: 29 complaints, 1 about the airbags2015: 35 complaints, 2 about the airbags'152016: 47 complaints, 8 about the airbags2017: 100 complaints, 83 about the airbags'172018: 65 complaints, 46 about the airbags2019: 75 complaints, 46 about the airbags'192020: 26 complaints, 4 about the airbags2021: 12 complaints, 3 about the airbags'212022: 23 complaints, 1 about the airbags2023: 8 complaints, 0 about the airbags'232024: 7 complaints, 0 about the airbags2025: 7 complaints, 2 about the airbags'252026: 2 complaints, 0 about the airbagsRecall 14V177000 (headlights)Recall 16V081000 (airbags)Recall 16V363000 (airbags)Recall 17V177000 (electrical system)Recall 18V043000 (airbags)Recall 19V010000 (airbags)NHTSA investigation EA21002NHTSA investigation EA13008
All complaintsAbout the airbagsRecall (red: the airbags)NHTSA investigation opened

Complaints about the 2010 C300 peaked in 2017, with 100 filed that year. Owners had filed 3 complaints about the airbags before the first recall that covers it, 16V081000 in February 2016; 193 more have come in since. In 2026 owners filed 2 so far.

6 safety recalls

Part 573 reports
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.

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.

Air Bags › Frontal › Passenger Side › Inflator Module16V363000
Filed May 26, 2016258,163 vehiclesMercedes-Benz USA, LLC.

Defect. Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain model year 2008-2011 C300 Sedan, C300 4matic Sedan, C350 Sedan, C63 AMG Sedan vehicles, 2010-2011 GLK350, GLK350 4-Matic and E350 Coupe vehicles, 2011 SLS AMG, E350 Convertible, E550 Coupe and E550 Convertible vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in 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, unless included in "Zone A" above, MBUSA is recalling certain model year 2008 C300 Sedan, C350 Sedan, C63 AMG Sedan and C300 4-Matic Sedan vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in 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." Vehicles not originally sold or ever registered in either Zones A or B are not subject to this safety recall. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules, and used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the front air bags, these inflators may rupture due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.

Risk. An inflator rupture may result in metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants resulting in serious injury or death.

Remedy. MBUSA will notify owners, and dealers will replace the passenger frontal air bag modules, free of charge. Owners were sent an interim notification October 2016. A second notice will be mailed when remedy parts are available. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-877-496-3691.

Air Bags › Frontal › Driver Side › Inflator Module16V081000
Filed Feb 11, 2016711,159 vehiclesMercedes-Benz USA, LLC.

Defect. Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC. (MBUSA) is recalling certain model year 2009-2010 ML320 BlueTec 4Matic, GL320 BlueTec 4Matic and R320 CDI 4Matic, 2011 E350 Cabriolet and E550 Cabriolet, 2009-2011 ML350, ML350 4Matic, ML550 4Matic, ML63 AMG, and C63 AMG, 2010-2011 ML450 4Matic Hybrid, E350 Coupe, E350 4Matic, E550 Coupe, E550 4Matic, and E63 AMG, 2011-2012 GL350 BlueTec 4Matic and R350 BlueTec 4Matic, 2009-2012 GL450 4Matic, GL550 4Matic and R350 4Matic, 2007-2008 SLK280, SLK350, and SLK55 AMG, 2011-2014 SLS AMG Coupe, 2012 SLS AMG Cabriolet, 2013-2014 SLS AMG GT and SLS AMG GT Cabriolet, 2005 C230 Kompressor and C320, 2006-2007 C230, 2006-2011 C350, 2008-2011 C300 and C300 4Matic, 2010-2012 GLK350 and GLK350 4Matic and 2007-2008 Chrysler Crossfire vehicles. Upon deployment of the driver's frontal air bag, excessive internal pressure may cause the inflator to rupture.

Risk. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the driver's frontal air bag, the inflator could rupture with metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.

Remedy. MBUSA will their notify owners, and Fiat Chrysler will notify the affected Chrysler owners. Dealers for the respective brands will replace the driver's frontal air bag module, free of charge. This recall began November 2016. Mercedes-Benz owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372 and Chrysler owners may contact Fiat Chrysler customer service at 1-800-853-1403.

