Does anyone here actually like this car?
Thread Starter
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Sep 2014
Posts: 1,822
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From: Whitefield, NH
2015 C300 Sport: Palladium, Premium, Multimedia, Leather, BLIS
Does anyone here actually like this car?
I have to admit, sometimes reading all the complaints being posted here can get a bit depressing. Although the issues being discussed are certainly very real, I'm not sure they represent a truly balanced picture of what the W205 series really is.
Many of us have had some issues, and I personally had more than my fair share of them with my early build C300. Even through all of that, I always recognized the exceptional design of the car. Now that I have a new c300, one that seems fairly well sorted out, it's become very easy to appreciate this car's qualities.
I think it's too easy to get a very skewed view of the W205 ... and many prospective buyers are likely being turned away from this vehicle fearing shoddy workmanship and poor service. Many owners have had few or no serious issues with this car, and many have also had excellent service from their dealers.
There aren't many threads that praise the virtues of this car, which is a shame since Mercedes has designed a really competitive compact sedan that can be purchased for a reasonable price relative to its German rivals.
While there have been some who have loudly proclaimed that they would never buy another Mercedes product, and some have brought up the class action law suit threat as a way of addressing issues, the fact remains that this is a very good car.
I am happy with my C300, and I think it offers more than the BMW 3 series or the current version of the Audi A4. I wish MB-USA was more proactive in its customer service, and more open in how it deals with customer complaints, but this is a brilliantly designed car and we shouldn't lose track of that as all these various complaints, and rants and raves, appear on the forum.
Many of us have had some issues, and I personally had more than my fair share of them with my early build C300. Even through all of that, I always recognized the exceptional design of the car. Now that I have a new c300, one that seems fairly well sorted out, it's become very easy to appreciate this car's qualities.
I think it's too easy to get a very skewed view of the W205 ... and many prospective buyers are likely being turned away from this vehicle fearing shoddy workmanship and poor service. Many owners have had few or no serious issues with this car, and many have also had excellent service from their dealers.
There aren't many threads that praise the virtues of this car, which is a shame since Mercedes has designed a really competitive compact sedan that can be purchased for a reasonable price relative to its German rivals.
While there have been some who have loudly proclaimed that they would never buy another Mercedes product, and some have brought up the class action law suit threat as a way of addressing issues, the fact remains that this is a very good car.
I am happy with my C300, and I think it offers more than the BMW 3 series or the current version of the Audi A4. I wish MB-USA was more proactive in its customer service, and more open in how it deals with customer complaints, but this is a brilliantly designed car and we shouldn't lose track of that as all these various complaints, and rants and raves, appear on the forum.
Member
Joined: Apr 2015
Posts: 138
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c300
I am very happy with my C300. No real issues to report. I enjoy driving the car. It's my first Mercedes and I am very happy with the experience so far. MY16 should have a lot less issues. I'm certain Mercedes took note and will get most things if not all things fixed. A few people advised me against buying a year one redesign since they tend to be more problematic. I do not regret my decision 
.
.
Member
Joined: Feb 2015
Posts: 150
Likes: 22
From: Boulder CO
2019 C300
I am happy with my C300, and I think it offers more than the BMW 3 series or the current version of the Audi A4. I wish MB-USA was more proactive in its customer service, and more open in how it deals with customer complaints, but this is a brilliantly designed car and we shouldn't lose track of that as all these various complaints, and rants and raves, appear on the forum.
I am delighted with my C300 and totally agree with Stan's comparison to BMW/Audi. I am very discriminating and critical with my cars and this car is excellent. My rear bumper is misaligned a little but that's about it, close to flawless.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Jan 2015
Posts: 2,075
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From: Manchester, UK
BMW e89 Z4 sDrive 35i & MB S205 C200 AMG Premium Plus
I like mine rather than love it. No real issues. The drivetrain isn't BMW/a drivers car for me and that's why it's like rather than love. I'm still in love with my BMW e89 35i.
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Joined: Dec 2008
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From: London, UK
MB W204, VW Polo, Audi R8 V10 - SOLD.
Stan,
Thanks for your insights. Most people seem to vent their frustrations on forums but people don't tend to say much when the product is working as expected. Hopefully your thread will show that people actually enjoy their cars!
