Mercedes Benz C280 owners have reported 6 structure related problems since 1996. Table 1 shows the 1 most common structure problems. The number one most common problem is related to the vehicle's body (6 problems). For details of each of the problem category, use the links in the table.
| Problem Category | Number of Problems |
|---|---|
| Body problems |
I have never been contacted about this recall either. This is the second complaint form I have filed. First one filed 12/28/2019.
While driving at approximately 70 mph on a highway, the rear subframe of the vehicle suddenly and catastrophically failed. This caused the vehicle to fishtail violently and nearly led to a serious highway accident. I was able to regain control and pull off the road safely, but the vehicle was no longer drivable and had to be towed. An inspection by a certified technician confirmed that the rear subframe rusted from the inside and experienced a complete structural failure. One of the suspension control arms even broke off of the subframe due to rust. The vehicle showed no warning lights or symptoms prior to the incident. The road was dry and free of potholes or debris, and the car had been properly maintained and garage-kept for the prior 16 years. This issue is a known defect in mercedes-benz vehicles of similar design. Mercedes-benz has extended the subframe warranty for c-class vehicles from model years 2008–2015 due to widespread internal subframe corrosion. However, this vehicle (2006 model year) is not covered, despite experiencing the same failure. The corrosion originated from inside the subframe, indicating a manufacturing or materials defect rather than environmental exposure. This failure posed a severe risk to my safety and the safety of others, especially since it occurred at highway speeds without warning. The problem has been documented in other vehicles and is the subject of a current class-action lawsuit (case § 1:23-cv-00636 in the state of georgia).
I am still waiting for a recall to be completed.
On July 30, 2015 around 1900 hrs. I was leaving home going to pick up my kids from around the corner. I came to a stop light (red). Begin to move forward when a loud bang happened then scraping. I got out the car to address the situation and observed that my vehicle was sagging. I retraced my tracks on foot and located my coil spring. Once I got back home, I jacked up the car and noticed my upper spring housing on my passenger side was broken.
Tl- the contact owns a 1999 Mercedes Benz C280. The contact was driving approximately 35 mph over a bump and a loud popping noise emitted outside of the vehicle. The front end of the vehicle began to fall towards the ground and tilt to the right. The contact continued to drive with caution. The vehicle was taken to an authorized dealer where they detected excessive rust corrosion within the frame. A new spring perch and bushing will need to be welded to the frame; the technician advised the vehicle not be driven due to a safety hazard. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the problem. The approximate failure mileage was 151,000. Rvk.
1997 Mercedes Benz, model c-280: trunk front spring anchor point (drivers side) broke from metal fatigue when the trunk was opened. The weld point did not break. Mercedes benz USA was notified of the metal failure problem and has declined to act or take responsibility, as they stated "this is due to the age of the vehicle". This part is not one to be replaced by wear and tear. We are advising you of the metal part failure, please respond. Thank you.