Used 1999 Mercedes-Benz C-Class Consumer Reviews
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Good Car
Not looking for MB, but wife convinced me to test one. I was hooked! Drove and handled nicely, quiet, and plenty of power with decent mileage (24-25 mpg). Would have liked better acceleration and responsiveness when I push the peddle down, but still good for a V-6 and relatively heavy car. I have about 150,000 miles on it and it still runs and handles great. I have not put much money into repairs other than basic stuff. Harmonic balancer went bad, but MB fixed it under a recall (no cost to me). Complaints are wiper motor going bad, interior wearing out, LCD display/dash lights going out, and the body is beginning to rust around the wheel wells and sun roof. I would by a MB again!
Great car
This is a great car. The drive is just as tight at 310,000 miles as it was the day I drove it off the showroom. It is such fun to drive.The handling is very predictable and secure. Whenever I drive a new rental car even with newer "bells and whistles"it pales in comparison. My only regret is that after 11 years I'm going to have to get another car.
- C230 SedanMSRP: $2,299545 mi away
- C280 SedanMSRP: $2,995816 mi away
- C230 SedanMSRP: $2,9901,219 mi away
Best Car I've ever owned!
You should check the service records on CarMax for sure. If it's been well loved, this car will last you forever. It's comfortable and you can be really confident driving it for view ability, NO blind spots, great instrumentation including cruise and wipers. Ours has 104,000 miles since '99 which is unbelievable. We had it repainted the same as the orig color (silver), had a new headliner put in, and had a leaky valve fixed. Our ignition system did fail at 103,000 mi after we replaced our key! Be sure not to buy a new key without them testing the ignition switch first :) Lesson learned by all of us. I would recommend this car to all families, older drivers and all in between. BOSE sound system is amazing!! Love this thing!
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Best used car deal of my life.
I bought the brilliant silver C280 from a wealthy family in Westchester County, NY in March of 2018 with 24k miles - yes that's an average of 1,200 miles per year! As an owner of '91 300E & '97 E320 I am well versed in these cars. Little did I know that the V6 is a huge improvement over the I6. Many speak of the W124 & M103/4 as the holy grail of MB. Having replaced the water pump and now with the gasket leaks (oil in colant) on the M103 from the W124, I believe the V6 is much better. I see many owners with 200k+ miles on these M112 engines without much repairs. I can see why. The engine is smooth and powerful without much drama when pushed. MPG is not that great and headliner is starting to sag. But, the car looks great and feels like a proper MB, solid! I plan on driving and enjoying this beautiful car for many many miles.
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My First Benz
I've owned nothing but domestics up until this point and I more than likely will never go back. This is my first Mercedes, bought it for $5k cash and it was a steal because it has had one owner (middle age woman), and is immaculate. Their's 172k miles on the odo and I've had not a single problem from her. Still rides smooth and quiet and no rattles or squeaks in the interior. Parts are cheaper than most people expect. I just changed front inner and outer bearings and seals on both sides in the front and only spent $60. Doors still slam solid no loose door panels and squeaking hinges like I've experienced from domestics. Has enough power for the daily commute, amazing stability at top speed!
Going on my 5th MBZ
I just bought a 1999 C230 Sedan Kompressor with less than 69k miles, in great condition internal/external. Apart from a little cricket noise the car is perfect. I've owned a 2001 coupe C230 Kompressor and I prefer the sedan for its solid stance and build quality. I've owned 4 others E, TD, E4matic and very happy with all of them. I regret selling them - think this time will be a keeper.
Great purr
What a great purr that 4 cylinder has. Sounds like a little tiger who will soon growl on the highway, which it does! Good kick, great handling, interior is just classy enough without overdoing it. I drive it to work every morning and it brings a smile to my face, which is good for my employees ;) I've had it for a year now and I enjoy every minute of it. It has been reliable, except for the wiper motor that suddenly died on me. MB said it was due to ice being stuck...funny enough I park my car in the garage. A fun car to have for zipping in traffic or passing on the highway. I recommend the purchase.
My Loyal Companion
I've had BMWs, Audis, an Alpha Romeo, and a Maserati. Each one's strenght was overshadowed by its' reliability weaknesses. My 230 is a joy to drive. It's very responsive yet gets great gas mileage. It has been a low maintenance, strong and reliable car. I'm afraid to get rid of it.
c230 1999
Nice car
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c 280
Overall great car, very fast luxurious to the max, my 280 has 90 thousand miles and still runs like the first day, never has broke down, just regular services.
