2012 Mercedes-Benz C-Class Problems & Owner Complaints

Air Bags 312 6 crash 6 injury 1 death

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 MERCEDES BENZ C300. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE DRIVER VEERED INTO ONCOMING TRAFFIC AND THE VEHICLE ROLLED OVER. THE DRIVER THEN CRASHED INTO ANOTHER VEHICLE. THE AIR BAGS FAILED TO DEPLOY. THE DRIVER SUSTAINED FATAL INJURIES AND THE PASSENGER WAS TAKEN TO THE HOSPITAL FOR TREATMENT OF INJURIES. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A SALVAGE LOT. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 25000. UPDATED 09-04-14 *BF UPDATED 09/10/2014 *JS..UPDATED 10/28/14 *BF...UPDATED 04/08/15 *B…”
NHTSA complaint #10595185, 2014 · crash · 1 death(s)

“PLEASE ALLOW THIS TO SERVE AS A LIMITED NOTICE TO I) MERCEDES-BENZ AG, II) MBUSA AND III) DAIMLER AG OF A NEW TAKATA AIRBAG INFLATOR RUPTURE FOR TREAD COMPLIANCE PURPOSES. THE SUBJECT VEHICLE IS A 2012 MERCEDES-BENZ C250W,VIN#: ***************** (THE 'VEHICLE'). I HAVE THE PRIVILEGE OF REPRESENTING TWO INDIVIDUALS WHO WERE SEVERELY INJURED ON 11/7/2020 WHEN THE PASSENGER-SIDE TAKATA AIRBAG INSTALLED IN THE VEHICLE IMPROPERLY RUPTURED DURING A CRASH EVENT DEPLOYMENT. THE VEHICLE WAS IN MOTION AT THE TIME OF THE RUPTURE. DUE TO THE VIOLENT EXPLOSION OF THE INFLATOR MODULE, THE INFLA…”
NHTSA complaint #11375773, 2020 · crash · 2 injury(ies)

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2012 MERCEDES-BENZ C300. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT 15 MPH, THE AIR BAGS DEPLOYED WHICH CAUSED THE DRIVER TO BE UNABLE TO VIEW THE ROAD OR CONTROL THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE CRASHED INTO A TREE. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE DRIVER AND PASSENGER WERE INJURED. THE DRIVER SUSTAINED INJURIES TO HIS RIGHT HAND, NECK AND LEFT LEG. THE PASSENGER SUSTAINED INJURIES TO HER NECK. BOTH PARTIES INJURED REQUIRED IMMEDIATE MEDICAL ATTENTION. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED AND DEEMED DESTROYED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 5,000.”
NHTSA complaint #10825469, 2014 · crash · 2 injury(ies)

Suspension 73

“I have a rust free, relatively lower mileage car I bought for my teen daughter. Despite being such a clean car the rear subframe has rusted and rear suspension has broke off while driving, hitting the fuel tank and is unstable. We avoided an accident but the car is not drivable.”
NHTSA complaint #11732281, 2026

“Mercedes of Danbury replaced the rear sub frame CODE 3441 47, since my mechanic (Newtown Auto Repair) told me that the Front subframe is in real bad shape, rotten/rusted, that it is dangerous to drive the car in this condition since the wheel and steering components are part and attached to it, the car would be out of control and all over the road any of these components fail and pull / brake away from the rusted out Sub Frame. When I brought the car in was under the impression that Mercedes Benz would replace front and back Sub Frames. But now they informed me of only recall on rear subframe,…”
NHTSA complaint #11701264, 2025

“Rear subframe crossmember rotting, needs replacement. It seems to be a common problem with this vehicle and the assumption by most professional is that it a faulty part supplied by a third party to Mercedes. The rest of the cars undercarriage is pristine, making me wonder why just this one part would rust out.”
NHTSA complaint #11674095, 2025

Engine 69 4 fire

“2012 Mercedes C250 caught fire with no warning. Drove about 5 miles to the store and parked the car. A passerby said your car is on fire. Within minutes the entire front of the car was ablaze. The vehicle was towed to the city impound lot and has not been inspected by anyone.”
NHTSA complaint #11422468, 2021 · fire

“MY CAR CAUGHT ON FIRE. I AM NOT SURE EXACTLY WHAT CAUSED IT OR WHERE IT STARTED, BUT THERE WERE FLAMES COMING OUT BETWEEN THE TIRE AND THE DOOR FRAME. THE CAR WAS ON WHILE I WAS PARKED IN A DRIVEWAY. I RAN A REPORT ON MY VEHICLE AND THE TENSIONER HAD BEEN REPLACED BEFORE I PURCHASED IT AND ALSO AFTER I PURCHASED IT. I BELIEVE IT MAY HAVE SOMETHING TO DO WITH THE V-BELT TENSIONER AS IT WAS ALWAYS MAKING SCREECHING SOUNDS. I JUST WANT TO KNOW HOW TO HAVE MY CAR INVESTIGATED FOR THE CAUSE OF THE FIRE.”
NHTSA complaint #11052062, 2017 · fire