Regarding the current BMW equivalent offering, at the moment I'm torn between the the new LCI 3 series and the C class. I actually have a test drive booked for the 3 series for the pre LCI for tomorrow. Could you give me some thoughts about how you would compare the two cars?
Thanks
Thanks for your insights. Most people seem to vent their frustrations on forums but people don't tend to say much when the product is working as expected. Hopefully your thread will show that people actually enjoy their cars!
Regarding the current BMW equivalent offering, at the moment I'm torn between the the new LCI 3 series and the C class. I actually have a test drive booked for the 3 series for the pre LCI for tomorrow. Could you give me some thoughts about how you would compare the two cars?
Thanks
Member
Joined: Feb 2015
Posts: 236
Likes: 2
C400
To be perfectly honest, it's just OK. I kind of regret my decision to get the C400. Overall the design is fantastic and the performance is perfectly fine but the fit and finish and the small details are just not up to the standards I thought MB had. Overall I would say that I like the car but I would not miss it if I could get into another vehicle right now without getting *** raped on depreciation. Sad to say that this will be my first and last MB unless there comes a day when I can afford to step up to the G class.
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Super Member
Joined: Aug 2014
Posts: 600
Likes: 4
From: Sunshine State
2015 C300 RWD
I think most everyone on here likes the car. The number of 2015 C classes in line at my dealer and number of MBUSA agents on hold to take complaints shows that this board is very representative and it's not perfectly designed nor built. We're all beta testers so to speak. This car seems to have build issues more than most. But with that, can still be the best all around small sedan for some of us and evolution comes from concerns.
That said, compare this board to many makes of computers, smartphones, higher end luxuries etc, and it's not really so negative. A few out of line posters have been kicked off or moved on. You've had a lot of problems with the car Stan that you had to handle on your own, and read/post a lot in a short time. I'm sure that makes things appear bigger than they really are sometimes...depressing as you out it....all forums can be kinda like staring in right rear view mirror when done too much.
That said, compare this board to many makes of computers, smartphones, higher end luxuries etc, and it's not really so negative. A few out of line posters have been kicked off or moved on. You've had a lot of problems with the car Stan that you had to handle on your own, and read/post a lot in a short time. I'm sure that makes things appear bigger than they really are sometimes...depressing as you out it....all forums can be kinda like staring in right rear view mirror when done too much.
Last edited by floridadriver; May 15, 2015 at 12:07 PM.
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MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Mar 2015
Posts: 1,581
Likes: 114
From: Mass
2026 GLE 53 Coupe
I'm a firm believer of the term "The squeaky wheel gets the oil".
Reading reviews from actual customers (especially with many having the same complaint) is one of the best ways to decide on purchasing a certain vehicle...or not...AND it usually gets the manufacturers to correct the issues faster as well.
So I don't have a problem reading all the complaints about the new C300/C400.
Reading reviews from actual customers (especially with many having the same complaint) is one of the best ways to decide on purchasing a certain vehicle...or not...AND it usually gets the manufacturers to correct the issues faster as well.
So I don't have a problem reading all the complaints about the new C300/C400.
Thread Starter
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Sep 2014
Posts: 1,822
Likes: 33
From: Whitefield, NH
2015 C300 Sport: Palladium, Premium, Multimedia, Leather, BLIS
Stan,
Thanks for your insights. Most people seem to vent their frustrations on forums but people don't tend to say much when the product is working as expected. Hopefully your thread will show that people actually enjoy their cars!
Regarding the current BMW equivalent offering, at the moment I'm torn between the the new LCI 3 series and the C class. I actually have a test drive booked for the 3 series for the pre LCI for tomorrow. Could you give me some thoughts about how you would compare the two cars?
Thanks
Thanks for your insights. Most people seem to vent their frustrations on forums but people don't tend to say much when the product is working as expected. Hopefully your thread will show that people actually enjoy their cars!
Regarding the current BMW equivalent offering, at the moment I'm torn between the the new LCI 3 series and the C class. I actually have a test drive booked for the 3 series for the pre LCI for tomorrow. Could you give me some thoughts about how you would compare the two cars?