Exterior Lighting › Tail Lights14V177000
Filed Apr 11, 2014252,867 vehiclesMercedes-Benz USA, LLC.

Defect. Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (Mercedes) is recalling certain model year 2008-2011 C300, C300 4Matic, C350, and C63 AMG vehicles manufactured January 26, 2007, through July 13, 2011. In the affected vehicles, a poor electrical ground connection may result in the dimming or failure of the tail lights.

Risk. Dimming or failure of the tail lights reduces the ability to warn other motorists of the driver's intentions of stopping or turning, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy. Mercedes will notify owners, and dealers will replace the bulb holders if not previously updated and replace any corroded connectors, free of charge. The recall began on August, 18, 2014. Owners may contact Mercedes at 1-800-367-6372.

All 6 campaigns on file, newest first.

NHTSA investigations

Office of Defects Investigation

Before a recall there is often an investigation: NHTSA opens one when complaints or manufacturer data point to a safety defect. 2 name the 2010 C300.

Desiccated Air Bag Inflator RuptureEngineering analysis EA21002Open
Opened Sep 17, 2021airbags

From 2000 through 2017, Takata produced millions of air bag inflators using two types of phase-stabilized ammonium nitrate ("PSAN") propellant -- propellant 2004 and propellant 2004L. After prolonged exposure to high temperature cycles and humidity, inflators using propellant 2004 can degrade, causing the propellant to burn too quickly when ignited. The rapid burning can cause the inflator to rupture during deployment, potentially causing serious or even fatal injury to vehicle occupants. See 2016 Blomquist Report at …

Loss of rear lighting assemblyEngineering analysis EA13008Closed
Opened Dec 20, 2013Closed May 12, 2014Led to recall 14V177000electrical system

The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened an investigation based on consumer allegations of loss of rear lighting in model year (MY) 2008-2011 Mercedes Benz C-Class vehicles.Complainants alleged that one or both rear lighting assemblies fail to illuminate (i.e., all lights housed within the assembly extinguish, including the stop, tail, and turn signal functions) or illuminate dimly.In some reports, complainants also alleged that the failure was accompanied by a burning smell emanating from the trunk of the vehicle.When examined, these vehicles showed evidence of overheating at the …

Technical service bulletins

120 on file

Repair instructions the manufacturer sent its dealers for the 2010 C300. Not recalls: the fix is usually free only while the car is under warranty.

electrical system 23headlights 15transmission 12suspension 11engine 10equipment 9body and frame 8steering 7
NCU - 24240304Warranty extensionMar 12, 2024body and frame

As previously reported, to enhance the satisfaction of our customers, avoid further costs of litigation and return focus to its core businesses, Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) has entered into a Settlement regarding claims relating to allegations that the 590 Mars Red paint available as an original, exterior color option for certain models of Mercedes-Benz …

ELW-Fuel FilterWarranty extensionNov 3, 2023equipment

In our continuing efforts to assure the proper performance of Mercedes-Benz products and to enhance the satisfaction of our customers, Mercedes-Benz USA ( MBUSA ) is extending the warranty coverage on the fuel filter unit for Partial Zero Emission Vehicles (PZEV) from the original New Vehicle Limited Warranty of 4 years / 50,000 miles to 15 years/150,000 …

CL-Fuel Filter Unit PZEVWarranty extensionOct 24, 2023fuel and propulsion system

In our continuing efforts to assure the proper performance of Mercedes-Benz products and to enhance the satisfaction of our customers, Mercedes-Benz USA (“MBUSA”) is extending the warranty coverage on the fuel filter unit for Partial Zero Emission Vehicles (PZEV) from the original New Vehicle Limited Warranty of 4 years / 50,000 miles to 15 years/150,000 …

EW-Fuel Filter Unit(PZEV)Warranty extensionOct 20, 2023fuel and propulsion system

In our continuing efforts to assure the proper performance of Mercedes-Benz products and to enhance the satisfaction of our customers, Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (“MBUSA”) is extending the warranty coverage on the fuel filter unit in certain Model Year (“MY”) vehicles certified as Partial Zero Emission Vehicles (PZEV) listed below from the original New Vehicle …

P-SC-2017030011Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsMar 17, 2017airbags

Replace Driver-Side and (if applicable) Front Passenger Air Bag

TakataRecallService Bulletin/Repair InstructionsFeb 26, 2016airbags

Additional information around the recent recall announcement affecting approximately 705,983 Mercedes-Benz passenger vehicles involving Takata driver-side airbags containing PSDl-5 type inflators

RecallUpdateService Bulletin/Repair InstructionsFeb 11, 2016airbags

Recall Campaign announcement for Takata driver airbags.

