2000 Mercedes-Benz C280

The 2000 Mercedes-Benz C280 is a compact luxury sedan that offered a blend of comfort, performance, and German engineering. The C-Class was known for its solid build quality, refined driving experience, and classic Mercedes styling. Some owners appreciated the car’s elegant interior, comfortable ride, and capable engine. However, others found maintenance costs to be high, and some reported issues with certain components as the car aged. The 2000 C280 was equipped with a 2.8-liter V6 engine producing 194 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque. It was available with a 5-speed automatic transmission. The 2000 C230 Kompressor was also an option and produced 190 hp and 200 lb-ft of torque.

Engine

2.8L V6 (M112)

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks are common from various points, including the valve cover gaskets, oil filter housing gasket, and rear main seal. Symptoms include visible oil leaks, oil spots under the car, and a burning oil smell.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking gaskets and seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+, depending on the location and severity of the leak.
• Mass Air Flow (MAF) Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, poor acceleration, stalling, and a check engine light.
  • Solution: Replacing the MAF sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300
• Crankshaft Position Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine stalling, especially when warm, difficulty starting, and a check engine light.
  • Solution: Replacing the crankshaft position sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $250

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic (722.6)

• Shifting Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or erratic shifting, slipping between gears, delayed engagement, or failure to shift at all.
  • Solution: A transmission service (fluid and filter change) may resolve minor issues. More severe cases may require valve body repair/replacement or a full transmission rebuild/replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (for service) to $2,000+ (for rebuild/replacement).
  • Recalls: None Found
• Conductor Plate Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The conductor plate inside the transmission can fail, causing erratic shifting, limp mode, and stored fault codes.
  • Solution: Replacing the conductor plate.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000

Suspension

• Control Arm Bushing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the front suspension, especially over bumps. Poor handling and uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replacing the worn control arm bushings or the entire control arm.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ per side.
• Ball Joint Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Squeaking or popping noises from the suspension, loose steering, and uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replacing the worn ball joints.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+ per side.

Electrical

• Window Regulator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Windows that move slowly, erratically, or not at all. A clicking noise may be heard when the window switch is activated.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty window regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400 per window.
• Instrument Cluster Pixel Loss
  • Description/Symptoms: Pixels in the instrument cluster LCD screen fade or disappear, making it difficult to read information.
  • Solution: Repairing or replacing the instrument cluster.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800.
• Door Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Door locks that fail to lock or unlock remotely or manually.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty door lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400 per door.

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust formation around the wheel wells, door edges, and other body panels, especially in areas with road salt exposure.
  • Solution: Repairing or replacing rusted panels.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Highly variable depending on the extent of the rust. Can range from $100s to $1000s.

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof not opening or closing properly, getting stuck, or making unusual noises.
  • Solution: Inspecting and lubricating the sunroof tracks. Replacing worn or broken parts may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+

Summary

The 2000 Mercedes-Benz C280, while a desirable luxury car in its time, is now facing typical issues associated with aging vehicles. Oil leaks, suspension wear, and electrical malfunctions are common. While some repairs are relatively inexpensive, others, such as transmission problems and rust repair, can be costly. The severity and cost of these issues vary depending on the vehicle’s maintenance history and geographical location. Potential buyers should carefully inspect the vehicle and consider a pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic.