188 of the
2,855 complaints filed about the Mercedes Benz C300
are about the steering —
7% of everything owners reported.
The worst model year for it is 2010.
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
NHTSA complaint #11736912 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
I was driving my car was sputtering or trying to shut off while I press the gas and I let go of the gas and it catches and stayed on. I took it to the dealership and they said they found nothing wrong. May 3rd around 12pm im driving on the freeway and as im getting on the express lane going 60 it dies and I couldn't move the steering wheel and I slammed into a guardrail. After doing research my car (vin [XXX] ) had multiple recals from the fuel pump and steering wheel and the dealership never fixed or checked any recalls before selling it to me. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11736219 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
I am filing this complaint regarding a serious and recurring steering system defect involving my Mercedes-Benz vehicle and Recall Campaign No. 2017120022 (steering column defect). Mercedes-Benz corporate representatives provided conflicting information regarding whether the recall repair was completed in 2018. One representative stated it was performed; another stated no record exists. I was never notified that a recall repair had been completed. This inconsistency raises immediate concerns regarding recall documentation integrity and owner notification compliance. The identical steering column system has now failed again, resulting in a complete steering column lock and vehicle immobilization. The repair estimate exceeds $2,500. A total steering lock is a critical safety failure with clear risk implications. If the recall repair was completed, recurrence of the exact same safety-critical component failure within only a few years strongly indicates that the original recall remedy was either improperly performed, defective in itself, or fundamentally inadequate to eliminate the defect. Steering column assemblies are not routine wear items. Mercedes-trained master technicians have confirmed that such failures are rare over a vehicle’s lifetime and highly unusual shortly after replacement. Federal safety recall law requires manufacturers to fully and permanently remedy safety defects at no cost to the consumer. A failed recall remedy that results in repeat failure of the same component shifts the burden improperly onto the owner and undermines the purpose of the recall system. I respectfully request that NHTSA formally investigate whether Recall 2017120022 has resulted in recurring steering column failures following recall repairs, evaluate the sufficiency of the remedy, review Mercedes-Benz USA’s recall tracking and notification procedures, and require reimbursement if the defect represents a failed recall correction.This matter shows a serious vehicle safety concern.
NHTSA complaint #11719825 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Experiencing a failed Electronic Steering Lock (ESL). Car won’t crank or start even after verifying battery health and key fob. Symptoms point to a failed ESL, left stranded
NHTSA complaint #11719778 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
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.
NHTSA complaint #11707655 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
I am writing to formally report the premature failure and subsequent replacement of the electronic rack and pinion on my 2016 Mercedes-Benz C300 4Matic sedan. This repair was performed at Sears Imported Autos on 4/19/2024, at a cost of $5,840.14. Invoice number at Sears Imported Autos is XXX. My vehicle, VIN [XXX] , had only 74,427 miles at the time of the failure. The failure of a critical steering component at such a low mileage is highly unusual and, I believe, directly attributable to a latent manufacturing defect. I have recently become aware of a prior recall (NHTSA Campaign Number 18V850000) concerning the electronic power steering rack on these EXACT vehicles. While I acknowledge that my vehicle VIN was not included in the official scope of the previous NHTSA recall, the nature and timing of my component's failure strongly mirror the documented issues of MY power steering failure. Mercedes-Benz USA Customer Care Center just informed me that my VIN does NOT qualify for the recall, but they did NOT say the failure on my car was a different part. The fact that the very same exact part failed so prematurely, a component that is expected to last for the lifetime of the vehicle under normal conditions, points to a systemic quality control issue beyond the scope of the original recall. The recall should be expanded to include my VIN and likely a few others. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11705891 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The electronic steering wheel lock went out causing the car to not start. Upon checking the Internet to see if anyone else was having this problem I found that it was a problem many Mercedes Benz owners have had and it's an expensive one. It's not just with my particular model and it's not limited to older models of the brand either.
NHTSA complaint #11682861 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
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.
NHTSA complaint #11678959 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The contact owns a 2015 Mercedes-Benz C300. The contact stated while driving 40 MPH, the vehicle unexpectedly veered to the left. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact stated that the steering wheel became inoperable, and the contact was unable to straighten the steering wheel. The brake pedal was also depressed. The contact attempted to depress the accelerator pedal however, the vehicle started to stall. The contact pulled over into a parking lot and was able to restart the vehicle. The dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 82,000.
NHTSA complaint #11678756 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
I drove vehicle to Publix with no problems. When i tried to start vehicle, key turns but car does not start. There is no cranking sound. I called a mechanic friend and after extensive diagnosis he determined it was the ESL Module which controls the steering. Fortunately i was not driving the vehicle when the ESL Module failed. There is a recall on Mercedes Benz c300 from 2012-2017 for the ESL Module problems but the 2011 is not included. It should be recalled since it is a safety hazard and it appears others have had similar problems according to comments on Google. I have a handicapped wife i take care of and having issues with the steering can cause accidents and injuries. There were no messages or symptoms of the problem prior to the failure. There needs to be a recall or further inspection done on the 2011 Mercedes Benz c300. Car will be towed to a Mercedes Benz dealership for Diagnostics.
