Owners have filed 846 complaints
about the 2009 Mercedes Benz C300 with NHTSA between 2010 and 2026.
The largest single group is the electrical system.
NHTSA files every complaint against a named sub-assembly, not just a
system. This is the difference between knowing it was "the engine" and
knowing which part of it — the list to hand a mechanic.
Body
1748.6%
Frame AND Members
514.3%
Tail Lights
38.6%
Subframe/Mounting Bracket
25.7%
Front Passenger
25.7%
Occupant Classification
25.7%
Pressure Monitoring AND Regulating Systems
25.7%
Switch
25.7%
When it fails
Odometer readings owners gave when they filed. About half of all
complaints include one.
Under 1,000 miles
71.2%
1,000 – 9,999 miles
50.9%
10,000 – 24,999 miles
112.0%
25,000 – 49,999 miles
7713.7%
50,000 – 74,999 miles
21939.0%
75,000 – 99,999 miles
14025.0%
100,000 – 149,999 miles
8815.7%
150,000+ miles
142.5%
When owners complained
A spike years after the car went on sale usually means a part wearing
out on schedule across the whole fleet — the kind of pattern no single
owner can see from inside their own car.
May 2010peak 29May 2026
NHTSA investigations into the 2009 Mercedes Benz C300
An investigation is the step before a recall: the agency has seen enough
complaints to look into a pattern itself. An open one means it thinks
something may be wrong and nothing has been fixed yet.
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 www.nhtsa.gov/sites/nhtsa.gov/files/documents/expert_report-hrblomquist.pdf.C...
EA13008Opened 20 Dec 2013Closed 12 May 2014ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING
Loss of rear lighting assembly
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 ligh...
PE13026Opened 11 Jul 2013Closed 30 Dec 2013ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Loss of rear tail light functionality
ODI initially received 21 reports of rear light assembly failure due to a melted electrical connector or housing.Since opening the initial , ODI has received a total of 114 complaints reflecting an ongoing and increasing trend.In each report, one or both rear light assemblies fail completely (i.e., all lights housed within the assembly extinguish, including the stop, tail, and turn signal functions) when the electrical ground connection is compromised as a result of high resistance and subsequent thermal over-heating.According to Mercedes-Benz, the over-heating of the ground wire is caused by...
Recalls on the 2009 Mercedes Benz C300
A complaint is one owner's allegation. A recall is the point at which
the manufacturer or a regulator agreed the defect is real and dangerous
enough to fix for free — however old the car is.
United States — NHTSA
22V168000
EXTERIOR LIGHTING:LIGHTING CONTROL MODULE:SOFTWARE
Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2010 E350, 2014 G550, 2008-2009 C300, 2008 C350, 2009 CLK550, 2007 SL550, SLK280, and 2008 SLK350 vehicles. Various control units may have been updated with incorrect software configuration during a service repair. This can result in various system failures, such as loss of drive power, reduced exterior lighting, or loss of dynamic control functions, including stability and traction control.
Risk: Various system failures, such as loss of drive power, reduced exterior lighting, or loss of dynamic control functions including stability and traction control, can increase the risk of a crash.
18V043000
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
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 t
Risk: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
17V177000
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE
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.
17V017000
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2012 C300 4Matic, C250, C250 Coupe, C350, C350 Coupe 4Matic, C350 Coupe, C63 AMG, C63 AMG Coupe, E350 Coupe 4Matic, E350 Cabrio, E350 Coupe, E550 Cabrio, E550 Coupe, GLK350 4Matic, GLK350, SLS AMG Cabrio, and SLS AMG Coupe 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 2009 C300 4Matic, C300, C350 and C63 AMG 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." Additionally, unless included in "Zone A" or "Zone B" above MBUSA is recalling certain 2008 C300 4Matic, C300, and C350 vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minneso
Risk: An inflator rupture may result in metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
16V363000
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
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,
Risk: An inflator rupture may result in metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
16V081000
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
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.
15V711000
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:SENSOR/CONTROL MODULE-INACTIVE
Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC. (MBUSA) is recalling certain model year 2008-2009 C300 Sedan, C300 4Matic, C63 AMG, and C350 vehicles, and 2010 GLK350 and GLK350 4Matic vehicles. Due to a manufacturing error, the air bag control unit may corrode and cause the control unit to malfunction.
