2021 Mercedes-Benz Toreto 45

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz C-Class (W205 facelift) in the C45 configuration, also known as the AMG C43, is a popular compact executive car known for its blend of luxury, performance, and technology. Engine options include a 2.0L inline-4 turbo and a 3.0L V6 biturbo. The C43 features a 3.0L V6 biturbo engine producing 385 horsepower and 384 lb-ft of torque. Owners often praise its agile handling, powerful engine, and upscale interior, but some common complaints revolve around the infotainment system’s complexity, occasional electrical glitches, and the relatively firm ride quality. The following issues are based on available data for the 2021 model year.

Engine

3.0L V6 Biturbo

• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Whining noise from the engine bay, loss of power, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty turbocharger.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $4,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant Leak (Water Pump)
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant level decreasing rapidly, overheating, visible coolant leak near the front of the engine.
  • Solution: Replacement of the water pump.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

9G-Tronic 9-Speed Automatic

• Rough Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifts, particularly between lower gears (1st to 3rd), hesitation when accelerating.
  • Solution: Software update of the transmission control module (TCM), or in some cases, valve body replacement or full transmission replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 (Software update) - $4,000+ (Transmission Replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• MBUX Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
  • Description/Symptoms: The MBUX system becomes unresponsive, freezes, or restarts unexpectedly.
  • Solution: Software update of the MBUX system, or in some cases, replacement of the MBUX head unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (Software update if under warranty) - $1,500+ (Head Unit Replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sensor Malfunctions (Parking Sensors, Blind Spot Monitoring)
  • Description/Symptoms: False alarms, non-functional sensors, error messages on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Diagnosis of the faulty sensor and replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600 per sensor.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Creaking Noises from Dashboard/Trim
  • Description/Symptoms: Annoying creaking or rattling sounds emanating from the dashboard, door panels, or other interior trim pieces, particularly when driving on uneven surfaces.
  • Solution: Tightening loose fasteners, adding sound-deadening material, or replacing the affected trim pieces.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (Depending on severity and affected area)
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz C43, while generally reliable and enjoyable to drive, can experience issues ranging from minor electrical glitches to more significant engine and transmission problems. The turbocharger failure and rough shifting issues could be costly to repair. The MBUX system glitches, although often resolved with software updates, can be frustrating. Overall, potential buyers should be aware of these common issues and ensure a thorough inspection before purchasing a used model.