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2012 MERCEDES-BENZ C250. WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED WITH THE ENGINE RUNNING, SMOKE SUDDENLY APPEARED UNDER THE HOOD AND FLAMES WERE PRESENT UNDER THE VEHICLE THE FIRE DEPARTMENT EXTINGUISHED THE FLAMES. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED. THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE WAS NOT DETERMINED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 94,572. UPDATED 06/01/17*LJ UPDATED 09/18/2017*JS”
NHTSA complaint #10969769, 2017 · fire

Structure 62 1 crash 1 injury

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 MERCEDES BENZ C300. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 35 MPH, THE REAR PASSENGER SIDE WINDOW EXHIBITED A LOUD, ABNORMAL NOISE WHEN OPENED. AS A RESULT, THE CONTACT EXPERIENCED A TEMPORARY LOSS OF HEARING FROM THE HIGH PITCH OF THE NOISE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER WHO STATED THAT THE LOUD NOISE WAS COMMON FOR THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 384. UPDATED 8/21/12 *CN”
NHTSA complaint #10468811, 2012 · 1 injury(ies)

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 MERCEDES-BENZ C250. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 17V017000 (AIR BAGS). THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE CONTACT CALLED PLAZA MOTORS (LOCATED AT 11654 OLIVE BLVD, CREVE CORE, MO 63141, 314-485-4926) AND WAS INFORMED THAT THE PART WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE.*MP CONSUMER STATED WHILE DRIVING IN A SNOW COVER ROAD, HEARD A LOUD NOISE AND REALIZED CAR HIT THE CURVE TAKING DOWN THE PASSEN…”
NHTSA complaint #11281852, 2017 · crash

“Mercedes of Danbury replaced the rear sub frame CODE 3441 47, since my mechanic (Newtown Auto Repair) told me that the Front subframe is in real bad shape, rotten/rusted, that it is dangerous to drive the car in this condition since the wheel and steering components are part and attached to it, the car would be out of control and all over the road any of these components fail and pull / brake away from the rusted out Sub Frame. When I brought the car in was under the impression that Mercedes Benz would replace front and back Sub Frames. But now they informed me of only recall on rear subframe,…”
NHTSA complaint #11701264, 2025

Unknown Or Other 36

“Rear subframe rotted out and broke due to corrosion. Rear crossmember is broken and needs replaced. My safety as well as the safely of other was put at risk. Loss of control at high speed could have been deadly. Luckily, I wasn’t going very fast at the time of incident or else who knows what would have happened to me or bystanders. Independent service center inspected and confirmed that incident was due to corrosion in the rear. They informed me of the extended warranty (20 years, unlimited miles) on 2008-2015 C300 models for this particular issue as my safety and the safety of others was p…”
NHTSA complaint #11682005, 2025

“The electronic steering lock failed resulting in my car being completely disabled. My safety was not at risk in this particular instance. I was left stranded in a parking lot at night. The component was not inspected by the manufacturer or dealer. The manufacturer/dealer did not inform anyone that this problem will happen to every car with this compensation. This component failed without warning/symptoms/messages. It will fail on all Mercedes Benz cars from 2008-2016. The problem has not been confirmed or communicated by the dealer. Other Mercedes benz owners have encountered this problem resu…”
NHTSA complaint #11676056, 2025

“1. The car radio, blue-tooth, speakers, sound, car remote sound. Happened after a battery change by AAA - unsure if it's related. CUstomer service tried to resolve it - radio turns on, but nothing else works. 2. Doors won't unlock outside or inside - except passenegers side is open. 3. Accelerator acting strange - won't pick speed after 30, then 60 4. there was an air bag recal of this car a while ago.”
NHTSA complaint #11638695, 2024

