Starter Solenoid Problems of Mercedes Benz C230

Just like other reports here - electrical malfunction. 50k miles. Took to mb dealer for rough idle at cold start up and low speeds; louder than normal idle at start and in reverse. No check engine light, no error or problem indicated in dash at all. Same diagnosis - dealer reported cam solenoids leaking engine oil into the wiring harness shorting harness components (O2 sensors etc. ), high $$$ $3600-$4000 repair. Issue should be resolved and paid for by mb since this is known defect that severely reduces the drive-ability and value of the vehicle.

See all problems of the 2003 Mercedes Benz C230 🔎.

Check engine light on, with occasional poor gas mileage, rough running. When engine starts rough, engine stop/re-start gets engine to idle/run properly. Dealer reported cam solenoids leaking engine oil into the wiring harness shorting harness components (O2 sensors etc. ), high $$$ repair. First occurrence at 57k miles (just out of warranty). Contacted mb, no concern, too bad for you. Sporadic red led warning about gas cap, blinking indicator in fuel gauge, stop/restart engine, goes away (error not in owners manual). Car still running at 78k miles and usually 35 mpg during normal commute so far (without repair so far, do not have tail pipe emission check in area yet, so not mandated to fix mil light issue), clear ecm codes occasionally, come back after 3 key cycles. Stuck with car that is not worth fixing to have same problem come back. This cam solenoid/wiring harness/O2 sensor/check engine light issue should be resolved and paid for by mb since this is known defect that severely reduces the drivablilty and value of the vehicle.