2011 Mercedes-Benz C350

The 2011 Mercedes-Benz C350 is a popular luxury sedan known for its blend of performance and comfort. The C-Class lineup for 2011 also included the C250 (1.8L turbocharged four-cylinder), the C300 (3.0L V6), and the C63 AMG (6.2L V8). The C350 is equipped with a 3.5L V6 engine producing 302 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque. Most models were equipped with a 7-speed automatic transmission (7G-TRONIC). Owners often appreciate the C350’s responsive handling, luxurious interior, and powerful engine. Common dislikes include relatively high maintenance costs and some reported electrical issues.

Engine

3.5L V6 (M272)

• Camshaft Adjuster Solenoid Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light, rough idle, decreased fuel economy, and potential stalling. The camshaft adjuster solenoid (also known as a variable valve timing solenoid) may fail, causing these symptoms.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty camshaft adjuster solenoid.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ (depending on the labor rate)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Leaks from Valve Cover Gaskets
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil drips under the car, burning oil smell, and visible oil residue around the valve covers. The valve cover gaskets can harden and leak over time.
  • Solution: Replacement of the valve cover gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $700+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Thermostat Housing Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leak, overheating, low coolant light. The thermostat housing on the M272 engine is prone to cracking and leaking.
  • Solution: Replacement of the thermostat housing.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $250 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

7G-TRONIC (722.9)

• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering during acceleration, particularly at lower speeds, and potential transmission slippage. Can trigger the check engine light.
  • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter. In some cases, a full transmission rebuild or replacement may be necessary if the torque converter failure has caused further damage.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Conductor Plate Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Erratic shifting, getting stuck in a single gear, inability to shift, and potential limp-home mode activation. This issue is commonly caused by failure of the transmission conductor plate, which houses the speed sensors.
  • Solution: Replacement of the transmission conductor plate and fluid/filter change.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifting, particularly between 2nd and 3rd gear. The valve body contains numerous solenoids and valves that control the flow of transmission fluid, and these components can wear out or become clogged over time.
  • Solution: Valve body repair or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Control Arm Bushing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or creaking noises from the front suspension, especially when going over bumps. Worn or cracked control arm bushings can cause play in the suspension, leading to these noises and potential alignment issues.
  • Solution: Replacement of the front control arm bushings or the entire control arm assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per side
  • Recalls: None Found
• Strut Mount Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or popping noises when turning the steering wheel or going over bumps. Reduced ride comfort and potentially uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replacement of the strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1000+ per axle
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• EIS (Electronic Ignition Switch) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Key not recognized, inability to start the car, or intermittent starting issues. The EIS module can fail due to internal component malfunctions.
  • Solution: Replacement of the EIS module, which requires programming to the vehicle.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• SAM (Signal Acquisition Module) Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Various electrical malfunctions, such as malfunctioning lights, wipers, or power windows. SAM modules control various electrical functions in the car, and failure can cause a wide range of problems.
  • Solution: Diagnosis to determine which SAM module is failing, followed by replacement and programming.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+ (depending on the module and labor)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Door Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Door lock not working with the key fob or interior switch. Manual locking/unlocking may still be functional.
  • Solution: Replacement of the door lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+ per door
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Side Mirror Turn Signal Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: One or more LEDs in the side mirror turn signal failing.
  • Solution: Replacement of the side mirror assembly or the turn signal module (if available separately).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200-$800+ (depending on if mirror assembly or module)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof not opening or closing properly, getting stuck, or making excessive noise.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the sunroof motor, tracks, or other components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Command System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The COMAND system (Mercedes’ infotainment system) may experience issues such as screen freezing, navigation malfunctions, or Bluetooth connectivity problems.
  • Solution: Software update, or replacement of the COMAND unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $2000+ (depending on the severity)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Heater Core Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Sweet smell inside the vehicle, fogging of the windows, coolant loss, wet carpets
  • Solution: Replacement of the heater core
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2011 Mercedes-Benz C350 offers a luxurious driving experience, but potential buyers should be aware of the common issues. Electrical problems and transmission issues, especially with the 7G-TRONIC transmission, can be costly to repair. Engine oil leaks and suspension wear are also concerns. While some repairs are relatively minor, others can be significant, making a pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic highly recommended. The severity of the issues ranges from minor inconveniences to potentially disabling failures, and the cost of repairs can vary widely.