Mercedes W204 (C300 C350 C63AMG) Buyer's Guide - Review, Common Problems & Failures

[@rlp87]

I bought a 2009 c300 with about 3k miles in 2010, its now at almost 180k running perfect with 0 issues the entire time ive owned it very reliable car

[@fcpeuro]

Sounds like you have done a fine job maintaining it!

[@skip70]

i wasn't even looking for a Merc....but I watched the entire video, very well done

[@fcpeuro]

Thanks, Darryl! Glad you enjoyed the video!

[@mewgag4591]

Lol wtf

[@un11verse11]

I found this information extremely helpful, thank you for such a clear & precise explanation! (keep up the great work)

[@fcpeuro]

Thank you! We're really glad you found it helpful!

[@domp7913]

i have a 2013 c350 nearing 300k km with all original parts, engine, trans. 0 issues in the last 11 years. super reliable

[@jayynunyuhh3338]

You have 300k miles ??? I just got a 2014 with 120k miles you think It will last

[@domp7913]

@@jayynunyuhh3338 I have 300k km, about 186000 miles I think it coverts to

[@sahillutchumon6907]

How has it going so far for you i just bought one with 100k miles​@jayynunyuhh3338

[@bigafghan_kabob2106]

I just picked up a 2012 c350 sport woth 79k miles 300hp

[@domp7913]

@@jayynunyuhh3338 no its kilometers

[@Filipinopride18]

THIS GUY KNOW WHAT HE IS DOING..GREAT VIDEO!

[@marcil802]

That was the most informative video I watched. I bought a 175k km c300 and used this video to inspect, diagnose my w204. My first diy and buying kits from website helped me alot. Huge thanks

[@_targetphotography3404]

I saw a 200km c350 is it advisable to buy

[@edrismowlaee4125]

Good job, well spoken and im actually amazed how smooth and professional everything is layed out and videography and transissions are supurb. well done.

[@Psyko100]

did you guys make a video for the 2012-2014 w204 yet? this has to be the best vid out there explaining issues on these cars.

[@TylerHankss]

I was wondering the same

[@wyatt4840]

@@TylerHankss yeah still wondering can't seem to find one.

[@quiksr20]

Great video, everything explained accurately and clearly! Well done man Look fwd to more content like this.

[@fcpeuro]

Glad you enjoyed it, much more like this to come!

[@Goated483]

Amazing detail. Thankyou, you’re doing a great service to everyone not mechanically inclined. 9 dislikes from used car dealers haha

[@Parknest]

I'm surprised you haven't mentioned the rear subframe corrosion issue. This is as well-known problem with the W204. The corrosion warranty in the US has recently been extended to 20 years so all W204s are now covered (at the time of writing - 10th July 2023). I own a 2009 C200 and recently had my rear subframe replaced under warranty. Mine is a UK car so our corrosion warranty is a bit more generous at 30 years.

[@benhaze1010]

Absolutely fantastic video! Going to be surfing this channel looking for other gems like this.

[@fcpeuro]

Thanks, Ben! Really glad you liked the video. We're always working on new content, stay tuned!

[@MJ-bx1fz]

Very intense details, great work 👏🏻👏🏻 A little tip I can share for the door handle, since it’s a big time to remove melted plastic bolts, best and cheapest solution with 15 min work is , Open the panel get 2 small size zip strap attached the door cable to the broken handle, wrap around the zip strap 2-3 times zip it tight, and you are done ✅ re assemble the door panel and enjoy the ride.

[@fcpeuro]

Thanks for the tip, Mohammad!

[@duckboi110]

I typed "are c300s reliable" into the search box and FCP gave me the exact video I was looking for. Thank you guys for taking the time to make this video I feel a lot more comfortable buying a c300 now

[@fcpeuro]

That's why we make em- glad this video found you when you needed it!

[@joshrodriguez5718]

Great video! One problem you forgot to mention on these, is the intake tumble flap actuator tend to brake because its made of plastic! 👍

[@rico4you]

Its April 2020 and I love the gorgeous style of the w204... thanks for this detailed video..you guys know so well the Mercedes C W204! great video....I'm in Madrid, Spain...damn you guys are good and would be awesome a "Shop in EU!