Fuel/Propulsion System 28 2 fire 1 injury

“THERE ARE SMALL CRACKS THAT HAVE DEVELOPED IN THE TOP OF THE FUEL SENDING UNIT. THIS ALLOWS FUEL TO LEAK OUT OF THE TOP OF THE FUEL PUMP AND POOL IN THE CENTER OF THE PUMP WHERE THERE ARE A NUMBER OF ELECTRICAL WIRES THAT ARE SUBMERGED IN FUEL. THIS IS A POTENTIALLY DEADLY PROBLEM AS THERE IS A REAL POTENTIAL FOR IGNITION OF THE LEAKED FUEL WHICH IS RIGHT UNDERNEATH THE DRIVERS SIDE PASSENGER SEAT WHERE MY 5 YEAR OLD'S CHILD SEAT IS LOCATED. THERE IS ALSO AN EXTREMELY STRONG ODOR OF GAS INSIDE THE CAR WHICH IS STRONG ENOUGH TO CAUSE LIGHT HEADEDNESS AND POSSIBLE SYNCOPE. THIS IS AN EXTREME…”
NHTSA complaint #11281869, 2019 · 1 injury(ies)

“EXTREMELY DANGEROUS FUEL LEAK - FUEL STARTED TO LEAK FROM THE TOP OF THE GAS TANK, INSIDE THE CAR FROM UNDER THE DRIVER SIDE REAR PASSENGER SEAT. VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO CLOSEST SHOP AVAILABLE WHEN HEAVY FUEL SMELLS WERE NOTICED INSIDE VEHICLE WHILE DRIVING. A LOCAL TIRE SHOP, HAMIL FIRESTONE, LOOKED UNDER THE CAR AND IDENTIFIED THAT FUEL WAS LEAKING DOWN THE FRAME TO THE ROAD. SOMEHOW GASOLINE WAS ACTUALLY LEAKING FROM INSIDE THE CAR. I CONTACTED MERCEDES CORP IMMEDIATELY AND THEY SENT A TOW TRUCK TO COLLECT THE VEHICLE. I WAS TOLD THAT DUE TO THE NATURE OF THE ISSUE IT WAS EXTREMELY DANGEROU…”
NHTSA complaint #11390625, 2021 · fire

“WHILE MY CAR WAS RUNNING IN MY DRIVEWAY PRIOR TO DRIVING, THE ENGINE CAUGHT FIRE, TOTALING THE VEHICLE. THERE ARE NO OPEN RECALLS ON THIS SPECIFIC CAR, BUT WAS TOLD BY THE FIRE INVESTIGATOR THAT IT WAS EITHER ELECTRICAL OR FUEL PUMP RELATED. *TR”
NHTSA complaint #10689919, 2015 · fire

Electrical System 27 2 fire

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 MERCEDES BENZ C300. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 45 MPH, A BURNING TYPE ODOR WAS PRESENT INSIDE THE VEHICLE. WHILING INSPECTING THE VEHICLE IT WAS DISCOVERED THAT REAR DRIVER AND PASSENGER SIDE TAIL LIGHT PLUGS HAD MELTED. ALSO, AFTER TURNING THE FRONT DRIVER SEAT HEATER ON A BURNING ODOR WAS PRESENT AND THE SEAT FELT EXTREMELY HOTTER THE NORMAL. THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURES WERE NOT DETERMINED. THE MANUFACTURER AND LOCAL DEALER WERE NOT YET NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURES. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 70,000. ## VIN PASSED ## MERCEDES-BENZ 2012 C300 ##”
NHTSA complaint #11413896, 2021 · fire

“MY VEHICLE WAS DAMAGED BY K AND H AUTO. THE ELECTRICAL UNIT IS MALFUNCTIONING, THE LIGHT IS BROKEN ON THE RIGHT SIDE, AND THE ROTORS AND BRAKES HAVE BEEN RUSTED, PLEASE HAVE SOMEONE ATTEND TO THIS MATTER. THANKS, AND HAVE A VERY BLESSED DAY. ANOTHER COMPANY BY THE NAME OF ANS TOWING, TOWED MY VEHICLE WITHOUT CARE AND I AM NOW HAVING ACCELERATION ISSUES WITH MY VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS DRAGGED THROUGH WATER ON OCTOBER 17-18, 2018.”
NHTSA complaint #11066436, 2016 · fire

“The taillights in my 2012 c300 was starting to go out intermittently. At first the notification came on for the brake light but the brake light kept working. Afterwards the rest of the taillights and the sidemarker light went out as well. I went to go take a look and the grounding wire was oxidated and corroded. A known issue in which there was a recall made for the 2008-2011 version of the w204 but this did not apply to the 2012 w204. As of last week my entire rear drivers side light is out which is a safety hazard especially at night. The hazard lights dont work in case of an emergency on…”
NHTSA complaint #11697258, 2025