Risk: The malfunctioning air bag control unit may cause the air bags to unexpectedly deploy increasing the risk of injury and the possibility of a vehicle crash. Alternatively, the air bag control unit malfunction may cause the air bags to not deploy in the event of a crash necessitating air bag deployment, increasing the risk of occupant injury.
14V177000
EXTERIOR LIGHTING:TAIL LIGHTS
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.
Reports where the owner recorded a crash, a fire, an injury or a death.
at 144,065 milesNEW London CT Apartment 1, CTFire
AIR BAGS
"TAKATA RECALL" WHEN I WAS DRIVING AFTER A OIL CHANGE, I HEARD A NOISE THAT SOUNDED LIKE SOMEONE HIT MY CAR. I WAS SCARED AND SHAKY SO I PULLED OVER COULD SEE ANYTHING BUT I HEARD A TICKING NOISE. THEN I REALIZED THE HEAD REST MINI AIR BAG BLEW UP AND THE WIRING INSIDE THE HEAD REST WAS BURNING. THIS HAPPENED WHILE I WAS DRIVING. I COULD HAVE GOT INTO AN ACCIDENT. I HAD TO PULL OVER RIGHT WHERE ALL THE TRAFFIC WAS BECAUSE MY HANDS WERE SHAKING AND I DIDN'T KNOW WHAT TO DO WITH THE BURNING SMELL. I HAD MY HAZARDS ON AND PEOPLE WENT AROUND ME. THEN ALL KINDS OF ALERTS WENT OFF ON MY CAR. I ONLY HAD IT FOR A YEAR AND A HALF IT SHOULDN'T DO THAT. SOMETHING IS REALLY WRONG AND THIS IS DANGEROUS WHILE SOMEONE IS DRIVING. MY TIRES AND ALL OF A SUDDEN THE MUFFLER IS MAKING NOISES NOW TOO WHAT IS GOING ON WITH THIS CAR. IT'S TREATED WELL I'M SCARED TO DRIVE IT NOW. I'M STILL MAKING PAYMENTS ON IT. IT'S WAS FOR ME FAIRLY NEW AND STILL GOOD, DO I THOUGHT. I'M VERY DISAPPOINTED AND NEED SOME ANSWERS. I WAS TOLD THAT MAYBE IT'S THE EPS CONTROL UNIT BUT HAVEN'T WENT TO MERCEDES DEALER YET BECAUSE I'M DISCOURAGED ABOUT THIS CAR AND I HAVEN'T BEEN FEELING GOOD.
NHTSA complaint #11234352 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 144,065 milesNEW London CT Apartment 1, CTFire
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
"TAKATA RECALL" WHEN I WAS DRIVING AFTER A OIL CHANGE, I HEARD A NOISE THAT SOUNDED LIKE SOMEONE HIT MY CAR. I WAS SCARED AND SHAKY SO I PULLED OVER COULD SEE ANYTHING BUT I HEARD A TICKING NOISE. THEN I REALIZED THE HEAD REST MINI AIR BAG BLEW UP AND THE WIRING INSIDE THE HEAD REST WAS BURNING. THIS HAPPENED WHILE I WAS DRIVING. I COULD HAVE GOT INTO AN ACCIDENT. I HAD TO PULL OVER RIGHT WHERE ALL THE TRAFFIC WAS BECAUSE MY HANDS WERE SHAKING AND I DIDN'T KNOW WHAT TO DO WITH THE BURNING SMELL. I HAD MY HAZARDS ON AND PEOPLE WENT AROUND ME. THEN ALL KINDS OF ALERTS WENT OFF ON MY CAR. I ONLY HAD IT FOR A YEAR AND A HALF IT SHOULDN'T DO THAT. SOMETHING IS REALLY WRONG AND THIS IS DANGEROUS WHILE SOMEONE IS DRIVING. MY TIRES AND ALL OF A SUDDEN THE MUFFLER IS MAKING NOISES NOW TOO WHAT IS GOING ON WITH THIS CAR. IT'S TREATED WELL I'M SCARED TO DRIVE IT NOW. I'M STILL MAKING PAYMENTS ON IT. IT'S WAS FOR ME FAIRLY NEW AND STILL GOOD, DO I THOUGHT. I'M VERY DISAPPOINTED AND NEED SOME ANSWERS. I WAS TOLD THAT MAYBE IT'S THE EPS CONTROL UNIT BUT HAVEN'T WENT TO MERCEDES DEALER YET BECAUSE I'M DISCOURAGED ABOUT THIS CAR AND I HAVEN'T BEEN FEELING GOOD.
