Likes
- Beautiful design inside and out.
- Excellent range of equipment and safety features.
- Offers all the image enhancement that comes with owning a Mercedes-Benz.
- Thanks to immense depreciation, can offer great value for money.
Used Mercedes-Benz C-Class (205) review
2014 - 2022
Dislikes
- Seems to be guilty of very inconsistent build quality.
- Part and labour can ask huge premiums.
- Depreciation makes very little financial sense.
- Many examples on the used market are to be avoided.
Stuff you should know
- The Mercedes-Benz C-Class has long been one of the brand’s most popular and important models, promising luxury, refinement, and advanced features. The 205 series, representing the fourth generation, includes the sedan (W205, 2014–2021), wagon (S205, 2014–2021), coupe (C205, 2016–2023), and convertible (A205, 2016–2023).
- These vehicles were available in two main iterations: pre-update models (2014–2018) and post-update models (2018–2023). While these vehicles often appeal to buyers seeking German engineering and a prestigious image, they are not without flaws, particularly in the used car market.
- The Australian-market C-Class lineup consists of a single petrol engine, two diesel engines, and a hybrid option, with variations in tuning across the range to create multiple model designations. For example the 2.0 L turbo petrol in various states of tune power C200, C250 and C300. The hybrid models cater to environmentally conscious buyers while maintaining the luxury and performance expected from Mercedes-Benz. All Australian-delivered C-Class models are rear-wheel drive, with no all-wheel-drive 4MATIC variants available. Most models use a 9-speed automatic transmission, although some early examples may feature a 7-speed automatic.
- While some Australian-delivered 205 series C-Class models were manufactured in Germany, a significant number were built in South Africa. Buyers should note that build quality may vary depending on the production location, with anecdotal reports suggesting some inconsistency between examples.
- Even early, base-spec models of the C-Class came well-equipped, offering a high level of standard features. However, competitors like the Lexus IS and Genesis G70 sometimes provide better value with more standard inclusions. Mercedes-Benz’s extensive range of optional extras is a defining feature of the C-Class. Popular trim packages include Avantgarde, Exclusive, Edition C, and AMG Line, which add unique styling and equipment.
- Additional options range from 14 different wheel designs to the Air Balance package, offering fragranced and filtered cabin air. Buyers should look for models with desirable extras, as they can elevate the C-Class to feel like a scaled-down S-Class.
- While the C-Class carries a premium badge, it does not always deliver the premium reliability one might expect. Reports of inconsistent build quality, electrical system issues, and mechanical faults are common, with experiences varying widely between owners. Some have faced repeated problems that have soured their opinion of the brand, while others report flawless ownership. Depreciation is also a significant concern, with C-Class models often losing value faster than some competitors.
- Owning a 205 series C-Class can be expensive. OEM parts are costly and may require lengthy shipping times from Germany or South Africa. Routine maintenance and unexpected repairs can add up quickly, making long-term ownership less financially attractive for budget-conscious buyers.
- The Mercedes-Benz C-Class is undoubtedly a desirable vehicle for its luxurious features, prestige, and driving experience. However, potential buyers should approach with caution, especially in the used market. Carefully inspect any prospective purchase for common issues, and consider that the presence of a premium badge does not always guarantee a premium ownership experience. Educate yourself on known problems below and weigh the potential costs against the appeal of owning a Mercedes-Benz.
What goes wrong
Exterior Issues
- Creaking doors and sunroofs: Pre-update models are more prone to creaks and noises, but even newer examples can develop these issues.
- Sunroof failures: Complete sunroof failures can be costly. Maintenance, such as lubrication, is essential to avoid problems like gear misalignment or broken plastic wheels, which can result in repair costs exceeding $5,000 at dealerships. Independent repairers may charge under $3,000.
- Black panel delamination: The panel ahead of the sunroof may delaminate. Replacing this part costs around $500, but dealership labor can push costs to nearly $2,000. Mercedes often denies warranty claims, attributing the issue to car washing fluid.
- Window trim fading: Black or silver trim around windows may fade or develop a rainbow effect. Replacement is typically not covered under warranty.
- Fragile wheels: AMG Line wheels are prone to cracking or buckling, exacerbated by the standard fitment of run-flat tires. Replacement costs are high, and independent repairers are often more affordable.
- Badge durability: Badges can loosen or fall off over time.
- Windshield wipers: OEM wipers may chatter across the glass, leading to a subpar cleaning experience.
- Recalls: While recalls address many issues, ensure they’ve been performed on any prospective purchase.