Service Brakes 26 1 crash 1 fire

“MY VEHICLE WAS DAMAGED BY K AND H AUTO. THE ELECTRICAL UNIT IS MALFUNCTIONING, THE LIGHT IS BROKEN ON THE RIGHT SIDE, AND THE ROTORS AND BRAKES HAVE BEEN RUSTED, PLEASE HAVE SOMEONE ATTEND TO THIS MATTER. THANKS, AND HAVE A VERY BLESSED DAY. ANOTHER COMPANY BY THE NAME OF ANS TOWING, TOWED MY VEHICLE WITHOUT CARE AND I AM NOW HAVING ACCELERATION ISSUES WITH MY VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS DRAGGED THROUGH WATER ON OCTOBER 17-18, 2018.”
NHTSA complaint #11066436, 2016 · fire

“I MADE A SHARP TURN INTO A PARKING AREA THEN ANOTHER SHARP TURN INTO THE PARKING SPACE AND WHEN I STRAIGHTEN THE WHEEL OUT TO COMPLETE PARKING AN APPLIED MY FOOT ON BRAKE THE PEDAL WENT TO THE FLOOR AND CAR WOULD NOT STOP THE ONLY THING THAT STOPPED ME WAS THE CONCRETE CURBING WHICH I HIT HARD AND DAMAGED THE UNDER CARRIAGE OF MY CAR. THE TIRES HITTING THE CONCRETE IS MADE FORCED CAR TO STOP. I CONTACTED DEALERSHIP TO REPORT THE PROBLEM AND SEE IF THEY COULD TOW VEHICLE AND PROVIDE ME WITH A CAR SINCE I WAS STRANDED. THEY WERE CLOSING AND COULDN'T HELP ME. HAD THE VEHICLE CHECKED TO SEE IF A B…”
NHTSA complaint #10487272, 2012 · crash

“-The steering wheel and brake locked up and became unusable while driving at approximately 75mph. Cruise control was enabled for a few miles (maybe 2) and disabled after. Around 5 minutes after disabling, the car began to surge between acceleration and deceleration drastically on its own. All of the dashboard lights that come on when the key is initially inserted came on at once while engine was on/running and the car was in drive. After finally being able to reach a safe enough spot, I put the car in park and turned the engine off. I sat for a few minutes to try and turn the engine/car back o…”
NHTSA complaint #11687260, 2025

Steering 15 1 injury

“THE STEERING WHEEL ,HAS ALUMINUM PLATING OR COVERING, THAT WAS PEELING OFF AND CUT MY FINGER AS I WAS DRIVING, THIS HAPPENED LAST YEAR AND WAS STILL UNDER WARRANTY, AND DEALER REPLACED, THIS IS HAPPENING AGAIN, AND THE DEALER HAS AGREED TO REPLACE EVEN THOUGH THE WARRANTY HAS EXPIRED. I THOUGHT YOU GUYS SHOULD KNOW. *TR”
NHTSA complaint #10671871, 2014 · 1 injury(ies)

“-The steering wheel and brake locked up and became unusable while driving at approximately 75mph. Cruise control was enabled for a few miles (maybe 2) and disabled after. Around 5 minutes after disabling, the car began to surge between acceleration and deceleration drastically on its own. All of the dashboard lights that come on when the key is initially inserted came on at once while engine was on/running and the car was in drive. After finally being able to reach a safe enough spot, I put the car in park and turned the engine off. I sat for a few minutes to try and turn the engine/car back o…”
NHTSA complaint #11687260, 2025

“Lost of drive power and the vehicle steering wheel locked on my mercedes from a damaged malfunctioning steering lock actuator module due to mechanical issues within the steering column such as bad steering wheel assembly, faulty steering lock module or issue with the wiring or other electrical components and the mercedes dealer is the only one who solves this issue no other mechanic in general. My safety was at risk due to I lost power and lost of front brakes due to bad sway bar assembly or components could of caused and accident when this happened on November 12, 2024 the problem dealership…”
NHTSA complaint #11638949, 2024

Power Train 12

“The model/year Mercedes-Benz are well known for experiencing this/these particular issues. My research has shown that these year/make/model vehicles are experiencing the same type of mechanical failures nationwide. The issues all relatively begin around 75,000 miles. I've only had my car 3 years putting 30000 on it hardly driven/cared for **Issue Found:** Oil was leaking onto the ignition coil and spark plug of cylinder 3. **Source of Leak:** Valve cover gasket failure. **Recommended Repairs:** - Replace the valve cover gasket (to halt the oil leak). - Replace spark plugs and ignition…”
NHTSA complaint #11666448, 2025