Thanks
The big three German makers all offer solid sedans with different personalities. One comparison review I read many months ago put it best: the W205 may not be the best in any one category, but it does everything well and has no weaknesses. I think that's accurate ... this is a very well rounded and balanced car.
Senior Member
Joined: Dec 2014
Posts: 301
Likes: 19
2015 W205
To be perfectly honest, it's just OK. I kind of regret my decision to get the C400. Overall the design is fantastic and the performance is perfectly fine but the fit and finish and the small details are just not up to the standards I thought MB had. Overall I would say that I like the car but I would not miss it if I could get into another vehicle right now without getting *** raped on depreciation. Sad to say that this will be my first and last MB unless there comes a day when I can afford to step up to the G class.
Senior Member
Joined: May 2008
Posts: 336
Likes: 24
From: Hagerstown Maryland
2015 W205 C400 4Matic
The problem with forums in general is that most people are either looking for 'how to', modifications, events, photos, etc OR - to complain. Rarely do people come on to a forum to go 'omg, I love this (insert topic)'. I'm on (or have been on over the past 15 or so years) about 50 different forums, and that seems to be true of them all.
Oh, and I love my C400
Oh, and I love my C400
Junior Member
Joined: Apr 2015
Posts: 69
Likes: 1
From: Bay Area, CA
C43
I'm in the "like" group as well. Some things about the car I LOVE (styling, interior) but there are some little issues (wind noise, door seal popping sounds over bumps) that are annoying the hell out of me. It's expected though when purchasing the first year of a new model so I'll give MB the benefit of the doubt. I would definitely consider another MB in the future, but I may wait at least a model year or two after a debut so I don't have to be a beta tester again.
Member
Joined: Feb 2015
Posts: 236
Likes: 2
C400
Junior Member
Joined: Mar 2015
Posts: 48
Likes: 3
From: East Coast, USA
2015 C300 4MATIC
There is no reason to NOT love this car. But if you ask me what I love about it, I cannot point to anything in particular. It is a jack of all trades and a master of none, except, may be the interior styling and execution. The interiors of other big Germans in this class are boring in comparison. Did not like the spy shots of the upcoming A4 either. (My personal opinion)
Yes, I have the wind noise issue at high speeds. But now I got adjusted to it that I don't bother about the noise anymore. If they get a fix, then great, I will be happy to take it. Everything else about the car is neutral.
Handling - neutral
Steering feedback - neutral
Ride quality - neutral
Engine and Tranny - neutral
I don't see a reason to hate the car. But like everybody said, you will not miss this car when you replace it after a few years.
Yes, I have the wind noise issue at high speeds. But now I got adjusted to it that I don't bother about the noise anymore. If they get a fix, then great, I will be happy to take it. Everything else about the car is neutral.
Handling - neutral
Steering feedback - neutral
Ride quality - neutral
Engine and Tranny - neutral
I don't see a reason to hate the car. But like everybody said, you will not miss this car when you replace it after a few years.
Member
Joined: Dec 2014
Posts: 171
Likes: 1
Ferrari, Lexus, Toyota
It's a hard car to like from an ownership perspective. It's no Lexus. Better than Audi and BMW in class? Probably. Low bar though to jump.
I mean, it has a cool freaking design and package. Some neat technology, first in class with silky air suspension. Finally a car maker is making the interior fit and finish in smaller car not look like a cut back from large models. BRAVO! Compare all the rivals and no comparison. Other automakers, German and otherwise, are silly not to step up designs of their non-flagship models to not be a compromise.
Mercedes (as many German makers) get an "D" in durable execution of the build and an "F" for accountability and service for known issues (wind noise, MB tex, bumper) from me. That's hard to get past. Has nothing to do with the boards. Many people posted here long before they bought, most have come back here with issues. Hell, you're on your second car in 6 months and have spend I'd guess thousands if not tens of thousands of hours on the 2015 C board, mostly with build and accountability problems.
I mean, it has a cool freaking design and package. Some neat technology, first in class with silky air suspension. Finally a car maker is making the interior fit and finish in smaller car not look like a cut back from large models. BRAVO! Compare all the rivals and no comparison. Other automakers, German and otherwise, are silly not to step up designs of their non-flagship models to not be a compromise.
