2008 Mercedes-Benz C280

The 2008 Mercedes-Benz C280 is a luxury sedan known for its comfortable ride, elegant styling, and robust build quality. In 2008, the C-Class also included the C300 and C350. The C280 is powered by a 3.0-liter V6 engine producing around 228 horsepower and 221 lb-ft of torque. Owners often appreciate the C280 for its smooth engine and comfortable interior. However, some common complaints include electrical issues, particularly with the electronic systems and some concerns regarding the reliability of certain components.

Engine

3.0L V6 (M272)

• Camshaft Adjuster Plugs Leaking Oil
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaking from the camshaft adjuster plugs, resulting in a noticeable oil smell and potential oil consumption. Visible oil residue around the front of the engine.
  • Solution: Replacing the camshaft adjuster plugs and cleaning the affected area.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Balance Shaft Sprocket Wear (Early Production)
  • Description/Symptoms: Ticking noise from the engine, rough idling, check engine light with codes related to camshaft timing. This is most common on earlier production M272 engines.
  • Solution: Replacing the balance shaft sprocket, which requires significant engine disassembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Intake Manifold Tumbler Flap Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light, rough idle, loss of power, and potential stalling. The intake manifold tumbler flaps can break and cause these issues.
  • Solution: Replacing the intake manifold.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

7G-Tronic (722.9)

• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or erratic shifting, delayed engagement, transmission slipping, and getting stuck in gear. Can result in a “limp mode.”
  • Solution: Replacing or rebuilding the valve body. In some cases, flushing the transmission fluid and replacing the conductor plate may help.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibration at low speeds, especially during acceleration. Potential for stalling.
  • Solution: Replacing the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,200 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Control Arm Bushing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noise from the front suspension, especially when going over bumps. Poor handling and uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replacing the front control arm bushings or the entire control arm.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sway Bar Link Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noise from the suspension, particularly when driving over uneven surfaces.
  • Solution: Replacing the sway bar links.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• EIS (Electronic Ignition Switch) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Key not recognized, inability to start the car, steering wheel not unlocking.
  • Solution: Replacing the EIS module and potentially the key.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• SAM (Signal Acquisition Module) Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Various electrical malfunctions, including problems with lights, wipers, and other accessories. Can cause battery drain.
  • Solution: Diagnosing and replacing the faulty SAM unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,200+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Heater Blower Motor Resistor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Heater blower motor only working on certain settings or not working at all.
  • Solution: Replacing the heater blower motor resistor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Headlight Lens Clouding/Yellowing
  • Description/Symptoms: Headlight lenses becoming cloudy or yellowed, reducing visibility at night.
  • Solution: Polishing the headlight lenses or replacing the headlights.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Door Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Door not locking or unlocking with the remote or interior switch.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty door lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof getting stuck, making excessive noise, or leaking water.
  • Solution: Diagnosing and repairing the sunroof mechanism, potentially replacing the sunroof motor or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2008 Mercedes-Benz C280 presents a mix of potential issues ranging from moderate to severe in terms of both cost and inconvenience. Engine-related problems, particularly concerning the balance shaft, can be very expensive to address. Transmission issues, valve body, and electrical problems can also lead to significant repair costs. Suspension issues, while less costly, can affect the driving experience. Overall, potential buyers should carefully inspect the vehicle’s maintenance history and consider a pre-purchase inspection to identify any existing or potential problems, especially regarding the engine, transmission, and electrical systems.