[@fcpeuro]

The W204 will always look good in our eyes too Rico4You! Glad you enjoyed the video, we wish we had an expansion of FCP Euro there in Europe.... who knows what the future holds 🤔😬

[@petediegan2794]

Great review. My 2008 C300 is approaching a major milestone-155,000 miles to get an award from Benz. Having said that, I am having an issue now: whining noises. The problem: noises are more apparent when accelerate from 20-40 mph and deceleration from 40 back to 20. There is not noticeable noise at 70 mph. What exactly does that mean-where most likely is the problem. Rear right wheel bearing had been replaced at 100K miles. Front wheel bearings have been replaced at 154K miles.

[@SpeedyDacoit]

Mine does the same thing, it makes a faint whine noise when letting off the gas around the 40-45mph range. I’ve had no issues yet though

[@Rdiamondcole]

Quite thorough review and the info can be easily used for most modern vehicles. I am in the market for a c350,c300, or 350clk models. Mercedes 2009 to 2014 are my preference. Great job sir.😊

[@Neuroguy1]

Excellent presentation style and substance. You just got a new follower!

[@fcpeuro]

Thank you, Larry!

[@lunar-tick4310]

This guy makes me feel like I’m picking a car in gran turismo , love the video!

[@fcpeuro]

Thank you for watching!

[@RickPrinceOfficial]

Thank you FCP Euro this video was perfect and just in time for my purchase!

[@NLDMesa06]

Really looking forward to "Part II" for the W204. Mainly because I'm eager to learn what reliability issues were introduced with the M276 motors, such as the timing chain issues. Maybe a common issues for different engine families would be helpful.

[@sergeystaritsin7736]

M271/M272 are notorious for the timechain related problems. The situation has dramatically improved with M274. That's why MB kept using M274 on W205 as well.

[@DC-tx4ck]

@@sergeystaritsin7736 Wrong... Later 272/273 engines are not "notorious" for the time chain related problems. That was the very early versions. These later engines are known to be bulletproof. There are a lot of these engines with very high mileage that are still running strong today.

[@t5396]

@@DC-tx4ck what models had the bulletproof engines?

[@bradcomis1066]

Damn this is a good buyer’s guide. 👌🏻 Very professional. Off to Craigslist now to look at manual W204s.

[@fcpeuro]

Glad we could help Brad! Good luck on your search for the right W204, you know we've got your back once you own the car and need any parts, feel free to reach out with any questions you may have!

[@JonathanHernandez-mq5zy]

Did you ever find a manual

[@bradcomis1066]

@@JonathanHernandez-mq5zy No, way too rare. Plus they have a foot activated parking brake which is just awful. Doing hill starts is so awkward. Nice looking body on these cars, but I'm all about the BMW life now.

[@JonathanHernandez-mq5zy]

@@bradcomis1066 i found two I was gonna buy one tomorrow but little things held me back from buying

[@pratibhaverma4900]

What an amazing video. I just got c350 4matic love the car. Only issues is I can’t find a comfortable position on the seat. I have long legs and they touch steering wheel. I also don’t like to keep my seat super close to the steering wheel.

[@francislawrence7976]

Thé steering wheel is telescopic , lever on left side of column, raise up and then move seat as far back as it will go , then tilt back of seat.

[@motnik]

Either I missed it, but the sprocket wheel issue on the M272 engine of model years 2006-08 is a total deal breaker if not addressed.

[@lefora87]

my man u are a great reviewer, everything clear & to the point. I'm definitely a subscriber.

[@fcpeuro]

Thanks for subscribing, Khomotso!

[@markhausknecht6061]

Great vid. Smart, well articulated, concise, usable info painlessly delivered. I've had wonderful experience with purchases for my C32AMG from you folks! Now I'm looking for a C63...with new head bolts.

[@allenpowell1702]

I got a c300. Command knob was broken, Fixed it with a cnc aluminum repair part. I would add that the ac and cabin filter tend to get moldy smell.

[@mrdre78]

Well done and informative video. I just picked up a 2011 C350 with 71k on it so I want to take care of it as best as possible. Thanks for the information.

[@Justin-bs8vv]

Lookin to get a 2013, hows that treating you?