Interior Issues
- Inconsistent build quality: Synthetic leather can wear prematurely, while genuine leather tends to hold up better over time.
- Roof lining: Headliners may sag over time, a known issue in some examples.
- Window switches: Prone to breaking or popping off. Replacement costs for a driver’s switch can exceed $700.
- Interior trim: Silver finishes on the console and trackpad, as well as buttons like the armrest release, can degrade or fail. Dashboard timber may split, and gloss finishes scratch easily.
- Rattles and creaks: Interior plastics can produce noises over time, undermining the premium feel of the cabin.
- Electronics: Door modules, seat motors, ambient lighting, and infotainment systems are common failure points. Issues include:
- Infotainment systems: COMAND and newer systems may suffer from slow operation, freezing screens, or ghost touches. Fixes range from software updates to costly hardware replacements.
- Door modules: Failures can disable multiple systems on a single door, costing $900 or more to replace.
- Air conditioning: Systems may malfunction or emit a mouldy smell.
Mechanical Issues
Petrol Engines (OM264 and M274.920)
- Piston failures: Most common in early models (2015–2017), potentially leading to catastrophic engine damage.
- Turbochargers: Oil starvation and boost control actuator failures are frequent issues. Aftermarket repairs can offer cost-effective solutions.
- Timing chains: Can stretch after 80,000 km, especially with poor maintenance.
- Water pumps: Prone to valve failure,
Exterior Issues
- Creaking doors and sunroofs: Pre-update models are more prone to creaks and noises, but even newer examples can develop these issues.
- Sunroof failures: Complete sunroof failures can be costly. Maintenance, such as lubrication, is essential to avoid problems like gear misalignment or broken plastic wheels, which can result in repair costs exceeding $5,000 at dealerships. Independent repairers may charge under $3,000.
- Black panel delamination: The panel ahead of the sunroof may delaminate. Replacing this part costs around $500, but dealership labor can push costs to nearly $2,000. Mercedes often denies warranty claims, attributing the issue to car washing fluid.
- Window trim fading: Black or silver trim around windows may fade or develop a rainbow effect. Replacement is typically not covered under warranty.
- Fragile wheels: AMG Line wheels are prone to cracking or buckling, exacerbated by the standard fitment of run-flat tires. Replacement costs are high, and independent repairers are often more affordable.
- Badge durability: Badges can loosen or fall off over time.
- Windshield wipers: OEM wipers may chatter across the glass, leading to a subpar cleaning experience.
- Recalls: While recalls address many issues, ensure they’ve been performed on any prospective purchase.
Interior Issues
- Inconsistent build quality: Synthetic leather can wear prematurely, while genuine leather tends to hold up better over time.
- Roof lining: Headliners may sag over time, a known issue in some examples.
- Window switches: Prone to breaking or popping off. Replacement costs for a driver’s switch can exceed $700.
- Interior trim: Silver finishes on the console and trackpad, as well as buttons like the armrest release, can degrade or fail. Dashboard timber may split, and gloss finishes scratch easily.
- Rattles and creaks: Interior plastics can produce noises over time, undermining the premium feel of the cabin.
- Electronics: Door modules, seat motors, ambient lighting, and infotainment systems are common failure points. Issues include:
- Infotainment systems: COMAND and newer systems may suffer from slow operation, freezing screens, or ghost touches. Fixes range from software updates to costly hardware replacements.
- Door modules: Failures can disable multiple systems on a single door, costing $900 or more to replace.
- Air conditioning: Systems may malfunction or emit a mouldy smell.
Mechanical Issues
Petrol Engines (OM264 and M274.920)
- Piston failures: Most common in early models (2015–2017), potentially leading to catastrophic engine damage.
- Turbochargers: Oil starvation and boost control actuator failures are frequent issues. Aftermarket repairs can offer cost-effective solutions.
- Timing chains: Can stretch after 80,000 km, especially with poor maintenance.
- Water pumps: Prone to valve failure, leading to cooling issues.
- Coil packs: Often disintegrate during spark plug changes.
- PCV systems: Air-oil separators can fail, requiring complex repairs.
Diesel Engines (OM651.921)
- Valve cover leaks and injector seals: Can cause severe carbon buildup, nicknamed “black death,” making repairs challenging.
- Coolant leaks: Common around the fuel filter housing.
- DPF and EGR complications: Regular diesel-related issues exacerbated by boost leaks.
Hybrids
- Unreliable components: Batteries, power delivery units, and control modules are known failure points, with repair costs extremely high.
