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Mercedes-Benz C230 Repair and Maintenance

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Mercedes-Benz C230 Questions and Answers

clkcyprus, 2000 Mercedes-Benz C230, Brooklyn, IN

hi i own a 2001 230clk , the engine diagnostics indicator lamp stays on can anybody help

1997 C-230VA, 1997 Mercedes-Benz C230, Chesapeake, VA

I own a 1997 C-230 in Virginia. When I lift the hood I hear noise coming from the belt. Any suggestions or recommendations on how to fix this or what this means.
THANKS!

dano1262, 1998 Mercedes-Benz C230, Parsippany, NJ

I have a 1998 C230 with about 88,000 miles. The car was parked for about 3 months without use. Before that it ran but the battery had to be jumped a few times. When I went to start it this week ...

Pizzy, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C230, Gulfport, MS

Displays "Magazine Empty", but it's not. How can I fix this error? Player is in glove box.

Pizzy, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C230, Gulfport, MS

What's theeasiest wa to connect my Ipod to play from stereo and still use my steering wheel controls?

Mist767, 2000 Mercedes-Benz C230, Portland, OR

Hi folks,
I have a 2000 C230 Kompressor. My pneumatic power assist sometimes makes odd noises. I'm not sure if it is low on fluid. I have located the unit but cannot seem to find a reservoir for it...

seattleguy, 1998 Mercedes-Benz C230, Seattle, WA

I get a noise under the hood which sounds like the tensioner pulley (but is not) that seems to be coming from the AC compressor but it stops when I turn the heater fan off. Any ideas?

mlk123, 1998 Mercedes-Benz C230, Brooklyn, NY

my 98 c 230 somtimes shakes bad form time to time when coming to a stop, sometimes it shuts down, what could be the problem my guess is the eletrical problems beacuse the c230 has 2 eletical compu...

amberunderwater, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C230, Tallahassee, FL

Randomly, with the AC on 64 degrees, the fan will stop blowing. It'll be off for a minute or two then come back on again. The air is cold. What could be going on?

Saba, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C230, Laurel, MD

I recently had auto transmission fluid and filter replacement service done on my 2004 C230. I now hear and feel vibration from floor of the car. Is it related to service just performed? I have 74...

ClassyEMercedesB, 1997 Mercedes-Benz C230, Everett, WA

My hood popped up while driving, it caused the upper right and left hand corners of the hood to bend- now hood will not latch down- its bungeed down How much to repair this- anyone?

ms goldy, 1998 Mercedes-Benz C230, Walker, LA

front seat controls don't work all the time, recently the radio stpped working (after new transmission install), car phone screen always says power ON and center front vents don't work. HELP!

srrc230, 2003 Mercedes-Benz C230, Tuscaloosa, AL

Hi there everyone. I own a 2003 Mercedes c230 Kompressor, AT trasmission. I got it 8 mounts ago. About 2 month later I noticed a noise and some vibrations going up hill on highways and loosing a bi...

baul21, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C230, Carolina, PR

i buy a car 2 months ago and i like to sync my iphone with the car and i dont know maybe someone help me

SirTuko1, 1998 Mercedes-Benz C230, Tempe, AZ

How do i change my spark plugs, and when is it needed?

siatta, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C230, Euless, TX

is there a software upgarde to program the engine control module

DIYDave, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C230, Calabasas, CA

I keep getting the P0170 fault code for fuel trim malfunction. The first time this fault appeared it also gave a fault code for the oxygen sensor downstream of the catalytic converter. After repl...

arian, 2003 Mercedes-Benz C230, Acra, NY

I own a 2003 c230 Kompressor now i got an A/C problem like few days ago the A/C blows hot air. Today what happened there is a A/C button to on/off the A/C now the button is not working its just ON ...

dwopjr, 1999 Mercedes-Benz C230, Washington, DC

Hi..My light went on after my gas tank top broke. I replaced it and the light remains on. How do I shut it off without going to a dealership? The car works fine and was in for servicing a few we...

grannybenz, 1998 Mercedes-Benz C230, Batesville, AR

My air compressor runs, but it blows hot air. What might be wrong? I took it to 3 mechanics and they said the comessor was running, but its still blowing hot air. Do you have any idea about cost t...

Mercedes-Benz C230 Car Reviews (7)

1999 Mercedes-Benz C230, JAMES STRAND, Selden, NY, February 27, 2010 05:25

Unknown just got it will update at a later date.

