2002 Mercedes-Benz C320

The 2002 Mercedes-Benz C320 is a popular luxury sedan known for its comfortable ride, elegant styling, and robust performance. The C320 was equipped with a 3.2L V6 engine producing 215 horsepower and 221 lb-ft of torque. Other engine options available in the C-Class range for 2002 included smaller displacement inline-4 and V6 engines, as well as a supercharged AMG variant. The standard transmission was a 5-speed automatic. Owners generally appreciate the car’s build quality, smooth engine, and luxurious features. Common dislikes include electrical issues, some maintenance costs, and the car’s age impacting overall reliability.

Engine

3.2L V6 (M112)

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks can occur from various locations, including the valve cover gaskets, oil filter housing, and front crankshaft seal. Symptoms include visible oil leaks, burning oil smell, and low oil levels.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking gaskets or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ depending on the source and shop rates.
• Mass Air Flow (MAF) Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, poor acceleration, decreased fuel economy, and a check engine light.
  • Solution: Replacement of the MAF sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
• Crankshaft Position Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine stalling, difficulty starting, or a no-start condition.
  • Solution: Replacement of the crankshaft position sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic (722.6)

• Transmission Conductor Plate Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Erratic shifting, getting stuck in gear, limp mode, and stored transmission fault codes.
  • Solution: Replacement of the conductor plate and potentially the valve body.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering during acceleration, especially at low speeds, unusual noises from the transmission, and poor fuel economy.
  • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000+
• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Hard or delayed shifting, slipping between gears, and general transmission performance problems.
  • Solution: Valve body rebuild or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1800+

Suspension

• Front Control Arm Bushing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the front suspension, especially over bumps, poor handling, and uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replacement of the front control arm bushings or entire control arms.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per side
• Ball Joint Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Squeaking or popping noises from the suspension, loose steering, and uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replacement of the ball joints.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ per side

Electrical

• Instrument Cluster Pixel Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Pixels on the instrument cluster display fading or disappearing, making it difficult to read information.
  • Solution: Instrument cluster repair or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
• Window Regulator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Windows that are slow to move, get stuck, or fail to operate entirely.
  • Solution: Replacement of the window regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per window
• Door Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Door locks that fail to lock or unlock, or that operate intermittently.
  • Solution: Replacement of the door lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ per door

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust forming on the lower body panels, around the wheel wells, and along the edges of doors and trunk.
  • Solution: Rust repair and repainting.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $2000+ depending on severity

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof sticking, failing to open or close properly, or making unusual noises.
  • Solution: Sunroof repair or replacement of components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+

Summary

The 2002 Mercedes-Benz C320, while a comfortable and stylish vehicle, is prone to certain issues due to its age. Engine oil leaks, transmission problems related to the conductor plate and valve body, suspension wear, and electrical glitches are common concerns. Repair costs can vary significantly based on the specific issue and the mechanic’s labor rates. Rust, especially in regions with harsh winters, is also a potential problem.