“Lost of drive power and the vehicle steering wheel locked on my mercedes from a damaged malfunctioning steering lock actuator module due to mechanical issues within the steering column such as bad steering wheel assembly, faulty steering lock module or issue with the wiring or other electrical components and the mercedes dealer is the only one who solves this issue no other mechanic in general. My safety was at risk due to I lost power and lost of front brakes due to bad sway bar assembly or components could of caused and accident when this happened on November 12, 2024 the problem dealership…”
NHTSA complaint #11638949, 2024

“vehicle sub-frame is cracked rusted corroded.”
NHTSA complaint #11572697, 2024

Exterior Lighting 8 1 fire

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 MERCEDES BENZ C300. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 45 MPH, A BURNING TYPE ODOR WAS PRESENT INSIDE THE VEHICLE. WHILING INSPECTING THE VEHICLE IT WAS DISCOVERED THAT REAR DRIVER AND PASSENGER SIDE TAIL LIGHT PLUGS HAD MELTED. ALSO, AFTER TURNING THE FRONT DRIVER SEAT HEATER ON A BURNING ODOR WAS PRESENT AND THE SEAT FELT EXTREMELY HOTTER THE NORMAL. THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURES WERE NOT DETERMINED. THE MANUFACTURER AND LOCAL DEALER WERE NOT YET NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURES. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 70,000. ## VIN PASSED ## MERCEDES-BENZ 2012 C300 ##”
NHTSA complaint #11413896, 2021 · fire

“The taillights in my 2012 c300 was starting to go out intermittently. At first the notification came on for the brake light but the brake light kept working. Afterwards the rest of the taillights and the sidemarker light went out as well. I went to go take a look and the grounding wire was oxidated and corroded. A known issue in which there was a recall made for the 2008-2011 version of the w204 but this did not apply to the 2012 w204. As of last week my entire rear drivers side light is out which is a safety hazard especially at night. The hazard lights dont work in case of an emergency on…”
NHTSA complaint #11697258, 2025

“The contact owns a 2012 Mercedes-Benz C300. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked, the passenger’s side rear taillight was inoperable. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer but was not diagnosed or repaired since the VIN nor the model year was not included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 14V177000 (Exterior Lighting). The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 180,000.”
NHTSA complaint #11597459, 2024

Fuel System 7

“The contact owns a 2012 Mercedes-Benz C300. The contact stated the fuel tank was emitting a fuel odor. The contact stated that the fuel odor was extremely strong and could be smelled inside the residence while the vehicle was parked in the garage. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a Certified Mechanic, who diagnosed that the leak was coming from the top of the fuel tank; however, the mechanic was unable to specify the cause. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, but the vehicle was not diagnosed. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact became aware of NHTSA Ca…”
NHTSA complaint #11696118, 2025

“The contact owns a 2012 Mercedes-Benz C350. The contact stated while the vehicle was parked, the contact noticed a strong smell of fuel around the exterior of the vehicle. In addition, the contact stated that while driving the vehicle, the fuel odor was extremely strong, and the contact could not wind the windows down. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or the dealer. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The contact was advised to contact the NHTSA Hotline to report the failure. The failure mileage was 53,000.”
NHTSA complaint #11617546, 2023

“The contact owns a 2012 Mercedes-Benz C300. The contact stated while driving at various speeds, extra brake travel time was needed to stop the vehicle. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact had taken the vehicle to an independent mechanic where the vehicle was purchased, and he was informed that the failure was caused by the new brake pads placed on the vehicle. The contact eventually took the vehicle to a dealer and was informed that the fuel tank and brake lines were corroded; and the contact was provided an estimate for the repair. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacture…”
NHTSA complaint #11518035, 2023

Vehicle Speed Control 4 1 crash 1 injury

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 MERCEDES BENZ C300. WHILE STOPPED AT A RED LIGHT WITH THE BRAKE PEDAL DEPRESSED, THE VEHICLE ACCELERATED EXTREMELY FAST INTO AN INTERSECTION. AS A RESULT, THE CONTACT'S VEHICLE WAS STRUCK BY ANOTHER VEHICLE ON THE FRONT DRIVER'S SIDE DOOR. THE CONTACT SUFFERED A BROKEN CLAVICLE, A BRUISED ANKLE, CHEST, AND BACK. MEDICAL ATTENTION WAS RECEIVED. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE POLICE IMPOUND LOT. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 40,000. UPDATED 7/1/15*CN”
NHTSA complaint #10713730, 2015 · crash · 1 injury(ies)

“-The steering wheel and brake locked up and became unusable while driving at approximately 75mph. Cruise control was enabled for a few miles (maybe 2) and disabled after. Around 5 minutes after disabling, the car began to surge between acceleration and deceleration drastically on its own. All of the dashboard lights that come on when the key is initially inserted came on at once while engine was on/running and the car was in drive. After finally being able to reach a safe enough spot, I put the car in park and turned the engine off. I sat for a few minutes to try and turn the engine/car back o…”
NHTSA complaint #11687260, 2025