SB-91-60-193Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsJun 11, 2010airbags

MERCEDES: AIRBAG DURABILITY AND RELIABILITY. AIR BAG SRS CONTROL MODULE (N2/2) DOES NOT HAVE A SET SHELF LIFE AND WILL NORMALLY BE RELIABLE FOR THE LIFE OF A VEHICLE. WITH 164, 216 221, 251 AND NEWER, THE AIRBAG CONTROL UNIT CAN BE RESET FIVE TIMES. WITH MODES 202, 210 AND NEWER, THE AIRBAG CONTROL UNIT CAN BE RESET THREE TIMES. EARLIER MODELS WOULD HAVE TO …

What owners reported

Newest filings
Steering
Filed May 10, 2026MA

After having the airbag recall for my Mercedes done, the Electronic Steering Lock failed and my car would not start and the steering wheel is locked. They said my car was ready to pick up and when I arrived the car was completely inoperable. The MB Dealership in Lynnfield, MA wants $2700 to fix it. If you google Mercedes W204 ESLfailure you will see thousand of owners on facebook, message boards and forums that have this part fail, leaving people stranded in sometime dangerous situations. There should be a recall to permanently fix this issue as owners are getting stranded. Its really an issue of "when" the ESL will fail on older models and not "if". The kicker is, the dealership said only they can fix the problem as it is an anti-theft issue. This seems very wrong, owners shouldn't be forced to pay Mercedes to fix their defective, cheap electric motors in the ESL that fail on almost every model that its in. These defective motors are what causes the steering lock failure in almost every instance. MB acts like its normal to be driving properly one day and then next your steering is completely locked and your car will not start because a $15 electronic motor in the ESL failed. Furthermore, these are All wheel drive or rear wheel drive, in addition to the locked steering wheel which makes towing very, very difficult and unsafe. Thank you

Electrical System
Filed Feb 12, 202697,000 milesMD

The contact owns a 2010 Mercedes-Benz C300. The contact stated that the battery and alternator were being drained. The check engine warning light was illuminated. Additionally, the front air bag sensor message and a fog light message were displayed. The vehicle was towed to an unknown local dealer; however, the dealer was unable to determine the cause of the failure. The contact then reached out to Mercedes-Benz of Tysons Corner Service and Parts, located at 8545 Leesburg Pike, Vienna, VA 22182, and was informed about a diagnostic test to determine the cause of the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 97,000. The VIN was not available.

Steering
Filed Dec 29, 202598,000 milesCA

The contact owns a 2010 Mercedes-Benz C300. The contact stated that the vehicle had failed to start after several attempts; however, the infotainment system was turned on. The contact stated that the engine failed to start. No warning lights were illuminated. The contact related the failure to an unknown steering coupling interlock mechanism recall. The vehicle was not taken to the dealer or to an independent mechanic. The vehicle was not repaired and remained at the residence. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 98,000.

Suspension
Filed Sep 10, 2025MA

Got a car from the dealer soon weeks after the rear subframe was so corroded alignment was able to get done and was snapped on both sides airbag light came on doesn’t go away and the rear right brake like started using the fog light as a turn signal

Wheels
Filed Sep 10, 2025MA

Due to the corrosion in the rear subframe both side of lower control arms snapped the tires to the car are wearing out due to the corrosion in rear subframe and it’s was also hitting my gas tank if I was to go over any holes which can cause a bigger issue

Air Bags
Filed Aug 7, 2025MD

While i have a few recalls i plan on needing service from Mercedes for, I just found out that Mercedes has a Class action lawsuit involving my C class mercedes C300 from 2010-2022 years. I was driving and ran into a pothole. My car rear started making noise and sounds. I went to the auto shop amd was told my rear subframe was damaged and would cost over 2,000. I and putting in a complaint to make sure Mercedes honor this recall/ extended warranty for my vehicle.

