2007 Mercedes-Benz C280
The 2007 Mercedes-Benz C280 is a luxury sedan that offered a blend of comfort and performance. It came equipped with a 3.0L V6 engine producing 228 horsepower and 221 lb-ft of torque. Other engine options included a 2.5L V6 in the C230 and a 3.5L V6 in the C350. All engine options were typically paired with a 7-speed automatic transmission (7G-TRONIC). Owners generally appreciate the C280’s smooth ride, elegant interior, and sophisticated styling. Common complaints revolve around electrical issues, higher than average maintenance costs, and some reliability concerns.
Engine
3.0L V6 (M272)
- Camshaft Adjuster (Cam Phaser) Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Engine rattling noise upon startup, especially when cold. Check engine light may illuminate with codes related to camshaft timing. Reduced engine performance and fuel economy.
- Solution: Replacement of the faulty camshaft adjuster(s).
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Intake Manifold Tumbler Flap Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Check engine light with codes related to intake manifold runner control. Reduced engine performance, particularly at lower RPMs. Possible rough idle.
- Solution: Replacement of the intake manifold assembly.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
- Recalls: None Found
- Balance Shaft Sprocket Wear (Early M272 Engines)
- Description/Symptoms: This issue is more prevalent in early production M272 engines. Check engine light with codes related to camshaft/crankshaft correlation. Engine noise and vibration. Potential for serious engine damage if left unaddressed.
- Solution: Engine disassembly and replacement of the balance shaft and potentially other related components.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $6,000+ (due to extensive labor)
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
7G-TRONIC (722.9)
- Valve Body Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Hard or erratic shifting, delayed engagement, slipping between gears. Check engine light may illuminate with transmission-related fault codes.
- Solution: Replacement or refurbishment of the valve body.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Torque Converter Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibration at certain speeds, particularly during acceleration. Transmission slipping. Potential for transmission overheating.
- Solution: Replacement of the torque converter.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,500+
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Front Control Arm Bushing Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Clunking or squeaking noises from the front suspension, especially when going over bumps. Uneven tire wear. Vague steering feel.
- Solution: Replacement of the control arm bushings or the entire control arm assembly.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per side.
- Recalls: None Found
- Ball Joint Wear
- Description/Symptoms: Similar to control arm bushing failure, including clunking noises, uneven tire wear, and loose steering.
- Solution: Replacement of the worn ball joints or the entire control arm assembly if the ball joints are not replaceable separately.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ per side
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- EIS (Electronic Ignition Switch) Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Key not recognized by the ignition system. Inability to start the vehicle. Steering wheel may remain locked.
- Solution: Replacement of the EIS module and potentially key reprogramming.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
- Recalls: None Found
- SAM (Signal Acquisition Module) Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Malfunctions of various electrical components, such as lights, wipers, power windows, or door locks. Diagnostic trouble codes related to SAM communication errors.
- Solution: Replacement or reprogramming of the affected SAM module.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,200+
- Recalls: None Found
- Battery Drain
- Description/Symptoms: Battery frequently dying, especially after short periods of inactivity.
- Solution: Identification and repair of the parasitic drain, which could be caused by a faulty module, a malfunctioning sensor, or an improperly installed aftermarket accessory.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (depending on the source of the drain)
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Headlight Lens Clouding/Yellowing
- Description/Symptoms: Headlight lenses become cloudy or yellowed, reducing headlight output and visibility.
- Solution: Professional headlight restoration or replacement of the headlight assemblies.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ for restoration; $500 - $1,000+ for replacement.
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Sunroof Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Sunroof fails to open or close properly, gets stuck, or makes excessive noise during operation.
- Solution: Repair or replacement of the sunroof motor, rails, or other related components.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Seat Motor Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Power seats fail to adjust in one or more directions.
- Solution: Replacement of the faulty seat motor.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2007 Mercedes-Benz C280, while offering a luxurious driving experience, can present owners with a range of issues, particularly as the vehicle ages. Engine-related problems such as camshaft adjuster failure and intake manifold issues can be costly to repair. Electrical problems with the EIS and SAM modules are also common and can affect various vehicle functions. Suspension components like control arm bushings can wear out, leading to noise and handling issues. While some repairs may be relatively inexpensive, others can be quite costly, making thorough inspection and preventative maintenance crucial for C280 ownership.