2006 Mercedes-Benz C230, famousr, Reno, NV, February 25, 2010 08:44

I have the C230 with the sport package 7 speed automatic transmission with a v6 24 valve. I previously owned a 1994 Corvette. What a contrast. I find the C230 a sweet running car with sports car handling. Brakes stop on a dime and the mileage is 26 to 30 mpg. Talk about quiet, the stereo is fantastic and at low volume, I could hear any note. Very smooth ride with some road feel. All the other amenities work like a top luxury car. Although I do not have the brute power of the Vette, the power is very satisfactory for all driving situations.

Great cost for a smaller luxury car.

bill reno, nv

2002 Mercedes-Benz C230, eastbender, East Bend, NC, February 05, 2010 05:48

.

2003 Mercedes-Benz C230, Justin Hewson, Williamston, MI, September 08, 2009 10:55

I bought my c230 after driving a sporty Acura RSX type-S for a couple of years. The comfort was the first thing that I noticed. The seats are accommodating and the electronic seat adjustment for both driver and passenger is a great addition. The ride is smooth for such a sporty car, and the transmission shifts with little hesitation. Smooth is what I have to say about the driving experience. If you can drive a manual properly, you will love this gearbox. Sadly, the air is a bit touchy. not enough in back and the hot and cold dials are rarely accurate. If you want it warm you get it hot, if you want it cool you get it cold. A/C is amazing though, and the air flow is overall very nice. The exterior has been kept clean, and is very sleek. The engine is quick, but with an average of 30 MPG, mostly city driving, I spend a lot less on fuel.
Overall my experience has been great.

1999 Mercedes-Benz C230, Panetier, Oakland, CA, March 17, 2009 20:47

This is a fun and zippy little care that's given a bit of extra scoot from its supercharger. Nothing special about the interior. It's austere and good enough...just not special. Decent mileage averaging 25-26 and seeing an occasional 27+, but any thought of engaging the supercharger kills the mileage. The car has performed very well year-after-year, and I just passed through 162K miles and it's going strong! No major repairs...just the usual soft goods wearing out. It's been a good and trusty ride!

2000 Mercedes-Benz C230, funfraser, Miami, FL, March 07, 2009 14:45

I have owned my 2000 C230Kompressor since new and generally have been pleased with its performance. It has seen mostly highway driving and been to Florida from Canada 4 times. Only problems have been to replace head gasket (covered by warranty near end), replace air mixture module (emissions) and recently a transmission fluid leak. Current mileage 185,000km or 111,000miles.

2005 Mercedes-Benz C230, Malcolm, Centerport, NY, February 25, 2009 12:26

I purchased my 2005 C230 new in sept.04 I've never had any problems with the car ever...only recently I have had the check engine light on, but car runs beatiful. Called dealer and they told me if its not flashing not to worry, it may go out on its own, or they will check it on my next service. the only other problem also recently was transmission fluid leak, dealer replcaed a conductor plug, and added fluid.