Seat BeltsCrash1 injured
Filed Jun 3, 2025TN

1. Driver seat back broke in a rear collision. Documented in EMS report and Kentucky State Police official investigation photos. 2. Driver head rest failed, completedly came off during rear collision. Front passenger side did not fail. Documented in Kentucky State Police official investigation photos. 3. Driver side seat belt failed, completedly came off during rear collision.Documented in Kentucky State Police official investigation report and photos. Driver sustained massive and severe injuries. Prior issues: both front door and left rear door handle interior plastic broke and had to be repair. Major safety issue

Air Bags
Filed Apr 9, 2025WA

Passenger side front airbag reports as inoperable.

Suspension
Filed Jan 31, 202563,000 milesNY

The contact owns a 2010 Mercedes-Benz C300W. The vehicle was taken to the dealer for an alignment. The contact was later informed that the wheel alignment was not fully completed due to extensive corrosion on the subframe. The contact picked up the vehicle and upon investigation discovered that there was a warranty on the vehicle for the corrosion of the subframe. An appointment was scheduled, and the vehicle was taken to the dealer where it remained for two weeks. The contact was later informed that the condition of the vehicle did not reach the warranty standards for repair. The vehicle remained in the possession of the dealer unrepaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and the contact was informed that dealers were independently owned and made their own decisions on warranty repairs. The failure mileage was approximately 63,000.

Steering
Filed Nov 6, 202460,000 milesMI

The contact owns a 2010 Mercedes-Benz C300. The contact stated that while driving at undisclosed speeds, the steering wheel locked. No warning light was illuminated. The contact stated that the vehicle was scanned, and diagnostic trouble codes indicating the TRP and Power Steering failure were retrieved. Additionally, the contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle lost motive power and required to be towed. An unknown local dealer was contacted, but the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The vehicle remained parked in the storage. The contact related the failure to an unidentified recall; however, the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 60,000.

Service Brakes
Filed Oct 8, 2024NM

Rear subframe rust out and rear passenger brake line corrosion. The entire subframe has to be taken apart in order to reach the brake line. The vehicle is due to get the rear subframe replaced as part of the warranty extension. The brake lines are not covered. Took it into Mercedes Benz Dealership in Santa Fe, NM. They will not even touch it because they don't even know how repair it.Also they never done this type of work.

Electrical System
Filed Sep 21, 2024CA

For the 2010 Mercedes Benz C300, the failure of the steering lock control unit resulted in the vehicle being unable to start its engine. Vehicle was disabled, and I was left stranded. Car had to be towed to my house and separately had to be towed to the Mercedes Benz car dealership service center. The technician at the Mercedes Benz car dealership service center recommended replacement of the steering lock. Yes, this car is available for inspection upon request. This same problem was reproduced in another Mercedes-Benz C300 car that I own. This other vehicle is a 2011 Mercedes-Benz C300. The car was not inspected by the manufacturer, police, or insurance representative. The car was inspected by the Mercedes Benz dealer service center. No warnings or messages prior to the complete failure. This issue first appeared in August 2024. This steering lock failure is a critical issue as I had the same problem with another Mercedes Benz C300 that I own. Both steering lock failures for both cars resulted in the car being unable to start occurred around the same time period and were separately diagnosed and fixed at different Mercedes Benz dealer service centers.

Service Brakes
Filed Sep 17, 2024NJ

The right rear brake line had rusted out and caused complete brake failure while driving. If this occured at highway speeds it could have resulted in serious injuries. A search has shown this is widespread with the C300 and other mercedes vehicles and although mercedes has acknowledged this in other vehicles it has not done so for the C300. This is a potential for serious bodily injury and should be addressed.

Exterior Lighting
Filed Aug 8, 2024TN

The vehicle had a previous warranty repair for the taillight burning out repaired but the issue has happened per the recall but the dealer states that since they fixed it then they wont fix it again even tho its what the complaint for the recall was originally

Seats
Filed Jul 19, 2024NY

Both the front seats tear at back bottom

Steering
Filed Jul 2, 2024SC

I had to pull over in the emergency lane to take a very important phone call! Turned off the car and removed key! Upon trying to crank car back up the EIS (electronic ignition switch) failed and the car wouldn’t start back up! This is absolutely dangerous considering the car has less than 100,000 miles on it! This is a known problem with Mercedes and should be recalled! This is going to kill someone if this continues to go unresolved! Mercedes charges 1,000s of dollars to repair something that is happening with w204 generation year of the car!

