2002 Mercedes-Benz C240

The 2002 Mercedes-Benz C240 is a popular luxury sedan known for its comfortable ride and elegant styling. It was offered with a 2.6-liter V6 engine producing 168 horsepower and 177 lb-ft of torque. Other engine options for the 2002 C-Class included a 2.0-liter inline-4, a 3.2-liter V6, and an AMG 5.4-liter V8. A 6-speed manual and a 5-speed automatic transmission were available depending on the engine configuration. Owners often praise the car’s smooth ride, build quality, and classic Mercedes-Benz styling. Common dislikes include occasional electrical issues and higher maintenance costs compared to non-luxury vehicles.

Engine

2.6L M112 V6

• Oil Leaks from Valve Cover Gaskets
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaking onto the exhaust manifolds, causing a burning smell. Visible oil around the valve cover edges.
  • Solution: Replacement of the valve cover gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
• Crankshaft Position Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Stalling, difficulty starting the engine, check engine light illumination.
  • Solution: Replacement of the crankshaft position sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic (722.6)

• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Hard shifting, slipping between gears, failure to shift into certain gears, especially when cold.
  • Solution: Replacement of the valve body or individual solenoids within the valve body.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Conductor Plate Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission stuck in limp mode, unable to shift properly, diagnostic trouble codes related to speed sensors or solenoids.
  • Solution: Replacement of the conductor plate, fluid flush, and filter replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1200
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Worn Control Arm Bushings
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the front suspension, especially when going over bumps. Vague steering feel.
  • Solution: Replacement of the control arm bushings or the entire control arm assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600 per side
  • Recalls: None Found
• Failed Ball Joints
  • Description/Symptoms: Squeaking or popping noises from the suspension, excessive play in the steering, uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replacement of the ball joints.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400 per side
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Instrument Cluster Pixel Loss
  • Description/Symptoms: Pixels disappearing from the LCD display in the instrument cluster, making it difficult to read information.
  • Solution: Replacement or repair of the instrument cluster.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found
• Door Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Door not locking or unlocking with the remote or interior switch.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty door lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400 per door
  • Recalls: None Found
• Mass Air Flow (MAF) Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, poor acceleration, stalling, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replacement of the MAF sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $350
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust on Lower Body Panels
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust forming on the lower doors, fenders, and rocker panels, especially in areas with high road salt exposure.
  • Solution: Rust repair, panel replacement, and repainting.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+ depending on severity
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof failing to open or close properly, making grinding noises, or leaking.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the sunroof motor, tracks, or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2002 Mercedes-Benz C240, while a comfortable and stylish vehicle, is prone to several common issues as it ages. Engine oil leaks and crankshaft position sensor failures can affect performance, while transmission issues, particularly with the valve body, can be costly to repair. Suspension wear, especially in bushings and ball joints, is typical for a car of this age. Electrical problems like pixel loss in the instrument cluster and door lock actuator failures are also frequently reported. Rust on the lower body panels is a significant concern, particularly in regions with harsh winters. While some repairs are relatively inexpensive, others, such as transmission work or rust repair, can be quite costly, making a thorough inspection crucial before purchasing a used 2002 C240.