“2012 C250 has a known defect with high pressure fuel pump. I personally have had an intermittent issue where vehicle will unpredictably stop working under heavy throttle and enter limp mode as the computer throws a fault code. This results in loss of power after the code making vehicle unpredictable and dangerous in passing situations. It leaves you stranded in the passing lane with oncoming traffic with a vehicle that will not accelerate. I have submitted a request multiple times with Mercedes benz corporate who has declined my submission. This issue has been ongoing since 2016. They have off…”
NHTSA complaint #11448292, 2022

Visibility 4

“The contact owns a 2012 Mercedes-Benz C300. The contact stated that after opening the sunroof and then attempting to close the sunroof, the sunroof failed to fully close. The contact had to open and close the sunroof several times before the sunroof closed. Additionally, the contact stated that there was water entering the vehicle from the sunroof which caused electrical failures. The contact stated that the vehicle was drivable, but the "Anti-Theft" warning light illuminated. The contact stated that several other warning lights were later illuminated, and the vehicle would not start. The cont…”
NHTSA complaint #11594372, 2024

“The contact owns a 2012 Mercedes-Benz C350. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the sunroof glass shattered and landed on the sunroof cover. There was no impact on the sunroof that could have caused the sunroof to shatter. The contact and his daughter did not sustain any injuries. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 75,000.”
NHTSA complaint #11471965, 2022

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 MERCEDES-BENZ C250. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 65 MPH, A SUDDEN LOUD BOOMING NOISE WAS HEARD. THE CONTACT NOTICED THAT THE SUN ROOF EXPLODED. THERE WERE NO INJURIES. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO MERCEDES-BENZ OF WACO (1625 N VALLEY MILLS DR, WACO, TX), BUT THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE COULD NOT BE DETERMINED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 35,000. *BF CONSUMER STATED IT WOULD COST $8,000 TO REPAIR. VIN IS NOT VALID.*JB”
NHTSA complaint #11193015, 2015

Wheels 4 1 fire

“MY VEHICLE WAS DAMAGED BY K AND H AUTO. THE ELECTRICAL UNIT IS MALFUNCTIONING, THE LIGHT IS BROKEN ON THE RIGHT SIDE, AND THE ROTORS AND BRAKES HAVE BEEN RUSTED, PLEASE HAVE SOMEONE ATTEND TO THIS MATTER. THANKS, AND HAVE A VERY BLESSED DAY. ANOTHER COMPANY BY THE NAME OF ANS TOWING, TOWED MY VEHICLE WITHOUT CARE AND I AM NOW HAVING ACCELERATION ISSUES WITH MY VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS DRAGGED THROUGH WATER ON OCTOBER 17-18, 2018.”
NHTSA complaint #11066436, 2016 · fire

“My 2012 c300 has a rotted rear subframe making the car not able to be driven. It has major ,life threatening, costly damage and this issue already has a recall all over the world but not in the United States. If I can get the assistance to pay this repair, it will be gladly appreciated.”
NHTSA complaint #11602805, 2024

“Rear driver side wheel was making a clicking noise leading us to believe there was an issue with the strut and/or shock. Due to the nature and severity of the noise, we took the vehicle to our mechanic ASAP. Upon inspection, mechanic identified that the sub-frame had completely rusted through which could lead to other catastrophic issues making vehicle no longer safe to drive unless repaired. Due to the age of the vehicle being 11 years old, the cost to repair was almost the value of the vehicle basically making this a complete loss. I understand that Mercedes Benz has extended the warranty…”
NHTSA complaint #11546160, 2023

Electronic Stability Control (Esc) 3

“SENSOR FOR SIDE VIEW MIRRORS CONTINUE TO MALFUNCTION PROVIDING INACCURATE INFORMATION AND LOCKING ON (LIGHT) AND NOT SHOWING WHEN NEEDED”
NHTSA complaint #11016056, 2017

“CAR SHOWED SIGNS WELL BEFORE VEHICLE STARTED SHOWING CODES. WHEN I WOULD START IT UP THE VEHICLE SOUNDED LIKE A ROCKET SHIP WAS ABOUT TO TAKE OFF AND SHORTLY AFTER THE NOISE WOULD GO AWAY. WITH NO CODES MERCEDES TRIED REPLACING THE SOME AC PARTS BUT IT DIDN'T HELP. I JUST ASSUMED THE NOISE WAS HARMLESS IF MERCEDES SAYS NOTHING'S WRONG THAN IT MUST BE OKAY. THEN ONE DAY I WENT TO TURN THE CAR ON AND IT HESITATED MAKING ALL KINDS OF NOISE BUT ALWAYS STARTED AFTER HOLDING THE KEY IN THE ON POSITION AND PUSHING FORWARD. CAR SEEMS TO WORK WELL ONCE STARTED BUT I AM USING MORE GAS WHICH MIGHT BE REL…”
NHTSA complaint #10778809, 2015