Service Brakes
Filed Dec 18, 2023MA

My brake line is corroded and needs replacing at a cost of $3500.00. I have an extended warranty on the rear subframe due to a recall; however, Mercedes will not cover this costly repair. I was informed by service advisor that I could still drive car with extra caution, as there are no leaks.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Sep 26, 2023NJ

Dealer notes, fuel tank, and hold down straps are rusted and rotted

Structure
Filed Jul 18, 202375,000 milesNY

The contact owns a 2010 Mercedes-Benz C300. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed and attempting to make a left turn, the brake pedal was depressed, and the vehicle drifted farther to the left than intended. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who observed abnormal deterioration of the sub frame. The vehicle was later taken to the dealer, but the vehicle was not yet diagnosed. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact investigated and related the failure to Manufacturer Communication NHTSA ID Number: 10233780 (Structure, Equipment). The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 75,000.

Suspension
Filed Jun 29, 2023MA

Rear Sub-Frame Failure almost caused a head on collision at slow speed. Hit brakes and my car fishtailed completely sideways.. - Many many complaints similar to mine on same issue, all on Mercedes C300. Some have reported to this website in hopes for recall and correction by Mercedes. It is extremely dangerous, and expensive to fix. You also do not know there's an issue until too late. Subframe rusting almost from inside out. My control arm fell right out and was hitting the gas tank! I'm thankful to be alive, This needs to be resolved. There are pictures on this forum that look exactly like mine. How sad. https://mbworld.org/forums/c-class-w204/661024-2009-c350-crack-rear-subframe-2.html Thank you for your time. I'm sure you will have many more complaints like this one as chat group considering filing class action if Mercedes does not recall and correct issue. Sincerely, [XXX] INFORMATION Redacted PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).

Suspension
Filed Mar 31, 2023VA

The rear subframe is rusted out and this is a big saftey concern by mercedes benz for 2008-20014 and they know the problem as there are alot of complaints. there were recalls in europe for this and not in USA. This needs to be taken care of by Mercede-Benz.

Unknown or Other
Filed Mar 17, 2023MD

Rusted rear sub frame that needs to be replaced. Premature rusting that Mercedes needs to repair at no cost. Also, premature battery drain on new battery. Needs to be fixed by Mercedes at no cost.

Suspension
Filed Jan 29, 2023VA

Car not able to be driven rear subframe had completely rusted out and rear light housing is burn

Suspension
Filed Jan 4, 2023IL

The Rear Subframe of the car rotted out, making the car dangerous to drive. This problem has been identified by Mercedes and IS considered a safety hazard in Canada and Europe. This problem should also be covered here in the USA. Unfortunately Mercedes Benz USA will not offer any help here, instead trying to charge customers more than $7,000.00 for the repair. A frame should last the lifetime of a car, especially when the rest of the car has no to little rust on it. The Subframe is available for inspection, broken suspension puts everyone in and around the car at risk while it is on the road. This issue was inspected and confirmed by a local Mercedes dealer and a local mechanic. There were absolutely no warnings of the issue before it happened.

Unknown or Other
Filed Dec 3, 2022VA

During service B maintenance, a technician found rear subframe rusted through. Reportedly, there has been a large number of Mercedes C300’s with this very same problem, and Mercedes has a widely acknowledged the issue with rotted sub-frames. It’s a serious safety issue which led to recalls in other countries.

Suspension
Filed Oct 27, 2022MS

The rear subframe of this vehicle is made of faulty materials and has completely rusted out leaving the suspension components which connect to it in danger of failing. The left rear wheel connecting trailing arm has already detached from the subframe. There have been numerous complaints about the 2010-2013 Mercedes C300 W204 rear subframe, many of which share exactly the same failure as my own. It is a known problem with this generation of Mercedes.