[@alhassanzayyanu5712]

Nice video I'm taking this video to the car dealer before picking my c class 350

[@fcpeuro]

Nice

[@AlejandroSanchez-bt1mj]

Loved the video. I would like to buy one in the near future but probably a newer model year. Please do the 12-15s soon :)

[@Mr_RD-1876]

Great job, very informative, well filmed

[@mistermark4496]

Very helpful, well done. Please keep these videos coming

[@fcpeuro]

Thanks, Mister Mark. Will do!

[@donphillips5471]

Love this guy he does a great job!

[@DopeTDI]

Great video! This video answered a lot of the questions on the used 09 C300 I just purchased.

[@webanon]

Really helpful. Nicely done Kyle. Many thanks!

[@fcpeuro]

You're very welcome! Happy to help, Rob!

[@SeanMarroquin]

I rarely comment. This overview is perfect 👌

[@fcpeuro]

Thank you, Sean!

[@ASK13saregreat]

Very informative, good self briefing before I go check out one today

[@CedevitaKrompiric]

Awesome video man, picking up my C300 Wednesday

[@fcpeuro]

Awesome, youll love it Koko Vucic!

[@AlucardMafia]

very sharp - Love the company, great synopsis, great review and reviewer

[@Msp510]

Awesome video. Watching in the seat of my 08 W204 Sport + 4MATIC + Comand system. AT 150K miles both my seat is split and the comand knob won't scroll :(.

[@william_ochieng]

Best review on w204 that I have seen

[@satan15151515]

Please do a video on air leaks on the M272/273 engines. Seems these are a very common problem which can throw off the fueling and are not so easy to pin point. Thanks.

[@TheHurtinAlbertan88]

Fantastic in depth video

[@mikey.audio.]

this is such a thorough & well put together video. I'm impressed

[@fcpeuro]

Thanks Michael we appreciate the kind words. Glad you liked the video!

[@georgiatanasov794]

Very well done! A real review!

[@fcpeuro]

Glad you liked it Georgi!

[@vincentma1618]

Awesome video! Will we get a facelift w204 video?

[@mr08tsx]

Kudos! The best review I have watched!

[@fcpeuro]

Thanks so much! We appreciate it

[@stormrider01]

0:53 False, the model began in 2007. I have the 2007 model and I love it. It looks nicer and happier imo than the facelift version.

[@johnbrunner1546]

Very informative video. I wish I'd seen before I bought 2011 C300 luxury , but I do love my C300

[@fcpeuro]

Glad you like the video, John!

[@terrencetaylor8196]

Great stuff, please keep videos like this coming.

[@fcpeuro]

We sure will!

[@Willywoo1975]

Thank you so much for this extensive introduction to the C300. I am picking one up next week and I am glad I watched this video. Great job

[@connorhunnicutt5462]

I am picking one up next week. Have u had any issues with urs, do u like it.

[@Willywoo1975]

@@connorhunnicutt5462 I finally got the C250 instead and it is brilliant. No issues bro, drives like you got money lol. Maintenance a bit on the high side for parts though so heads up.

[@connorhunnicutt5462]

@@Willywoo1975 thanks man. Is there a big difference between the two?

[@Willywoo1975]

@@connorhunnicutt5462 the 300 has two exhaust that's about it

[@JulioLopez-xz5kx]

Excellent work!

[@JoaoLopezGarzon]

Thank you for your support very helpful. I do have an oil leak on the left side of my car, do you how to fix it or what piece it need ti change ? Thank you

[@Andrew-zv4fm]