NHTSA complaint #11666460 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Power steering malfunction Car unable to drive I believe there is supposed to be a recall for this issue but not popping up when I put in VIN number Warning lamps come up. Sometimes every light on dashboard. Took it to Mercedes but it was when code was not popping up and they said I needed a new battery. Did that but still an issue. Has also happened when driving. Sometimes collision assist plus light comes on and power steering acts up. Light I am pointing at in picture is another light that consistently pops up I have been able to intermittently fix problem by resetting computer by unplugging battery for 15min or longer. As well as confirming full service on vehicle. Now it isn’t working though.
NHTSA complaint #11660262 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
When I was driving down the road my car got a message on the dash that said power steering malfunction see owners manual. My steering wheel got locked up and tight it was hard to keep control of my car at 60 miles per hour. When I took it to the repair shop, I asked about the repair and if my Vin had a recall and when I looked up the production date of my car it's 2 numbers off the Vin numbers that were recalled for your. same issue with hat happened in 2016 when my car was produced in 2015, it says the same thing. It will cost like 5k to fix the problem due to the fact that its a sensor, and when I looked up the recall it was the same sensor that the recall was on with my Vin only being 2 numbers off I find it odd that my car is not affected by this bc its the same problem of the recall the part of that controls the power steering in the car
NHTSA complaint #11660099 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The contact owns a 2015 Mercedes-Benz C300. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, there was an abnormal clunking sound coming from the front suspension of the vehicle. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who diagnosed a failure with the steering rack locknuts, observing that the steering rack had become loosened. The vehicle was not repaired. The vehicle was then towed to the dealer, who confirmed the diagnostic result. The vehicle was not repaired. After investigating the failure, the contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 18V850000 (Steering), but the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, a case was opened, and the contact was referred to the NHTSA hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was 70,000.
NHTSA complaint #11659503 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The ESL or electronic steering lock is a very common issue with this year and model at around the 70k mile mark. You cannot start the car once this goes out and it’s over $2k to fix
NHTSA complaint #11658412 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The contact owns a 2016 Mercedes-Benz C300. The contact stated while reversing at approximately 10 MPH, there was a clunking sound coming from the steering wheel. The contact shifted into drive and while driving approximately 15-20 MPH, the clunking sound persisted, and the steering wheel seized. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was towed to a certified mechanic who diagnosed that the aluminum bolts in the drive shaft had corroded and sheared off. The contact was informed that the steering rack and bolts needed to be replaced. The vehicle had not been repaired. The dealer had been informed of the failure and confirmed that the VIN was not included in the Service Campaign Number: 2019080019 (Steering). The manufacturer was informed of the failure and confirmed the Service Campaign Number: 2019080019 (Steering). The manufacturer referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline to report the failure. The failure mileage was 78,000.
NHTSA complaint #11637949 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
To Whom It May Concern, I am seeking assistance regarding my 2014 Mercedes-Benz C-300, VIN [XXX] . I repurchased this vehicle from the London Nissan Dealership on [XXX]. It currently has about 120,000 miles, and I have driven an additional 15,000 miles in the past two years. Less than three months after purchase, I took the car to a Mercedes-Benz dealership in Knoxville, TN, for repairs on May 16th. Now, my vehicle is at James Motor Company in Lexington, KY, where they diagnosed a faulty steering column that needs replacement at a cost of $1,630.00. I have already taken this car to the dealership twice for issues in under two years. The problems began when the vehicle wouldn’t start one morning; the steering column was locked despite a fully charged battery. This failure could have led to a serious accident, especially since I drive frequently for work and school. There were no warning signs prior to this incident. The dealership has confirmed the steering column issue and can provide inspection upon request. I also have a list of parts needed for the repair available. Given the nature of this malfunction, I believe it warrants a recall. Thank you for your attention to this serious matter. I look forward to your prompt response. Sincerely, [XXX] [XXX] [XXX] [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11637174 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The contact owns a 2016 Mercedes-Benz C300. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the driving assist and another unknown warning light were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was determined that the turn signal and steering wheel modules needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and advised the contact to file a complaint with the NHTSA Hotline. The failure mileage was unknown.
NHTSA complaint #11634394 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
It's the ESL ELECTRIC STEERING LOCK THIS PART IS KNOWN TO BE DEFECTIVE AND IS POSTED ONLINE TO FIX AND ALSO BYPASS IT. I AM NOT A MECHANIC SO I AM TOLD PART ALONE IS $570 AT MERCEDES THEY HAVE TO PROGRAM IT. THIS PART IS KNOW TO BREAK AND ONLY THEY CAN REPROGRAM IT. THIS SHOULD BE A SAFTY ISSUE. THE CAR RTDOES NOT START BECAUSE OF IT AND IT LOCKS THE STEERING WHEEL IN PLACE. THE CODE FOR IT ON CAR IS A25464 code on car. This is a known problem and it makes the car undrivable. I don't have files but had car toed 2 times. I will have recept after it's fixed
NHTSA complaint #11624057 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
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.
NHTSA complaint #11623773 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.