Driving and Ownership
- Ride quality: Run-flat tires, especially on AMG Line models, contribute to a harsh ride. Switching to non-run-flat tires can improve comfort and handling.
- Transmission issues: Early models may experience clunky gear changes and delays in downshifting.
- Safety system calibration: Early active safety features may be overly sensitive, while post-update systems are among the best available.
- Depreciation:
- A 2016 model costing $75,000 new may now sell for $25,000, reflecting significant value loss.
- A 2023 C300 Coupe may lose $30,000 within a year.
- Older models (2014) are available for around $15,000, but this highlights the steep depreciation curve compared to non-premium rivals like the Toyota Camry.
- After-sales experience: Mercedes-Benz dealerships often face criticism for high parts and labor costs, as well as inconsistent service quality.
Exterior Issues
- Creaking doors and sunroofs: Pre-update models are more prone to creaks and noises, but even newer examples can develop these issues.
- Sunroof failures: Complete sunroof failures can be costly. Maintenance, such as lubrication, is essential to avoid problems like gear misalignment or broken plastic wheels, which can result in repair costs exceeding $5,000 at dealerships. Independent repairers may charge under $3,000.
- Black panel delamination: The panel ahead of the sunroof may delaminate. Replacing this part costs around $500, but dealership labor can push costs to nearly $2,000. Mercedes often denies warranty claims, attributing the issue to car washing fluid.
- Window trim fading: Black or silver trim around windows may fade or develop a rainbow effect. Replacement is typically not covered under warranty.
- Fragile wheels: AMG Line wheels are prone to cracking or buckling, exacerbated by the standard fitment of run-flat tires. Replacement costs are high, and independent repairers are often more affordable.
- Badge durability: Badges can loosen or fall off over time.
- Windshield wipers: OEM wipers may chatter across the glass, leading to a subpar cleaning experience.
- Recalls: While recalls address many issues, ensure they’ve been performed on any prospective purchase.
Interior Issues
- Inconsistent build quality: Synthetic leather can wear prematurely, while genuine leather tends to hold up better over time.
- Roof lining: Headliners may sag over time, a known issue in some examples.
- Window switches: Prone to breaking or popping off. Replacement costs for a driver’s switch can exceed $700.
- Interior trim: Silver finishes on the console and trackpad, as well as buttons like the armrest release, can degrade or fail. Dashboard timber may split, and gloss finishes scratch easily.
- Rattles and creaks: Interior plastics can produce noises over time, undermining the premium feel of the cabin.
- Electronics: Door modules, seat motors, ambient lighting, and infotainment systems are common failure points. Issues include:
- Infotainment systems: COMAND and newer systems may suffer from slow operation, freezing screens, or ghost touches. Fixes range from software updates to costly hardware replacements.
- Door modules: Failures can disable multiple systems on a single door, costing $900 or more to replace.
- Air conditioning: Systems may malfunction or emit a mouldy smell.
Mechanical Issues
Petrol Engines (OM264 and M274.920)
- Piston failures: Most common in early models (2015–2017), potentially leading to catastrophic engine damage.
- Turbochargers: Oil starvation and boost control actuator failures are frequent issues. Aftermarket repairs can offer cost-effective solutions.
- Timing chains: Can stretch after 80,000 km, especially with poor maintenance.
- Water pumps: Prone to valve failure, leading to cooling issues.
- Coil packs: Often disintegrate during spark plug changes.
- PCV systems: Air-oil separators can fail, requiring complex repairs.
Diesel Engines (OM651.921)
- Valve cover leaks and injector seals: Can cause severe carbon buildup, nicknamed “black death,” making repairs challenging.
- Coolant leaks: Common around the fuel filter housing.
- DPF and EGR complications: Regular diesel-related issues exacerbated by boost leaks.
Hybrids
- Unreliable components: Batteries, power delivery units, and control modules are known failure points, with repair costs extremely high.
Driving and Ownership
- Ride quality: Run-flat tires, especially on AMG Line models, contribute to a harsh ride. Switching to non-run-flat tires can improve comfort and handling.
- Transmission issues: Early models may experience clunky gear changes and delays in downshifting.
- Safety system calibration: Early active safety features may be overly sensitive, while post-update systems are among the best available.
- Depreciation:
- A 2016 model costing $75,000 new may now sell for $25,000, reflecting significant value loss.
- A 2023 C300 Coupe may lose $30,000 within a year.