Saved My Life
Distracted and going 70 on a 2-lane road, the front tire hit the gravel shoulder. I was spun around across the road and into the ditch on the other side. I could feel the car working to stabilize itself and my thought at the time was thank goodness I'm in this vehicle. I should not be here today. Despite the severity of the spinout, the car survived without any problem. I was amazed. I got back up on the road (slowly), got to my Interstate onramp, slowly accelerated up to 65 and went on my way! Had it checked at my destination and there was absolutely nothing wrong. Amazing.
A workable car if you are willing to learn
This is my second Mercedes. Originally I had no desire to own another MB. My first MB was a 2001 C240 with almost every option in it, but I got rid of it because of electronic problems and not knowing the common problem with the crankshaft position sensor ("CPS") failing from heat from the engine and transmission housing at the back of the engine in ALL MB C Class. Frankly, I'm surprised MB has failed to address and eliminate this very dangerous condition, especially at highway speeds. Anyway, the 1999 MB C280 is an enjoyable car. The CPS is a problem but just keep two new ones at hand and change every 30,000 miles or if the car unexpedly stalls in high temperature environments. Each CPS is about $48, but it's an easy fix with a universal socket (the Torx socket is hard to find), save yourself $400+ ahaving the shop do it. The engine is strong, efficient, yet simple and easy to understand mechanically. Failing valve cover gaskets tend to be the main problem in this line at high miles but straightforward to fix. Replacing plugs and coil packs are easy, just be patient doing the work. Getting in and out of the car can be tight for those who are above 6' tall like me. But the interior is comfortable and logical. Just wish I had AC vents to the back like my 2001 and a back shade cover in the back. Steering is solid and confident but be ready to replace the entire drag link assembly if you feel shuddering in the steering wheel at highway speeds or notice uneven wear on the inside and outside of the front tires. I got a Lemforder 2024600505 part to replace the whole linkage for about $155. Climate controls are clear but not easy to change temperatures quickly. Push buttons to raise or lower temp is laborious. Knowing what I know about the costs of fixing a MB I found that learning to fix it myself has been a blessing. I really understand the car well. The MB is engineered very well to a point of simplicity. The 1999 MB C280 is a great car that is easy to work on and learn from but not expensive to buy. Just remember to have an extra CPS at the ready.
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perfect car after 18 years
I have owned a 1999 C230 for 18 flawless years of reliability (changed a few light bulbs and done routine maintenance, that's it in 115,000 miles). What amazes me the most is how new the car feels, with not a squeak or rattle (something I could not say for an Audi I purchased in the late 1980's which was falling apart after 10 years). The interior seems as new as the day I purchased it, with no deterioration of the dash or seats. It continues to feel like a single solid piece of steel on the road with more that adequate acceleration, handling, and comfort. The independent repair shop mechanic talks of how he "loves the 99 C class, these were great cars."
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Excellent Little Car
Bought a used 1999 c230 kompressor with 74,000 miles on it. Pre-Purchase inspection revealed it in "Excellent" condition in every aspect. It is fun to drive, quiet, comfortable and looks and drives like a new car. Not a ding or dent, rattle or squeek and relatively low mileage. Original paint and clearcoat looks like new so does the interior. Great car.
10 years of happy ownership
Bought this car with 5000 miles on it in December of 1999. Over the years, have had to repair various things, and spent a little more to do so than I had on my Hondas, but, not an outrageous amount. And, I cannot tell you the last time I had to do anything other than normal maint. (NOT at a MB dealer - use an independent!) The gas mileage is outstanding - nearly 30 mpg on the highway, 25 around town. Car feels solid still, and the trunk is very large and shaped well - much more usable than our current other car - Jaguar XJ. We use it now for any dirty jobs we have, as it is getting old, yet, the paint job is MUCH better than the Jag we have - seriously MUCH MUCH better.
Bought mine as 18-year old pre-owned commuter
I bought my 1999 C230 Kompressor from an owner who bought it new in 1999. For its age this car still looks and feels great. I should easily get past 250,000+ miles because it's been very well taken care of. Problems so far only seem to be a ghost in the electrical system. Sometimes electrical things work, sometimes, not. Replaced center link and rear differential seals have a small leak but I'm just keeping an eye on that for now.
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Great Liitle Benz
Bought this year with 74,000 mile on it. Extremely fun to drive, looks new inside & out, runs great. It's a classy, classic design and has rec'd many favorable comments.
"Mid-life" Treat
Now I know! My wife and I can't believe how much we enjoy "her" C280. For 30 years we've had 4X4 SUV's, compacts, vans and all the rest, but nothing can compare with this car. I didn't think anyone made a car like this anymore. I'm so pleased with the road handling, the attention to detail, and the V6 that just gets up and goes. My wife is thrilled with the comfort and the classic styling, it fits her like a glove. We couldn't have ask for a nicer car. In my mind, even if I'm a little biased, this car will go down as a classic MB sedan in years to come.