NHTSA complaint #11234352 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 144,065 milesNEW London CT Apartment 1, CTFire
ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
"TAKATA RECALL" WHEN I WAS DRIVING AFTER A OIL CHANGE, I HEARD A NOISE THAT SOUNDED LIKE SOMEONE HIT MY CAR. I WAS SCARED AND SHAKY SO I PULLED OVER COULD SEE ANYTHING BUT I HEARD A TICKING NOISE. THEN I REALIZED THE HEAD REST MINI AIR BAG BLEW UP AND THE WIRING INSIDE THE HEAD REST WAS BURNING. THIS HAPPENED WHILE I WAS DRIVING. I COULD HAVE GOT INTO AN ACCIDENT. I HAD TO PULL OVER RIGHT WHERE ALL THE TRAFFIC WAS BECAUSE MY HANDS WERE SHAKING AND I DIDN'T KNOW WHAT TO DO WITH THE BURNING SMELL. I HAD MY HAZARDS ON AND PEOPLE WENT AROUND ME. THEN ALL KINDS OF ALERTS WENT OFF ON MY CAR. I ONLY HAD IT FOR A YEAR AND A HALF IT SHOULDN'T DO THAT. SOMETHING IS REALLY WRONG AND THIS IS DANGEROUS WHILE SOMEONE IS DRIVING. MY TIRES AND ALL OF A SUDDEN THE MUFFLER IS MAKING NOISES NOW TOO WHAT IS GOING ON WITH THIS CAR. IT'S TREATED WELL I'M SCARED TO DRIVE IT NOW. I'M STILL MAKING PAYMENTS ON IT. IT'S WAS FOR ME FAIRLY NEW AND STILL GOOD, DO I THOUGHT. I'M VERY DISAPPOINTED AND NEED SOME ANSWERS. I WAS TOLD THAT MAYBE IT'S THE EPS CONTROL UNIT BUT HAVEN'T WENT TO MERCEDES DEALER YET BECAUSE I'M DISCOURAGED ABOUT THIS CAR AND I HAVEN'T BEEN FEELING GOOD.
NHTSA complaint #11234352 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 101,000 milesPasadena, CACrash1 injured
AIR BAGS
TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2009 MERCEDES-BENZ C300. WHILE DRIVING 35 MPH, THE CONTACT'S VEHICLE CRASHED INTO THE SIDE OF ANOTHER VEHICLE. THE AIR BAGS DEPLOYED AND SHRAPNEL FROM THE AIR BAGS CAUSED CUTS TO THE CONTACT'S ARM AND FACE. MEDICAL ATTENTION WAS RECEIVED. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A TOWING FACILITY AND THEN TOWED TO THE CONTACT'S RESIDENCE THE FOLLOWING DAY. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED. THE VEHICLE WAS INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 16V081000 (AIR BAGS). THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE WAS NOT DETERMINED. A DEALER AND MANUFACTURER WERE NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 101,000.
NHTSA complaint #11193879 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 101,000 milesOcean, NJCrash
AIR BAGS
I OWN A 2009 MERCEDEZ C-300 WHICH HAD A AIRBAG RECALL THIS YEAR. I TOOK IT TO MERCEDEZ BENZ IN LITTLE SILVER, NJ TO GET AIRBAG RECALL ISSUE TAKEN CARE OF ON SEPTEMBER 25TH 2018. MY SON GOT INTO A MOTORVEHICLE ACCIDENT AND THANK GOODNESS HE WAS NOT INJURED. THE AIRBAD DIDN'T DEPLOY AND HE COULD HAVE BEEN KILLED. LORD, ONLY KNOWS HOW MANY OTHER DRIVERS ARE OUT THERE WITH SAME ISSUE AND MAYBE WITH NOT THE SAME LUCK.