Great video! I am a W204 09 C300 4Matic Luxury model owner and I learned a lot of things about my car. :-) Great job. If you want a an owner perspective, I would gladly volunteer me and my car. I have to say I think I got off easy from the issues you have described. The suspension issue you talked about, I have yet to experience it. If it is there, it is not noticeable. As for the power adjusting steering wheel, head unit knob or the inside door handles going, I have yet experience these issues. The only issues I have experienced that you talked about is the driver's side MB Tex seat, the rear main seal and I believe there was another leak I had fixed. I can't remember exactly. . I have to replace the driver's seat at the next service. Also I had to replace one cracked rim. I would say that is a common issue with low profile tires. As for issues that I have experienced that you did not talk about, would be replacing the transmission because the transfer case was going and the washer fluid reservoir. The washer fluid reservoir is prone to cracking. Lastly, another common issue with the W204 (08-11 MY) would be intermittent blinking or flickering of the passenger side tail and front standing lamps. Actually this affects models 08-09 maybe 2010 that have the Off, Automatic, and full headlights modes. I don't believe this is an electrical issue like a lose ground wire. I believe it is a switch issue. Also I have experienced an intermittent mirror (passenger side) turn signal light out message. Lastly, the one recall the I have experienced other than the Takata recalls would be the rear tail, brake, turn and reverse lights would be dim, full illumination or otherwise be out. This was an issue that requires a new and I believe thicker ground wire. All in all this is a reliable car.

[@KseRBanshee]

Do you mind telling me at what mileage you have to replace your transmission because your transfer case was gone please? Thank you

[@markpereira6250]

Any update on the video for the 2012-2014 range???

[@dit.p2598]

the w204 is the new w124 a long runner and perfect with the w272 v6

[@MelodyMan69]

The M272 Engine was replaced with the M276 improved V6 in the W204 facelift from 2011. Cam chain problem was the main fix.

[@BubbaGerald]

I'm intrigued by the stereo on the first car you took out on the test drive. I currently own a 2009 C300 luxury I don't have a stereo system like that with the pop-up

[@dennisjoynt2632]

GREAT video. You rock

[@georgedantz4027]

Very informative and well researched!👍

[@RothBeyondTheGrave]

I have a m272 equipped c207 chassis & it does have a valve cover gasket leak, or mainly a spark plug tube seal leak as my 1-3 coils were soaked, but I have no vcg weeping. You're right it must be extremely uncommon, because there's almost zero info on it. Not even sure if I found the right part # for the sealant, no info on tube seals, & not sure if I need to use the genuine gun or not to apply the sealant. Geez

[@shanewright9934]

Thank you for the guide.

[@floridaheat305]

Excellent video thanks!

[@abbamabraham7212]

Thanks so much, the best video

[@ShaneIsAlways]

Fantastic review!

[@fcpeuro]

Appreciate it Shane, the W204 has a sweet spot in our hearts.

[@mecheng1977]

Are both the c300 and c350 engines reliable?

[@Captain_Coleslaw]

Seriously awesome video!!! Im looking at a C350 coupe from 2011 (Facelift), and all this was super helpfull

[@fcpeuro]

Glad we could help Captain Coleslaw! Let us know what you end up with

[@JapmeetSingh]

Hey there, did you ever make the post facelift w204 buyer’s guide video? Can’t seem to find it on the channel

[@twn2rbo]

2014 C63 or Audi S5 3.0t, I’d tune the Audi w a smaller pulley, but that V8 in the AMG 🤤

[@claudeclark9954]

I have a c300 w204 having electrical issues . Its a 2011 . I think it might have a short or something? All so i think water might have got in the fuse box. Its been down for about 6 months. Im just trying to get some suggestions on what to do?

[@takundamapako7856]

Great video mate!

[@fcpeuro]

Thanks Takunda glad you liked it

[@AndyManilow]

this dude is a master.

[@wpjansen2021]

very informative!

[@MelodyMan69]

M272 Engine was replaced with M276 facelift model from 2011. Timing Chain issue was fixed.

[@SGBanny]

Great video. So they did not make any c350s with a manual transmission? I’m looking into getting a c300 but would prefer the c350 for the horsepower and a manual tran in it.

[@Wires747]

is rhe guide for the post facelift out yet?

[@WhoIsImmane]

Is there a video for after 2012?

[@satan15151515]

What is the source of oil leak being described at 8:40 in the video?

