Harrison Garcha

I'm currently in the market for a w204 c300. I wanted to know how reliable it is and what are the common issues.

cvx5832

Here’s my 12.5yr, 158k-mile history with the car. Mostly maintenance. Long story short it’s been one of the most reliable cars I’ve ever owned.

If you want a comparison, click the 2003 3-series in my signature. Cost has been roughly 50% vs maintaining the Bimmer.

http://motorlogbook.com/cvx5832/reliable

Tom in Austin

Good way to judge is by reading the posts on here and see what comes up repeatedly. Prob the biggest one is electronic steering lock (ESL). On cars that live in northern climates, some owners have had their rear subframe rust and break at the control arm attachment points. The Mars Red paint is prone to moisture getting between the clearcoat and color, ruining the paint finish.

After these big ones, there are what I'd call a handful of smaller issues with oil leaks, VVT noise on start-up and failed high-pressure fuel pumps.

My car's running great going on six years, so my personal experience has been very good so far.

ezshift5

is it wt or vvt? (I get variable valve timing)


ez

Tom in Austin

yes, VVT = variable valve timing. Issue is some of the cam chain tensioners can drain back and lose pressure, causing valvetrain noise with a cold engine.