2003 Mercedes-Benz C240

The 2003 Mercedes-Benz C240 is a popular entry-level luxury sedan known for its comfortable ride, elegant styling, and Mercedes-Benz prestige. The C-Class offered several engine options including a 2.6L V6 (C240), a 3.2L V6 (C320), and a supercharged 2.3L inline-4 (C230 Kompressor). The C240’s 2.6L V6 engine produces 168 horsepower and 177 lb-ft of torque. Common praises include the car’s solid build quality and smooth ride. Criticisms often mention the car’s somewhat lackluster performance compared to competitors and potential for costly repairs.

Engine

2.6L V6 (M112 Engine)

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks are common from the valve cover gaskets and the oil filter housing gasket. Symptoms include visible oil leaks on the engine, burning oil smell, and low oil levels.
  • Solution: Replace the valve cover gaskets and/or the oil filter housing gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Mass Air Flow (MAF) Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, poor acceleration, and the check engine light illuminating are common symptoms.
  • Solution: Replace the MAF sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Crankshaft Position Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine stalling, difficulty starting, and the check engine light illuminating.
  • Solution: Replace the crankshaft position sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $350+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic Transmission (722.6 Transmission)

• Transmission Conductor Plate Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Erratic shifting, transmission slipping, getting stuck in gear, and the check engine light illuminating.
  • Solution: Replace the transmission conductor plate and filter, and fluid.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Transmission Fluid Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Leaks from the electrical connector or the pan gasket. This can lead to low fluid levels and transmission damage if not addressed.
  • Solution: Replace the electrical connector seal (pilot bushing) and/or the pan gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Worn Suspension Components
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the suspension, poor handling, uneven tire wear. Specifically, the ball joints, control arm bushings, and sway bar links are prone to wear.
  • Solution: Replace worn ball joints, control arm bushings, and/or sway bar links.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ (per component, depending on which one)
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: The battery drains overnight or within a few days, making it difficult to start the car. This can be caused by a faulty component not shutting down properly.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the source of the parasitic draw, such as a faulty door control module, seat control module, or aftermarket accessory.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (depending on the source)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Instrument Cluster Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Pixels missing or fading on the instrument cluster display, or complete failure of the instrument cluster.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the instrument cluster.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust forming around the wheel wells, door edges, and underbody. Mercedes of this era are known for rust issues.
  • Solution: Rust repair, bodywork, and repainting.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $2000+ (depending on severity)
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Center Console Cup Holder Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The cup holder mechanism breaks, making it difficult or impossible to use.
  • Solution: Replace the cup holder assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $150+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof motor failure, causing the sunroof to not open or close properly. Sunroof can also get stuck.
  • Solution: Replace the sunroof motor. Grease the sunroof tracks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2003 Mercedes-Benz C240, while a desirable luxury vehicle, is prone to certain issues typical of cars its age and design. Engine oil leaks and transmission problems, especially conductor plate failure, can be costly. Suspension wear is expected, and electrical issues like battery drain and instrument cluster problems are common. Rust, while not universal, is a potential concern, particularly in regions with harsh winters. Overall, potential buyers should be aware of these issues and factor in potential repair costs when considering a 2003 C240. The severity of these issues ranges from minor inconveniences to major repairs costing upwards of $1000.