2012 Mercedes-Benz Andare

The 2012 Mercedes-Benz C-Class (W204 chassis) is a popular luxury sedan known for its blend of performance, comfort, and style. Engine options varied depending on the specific model. The C250 featured a 1.8L turbocharged inline-4 engine producing around 201 hp and 229 lb-ft of torque. The C300 offered a 3.0L V6, while the C350 boasted a 3.5L V6 producing approximately 302 hp and 273 lb-ft of torque. A 7-speed automatic transmission (7G-Tronic) was the common transmission choice. Owners generally appreciate the car’s handling, luxurious interior, and overall driving experience. Common dislikes include some reliability issues and the cost of maintenance/repairs.

Engine

1.8L Turbocharged Inline-4 (C250)

• High-Pressure Fuel Pump (HPFP) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Extended cranking time, rough idling, engine misfires, and eventually the engine may not start. A check engine light will illuminate.
  • Solution: Replacement of the high-pressure fuel pump.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Timing Chain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noise upon startup, especially when cold. Check engine light may illuminate. Can eventually lead to severe engine damage if the chain breaks.
  • Solution: Replacement of the timing chain, tensioner, and guides.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

3.5L V6 (C350)

• Camshaft Adjuster Solenoid Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, loss of power, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty camshaft adjuster solenoid(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $700+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Leaks (Valve Cover Gaskets, Oil Filter Housing)
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible oil leaks, burning oil smell, low oil level.
  • Solution: Replacement of the leaking gaskets or housing.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Valve Cover Gaskets: $300 - $800, Oil Filter Housing: $400-$1200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

7G-Tronic (7-Speed Automatic - All Engine Options)

• Torque Converter Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibration during gear changes, especially at lower speeds.
  • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifting, transmission slipping, or getting stuck in gear.
  • Solution: Replacement or rebuild of the valve body.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Control Arm Bushing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noise from the front suspension, especially when going over bumps. Poor handling and steering.
  • Solution: Replacement of the front control arm bushings or complete control arm assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Bushings: $200 - $600+, Complete Control Arm: $400 - $1,000+ per side
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Air Suspension Issues (If Equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sagging in the rear, especially overnight. Air compressor running constantly or failing.
  • Solution: Replacement of the air struts, air compressor, or air lines.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Air Struts: $800 - $2,000+ each, Air Compressor: $500 - $1,200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• SAM (Signal Acquisition Module) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Various electrical malfunctions, including malfunctioning lights, wipers, power windows, or door locks.
  • Solution: Replacement and reprogramming of the SAM module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• EIS (Electronic Ignition Switch) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty starting the car, key not being recognized, or complete failure to start.
  • Solution: Replacement and reprogramming of the EIS.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof motor failure, getting stuck open or closed, excessive wind noise, water leaks.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the sunroof motor, track components, or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Navigation/Infotainment Screen Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Blank screen, flickering, distorted display, or complete failure of the infotainment system.
  • Solution: Replacement of the screen or the entire head unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Screen Replacement: $500-$1,200 Head Unit Replacement $1,000 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Air Conditioning Issues (Compressor Failure, Evaporator Leaks)
  • Description/Symptoms: Weak or no cold air, strange noises from the AC system.
  • Solution: Replacement of the AC compressor, condenser, or evaporator core.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Compressor: $800 - $2,000+, Evaporator: $1,200 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 2012 Mercedes-Benz C-Class can suffer from a variety of issues, ranging from relatively minor electrical glitches to more significant engine and transmission problems. The 1.8L turbo engine is prone to fuel pump and timing chain issues, while the 3.5L V6 can develop camshaft adjuster and oil leak problems. The 7G-Tronic transmission, common to all engine options, may experience torque converter or valve body issues. Suspension and electrical problems, such as control arm bushings and SAM module failures, are also common. The cost of repairs can vary widely, with some issues costing hundreds of dollars and others exceeding several thousand. Prospective buyers should be aware of these potential problems and factor them into their purchasing decision.