Suspension › Subframe/Mounting Bracket
Filed Oct 11, 202290,000 milesNJ

The contact owns a 2010 Mercedes-Benz C300. The contact stated that their wife was driving approximately 60 mph when there was a strange noise coming from the vehicle as well as a shaking sensation. The driver pulled over to the side of the road where the vehicle was towed to their place of work. The vehicle was inspected by the tow truck mechanic who stated that the rear-sub frame had severe rust and was the cause of the failure. The contact had not been taken to the dealer. The vehicle had not been diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 90,000.

Electrical System
Filed Oct 11, 2022NC

Power Seat Button Failed.

Air Bags
Filed Oct 11, 2022GA

I purchased the vehicle in 2010 & immediately had to have the electrical system for all lights replaced. The lights on the vehicle goes out every 2 mos as if theres an electrical issue. Air bags had a recall & have been replaced now the system states there is a malfunction. This started 09/08/22.

Unknown or Other
Filed Oct 5, 2022NC

The rear subframe rusted and broke

Unknown or Other
Filed Oct 1, 2022MA

Rear sub frame is corroded as shown to me by the Mercedes mechanic in a video he sent me.The car is available for inspection. I am nervous to drive now after hearing about the related problems others are having such as braking issues and swaying when the brakes are applied. The way I found out about the rear sub frame corrosion was when I needed work done at the dealer. This problem should not be happening to all of these vehicles. In other countries, Germany and Canada, to name a couple, Mercedes dealers are fixing this through a recall. Why not the US? The date below is when the mechanic told me about the problem and that it would cost $8000. to $10,000 to repair

Suspension
Filed Aug 25, 2022OH

Rear subframe completely rusted through resulting in multiple attached systems to break off. When applying the brakes the rear end of the vehicle swings and can force the car into random directions. Upon any basic research this issue can be seen in similar Mercedes models across the globe consistently. If the issue was not diagnosed sooner the likelihood of a fatal crash would have been extremely high due to critical components like braking and suspension systems being nonfunctional. Many vehicles that experience this design flaw are well maintained and kept in good conditions. I urge the NHTSA to release some kind of warning to owners of these vehicles because this issue can blindside even the most vigilant owners. Many posts regarding this issue describe nearly avoiding severe accidents. Please do not let this go unheard because it can be fatal if not addressed.

Structure › Body
Filed Aug 24, 2022CT

I need to have my rear brake lines replaced they are blown out but they need to remove the subframe in order to complete the job. They discovered that the subframe is completely rotted and has a hole in it and they believe if they remove it the subframe will break and need to be replaced. They indicated this was a big safety issue and is a known issue on the Mercedes. I was lucky I did not kill myself driving this vehicle. It did come up with warning lamps for the brakes and I contacted the dealership and had it towed there, that's when they discovered the rotted subframe.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Jul 15, 2022CA

Fuel smell when gas tank is full. Engine code P0456

Suspension
Filed Jul 1, 2022VA

The dealer noticed that the rear suspension subframe had rusted and corroded with a hole. They rejected the passage of the state safety check. A review of online forums shows this is a common problem in these years and Canadian and German counterparts of MBUSA have issued recalls because a third party supplier provided the parts without sufficient corrosion protection. See eg. https://mbworld.org/forums/c-class-w204/805501-rotted-rear-subframe.html

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Jul 1, 2022CA

Cracks have formed in the plastic cover over the fuel pump in the fuel tank under the back seat. Gas is seeping out when the tank is full.

Unknown or Other
Filed Jun 30, 2022PA

The rear subframe rusted out. This seems to be common for this vehicle. Mercedes should replace for free. It’s recalled in other countries.

Suspension
Filed Jun 27, 2022ME

The rear suspension cross member has rusted out on both sides. The rear wheels turn during braking, causing the vehicle to swerve. This is a original materials defect or design flaw.