NHTSA complaint #11161961 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 65,000 milesHuntington Beach, CACrash1 injured
AIR BAGS
TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 MERCEDES-BENZ C300. WHILE MAKING A LEFT TURN AT AN INTERSECTION, ANOTHER VEHICLE CRASHED INTO THE DRIVER'S SIDE OF THE CONTACT'S VEHICLE. THE AIR BAG DID NOT DEPLOY. A POLICE REPORT WAS NOT FILED. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED A MINOR INJURY THAT DID NOT REQUIRE MEDICAL ATTENTION. THE VEHICLE WAS DAMAGED, BUT NOT TOTALED. THE CONTACT DROVE THE VEHICLE HOME AND CONTACTED THE INSURANCE COMPANY. PRIOR TO THE FAILURE, THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBERS: 16V081000 (AIR BAGS) AND 16V363000 (AIR BAGS). THE PARTS TO DO THE REPAIRS WERE UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE DEALER WAS CONTACTED (FLETCHER JONES MOTORCARS, NEWPORT, CA, 949-718-3000). THE SAME DEALER WAS NOTIFIED ABOUT THE AIR BAG FAILURE AND STATED THAT THE REMEDY WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 65,000. VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PARTS NOT AVAILABLE.
NHTSA complaint #11046382 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The most recent complaints
In the owners' own words, exactly as filed with NHTSA.
Omaha, NE
AIR BAGS
I have messages on my instrument panel stating I have airbag malfunction going on I also have tail lights that are not working and after trying to replace the bulbs it still don't work so obviously it's the light bulb panel so I went and looked at recalls and says that these are all recalls on my car but that they were fixed. so I don't know why I have them all bad again so I need to know what to do
NHTSA complaint #11736621 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Omaha, NE
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
I have messages on my instrument panel stating I have airbag malfunction going on I also have tail lights that are not working and after trying to replace the bulbs it still don't work so obviously it's the light bulb panel so I went and looked at recalls and says that these are all recalls on my car but that they were fixed. so I don't know why I have them all bad again so I need to know what to do
NHTSA complaint #11736621 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Omaha, NE
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
I have messages on my instrument panel stating I have airbag malfunction going on I also have tail lights that are not working and after trying to replace the bulbs it still don't work so obviously it's the light bulb panel so I went and looked at recalls and says that these are all recalls on my car but that they were fixed. so I don't know why I have them all bad again so I need to know what to do
NHTSA complaint #11736621 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 217,000 milesMontgomery, AL
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
The contact owns a 2009 Mercedes-Benz C300. The contact stated that while starting the vehicle, the check engine, seat belt, and air bag warning lights illuminated. Additionally, the headlights and navigation lights failed to activate for a while. There was burning odor inside the vehicle with the heat activated or turned off. The contact also stated the vehicle failed to start for three days before eventually being able to start. The contact attempted to charge the battery, which resulted in a visible spark. The vehicle was taken to a dealer where it was diagnosed with a sound module and the Signal Acquisition Module (SAM) failures. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 217,000.
NHTSA complaint #11723958 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Orlean, VA
STRUCTURE:BODY
Vehicle inspection by independent service center indicated that a new rear frame was necessary. This was the second communication to nhtsa on this issue. This automobile (2009 c300) is inoperable due to this Mercedes rear frame defect .
NHTSA complaint #11692899 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Greenville, SC
STEERING
The problem is that the steering wheel locking mechanism has failed. The vehicle could not be started or driven. It required a flatbed tow to an authorized Mercedes repair facility. It was diagnosed as the steering mechanism, requiring replacement. The cost for this repair is $1400.00. I researched this problem on the MB website and it stated that this issue was common. I feel that this is a safety issue and should be repaired free of charge or at a significant discount. The car is currently being repaired, and I can forward any relevant documentation to you once the repair is complete.