“TAKATA RECALL, NOT ACTION TAKEN IN A EFICCIENT TIME BRAKES 2017 ELEC STABILITY CONTROL 2013 AND 2017”
NHTSA complaint #11048515, 2013

Seats 3

“Active headrest on front passenger seat forcefully deployed without any collision or impact occurring. It happened during a gradual stop at red light. Bits of broken plastic were found on the passenger seat after deployment. Cannot re-set the headrest because of broken parts. No one was in the seat at the time but now concerned that the same thing will happen to driver's headrest.”
NHTSA complaint #11617253, 2024

“AIRBAG RECALL NOTICE MARCH 2017, STILL NO RESOLUTION. SEATS ADVERTISED AS LEATHER, NOT LEATHER INTERMITTENT GAS SMELL FILLS CABIN OF VEHICLE CAUSING RESPIRATORY ISSUES”
NHTSA complaint #11102961, 2017

“I BROUGHT MY 2012 MERCEDES C250 NEW AND I THOUGHT I WAS BUYING A QUALITY CAR. HOWEVER, I NOTICED LAST YEAR THE DRIVER SEAT, PASSENGER SEAT AND ONE OF BACKSEAT SEAT COVER ARE RIPPED. I DRIVE MY CAR EVERYDAY TO WORK AND MY DAUGHTER TO SCHOOL ON A CITY STREET. MY DAUGHTER WEIGHS ABOUT 98 POUNDS AND I WEIGHT UNDER 170 POUNDS AND NO ONE SITS IN THE BACKSEAT. I AM SO DISAPPOINTED WITH MERCEDES BENZ COMPANY. I WILL BE GRATEFUL IF MERCEDES BENZ COMPANY WILL REPLACE MY SEAT COVERS PLEASE STAND BY YOUR NAME AS A QUALITY COMPANY. .”
NHTSA complaint #10965820, 2016

Engine And Engine Cooling 2

“ON MULTIPLE OCCURRENCES THE VEHICLE HAS STARTED TO MISFIRE AT RANDOM TIMES AND SPEEDS RANGING FROM 45-70 MPH RESULTING IN "LIMP MODE" OR A STALLING CONDITION. THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT COMES ON, BUT WILL NOT BE ON WHEN THE VEHICLE IS RESTARTED. THE DEALERSHIP ON NO OCCASION HAS BEEN ABLE TO DUPLICATE MY CONCERN ALTHOUGH OTHERS HAVE BEEN IN THE CAR TO WITNESS. I FEEL VERY UNSAFE DRIVING THE VEHICLE AS WHEN IT STALLS ON THE HIGHWAY, I LOSE STEERING AND BRAKES AS WELL. *TR”
NHTSA complaint #10551784, 2013

“THIS WAS NOT AN ACCIDENT, IT IS, IN MY OPINION, A POSSIBLE SAFETY PROBLEM WITH THE VEHICLE - TURBO LAG; THROTTLE LAG; TRANSMISSION LAG. I ALMOST HAD TWO ACCIDENTS DUE TO THE LAG PROBLEMS, AND HAVE ATTACHED A MORE DETAILED ANALYSIS FOR YOUR REVIEW. TURBO LAG: THIS IS THE TIME IT TAKES FOR THE CAR TO GO FROM ITS NATURALLY ASPIRATED POWER TO THE FULL POWER OF THE CAR AT FULL BOOST/ PEAK BOOST IS REACHED RELATIVELY LOW IN THE REVERSE RANGE, BUT IT IS NOT INSTANTANEOUS POWER LIKE A NATURALLY ASPIRATED ENGINE. THROTTLE LAG: THE DRIVE BY WIRE SYSTEM HAS A BIT OF LAG. UNDER CERTAIN CONDITIONS, I…”
NHTSA complaint #10481881, 2012

Seat Belts 2 1 crash 1 injury

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2012 MERCEDES-BENZ C300. WHILE DRIVING AT AN UNKNOWN SPEED, THE CONTACT'S VEHICLE REAR ENDED ANOTHER VEHICLE. THE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY AND THE SEAT BELT PRETENSION DID NOT FUNCTION. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED AND TOWED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THERE WAS ONE INJURY THAT REQUIRED MEDICAL ATTENTION. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED SHORT TERM MEMORY LOSS, A SEIZURE, AND LIVER DAMAGE. THE CONTACT HAD TO REMAIN HOSPITALIZED FOR FIVE DAYS. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 66,000.”
NHTSA complaint #10865776, 2016 · crash · 1 injury(ies)