Mercedes-Benz C230 Problems

Brakes
  • Due to the size and materials of the brakes on these vehicles, the brakes start to squeak around the 50 percent wear point. The brake rotor surfaces become uneven, causing a lip to form at the outer edge of the rotor. Because of this, the rotors are usually replaced when the pads are worn (pad life varies depending on driving style and terrain).
  • Brake fluid should be flushed every two years to prevent premature anti-lock brake system (ABS) failure.
Engine
  • Oil leaks develop from the head gasket and timing cover gasket; these leaks should be repaired before the engine oil and coolant intermix.
  • Radiators break due to degradation of the plastic tanks and fittings.
  • Older vehicles should have the cooling system serviced even if the mileage is low. The hoses can look good on the outside, but the rubber can degrade and erode on the inside. If not carefully checked, the hoses can burst at any time.
  • The water pump can develop leaks. When replacing the water pump, the drive belt tensioner should be inspected and most likely replaced as well.
  • Oil can leak into the engine wiring harness from the cam adjuster solenoid. The oil can migrate through the wires and possibly damage the engine control unit.
Exhaust & Emissions
  • Bad spark plug wires and ignition coils can cause intermittent misfires (rough running); the Check Engine Light may illuminate.
  • The mass air flow sensor tends to fail, causing poor fuel economy and Check Engine Light illumination.
  • Emissions air injection pumps can seize up, causing a loud squealing noise possibly followed by smoke. The air pump pulley stops turning, but the drive belt does not and this friction causes the noise and smoke. If the engine is not turned off, the belt will snap, turning on the alternator/battery warning light.
  • A tube for the EGR system tends to clog with carbon buildup.
Suspension & Steering
  • Irregular and premature tire wear can be caused by the lower control arm bushings cracking and causing excessive movement at the control arm pivot point. Ball joints can also wear out prematurely, causing similar tire wear symptoms.
  • The tie rod ends, drag link, and idler arm in the linkage of the steering system can wear out.
  • There is a steering dampening shock that will leak fluid when it goes bad.
Drive Train
  • A vibration felt through the center floor of the vehicle can be caused by driveshaft flex discs, which crack and shred, causing excessive driveshaft movement. Not repairing these can cause damage to the driveshaft center support bearing, or, in the worst case scenario, damage to the transmission or differential.
  • High mileage vehicles can leak from the transmission oil seals.
  • High mileage or older vehicles develop leaks at the differential seals and cover; the whole unit needs to be resealed to repair the leaks.
  • The bushings for the shifter lever wear out to the point where they break and fall out. This causes excessive movement (loose feel) in the shifter lever and a clanging-type noise when changing gears.
Electrical & Lights
  • The insulation degrades on the engine wiring harnesses because the insulating material falls off of the wires and leaves the conductors exposed. This can cause many problems depending on which wires are exposed and what they touch.
  • Throttle valves can suffer electrical failure.
  • Rear tail light housings can fail; the brake lights may not operate.
Heating & Air Conditioning
  • The evaporator temperature sensor can fail, causing the AC compressor not to cycle. If the AC compressor does not cycle on, the AC system will not blow cold air. If the AC compressor is stuck on, the air will be very cold at first, before warming up.
  • Leaks at the AC compressor, hose manifold for the compressor, or the evaporator core can cause poor AC performance.
  • Vacuum manifolds for the climate control actuator can leak and cause poor performance or failure of the control flaps.

Mercedes-Benz C230 Recalls and TSBs

Mercedes-Benz C230 Recalls (Recent)

Body, Interior & Misc.: AIR BAGS
Campaign Number: 05V560000
Dates Manufactured: 05/2004 to 11/2005
Number of Vehicles Affected: 61,000
Model Years Affected: 2005, 2006
Date Owner Notified: 03/2006

Defect Summary: CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH SPORT MODEL STEERING WHEELS FAIL TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 208, "OCCUPANT CRASH PROTECTION." IN CERTAIN LOW RISK AIR BAG DEPLOYMENT TESTS CONDUCTED BY NHTSA, USING AN OUT-OF-POSITION UNBELTED 5TH PERCENTILE FEMALE CRASH TEST DUMMY, IRREGULARITIES WERE DEMONSTRATED INDICATING THAT OCCUPANTS MAY NOT BE PROPERLY PROTECTED IN A CRASH.

Consequence Summary: IN THE EVENT OF A CRASH, AN OCCUPANT MAY NOT BE PROPERLY RESTRAINED WHICH COULD RESULT IN INJURIES.

Corrective Summary: DEALERS WILL INSTALL A NEW AIR BAG INFLATOR MODULE FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON MARCH 15, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT MERCEDES-BENZ AT 1-800-367-6372.

Recall Notes: MERCEDES-BENZ RECALL NO. 2006020005.CUSTOMERS MAY ALSO CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION¿S VEHICLE SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), OR GO TO HTTP://WWW.SAFERCAR.GOV.

Body, Interior & Misc.: SEAT BELTS
Campaign Number: 03V534000
Dates Manufactured: 08/2003 to 10/2003
Number of Vehicles Affected: 4,348
Model Years Affected: 2004
Date Owner Notified: 12/2003

Defect Summary: ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES, SOME SEAT BELT BUCKLES MAY HAVE A BURR ON A METAL COMPONENT OF THE LOCKING MECHANISM. THE PRESENCE OF THE BURR COULD PREVENT THE SEAT BELT FROM LOCKING UNDER CERTAIN CIRCUMSTANCES.

Consequence Summary: IN THE EVENT OF A CRASH, THE SEAT OCCUPANT MAY NOT BE PROPERLY RESTRAINED, INCREASING THE RISK OF INJURY.

Corrective Summary: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE SEAT BELTS. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN ON DECEMBER 22, 2003. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT MERCEDES-BENZ AT 1-800-367-6372.

Recall Notes: MERCEDES-BENZ RECALL NO. 2003 120006.CUSTOMERS CAN ALSO CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION¿S AUTO SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-888-DASH-2-DOT (1-888-327-4236).

