2016 Mercedes-Benz C350e

Introduction:

The 2016 Mercedes-Benz C350e is a plug-in hybrid luxury sedan that offers both fuel efficiency and performance. It is powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor, producing a combined 275 horsepower and 443 lb-ft of torque. The C350e also offers two transmission options: a 7-speed automatic transmission or a 9-speed automatic transmission.

Owners of the 2016 Mercedes-Benz C350e generally praise its smooth and responsive hybrid powertrain, luxurious interior, and advanced technology features. However, some owners have reported experiencing various issues with the vehicle, which are detailed below.

Engine

• Model: 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine
  • Issue: Excessive oil consumption
    • Description/Symptoms: The engine burns through oil at an excessive rate, resulting in low oil levels and potential engine damage if not addressed promptly.
    • Solution: Replace the engine’s piston rings and valve stem seals.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $5,000 - $8,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
• Model: 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine
  • Issue: Ignition coil failures
    • Description/Symptoms: The ignition coils can fail, leading to misfiring, rough idling, and difficulty starting the engine.
    • Solution: Replace the faulty ignition coils.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

• Model: 7-speed automatic transmission
  • Issue: Transmission slipping
    • Description/Symptoms: The transmission may experience slipping, resulting in delayed gear shifts, loss of power, and increased fuel consumption.
    • Solution: Rebuild or replace the transmission.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $5,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
• Model: 9-speed automatic transmission
  • Issue: Torque converter shudder
    • Description/Symptoms: The torque converter may shudder or vibrate when the vehicle is accelerating from a low speed, causing a noticeable shaking sensation.
    • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $3,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Issue: Airmatic air suspension failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The air suspension system may fail, causing the vehicle to lose its ride height and affect handling and comfort.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty air suspension components, such as the air bags or compressor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Issue: Battery drain
  • Description/Symptoms: The battery may drain prematurely, especially when the vehicle is parked for extended periods.
  • Solution: Identify and fix the source of the electrical drain, such as a faulty module or component.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on the source of the drain
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Issue: Headlight condensation
  • Description/Symptoms: Moisture may accumulate inside the headlights, causing fogging or condensation.
  • Solution: Replace the affected headlights or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Issue: Infotainment system glitches
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system may experience glitches or freezing, affecting navigation, audio, and other features.
  • Solution: Update the system’s software or replace the infotainment module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

While the 2016 Mercedes-Benz C350e offers a luxurious and technologically advanced driving experience, it is not without its share of potential issues. Some of these issues, such as excessive oil consumption and transmission failures, can be severe and costly to repair. Other issues, such as headlight condensation and infotainment glitches, may be less severe but still frustrating for owners. Potential buyers should be aware of these issues before purchasing a C350e and factor in the potential repair costs when considering their budget.