2002 Mercedes-Benz C240

Introduction:

The 2002 Mercedes-Benz C240 is a luxury sedan known for its performance, comfort, and safety features. It comes standard with a 2.6L V6 engine paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission, delivering 168 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. Other engine and transmission options include:

• 3.2L V6: 215 horsepower, 221 lb-ft of torque
• 5-speed manual transmission

Owners appreciate the C240’s sleek design, refined interior, and responsive handling. However, some issues have been reported with certain components.

Engine

2.6L V6

• Timing Chain Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattle or grinding noise from the engine, performance loss, check engine light;
  • Solution: Replace timing chain assembly;
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $3,000+;
  • Recalls: None Found
• Intake Valve Guide Wear:
  • Description/Symptoms: Blue smoke from exhaust, increased oil consumption, rough idling;
  • Solution: Replace intake valve guides;
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,000+;
  • Recalls: None Found

3.2L V6

• No Issues Found

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic

• Shifting Problems:
  • Description/Symptoms: Delay or difficulty in shifting gears;
  • Solution: Repair or replace transmission solenoids;
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+;
  • Recalls: None Found

5-Speed Manual

• No Issues Found

Suspension

• Front Suspension Strut Mount Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Squeaky or clunking noises while driving over bumps;
  • Solution: Replace suspension strut mounts;
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+;
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Suspension Sagging:
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle appears to sit lower at the rear;
  • Solution: Replace rear suspension springs or air shocks;
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1,000+;
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Discharge:
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery drains quickly when the vehicle is parked;
  • Solution: Diagnose parasitic drain and repair;
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+;
  • Recalls: None Found
• Headlight Switch Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Headlights flicker or fail to turn on;
  • Solution: Replace headlight switch;
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+;
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sunroof Drain Clogging:
  • Description/Symptoms: Water leakage inside the vehicle during heavy rain;
  • Solution: Clean and unclog sunroof drains;
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $150;
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Window Seal Deterioration:
  • Description/Symptoms: Leaking around the rear window, resulting in water entering the vehicle;
  • Solution: Replace rear window seal;
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+;
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Seatbelt Buckle Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Seatbelt buckle does not engage or release properly;
  • Solution: Replace seatbelt buckle;
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+;
  • Recalls: #03V461000, #04V222000
• Plastic Interior Trims Cracking:
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks in plastic interior trim pieces, especially around the center console;
  • Solution: Replace affected trim pieces;
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+;
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 2002 Mercedes-Benz C240 offers a balance of luxury and performance, but it’s not without its issues. The most significant problems relate to the engine, transmission, and suspension, with potential costs ranging from $1,500 to $3,000+. Electrical, exterior, and interior issues are generally less severe and expensive to repair. Considering these potential issues, owners should budget for maintenance and repairs and consider pre-purchase inspections to identify any potential problems.