Electrical & Lights: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Campaign Number: 08V303000
Dates Manufactured: 11/2002 to 05/2008
Number of Vehicles Affected: 404
Model Years Affected: 2005, 2006, 2007

Defect Summary: MERCEDES-BENZ IS RECALLING MY 2006-2008 M-CLASS, R-CLASS, MY 2005-2009 SLK-CLASS, MY 2005-2008 C-CLASS, MY 2003-2004 AND 2006-2008 CLK-CLASS, MY 2003-2008 E-CLASS, MY 2004 AND 2008 CL-CLASS, MY 2008 CLS-CLASS, MY 2004 AND 2007-2008 S-CLASS, MY 2003 G-CLASS, AND MY 2003-2004, 2006 AND 2009 SL-CLASS VEHICLES. A SOFTWARE CALIBRATION NUMBER (SCN) CODING RECEIVED ON THE AFFECTED VEHICLES DURING A RECENT WORKSHOP VISIT WAS INCORRECT. DEPENDING ON THE MODEL YEAR AND MODEL AFFECTED, THE RESULTS OF AN INCORRECT SCN CODING CAN AFFECT A NUMBER OF VEHICLE SAFETY AND EMISSION FUNCTIONS INCLUDING THE FOLLOWING TYPES OF FUNCTIONS: (1) THE FUEL GAUGE READINGS MAY BE INCORRECT; (2) A STUCK FUEL-LEVEL SENSOR MAY NOT BE DISPLAYED IN THE INSTRUMENT CLUSTER; (3) THE OBD SYSTEM MAY CAUSE THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT TO ILLUMINATE INCORRECTLY; AND, (4) THE SPEEDOMETER MAY BE OUT OF TOLERANCE.

Consequence Summary: IN THE EVENT OF A VEHICLE CRASH, THE ELECTRICAL FUEL PUMP MAY NOT RECEIVE A CRASH SIGNAL THAT IS REQUIRED FOR THE FUEL PUMP TO DISCONNECT AND PREVENT FUTURE FUEL DELIVERY AS DESIGNED.

Corrective Summary: DEALERS WILL RECODE THE SCN FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN DURING AUGUST 2008. OWNERS MAY CONTACT MERCEDES-BENZ AT 1-800-367-6372.

Recall Notes: MERCEDES-BENZ RECALL NO. 2008 070001.CUSTOMERS MAY CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION'S VEHICLE SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-888-327-4236 (TTY: 1-800-424-9153); OR GO TO HTTP://WWW.SAFERCAR.GOV.

Electrical & Lights: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:BATTERY
Campaign Number: 01V366000
Dates Manufactured: 04/1997 to 06/1999
Number of Vehicles Affected: 65,731
Model Years Affected: 1998, 1999
Date Owner Notified: 02/2002

Defect Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH HOPPECKE BATTERIES. THE BATTERY MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE COULD BE LESS THAN NEEDED TO MAINTAIN PROPER ELECTROLYTE LEVELS.

Consequence Summary: THE LOW ELECTROLYTE LEVELS RESULT IN ACCELERATED BATTERY GRID GROWTH, INCREASED POTENTIAL FOR INTER-CELL RUPTURE AND SPARKING, AND THE POTENTIAL FOR A BATTERY EXPLOSION.

Corrective Summary: DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE BATTERIES, INCLUDING FLUID LEVELS. SOME BATTERIES MAY BE REPLACED IF NECESSARY, ON A CASE BY CASE BASIS. IN ADDITION TO THE BATTERY INSPECTION, THE ADDITION OF LABELS IN THE VEHICLE OWNER'S MANUAL AND ENGINE COMPARTMENT WILL BE INCLUDED TO CONSPICUOUSLY REMIND OWNERS AS WELL AS DEALER AND SERVICE PERSONNEL OF THE NEED TO PERFORM BATTERY MAINTENANCE. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN FEBRUARY 20, 2002. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT MERCEDES-BENZ AT 1-800-367-6372.

Recall Notes: ALSO CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION'S AUTO SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-888-DASH-2-DOT (1-888-327-4236).

Mercedes-Benz C230 Technical Service Bulletins (Recent)

None reported.

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Recent Mercedes-Benz Repair Estimates

Wheel Alignment - 4 Wheels
1997 Mercedes-Benz C230 in Poway, CA
$110 - $141

Most Common Mercedes-Benz Repair Estimates

Maintenance Service B
$335 - $637
Maintenance Service A
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