2004 Mercedes-Benz C200

The 2004 Mercedes-Benz C200 Kompressor, part of the W203 generation, is a compact executive car known for its blend of luxury, performance, and reliability, although some issues are common across the model range. The C200 Kompressor features a 1.8-liter supercharged inline-4 engine, producing approximately 163 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. Other engine options available for the W203 C-Class include various petrol and diesel engines, such as the C180, C220, C230, C240, C320, and AMG variants. Transmission options typically include a 6-speed manual or a 5-speed automatic. Owners generally appreciate the car’s comfortable ride, elegant interior, and solid build quality. Common dislikes include occasional electrical gremlins, higher maintenance costs compared to some competitors, and the potential for rust issues in certain climates.

Engine

1.8L Supercharged Inline-4 (M271)

• Camshaft Adjuster Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, reduced power, check engine light illuminated with codes related to camshaft position.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty camshaft adjuster.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Mass Air Flow (MAF) Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Stalling, poor acceleration, erratic idling, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace the MAF sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found
• Supercharger Clutch Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Whining noises, reduced power, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace supercharger clutch assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic (722.6)

• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Hard shifting, delayed engagement, slipping between gears, limp mode.
  • Solution: Rebuild or replace the valve body. Sometimes, a fluid flush and valve body cleaning can resolve minor issues.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering during acceleration, stalling, unusual noises from the transmission.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $2500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Control Arm Bushing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the front suspension, uneven tire wear, vague steering.
  • Solution: Replace the control arm bushings or the entire control arm assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800 per side
  • Recalls: None Found
• Suspension Spring Breakage
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle leaning to one side, clunking noises, reduced ride height.
  • Solution: Replace broken spring. It is recommended to replace springs in pairs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Instrument Cluster Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent failure of gauges, display issues, complete failure of the instrument cluster.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the instrument cluster.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Central Locking System Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Doors not locking or unlocking with the remote or central locking button, inconsistent operation.
  • Solution: Diagnose and replace the faulty door lock actuator or central locking module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500 per door
  • Recalls: None Found
• SAM (Signal Acquisition Module) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Various electrical issues including lighting problems, window malfunctions, and issues with other electronic systems.
  • Solution: Diagnose and replace the faulty SAM unit, and reprogram.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1200
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust (Especially around wheel wells, door edges, and trunk lid)
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible rust spots, bubbling paint.
  • Solution: Rust repair, bodywork, and repainting.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300+ per panel, varies significantly based on severity.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Headlight Lens Clouding/Yellowing
  • Description/Symptoms: Reduced headlight brightness, hazy or yellowed headlight lenses.
  • Solution: Headlight lens restoration or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300 for restoration, $300 - $800+ for replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof not opening or closing properly, getting stuck, unusual noises.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the sunroof motor, tracks, or other components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Climate Control Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Inconsistent temperature control, failure of the blower motor, issues with the AC compressor.
  • Solution: Diagnose and replace the faulty component (blower motor, AC compressor, climate control module).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+ depending on the component.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2004 Mercedes-Benz C200 Kompressor, while a generally reliable vehicle, does have some common issues to be aware of. Engine problems such as camshaft adjuster and MAF sensor failures can be costly, while transmission issues, particularly with the valve body, are also common. Suspension and electrical problems can add to the ownership costs. Rust is a concern, especially in regions with harsh winters. Potential buyers should carefully inspect the vehicle for these issues and consider a pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic. Overall, repair costs can range from a few hundred dollars for minor fixes to several thousand dollars for more extensive repairs.