[@fcpeuro]

Hi Satyajit! There's a couple of possibilities as to why you may be seeing oil at the back of your M272/273 cylinder heads. The plastic cam plugs (the flat, black circular plugs on either cylinder bank) are sealed with an o-ring that may become brittle and allow small amounts of oil to seep by the plug as they age. As time passes, this can lead to a grimy residue of accumulation around and underneath the plugs. Alternatively, you may be seeing leakage from the "oil drip pan" or "drip tray," both parts of the Mercedes crankcase ventilation system. These are located on the passenger-side cylinder bank (on US-spec vehicles) and vent into the throttle body boot via a small-diameter hose. The drip pan/tray are a centrifuge ventilation system, and while signs of failure will most often include oil residue around the throttle body and in the intake boot assembly, failure of the oil drip tray's o-ring can also result in oil on the back side of the cylinder head. The "drip tray" is a plastic cover with an integrated vent port back towards the throttle body, while the "drip pan" is the centrifuge located behind it and internal to the cylinder head. We hope this helps in your diagnosis!

[@satan15151515]

@@fcpeuro Very detailed information. Thanks 👍

[@NarishivinSukumaran]

Great video. Very insightful. What is the main difference between pre-facelift and facelift? Is it just aesthetics? Thanks.

[@mohamedamri3139]

Good information in this page. Plz provide more details about w211 E200 kompressor model 2007. Spare part, coming problems, I want to replace some plastic items but not available ( plastic above the tires, below the Wipers glass front)

[@fcpeuro]

Hi Mohamed, this Buyer's Guide focuses on the North American W211 models as our company is based in the U.S. and those are the only cars we got access to. The E200 was not available in America unfortunately.

[@chasewashatko8562]

Can you make a Simple video of what part and install for Bluetooth music or usb conversion have the 2011 and I heard in the glove box you can plug something into it to set it up

[@redbeak1453]

Great video and very informative, but in the future is it possible to keep the background music more in the background and not overpower the conversation.

[@fcpeuro]

Glad you found the video informative! Noted on the music - sorry if it was a bit loud, we'll be sure to adjust on the next one!

[@Andrew-zv4fm]

Same here. I believe the presenter was trying to focus on a clunking sound on the test drive and I couldn't hear it.

[@Legionnaire.darcfour]

This was awesome thank you

[@ruslan2676]

I noticed a pretty loud electric whine noise on startup that goes away and comes back after a long drive even when driving. What that could be, is it normal?

[@efraimk1673]

Awesome video, very well done! How does the manual transmission feel/perform on these cars? Im thinking of buying a C200K with a stick. Do they use the same transmission as in your c300? Thank you!

[@RuralRoute3]

GREAT video!!!!

[@fcpeuro]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@dariusglover9737]

Are you guys still going to release the video for the later years of this generation

[@thehoov6672]

Dude got that Craig David circa 1998 look going on. ❤😂

[@zuvin2350]

Where can I find your other video of the post facelift W204?

[@tonyewynn8804]

Hello , is there any chance you can refer or explain to me in details the aesthetics and differences of Mercedes Benz c300 2012-2014 model please

[@austinchong]

what would you recommend on the pre facelift w204 headlight upgrade? currently have the projectors and halogen bulbs as stock.

[@Bensq5]

Great video! But you also said that the w204 facelift video will be realeased in the future, how ling would that be? I'm planning on purchasing a 2013 c300 w204. Thanks!

[@fcpeuro]

Hi iBenjiz! We have videos in the works! Let us know when you pick up the w204!

[@fcpeuro]

@@WadeHoliday That's exciting, Wade! Congrats on the new purchase and thanks for subscribing!

[@horohito]

Is this engine similar in configuration to M271? Which one is more reliable and easier to work on, the M271 (C250) or M272 (C300)? Thanks for the info

[@fcpeuro]

M271 is an inline 4 cylinder and the M272 is a V6. Both are quite reliable! The 4 cylinder is probably a bit easier to work on.

[@nikamelkadze4546]

great work thanks

[@barkolkovski79]

very helpful thank you

[@thatrallycarguy]

Man, I'm looking at a 2011 Mercedes-Benz C300 right now.. it just has the regular V6 in it. Good looking car though..93k miles for like 9k..

[@DimitkoIvanov]

Can't find the other video for the facelift.

[@JakeJ.-yi1du]

The W in W204 stands for Wagen which means car, sedan in German is limousine.

[@alexinaviation]

Wow! You are very smart. Awesome!

[@fcpeuro]

Thanks, Alex! Kyle doesn't always think he's smart but he will be happy to see this comment!

[@Ermal193]

Good info, thank you.