2012 Mercedes-Benz C250

The 2012 Mercedes-Benz C250 is a popular luxury sedan known for its blend of comfort, style, and performance. The C250 is equipped with a 1.8L turbocharged inline-4 engine producing 201 horsepower and 229 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 7-speed automatic transmission (7G-TRONIC). Other engine options include the C300 with a 3.0L V6 engine and the C350 with a 3.5L V6 engine. Owners generally appreciate the C250’s fuel efficiency, elegant interior, and smooth ride. Common complaints often revolve around maintenance costs and occasional electronic glitches.

Engine

1.8L Turbocharged Inline-4 (M271 Engine)

• Camshaft Adjuster Solenoid Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, stalling, check engine light illumination with codes related to camshaft timing (e.g., P0011, P0012), reduced engine performance.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty camshaft adjuster solenoid(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• High-Pressure Fuel Pump (HPFP) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Long cranking times, difficulty starting, stalling, fuel smell, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replacement of the high-pressure fuel pump.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Timing Chain Tensioner Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noise from the engine, especially during cold starts. Can lead to timing chain stretch or failure if not addressed.
  • Solution: Replacement of the timing chain tensioner and potentially the timing chain and guides.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+ (depending on the extent of damage)
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

7G-TRONIC (722.9)

• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifting, slipping between gears, erratic shifting, getting stuck in gear.
  • Solution: Replacement or rebuild of the valve body, sometimes requiring TCU programming.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibration at low speeds, especially during acceleration. Possible stalling or difficulty shifting.
  • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3500+
  • 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 response.
  • Solution: Replacement of the control arm bushings or the entire control arm assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• EIS (Electronic Ignition Switch) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty starting the car, key not recognized, dashboard lights not illuminating, complete failure to start.
  • Solution: Replacement of the EIS module and reprogramming.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Window Regulator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Window moves slowly, makes grinding noises, or fails to move up or down.
  • Solution: Replacement of the window regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof jamming, not opening or closing properly, excessive noise when operating, water leaks.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of sunroof components (motor, tracks, seals).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Climate Control System Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Inconsistent or no airflow, failure to heat or cool, clicking noises from the blend door actuators.
  • Solution: Diagnosis and replacement of faulty components, such as blend door actuators, blower motor, or climate control module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Center Console Display Screen Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Screen flickering, dimming, or complete failure.
  • Solution: Replacement of the display screen or entire center console unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2012 Mercedes-Benz C250 can be a rewarding vehicle to own, but potential buyers should be aware of common issues that can arise. The most prevalent problems relate to the engine (specifically the timing chain tensioner and camshaft adjusters), transmission (valve body issues), and electrical components (EIS and window regulators). Repair costs can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars, depending on the severity of the problem. Careful inspection and a pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic are highly recommended to avoid unexpected expenses.