Structure › Body
Filed Jun 21, 2022OH

Rear subframe corrosion hast rusted through and the subframe is no longer attached to the lower control arm car has only 56k miles this has been recalled in Canada and the issue needs to be addressed in the us it is a safety issue

Structure › Body
Filed Jun 15, 2022MA

Corrosion of sub frame. Vehicle is available for inspection upon request. June 7, 2022 Viti service advisor reports rust hole in sub frame. Putting the safety of myself and family members at risk. Due to corrosion deteriorating the structural integrity of the sub frame. Sub frame could break causing catastrophic accident. Loss of control, rollover, fire, puncture fuel tank, etc. This appears to be a well known defect and is recalled in Canada. Vehicle was purchased and serviced at Viti from 2010 to present. Garaged. Vehicle has not been inspected by police, insurance presentative or others. There were no warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed May 31, 2022NY

Filled up gas and strong gas smell can be smelt throughout the car and Check engine light came on, took car to auto zone for report. Stated emissions code was listed. Was told to replace gas cap and code should clear. Replaced gas cap, still had code. Took car to shop and was told this model has this issue with this specific year and newer, and the problem could be one of 3 things. Replace gas cap, did that, replace fuel pump closing cover, did that, replace purge valve canister, did that. Check engine light still comes on and strong gas smell still exist after each fill up. Mechanic told me reach out because there was a recall on this same model a few years back...

Electrical System
Filed May 29, 2022PA

My husband drove my car home from work on April 18th 2022 and it was a bad rain storm that everyone. He had to drive through a couple of big rain storms. Soon afterwards he got around the corner from the house and the electric system failed lights started going off everywhere in the car, he lost steering and couldn’t see and almost crashed and got the car home safely but it wouldn’t shut off so he had to disconnect the battery for the car to shut off. On April 22 nd the car was towed to the dealership because it wasn’t driveable and they check out the car and discovered water under the carpeting of the drivers seat near the wiring of the car. I submitted an insurance claim and an adjuster went out to see the damage and his thought is that it’s due to a known problem for this car that’s been reported by many people with this same vehicle. The Mercedes Benz c300- 2010-2014 years. I checked online and apparently many people have reported this same issue water underneath the car due to bad firewall manufacturered not sealed correctly which could be a manufacturers/ safety issue. My husband was almost killed thank goodness he made it home safe that night. I believe there are many people that have had this issue and someone needs to be done for safety purposes, and I believe the insurance doesn’t want to cover the repairs because they are blaming Mercedes’ Benz. My cars been in the shop a month and I still have no answer from State Farm or the shop Mercedes Benz.

Structure › Body
Filed May 20, 2022MA

I brought my car into the dealer to have my annual state required inspection, and was told by the dealer that the rear subframe had severe rot and corrosion, to an extent that they would not allow the car to pass inspection as it was hazardous to drive, and if the subframe cracked, for instance, by driving over a bump or pothole, I would endanger myself, passengers, and other cars on the road. I was stunned to find out that my Mercedes, a premium automobile, by a marquee manufacturer, which has a reputation for engineering/manufacturing excellence and had such significant corrosion. I was equally stunned because I have consistently maintained my car and done all the recommended maintenance. I asked the dealer service manager to hoist the car on a lift so I could inspect and verify the corrosion on the subframe. While I saw the significant corrosion on the subframe, all other parts of the underside of the car were in excellent shape and drive-able condition. This leads me to believe that there is a design/manufacturing flaw in the subframe. I researched this issue online and discovered that this exact Mercedes subframe has been recalled in other countries, but not in the U.S. It is a known and dangerous defect, Mercedes clearly knows it's a dangerous defect, and yet they have not recalled it. This has put me, my family, passengers and potentially other drivers at risk of serious harm and injury had the subframe broke while being driven. Additionally, it unfairly shifts the bur

Structure › Body
Filed May 10, 2022MD

The rear sub-frame of my car has almost rusted in half. While driving on 95 I had to brake rather quickly and it felt as if the whole car was twisting. I called my mechanic the next day, drove in and put it on the lift only to find out that the sub-frame was almost detached from the car. Had this happened at 70 MPH it could have been disastrous. Mercedes knows about the design flaw but refuses to take any action.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Mar 7, 2022CA

Gas smell inside the car. Fuel leak when gas tank us full.

Structure › Body
Filed Feb 9, 2022IL

Rear sub frame rotted out and I nearly had an accident from this poor design and lack of notice from Mercedes. This should be a recall!

Suspension
Filed Jan 24, 2022WV

Driver side subframe broke in half due to rust. However, vehicle has low mileage and was very well maintained and is in mint condition throughout with no signs of rust anywhere underneath on any parts. This subframe rusted through from the inside and with no way of being able to see or catch any warning signs for owners.

