2010 Mercedes-Benz C350

The 2010 Mercedes-Benz C350 is a popular luxury sedan known for its stylish design, comfortable ride, and engaging driving dynamics. It offers a blend of performance and refinement that appeals to a wide range of drivers. In 2010, the C-Class lineup included the C300 (with a 3.0L V6) and the high-performance C63 AMG (with a 6.2L V8) in addition to the C350. The C350 features a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 268 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. It typically came with a 7-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise the C350 for its smooth engine, comfortable interior, and overall build quality. However, some common complaints include electrical issues, sensor failures, and occasional problems with the transmission.

Engine

3.5L V6 (M272)

• Camshaft Adjuster Solenoid Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light, rough idling, decreased performance, and potential stalling.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty camshaft adjuster solenoid(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ (depending on the shop and if multiple solenoids need replacement).
  • Recalls: None Found
• Intake Manifold Flap Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light, decreased performance, potential misfires. The flap motor controls the variable intake manifold runner length, which affects engine performance.
  • Solution: Replacement of the intake manifold flap motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible oil leaks, often from valve cover gaskets, oil filter housing, or rear main seal.
  • Solution: Replacement of the leaking gaskets or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ depending on the location and complexity of the leak.
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

7G-Tronic (722.9)

• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or erratic shifting, delayed engagement, slipping, or failure to shift.
  • Solution: Replacement or rebuild of the valve body. In some cases, flushing the transmission and replacing the conductor plate/speed sensors can resolve the issue.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2500+ depending on the severity and the repair method.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering at low speeds, especially when accelerating, or a complete failure of the transmission to engage.
  • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Control Arm Bushing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the front suspension, especially when going over bumps, as well as vague steering or uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replacement of the front control arm bushings or the entire control arm.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per side, depending on whether just the bushings or the entire arm is replaced.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• EIS (Electronic Ignition Switch) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Key not recognized, inability to start the car, or intermittent starting issues.
  • Solution: Replacement of the EIS module and potentially reprogramming.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• SAM (Signal Acquisition Module) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Various electrical malfunctions, such as lights not working, malfunctioning wipers, or issues with the central locking system.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty SAM unit and reprogramming.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1200+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Faulty Sensors
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light, various warning lights on the dashboard, and potential drivability issues due to incorrect readings. Common culprits include oxygen sensors, mass airflow sensors, and crankshaft position sensors.
  • Solution: Diagnosis to identify the faulty sensor and replacement of the sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $500+ per sensor, depending on the type and location.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof not opening or closing properly, getting stuck, or making excessive noise.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the sunroof motor, cables, or tracks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Command System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The COMAND system (navigation, audio, and climate control) can experience software glitches, screen failures, or complete system malfunctions.
  • Solution: Software updates, component repair, or replacement of the COMAND unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $2000+ depending on the severity.
  • Recalls: None Found

The 2010 Mercedes-Benz C350 offers a luxurious driving experience, but potential buyers should be aware of these common issues. The severity of these problems can range from minor inconveniences, like sensor failures, to more significant and costly repairs, such as transmission or EIS module replacements. Addressing these issues promptly is crucial for maintaining the vehicle’s performance and reliability. The average cost to repair ranges from a few hundred to thousands of dollars, depending on the issue.