2012 Mercedes-Benz C350

The 2012 Mercedes-Benz C350 is a popular luxury sedan known for its blend of performance and comfort. It features a 3.5L V6 engine producing 302 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque. Other engine options for the 2012 C-Class include a 1.8L Turbocharged Inline-4 in the C250 and a 3.0L V6 in the C300 4MATIC. All engines are paired with a 7G-TRONIC PLUS 7-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise the C350 for its sporty handling, upscale interior, and smooth ride. Common criticisms include higher maintenance costs and some electrical issues.

Engine

3.5L V6 (M276)

• Camshaft Adjuster/Magnet Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light illumination. Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) related to camshaft position. Rough idling. Reduced engine performance.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty camshaft adjuster magnets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Leaks (Valve Cover Gaskets)
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible oil leaks on the engine. Burning oil smell. Low oil level.
  • Solution: Replace the valve cover gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found
• Engine Mount Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive engine vibration, especially at idle or during acceleration. Clunking noises.
  • Solution: Replace the engine mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

7G-TRONIC PLUS (722.9)

• Torque Converter Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibrations during acceleration, especially at lower speeds. Harsh shifting.
  • Solution: Replace or rebuild the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Body Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Erratic shifting. Delayed engagement. Transmission slipping.
  • Solution: Replace or rebuild the valve body.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Conductor Plate Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission stuck in limp mode. Unable to shift gears. Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) related to conductor plate.
  • Solution: Replace the conductor plate.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Control Arm Bushing Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the front suspension, especially over bumps. Vague steering feel. Uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replace the worn control arm bushings or the entire control arm assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per control arm
  • Recalls: None Found
• Strut Mount Noise
  • Description/Symptoms: Squeaking or creaking noises from the front suspension.
  • Solution: Replace the strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• EIS (Electronic Ignition Switch) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Key not recognized. Unable to start the car. Steering lock malfunction.
  • Solution: Replace the EIS. This may require programming by a qualified technician.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Steering Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Key not recognized. Unable to start the car. Steering wheel locked. Error messages on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Replace the steering lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Door Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Door will not lock or unlock with the remote or door switch.
  • Solution: Replace the door lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $250 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sunroof Issues (Motor or Mechanism)
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof not opening or closing properly. Grinding or clicking noises. Sunroof stuck open or closed.
  • Solution: Replace the sunroof motor or repair the sunroof mechanism.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Navigation/Infotainment System Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: System freezing. Screen going blank. Loss of functionality.
  • Solution: Software update, or replacement of the head unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1500+ (depending on the issue and solution)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Climate Control Issues (Blower Motor/Regulator)
  • Description/Symptoms: Blower motor not working. Only working on certain speeds. No air conditioning or heat.
  • Solution: Replace the blower motor or blower motor regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary: The 2012 Mercedes-Benz C350 is generally a reliable car but is known to have some common issues. Some of the issues can be expensive such as engine, transmission, and electrical issues. Some of the less expensive issues include suspension, exterior, and interior components.