Mercedes (as many German makers) get an "D" in durable execution of the build and an "F" for accountability and service for known issues (wind noise, MB tex, bumper) from me. That's hard to get past. Has nothing to do with the boards. Many people posted here long before they bought, most have come back here with issues. Hell, you're on your second car in 6 months and have spend I'd guess thousands if not tens of thousands of hours on the 2015 C board, mostly with build and accountability problems.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Mar 2015
Posts: 1,581
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From: Mass
2026 GLE 53 Coupe
I haven't received my ordered C300 yet, but I did researched/test drive a lot of others in the C300's class...Audi A4 (aging design...lower HP), BMW 328i (spartan interior), Lexus IS (AWD only comes with the older 6 sp), Q50 (worst handler of the group)...and I liked the C300 best. I agree though, the C300 wasn't the best in a couple catagories, but overall it was the leader of the pack.
Last edited by MASSC450; May 15, 2015 at 02:11 PM.
Member
Joined: Apr 2015
Posts: 138
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c300
Did you just call the new C300 an "All Season Tire" ?
I haven't received my ordered C300 yet, but I did researched/test drive a lot of others in the C300's class...Audi A4, BMW 328i, Lexus IS, Q50...and I liked the C300 best. I agree though, the C300 wasn't the best in a couple catagories, but overall it was the leader of the pack.
I haven't received my ordered C300 yet, but I did researched/test drive a lot of others in the C300's class...Audi A4, BMW 328i, Lexus IS, Q50...and I liked the C300 best. I agree though, the C300 wasn't the best in a couple catagories, but overall it was the leader of the pack.
Member
Joined: Dec 2014
Posts: 171
Likes: 1
Ferrari, Lexus, Toyota
Did you just call the new C300 an "All Season Tire" ?
I haven't received my ordered C300 yet, but I did researched/test drive a lot of others in the C300's class...Audi A4 (aging design...lower HP), BMW 328i (spartan interior), Lexus IS (AWD only comes with the older 6 sp), Q50 (worst handler of the group)...and I liked the C300 best. I agree though, the C300 wasn't the best in a couple catagories, but overall it was the leader of the pack.
I haven't received my ordered C300 yet, but I did researched/test drive a lot of others in the C300's class...Audi A4 (aging design...lower HP), BMW 328i (spartan interior), Lexus IS (AWD only comes with the older 6 sp), Q50 (worst handler of the group)...and I liked the C300 best. I agree though, the C300 wasn't the best in a couple catagories, but overall it was the leader of the pack.
If the IS or GS made your short list, I'd consider it if you haven't pulled the trigger yet. Or work a short term lease as others posted. MB doesn't seem the most committed to fix the beta issues on the C.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: May 2014
Posts: 1,015
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From: Northeast USA
AMG CLE 53
The issues I had with a September built C400, screeching brakes, bumper misaligned, door handle LED failure, and steering recall were all resolved completely and quickly. I'm very happy with the car. It is very fast and quiet (no wind noise issues). It looks and drives great. I would certainly look at Mercedes for my next car, maybe a redesigned E Class.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Jan 2015
Posts: 2,075
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From: Manchester, UK
BMW e89 Z4 sDrive 35i & MB S205 C200 AMG Premium Plus
I got this car thinking I'd pay it off and keep it for as long as possible. Having lived with it, as comfortable, luxurious and stylish as is, it's quite a boring and unpredictable drivetrain and this will likely mean I'll hand it back at year 2 or 3. Plus today it's developed a creak from the centre console wood trim/vents (which creaks and ticks badly, like polystyrene when pressed by a finger). Good job I got a huge discount.
Really glad I didn't part ex the BMW as originally planned as I love that car.
Really glad I didn't part ex the BMW as originally planned as I love that car.
Last edited by ManiacGT; May 15, 2015 at 05:05 PM.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Mar 2015
Posts: 1,581
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From: Mass
2026 GLE 53 Coupe
Or work a short term lease as others posted. MB doesn't seem the most committed to fix the beta issues on the C.