NHTSA complaint #11667436 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Eureka, CA
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
While driving the car on [XXX] at 9pm on sunday, [XXX] in lane two during a heavy rain a audible clicking noise came from the drivers side front of the dash instrument cluster area and all of the lights on the car simultaneously turned off without ever touching the light switch i was unable to see the road in front of the vehicle also the windshield wipers quit working and the radio and navigation display went off and closed and opened and closed( turned off and then on and off again) the instrument cluster went dark as well, luckily i was able to turn the steering and apply the brakes and steer the vehicle onto the shoulder of the road and come to a complete stop after several attempts to turn the headlights back on i determined that the vehicle was not safe to drive , and had the vehicle towed to a reputable mechanic, and upon diagnosis he contacted me and stated that the drivers side front signal acquisition module A. K. A. the (sam) module had failed due to water intrusion into the fuse panel sam module area , the mechanic stated that i should file an incident /complaint form with your office , upon searching the MERCEDES BENZ forums and sites on the www i found many customers with a broad range of models (w204)approximately this same year model have identical complaints and nothing has been done by MB usa to remedy the problem, i believe this matter to be a major safety concern and i am wondering why this matter hasnt been taken into consideration by your agency and by MB usa as a safety recall to replace the failing modules and retrofit the fuse panel sam module area to prevent water intrusion thats causing the obvious safety concern and possible liability on the part of the MB/ DAIMLER corporation. it seems this is clearly a problem and it needs fixed we are terrified to drive the vehicle for fear of a repeat incident. Sincerely the [XXX] family INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11646756 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Addison, TX
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Check Right Tail and Brake Lamps warning light will not go off for months. They are working fine but the light won't go off. Googling on MB World, it shows Mercedes is aware of this problem and a recall is needed to get it corrected being safety issue with warning lights not working properly. See all info. below from owners, conversations and work done by dealers, etc. People note it is a middle school education problem. Please alert me when the recall is confirmed to get this important problem fixed. [XXX] Thank you, [XXX] [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11634323 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Addison, TX
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Check Right Tail and Brake Lamps warning light will not go off for months. They are working fine but the light won't go off. Googling on MB World, it shows Mercedes is aware of this problem and a recall is needed to get it corrected being safety issue with warning lights not working properly. See all info. below from owners, conversations and work done by dealers, etc. People note it is a middle school education problem. Please alert me when the recall is confirmed to get this important problem fixed. [XXX] Thank you, [XXX] [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11634323 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Addison, TX
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Check Right Tail and Brake Lamps warning light will not go off for months. They are working fine but the light won't go off. Googling on MB World, it shows Mercedes is aware of this problem and a recall is needed to get it corrected being safety issue with warning lights not working properly. See all info. below from owners, conversations and work done by dealers, etc. People note it is a middle school education problem. Please alert me when the recall is confirmed to get this important problem fixed. [XXX] Thank you, [XXX] [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11634323 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Grand Forks, ND
SERVICE BRAKES
Went to the Mercedes dealership service department to replace the rear subframe that suddenly broke while I was driving due to extreme rust/corrosion. The dealership stated that it was being covered under the extended warranty due to the recall related to the rust/corrosion issue with the subframe. I was advised by the mechanic that the brake lines will need to be replaced due to extreme rust/corrosion in the rear at the same exact location of the rear subframe, making the vehicle very dangerous to drive because the brake lines could break at any moment and cause sudden brake failure. I was quoted a very significant amount to replace the rusted brake lines and per the dealership, it will not be covered under any extended warranty and/or recall.
NHTSA complaint #11631965 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 201,000 milesMemphis, TN
STRUCTURE
The contact owns a 2009 Mercedes-Benz C300. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the rear end of the vehicle would fishtail and become extremely unstable while driving over a bump in the road or while turning. Upon inspection, the contact discovered that the subframe was severely rusted. The cause of the failure was not determined, and the vehicle was not yet repaired. The local dealer was notified of the failure. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was 201,000.
NHTSA complaint #11624806 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Helotes, TX
POWER TRAIN
I drove my car to get lunch. Came back out to go back to work and the car would not start. Would not even turn over. My Radio did not turn on and I couldn't even roll my windows back up. Luckily they were only cracked open a small amount. My steering wheel cannot be turned, it's locked in it's current position. I am told the ESL (Electronic Steering Lock) and possibly the EIS is the cause of this problem. The display on the dash says "Take your key from ignition" and that is all I get. Had to have my car towed and now I have a dead car with the windows partially open that I cannot close.
