1999 Mercedes-Benz C280

1999 Mercedes-Benz C280

The 1999 Mercedes-Benz C280 is a compact luxury sedan powered by a 2.8-liter V6 engine paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission. It offers a refined driving experience with comfortable seating, a spacious cabin, and a responsive engine. While it is generally considered a reliable vehicle, some common issues have been reported.

Engine

• M104 2.8L V6 Engine

  • Intake Manifold Gasket Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Coolant or oil leak, overheating, rough idle
    • Solution: Replace intake manifold gasket
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Camshaft Position Sensor Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light, engine misfires, poor performance
    • Solution: Replace camshaft position sensor
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

• 5-Speed Automatic Transmission

  • Transmission Slippage
    • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, slipping gears, loss of power
    • Solution: Replace transmission clutches or rebuild transmission
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

* **Strut Mount Failure**
    * Description/Symptoms: Clunking noise over bumps, poor handling
    * Solution: Replace strut mounts
    * Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
    * Recalls: None Found
* **Sway Bar Links Failure**
    * Description/Symptoms: Clunking noise when turning, poor cornering
    * Solution: Replace sway bar links
    * Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
    * Recalls: None Found

Electrical

* **Alternator Failure**
    * Description/Symptoms: Dim headlights, battery won't charge, check engine light
    * Solution: Replace alternator
    * Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1,200
    * Recalls: None Found
* **Battery Drainage**
    * Description/Symptoms: Battery goes dead overnight, difficulty starting
    * Solution: Replace battery, inspect charging system
    * Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
    * Recalls: None Found

Exterior

Interior

* **Window Switch Failure**
    * Description/Symptoms: Windows don't operate, stuck windows
    * Solution: Replace window switch
    * Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
    * Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 1999 Mercedes-Benz C280 is generally a reliable vehicle, but it does have some potential issues to be aware of. While the engine and transmission problems can be costly to fix, the suspension and electrical issues are typically less expensive to repair. The interior issues are relatively minor and do not affect the overall performance of the vehicle.