- Older models (2014) are available for around $15,000, but this highlights the steep depreciation curve compared to non-premium rivals like the Toyota Camry.
- After-sales experience: Mercedes-Benz dealerships often face criticism for high parts and labor costs, as well as inconsistent service quality.
Should you buy it?
If you’re a fan of Mercedes-Benz, the 205 Series C-Class might feel like a tempting choice. However, we believe you deserve better than what this model often delivers.
While the C-Class carries undeniable appeal with its premium badge and stylish design, there are significant concerns to consider. We could talk endlessly about the objective downsides—high parts costs, inconsistent build quality, poor reliability, low customer satisfaction scores, and steep depreciation. These facts paint a less-than-flattering picture of the C-Class, especially when viewed purely through a practical lens.
But numbers and statistics don’t tell the whole story. Buying a luxury car is often an emotional decision, driven by the prestige and promise of a premium brand like Mercedes-Benz. This is a company that built its reputation on class-leading engineering and exceptional craftsmanship—qualities that have defined the Mercedes name for decades.
And while there are certainly used examples of the 205 Series C-Class that uphold these high standards, far too many fail to meet expectations. With recurring issues in reliability, quality, and after-sales service, it’s clear that not every C-Class lives up to the legacy of the three-pointed star.
You deserve a vehicle that not only embodies the elegance and innovation of Mercedes-Benz but also delivers the dependability and quality that the brand promises. Unfortunately, the 205 Series C-Class may fall short of these ideals for many buyers. Proceed with caution, and ensure any purchase is guided by a thorough understanding of the potential risks and rewards.
If you’re a fan of Mercedes-Benz, the 205 Series C-Class might feel like a tempting choice. However, we believe you deserve better than what this model often delivers.
While the C-Class carries undeniable appeal with its premium badge and stylish design, there are significant concerns to consider. We could talk endlessly about the objective downsides—high parts costs, inconsistent build quality, poor reliability, low customer satisfaction scores, and steep depreciation. These facts paint a less-than-flattering picture of the C-Class, especially when viewed purely through a practical lens.
But numbers and statistics don’t tell the whole story. Buying a luxury car is often an emotional decision, driven by the prestige and promise of a premium brand like Mercedes-Benz. This is a company that built its reputation on class-leading engineering and exceptional craftsmanship—qualities that have defined the Mercedes name for decades.
And while there are certainly used examples of the 205 Series C-Class that uphold these high standards, far too many fail to meet expectations. With recurring issues in reliability, quality, and after-sales service, it’s clear that not every C-Class lives up to the legacy of the three-pointed star.
You deserve a vehicle that not only embodies the elegance and innovation of Mercedes-Benz but also delivers the dependability and quality that the brand promises. Unfortunately, the 205 Series C-Class may fall short of these ideals for many buyers. Proceed with caution, and ensure any purchase is guided by a thorough understanding of the potential risks and rewards.
Should you buy it?
If you’re a fan of Mercedes-Benz, the 205 Series C-Class might feel like a tempting choice. However, we believe you deserve better than what this model often delivers.
While the C-Class carries undeniable appeal with its premium badge and stylish design, there are significant concerns to consider. We could talk endlessly about the objective downsides—high parts costs, inconsistent build quality, poor reliability, low customer satisfaction scores, and steep depreciation. These facts paint a less-than-flattering picture of the C-Class, especially when viewed purely through a practical lens.
But numbers and statistics don’t tell the whole story. Buying a luxury car is often an emotional decision, driven by the prestige and promise of a premium brand like Mercedes-Benz. This is a company that built its reputation on class-leading engineering and exceptional craftsmanship—qualities that have defined the Mercedes name for decades.
And while there are certainly used examples of the 205 Series C-Class that uphold these high standards, far too many fail to meet expectations. With recurring issues in reliability, quality, and after-sales service, it’s clear that not every C-Class lives up to the legacy of the three-pointed star.
You deserve a vehicle that not only embodies the elegance and innovation of Mercedes-Benz but also delivers the dependability and quality that the brand promises. Unfortunately, the 205 Series C-Class may fall short of these ideals for many buyers. Proceed with caution, and ensure any purchase is guided by a thorough understanding of the potential risks and rewards.
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Disclaimer
Please note that pricing information is subject to fluctuations in the automotive market.
Information correct as of Nov 22, 2024.
The advice provided on this website is general advice only. It has been prepared without taking into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. Before acting on this advice, you should consider the appropriateness of the advice, having regard to your own objectives, financial situation and needs.
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