NHTSA complaint #11615266 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Helotes, TX
STEERING
I drove my car to get lunch. Came back out to go back to work and the car would not start. Would not even turn over. My Radio did not turn on and I couldn't even roll my windows back up. Luckily they were only cracked open a small amount. My steering wheel cannot be turned, it's locked in it's current position. I am told the ESL (Electronic Steering Lock) and possibly the EIS is the cause of this problem. The display on the dash says "Take your key from ignition" and that is all I get. Had to have my car towed and now I have a dead car with the windows partially open that I cannot close.
NHTSA complaint #11615266 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Helotes, TX
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
I drove my car to get lunch. Came back out to go back to work and the car would not start. Would not even turn over. My Radio did not turn on and I couldn't even roll my windows back up. Luckily they were only cracked open a small amount. My steering wheel cannot be turned, it's locked in it's current position. I am told the ESL (Electronic Steering Lock) and possibly the EIS is the cause of this problem. The display on the dash says "Take your key from ignition" and that is all I get. Had to have my car towed and now I have a dead car with the windows partially open that I cannot close.
NHTSA complaint #11615266 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Gardena, CA
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Headlight harness on drivers and passenger side is melting and my lights are flickering. I was advised to night drive my vehicle at night, because it could start an electrical fire. This is caused by heat from the lights.
NHTSA complaint #11612678 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Gardena, CA
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Headlight harness on drivers and passenger side is melting and my lights are flickering. I was advised to night drive my vehicle at night, because it could start an electrical fire. This is caused by heat from the lights.
NHTSA complaint #11612678 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Bridgeville, PA
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
The contact owns a 2009 Mercedes-Benz C300. The contact stated while driving and activating the turn signals, the taillights were inoperable. Additionally, the contact stated while driving and depressing the brake pedal to come to a stop, the brake lights were significantly dimmed except for the third brake light. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed with electrical failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 14V177000 (Exterior Lighting); however, the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that they could not assist because the VIN was not included in the recall. The manufacturer referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was unknown.
NHTSA complaint #11610858 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Bridgeville, PA
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
The contact owns a 2009 Mercedes-Benz C300. The contact stated while driving and activating the turn signals, the taillights were inoperable. Additionally, the contact stated while driving and depressing the brake pedal to come to a stop, the brake lights were significantly dimmed except for the third brake light. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed with electrical failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 14V177000 (Exterior Lighting); however, the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that they could not assist because the VIN was not included in the recall. The manufacturer referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was unknown.
NHTSA complaint #11610858 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Bridgeville, PA
SERVICE BRAKES
The contact owns a 2009 Mercedes-Benz C300. The contact stated while driving and activating the turn signals, the taillights were inoperable. Additionally, the contact stated while driving and depressing the brake pedal to come to a stop, the brake lights were significantly dimmed except for the third brake light. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed with electrical failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 14V177000 (Exterior Lighting); however, the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that they could not assist because the VIN was not included in the recall. The manufacturer referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was unknown.