“WHENEVER A PASSENGER IS SEATED IN THE REAR SEAT (EITHER SIDE) AND THE CAR IS BRAKED OR EXPERIENCES A BUMP IN THE ROAD, THE SEAT BELT LOCKS AND STARTS TO TIGHTEN THEREAFTER WITH A RATCHETING SOUND EACH TIME THE PASSENGER MOVES EVEN A LITTLE BIT. THIS TIGHTENING CONTINUES UNTIL THE PASSENGER STARTS SUFFOCATING FROM THE PRESSURE. WHEN THIS HAPPENS, THE ONLY OPTION IS FOR THE PASSENGER TO UNBUCKLE THE SEAT BELT AND START OVER. BUT THEN THE PROCESS REPEATS ITSELF. MY FAMILY MEMBERS NOW EITHER REFUSE TO RIDE IN THE BACK SEAT OR THEY DO NOT BUCKLE THE SEATBELT AND HOLD IT IN THEIR HAND INSTEAD. O…”
NHTSA complaint #10992096, 2014

Tires 2

“TIRE BRAND: SUMITOMO TIRE LINE: HTR A/S P02 TIRE SIZE: 225/40R18 92W COMPONENT: BUBBLE IN TREAD AREA, NOT SIDEWALL DOT NUMBER: LM6R2916 AND LM6R2416 TWO FRONT TIRES WERE PUCHASED NEW FROM AMAZON.COM IN MAY OF 2017 AND WERE IMMEDIATELY INSTALLED AND PUT INTO SEVICE. THERE WERE APPROXIAMATELY 30K MILES ON THE TIRES. THE FIRST FRONT TIRE FAILED IN JULY OF 2020 (LM6R2916) AND THE SECOND FRONT TIRE FAILED IN APRIL OF 2021 (LM6R2416). NO SPECIFIC EVENTS LED TO THE FAILURE OF EACH TIRE AND OCRRUED DURING NORMAL DRIVING. THE FIRST TIRE STARTED MAKING A WEIRD WOBBLING NOISE AT HIGHWAY SPEE…”
NHTSA complaint #11413091, 2020

“I HAVE A MERCEDES BENZ C300 WITH 16,300 MILES ON IT. THE VEHICLE CAME WITH CONTINENTAL, CONTIPRO, 225/45 R17 91H TIRES ON IT TWO TIRES ON THE LEFT SIDE OF THE CAR HAVE DEVELOPED BUBBLES ON THEM AND WILL HAVE TO BE REPLACED. THE TIRES ON THE RIGHT SIDE WILL HAVE TO BE INSPECTED SINCE THEY MAY HAVE BUBBLES ON THE INSIDE. I HAVE JUST READ MANY COMPLAINS ABOUT THESE TIRES AND FEEL THEY ARE DANGEROUS AND SHOULD BE RECALLED. *TR”
NHTSA complaint #10573712, 2014

Visibility/Wiper 2

“It is a wide-spread issue and commonly known issue that when the car battery is replaced in Mercedes-Benz vehicles, the climate control stops working, as well as the blower. The safety issues: •Car battery needed to be replaced during non-daylight hours during the winter. •Climate control stopped working immediately upon battery replacement, and issues with blower arose. •I drove home in the dark, during winter, without the ability to defrost my windows. A quick Google search for this issue will uncover an abundance of consumer complaints and common themes regarding this issue.”
NHTSA complaint #11511741, 2023

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 MERCEDES BENZ C300. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE WINDSHIELD WIPERS FAILED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN FOR REPAIR AND THE BLADES WERE REPLACED HOWEVER THE CONTACT WIPERS WERE STILL FAILING. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INSPECTED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE INCIDENT. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 7,000.”
NHTSA complaint #10543888, 2012

Lane Departure 1

“I got stranded in the middle of the street my vehicle does not crank steering lock so I had my vehicle towed into the Mercedes dealership the one in Figueroa st Monday November 18 2024 at around 03:24pm and this is what they told me. Needs immediate attention custom recommendation ELECTRIC STEERING LOCK During vehicle inspection found electric steering lock has malfunction code 25464 recommend to replace electric steering lock first and perform re-check. Repair total estimate: $2,829.78 I definitely can't afford to pay that amount please help with this issue”
NHTSA complaint #11626071, 2024