2002 Mercedes-Benz C200

The 2002 Mercedes-Benz C200 Kompressor is a compact executive car known for its blend of luxury and performance. The C200 Kompressor features a 1.8-liter supercharged inline-4 engine, producing around 161 horsepower and 170 lb-ft of torque. Other engine options available in the 2002 C-Class range included naturally aspirated inline-4 and V6 gasoline engines, as well as diesel options. Transmission options were typically a 6-speed manual or a 5-speed automatic. Owners often appreciate the car’s comfortable ride, elegant styling, and solid build quality. However, common complaints include electrical issues, rust problems, and the cost of maintenance.

Engine

1.8L Supercharged Inline-4 (M111 Engine)

• Failed Mass Air Flow (MAF) Sensor
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, poor acceleration, decreased fuel economy, and the check engine light illuminating.
  • Solution: Replacement of the MAF sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Faulty Crankshaft Position Sensor
  • Description/Symptoms: Stalling, difficulty starting the engine, and erratic engine behavior.
  • Solution: Replacement of the crankshaft position sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $250
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Leaks from Valve Cover Gasket
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil dripping onto the exhaust manifold, burning smell, and low oil levels.
  • Solution: Replacement of the valve cover gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic (722.6 Transmission)

• Transmission Slipping or Erratic Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Hesitation during gear changes, rough shifting, and the transmission slipping out of gear. This is commonly due to wear of the valve body or conductor plate.
  • Solution: Replacement or rebuild of the valve body or conductor plate replacement and fluid flush.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibration at low speeds, especially during acceleration.
  • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Worn Suspension Bushings
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the suspension, vague steering, and uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replacement of the worn suspension bushings. This commonly affects the control arm bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500 per axle
  • Recalls: None Found
• Failed Ball Joints
  • Description/Symptoms: Squeaking or popping noises from the suspension, loose steering, and excessive play in the front wheels.
  • Solution: Replacement of the ball joints.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400 per side
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Malfunctioning Instrument Cluster
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent failure of gauges, flickering lights, and error messages appearing on the display.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the instrument cluster.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Faulty Window Regulators
  • Description/Symptoms: Windows not operating correctly, slow movement, or getting stuck.
  • Solution: Replacement of the window regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400 per window
  • Recalls: None Found
• SRS (Airbag) Light On
  • Description/Symptoms: The SRS warning light remains illuminated, indicating a problem with the airbag system. This is often caused by a faulty seat occupancy sensor or clock spring.
  • Solution: Diagnosis of the specific fault code and repair or replacement of the faulty component.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the component
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rusting Body Panels
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust forming on the edges of the doors, fenders, and around the wheel arches. This is a common problem for vehicles in areas with harsh winters and road salt.
  • Solution: Rust repair, body work, and repainting.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+ depending on the severity
  • Recalls: None Found
• Failed Door Lock Actuators
  • Description/Symptoms: Doors not locking or unlocking with the remote or key, requiring manual operation.
  • Solution: Replacement of the door lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300 per door
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Climate Control Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Air conditioning not blowing cold air or the heater not producing heat. This is often caused by a failing compressor, blend door actuator, or refrigerant leak.
  • Solution: Diagnosis and repair of the climate control system, including possible component replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+ depending on the component
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2002 Mercedes-Benz C200 Kompressor can be a rewarding car to own, but potential buyers should be aware of the common issues. Electrical problems and rust are prevalent concerns. Engine and transmission issues can be costly to repair. While some repairs, like replacing a valve cover gasket or MAF sensor, are relatively inexpensive, others, such as transmission rebuilds or bodywork, can be significantly more expensive. Addressing these issues proactively can help maintain the vehicle’s reliability and longevity.