NHTSA complaint #11610858 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Niskayuna, NY
STEERING
The entire rear subframe of any W205 body model including but not limited to the C class from 2009-2014, CL class, SL, class ETC. suffers admittedly from MB USA, premature rust, deterioration etc. there is an active recall for these same models in Canada and all of Europe but not the USA. My garage kept 2009 C300 has suffered extensive rear end damage from a factory defect that Mercedes refuses to recognize in the Continental U.S. but will admit the same issues occurred in the EU and Canada. Keeler Mercedes, USA, of Colonie New York, stated they completed my subframe repair under the MB rear subframe extended warranty. The vehicle was driven home and inspected only to find out Keeler Mercedes of NY did NOT replace this crucial safety component under MB-USA extended warranty issued for this defect. This is pure negligence. When asked why the subframe wasn’t replaced as the work order stated it did, they stated “a mix up in paper work” I believe Mercedes-Benz USA and Keeler Mercedes of New York conspired together to push this massive safety defect aside and lie about completing the work in fear of the payment from warranty not being worth the labor hours required by the technicians. This oversight COULD have been a multi million dollar lawsuit if any injury was sustained after said repairs were done in belief the vehicle was safe to drive. Keeler Mercedes’ has also had this vehicle in their possession from June 14th 2024, to todays date, July 5th 2024 with no word on when repairs to subframe will be completed. Subframe replacement stated on MB website states it is an 8 hour labor job. We’re on day 18 now. MAJOR safety issue and shady dealing by dealership
NHTSA complaint #11599329 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Niskayuna, NY
SUSPENSION
The entire rear subframe of any W205 body model including but not limited to the C class from 2009-2014, CL class, SL, class ETC. suffers admittedly from MB USA, premature rust, deterioration etc. there is an active recall for these same models in Canada and all of Europe but not the USA. My garage kept 2009 C300 has suffered extensive rear end damage from a factory defect that Mercedes refuses to recognize in the Continental U.S. but will admit the same issues occurred in the EU and Canada. Keeler Mercedes, USA, of Colonie New York, stated they completed my subframe repair under the MB rear subframe extended warranty. The vehicle was driven home and inspected only to find out Keeler Mercedes of NY did NOT replace this crucial safety component under MB-USA extended warranty issued for this defect. This is pure negligence. When asked why the subframe wasn’t replaced as the work order stated it did, they stated “a mix up in paper work” I believe Mercedes-Benz USA and Keeler Mercedes of New York conspired together to push this massive safety defect aside and lie about completing the work in fear of the payment from warranty not being worth the labor hours required by the technicians. This oversight COULD have been a multi million dollar lawsuit if any injury was sustained after said repairs were done in belief the vehicle was safe to drive. Keeler Mercedes’ has also had this vehicle in their possession from June 14th 2024, to todays date, July 5th 2024 with no word on when repairs to subframe will be completed. Subframe replacement stated on MB website states it is an 8 hour labor job. We’re on day 18 now. MAJOR safety issue and shady dealing by dealership
NHTSA complaint #11599329 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Niskayuna, NY
STRUCTURE:BODY
The entire rear subframe of any W205 body model including but not limited to the C class from 2009-2014, CL class, SL, class ETC. suffers admittedly from MB USA, premature rust, deterioration etc. there is an active recall for these same models in Canada and all of Europe but not the USA. My garage kept 2009 C300 has suffered extensive rear end damage from a factory defect that Mercedes refuses to recognize in the Continental U.S. but will admit the same issues occurred in the EU and Canada. Keeler Mercedes, USA, of Colonie New York, stated they completed my subframe repair under the MB rear subframe extended warranty. The vehicle was driven home and inspected only to find out Keeler Mercedes of NY did NOT replace this crucial safety component under MB-USA extended warranty issued for this defect. This is pure negligence. When asked why the subframe wasn’t replaced as the work order stated it did, they stated “a mix up in paper work” I believe Mercedes-Benz USA and Keeler Mercedes of New York conspired together to push this massive safety defect aside and lie about completing the work in fear of the payment from warranty not being worth the labor hours required by the technicians. This oversight COULD have been a multi million dollar lawsuit if any injury was sustained after said repairs were done in belief the vehicle was safe to drive. Keeler Mercedes’ has also had this vehicle in their possession from June 14th 2024, to todays date, July 5th 2024 with no word on when repairs to subframe will be completed. Subframe replacement stated on MB website states it is an 8 hour labor job. We’re on day 18 now. MAJOR safety issue and shady dealing by dealership
NHTSA complaint #11599329 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 99,000 milesJackson, MS
AIR BAGS
The contact owns a 2009 Mercedes-Benz C300. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the "SRS System Requires Service" was displayed. The air bag and check engine warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who diagnosed a failure with the vapor canister shutoff valve but had not provided a diagnosis for the SRS system. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, and a case was opened. The failure mileage was 99,000.
NHTSA complaint #11592898 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 99,000 milesJackson, MS
ENGINE
The contact owns a 2009 Mercedes-Benz C300. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the "SRS System Requires Service" was displayed. The air bag and check engine warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who diagnosed a failure with the vapor canister shutoff valve but had not provided a diagnosis for the SRS system. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, and a case was opened. The failure mileage was 99,000.
NHTSA complaint #11592898 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.