Electrical System
Filed Dec 26, 2021FL

After parking my car , turned ignition off, did some work for 45 minutes I came back attempting to start the car. The car won’t start, I am not hearing any of the normal sound that usually takes place when I place the key in ignition. Message on dashboard telling me to remove the key. Car will not start. After checking battery and calling mechanic they tell me the my steering wheel lock is bad. The ESL went bad out of nowhere. Car won’t start, steering wheel is locked and the only way to fix it is to take it Mercedes’ dealer and pay over $2000. I search on google and found out that this is a common issue with my 2010 C300. This is a manufacturing defect and Mercedes should recall it and pay for repair. In my case I parked my car in my garage, imagine if I was traveling on highway way and the steering wheel locks or failed on the side of busy interstate hwy. the worst part is that Mercedes dealer did nothing t warn me when I bought the car about this issue especially since it is know since 2008, and they will not allow after market parts to be installed by other mechanics. So this is defective and Mercedes should be forced to recall and replace for free. We should not wait for someone to die before this is fixed. This happened without any warning PLEASE FORCE MERCEDES TO RECALL AND FIX THE ESL NOW.

Electrical System
Filed Dec 24, 2021PA

During maintenance of vehicle, completely bare wires were discovered. While researching replacement options, I became aware that this is a known issue ignored by the manufacturer and that no cost effective solution exists. This is a car my son has recently purchased on his own and I am assisting in the maintenance of this "German Engineering Turd" You would have thought they learned a lesson on arrogance from the past.

Suspension
Filed Dec 2, 2021PA

Rear subframe failure due to corrosion. Car has approximately 130k miles. Based on internet reasearch, this is a common issue with the c300 w204 Mercedes’ car. It’s a serious safety issue and warrants a recall before someone is killed. Failures have happened for this car at various miles on the odometer, without warning.

Complaints 1-50 of 453, newest first, reproduced as filed.

Across model years

Worst on record: 2008
YearComplaintsRecallsFiresDeathsAssessment
20262100Routine
20254200Routine
202411300Routine
202322900Routine
202225900Routine
202114700Routine
202033900Routine
2019691700Routine
2018991800Routine
20172161530Above average
20162911350Above average
20153811110Above average
201494500Routine
2013262620Above average
2012267641Fatalities reported
2011480660Above average
2010 — this page453650Above average
20095768180Above average
20086727160Above average

Compare every C300 year →

2010 Mercedes-Benz C300: questions buyers ask

Is the 2010 Mercedes-Benz C300 a good car?

It is not among the C300 years to avoid. Owners filed 453 complaints, against about 265 for a typical C300 year. The most common complaint is about the airbags (43%).

What is the most common problem with the 2010 Mercedes-Benz C300?

The airbags: 196 of the 453 complaints (43%) are about it. Owners most often say it shows an airbag warning light (6%), sets off warning lights on the dash (4%) and did not deploy its airbags in a crash (4%). The typical report comes at 72,000 miles.

How many recalls does the 2010 Mercedes-Benz C300 have?

6 safety recalls on file with NHTSA, the most recent filed Jan 9, 2019. The largest, 16V081000, covered 711,159 vehicles. Recall repairs are free at a dealer; whether a specific car still has one open depends on its VIN.

At what mileage do 2010 Mercedes-Benz C300 problems start?

Half of the complaints that record an odometer reading came in before 65,300 miles. For the airbags the midpoint is 72,000 miles.

Has NHTSA investigated the 2010 Mercedes-Benz C300?

Yes, 2 times. The latest, EA21002 ("Desiccated Air Bag Inflator Rupture"), was opened Sep 17, 2021 and is still open.

Are there service bulletins for the 2010 Mercedes-Benz C300?

The manufacturer filed 120 technical service bulletins and other notices for it with NHTSA, most of them about the electrical system (23), the headlights (15) and the transmission (12). They include a warranty extension, NCU - 24240304, filed Mar 12, 2024. A bulletin is a repair instruction to dealers, not a recall: the fix is usually free only under warranty.

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: Jan 9, 2019. Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation.