2004 Mercedes-Benz C320

The 2004 Mercedes-Benz C320 is a popular luxury sedan known for its blend of performance and comfort. The C320 features a 3.2-liter V6 engine that produces 215 horsepower and 221 lb-ft of torque. Other engine options for the 2004 C-Class included a 1.8L supercharged I4 (C230 Kompressor), a 2.6L V6 (C240), and a high-performance 3.2L supercharged V6 (C32 AMG). Transmission options are generally a 5-speed automatic transmission. Owners often appreciate the C320’s refined ride and upscale interior, but common complaints revolve around electrical issues and relatively high maintenance costs.

Engine

3.2L V6

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks are common, often originating from the valve cover gaskets, oil filter housing gasket, or the front crankshaft seal. Symptoms include visible oil drips, a burning oil smell, and low oil levels.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty gaskets or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $500+ depending on the source of the leak.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Crankshaft Position Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The crankshaft position sensor can fail, causing the engine to stall, misfire, or fail to start.
  • Solution: Replace the crankshaft position sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic

• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Problems with the valve body can lead to rough shifting, delayed engagement, or complete failure to shift. This is often indicated by slipping, jerking, or being stuck in a particular gear.
  • Solution: The valve body may need to be rebuilt or replaced. Fluid changes more frequently may also alleviate some issues.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Torque converter failure can manifest as shuddering during acceleration, unusual noises, or difficulty maintaining speed.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Control Arm Bushing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Worn control arm bushings can cause clunking noises, poor handling, and uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replace the control arm bushings or the entire control arm assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ per control arm.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Spring Perch Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust can form on the spring perches (a known Mercedes issue from this era) which leads to structural failure of the spring perch itself. This can cause the spring to separate from the perch and lead to a catastrophic loss of control.
  • Solution: If rust is found, the spring perches need to be repaired and reinforced to prevent future failure.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+ depending on the extent of the damage.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Instrument Cluster Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Problems with the instrument cluster can include flickering lights, inaccurate readings, or complete failure.
  • Solution: The instrument cluster may need to be repaired or replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Window Regulator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows may fail to operate due to a faulty window regulator.
  • Solution: Replace the window regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per window.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Door Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Door locks may fail to lock or unlock properly.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty door lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+ per door.
  • Recalls: None Found
• EIS (Electronic Ignition Switch) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Key is unable to turn in the ignition, intermittent starting problems, or complete failure to start the vehicle.
  • Solution: Requires replacement and reprogramming of the EIS.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust can develop on various body panels, particularly around the wheel wells, door edges, and trunk lid.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the affected body panels and apply rust protection.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $2000+, depending on the severity and location of the rust.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The sunroof may become stuck, noisy, or fail to open/close properly.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the sunroof mechanism.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Center Console Cup Holder Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The center console cup holder is known to break easily.
  • Solution: Replace the cup holder assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $150+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2004 Mercedes-Benz C320 is a generally reliable vehicle, but it is prone to certain issues as it ages. The most common problems relate to oil leaks, transmission issues, electrical failures, and rust. Repair costs can vary significantly depending on the specific issue and the extent of the damage. Addressing these issues promptly can help maintain the vehicle’s performance and longevity. Many of the repairs can be costly, which is important to consider when purchasing a used model.