2015 Mercedes-Benz C350

The 2015 Mercedes-Benz C350 is a popular luxury sedan known for its blend of performance and comfort. It features a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 302 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque. Other engine options for the 2015 C-Class include the turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-4 in the C300, as well as higher performance AMG variants. All models are equipped with a 7-speed automatic transmission. Owners generally praise the C350 for its stylish design, refined interior, and smooth ride. Common criticisms include the sometimes complex infotainment system and potential for costly repairs.

Engine

3.5L V6 (C350)

• Camshaft Adjuster Solenoid Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The engine may experience rough idling, misfires, reduced power, and the check engine light may illuminate. Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) related to camshaft position may be present.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty camshaft adjuster solenoid.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ depending on location and labor.
• Oil Leaks from Valve Cover Gaskets
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible oil leaks around the valve covers, burning oil smell, and potential for low oil levels.
  • Solution: Replacement of the valve cover gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $700+ depending on location and labor.

2.0L Turbocharged Inline-4 (C300)

• High Pressure Fuel Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine stalling, hesitation during acceleration, and difficulty starting. The check engine light may illuminate.
  • Solution: Replacement of the high-pressure fuel pump.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+ depending on location and labor.
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

7-Speed Automatic (7G-TRONIC)

• Torque Converter Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibrations during gear changes, especially at lower speeds. Can also cause harsh shifting.
  • Solution: Torque converter replacement or rebuild.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $4000+ depending on location and labor.
• Valve Body Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Erratic shifting, delayed engagement, slipping between gears, or getting stuck in a single gear.
  • Solution: Replacement of the valve body.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000+ depending on location and labor.

Suspension

• Air Suspension Compressor Failure (if equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: The vehicle may sit lower than normal, especially on one side. A warning light may illuminate indicating an issue with the air suspension system. The compressor may be excessively noisy or not running at all.
  • Solution: Replacement of the air suspension compressor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1800+ depending on location and labor.
• Air Strut Leaks (if equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: Similar symptoms to compressor failure, including the vehicle sitting low, especially on the affected side. A hissing sound may be audible near the strut.
  • Solution: Replacement of the leaking air strut(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1500+ per strut depending on location and labor.

Electrical

• COMAND System Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Freezing, Crashing, Rebooting
  • Solution: Software update or replacement
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $2,000+ depending on location and labor
• Battery Drain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The car may have difficulty starting, or the battery may be completely drained after sitting for a short period.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the source of the parasitic drain. This may involve replacing a faulty module, relay, or wiring harness.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+ depending on location and labor and the source of the drain.
• Door Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Door lock failing to lock or unlock, requiring manual locking/unlocking.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty door lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ depending on location and labor.

Exterior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof may become stuck, noisy operation, or water leaks.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of sunroof components (motor, tracks, seals).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+ depending on location and labor and the severity of the issue.

Interior

• Cracked Dashboard
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks appearing on the dashboard surface, often due to sun exposure and heat.
  • Solution: Replacement of the dashboard, or installation of a dashboard cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $2,000+ depending on location and labor.
• Seat Heater Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Seat heater not functioning or only partially working.
  • Solution: Replacement of the heating element or control module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $700+ depending on location and labor.

Summary

The 2015 Mercedes-Benz C350, while a desirable luxury sedan, can be prone to a range of issues. Engine and transmission problems, such as camshaft adjuster solenoid failures, valve cover oil leaks, and torque converter issues, can lead to significant repair costs. Electrical and suspension problems can also be costly to address. The severity of these issues can range from minor inconveniences to major mechanical failures. Prospective buyers should be aware of these potential issues and factor in potential repair costs when considering purchasing a used 2015 C350. A pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic is highly recommended.