1996 Mercedes-Benz C280

Introduction

The 1996 Mercedes-Benz C280 is a compact luxury sedan that was available with two engine options and two transmission options. The base engine was a 2.8-liter V6 that produced 194 horsepower and 201 lb-ft of torque, while the optional engine was a 3.6-liter V8 that produced 279 horsepower and 284 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were available with either a five-speed manual transmission or a four-speed automatic transmission.

People who like the 1996 Mercedes-Benz C280 appreciate its refined ride, luxurious interior, and strong performance. However, some people have reported problems with the vehicle’s engine, transmission, suspension, electrical system, and interior.

Engine

• 2.8-liter V6
  • Intake Manifold Gasket Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, overheating, loss of power
    • Solution: Replace intake manifold gasket
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Valve Cover Gasket Leak
    • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks from valve cover
    • Solution: Replace valve cover gasket
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
    • Recalls: None Found
• 3.6-liter V8
  • Head Gasket Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, overheating, white smoke from exhaust
    • Solution: Replace head gasket
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $3,000
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Oil Pan Gasket Leak
    • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks from oil pan
    • Solution: Replace oil pan gasket
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

• Five-speed Manual Transmission
  • Synchro Ring Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, grinding noise
    • Solution: Replace synchro ring
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
    • Recalls: None Found
• Four-speed Automatic Transmission
  • Torque Converter Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Slipping gears, loss of power
    • Solution: Replace torque converter
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Control Arm Bushing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noise, poor handling
  • Solution: Replace control arm bushings
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Shock Absorber Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, poor handling
  • Solution: Replace shock absorbers
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Dim headlights, battery warning light on
  • Solution: Replace alternator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found
• Starter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine won’t crank
  • Solution: Replace starter
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust on Body Panels
  • Description/Symptoms: Brown spots on body panels
  • Solution: Have body panels repainted or replaced
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks on dashboard
  • Solution: Replace dashboard or have it repaired
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found
• Climate Control Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: AC or heater not working properly
  • Solution: Replace climate control module or have it repaired
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 1996 Mercedes-Benz C280 is a reliable and comfortable car overall, but it does have some potential issues that owners should be aware of. The most serious issues include engine problems, transmission problems, and suspension problems. The cost of these issues can vary depending on the severity of the problem and the location of the repair.