My C280
Bought this car certified pre-owned in 2001. Since then no major problems until 2009. I had to replace a crankcase sensor and shifter assembly. Not bad after 8 years or ownership. Great performance, looks and reliability, smooth running and quiet engine. Going to hang on to this car for as long as I can. I change the engine oil twice a year. Had tranny fluid changed at 70K miles, contrary to MB lifetime tranny fluid. Still driving on original brake pads. I've owned many cars over the years and this C280 is the best by far
Der Kompressor
My sport model C230 has been a joy to own and drive. I especially appreciate the availability of torque across the rpm range provided by the supercharger. Road handling in the mountains is up there with the BMW's and it tracks like it's on a rail on the freeway. Irregardless of the poor reliability ratings MB has racked up in the auto reviews, this one has performed with almost zero problems after a couple of new car warranty fixes. Paint, trim, interior have all weathered the last six years beautifully. My only complaint was the low mileage on the first set of tires. After switching to Michelins, tire has been good. I get around 25 mpg in town and over 30 freeway driving.
Very reliable with occasional repairs
1999 is one of the best years for this model. I have clocked 307k miles so far. It is very susceptible to rust and rust bubbles on the doors, not so much underneath. The parts are fairly expensive, you never want to put cheap parts on it, it wont run right. The blower motors dont last and the mono wiper needs a lot of attention to keep it working. I hit a deer with it going 35 and all it did was put a tiny dent in the hood and broke the headlight bezel. Its a rugged car regardless.
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C280 Still at the head of it's Class
From day 1, this car has been fun to drive, is great on long trips, and it's fuel efficiency is surprising. Ample back seat room and good traction continually remind me that purchasing this vehicle was a smart move!
Tech-rich machine
The C280 has little to envy other luxury vehicles. The new Flex Service System (FSS) does away with traditional 3,000-mile oil changes and service is only required every 10 to 20 thousand miles. Spark plugs at 100,000 miles. Oozing with elegance, the C280 is a solid, tech-rich machine governed by outstanding safety features. When you add the leather seats, Bose audio system, moon roof, and its spunky V6 engine, the C280 is hard to beat.
Great car, exceptional engine.
I bought this car new and I have had no problems. The best feature about this car is the powerful V6. It makes passing on 2 lane roads quick and easy. The outstanding suspension smooths out potholes yet is taut enough to tear through mountain passes. The interior is businesslike and neat. The seats are comfortable enough to travel for around 2 hours, but cross country trips are quite uncomfortable. The controls are well placed, but the radio is hard to use when moving. The trunk is big enough for luggage for 4, and the back seat holds 2 adults comfortably. The only problem with the car is, with the big engine, it has a tendency to understeer, but this can be fixed by power induced oversteer.
Is there anything bad?
I received my first Mercedes upon turning 16. It was a hand-me-down 190E with 197k,but I was hooked on Benz from then on.Before starting college, my parents surprised me with a 99' C280.It had just over 70k so it was just getting started. After having for almost 2 years,and 50k miles I still love it. Mercedes has outdone themselves. The horsepower seemed a little small until you drive the car. It is fast! It really seems to have everything a car could need! Besides a couple small quirks, broken cupholder(surprise) and failed wiper motor, I have had no problems.Services are a little pricey, but people who complain about that had to have known that beforehand. Good gas mileage too. Way to go MB!
Had to downsize
Previously owned an "S" class and had to downsize. The feel is still MB! Solid as a rock and good handling to boot. I can't figure out why anyone would buy a vehicle that "looks" like a Benz, when you can actually own one without breaking the bank. I purchased this vehicle used but in mint condition. I had the finish "clay- barred" by a local detail shop and the finish looks like a mirror. If you are not a 'lead foot' (easy to do) you will get 30mpg. When you drive this vehicle hard, it acts like it really wants to rock hard! This is a keeper.
My 5th Bens
I started in college with a 1971 220D. Four speed manual. After 497,000 miles I figured it was time to move on. After a donation to a charity my sun yellow was a thing of the past. Since that time I have mostly had 300's. My C-230 Kompressor is all that. I got the sport package and am glad I did. My wife has the C-280 but I think that mine handles better that hers. We enjoy taking the Kompressor in the mountains as we zip up and down the tight roads. It is an absolute joy to drive and everyone that rides in it is very impressed keeping in mind of the small red-capped power plant. Hats off to Mercedes for a well built automobile!
Great Sport Sedan...
Great sports sedan for driving on fast paced so cal freeways and highways.
It does everything I need it to do
The first time someone asked me how I liked it - I found myself saying "It does everything I need it to do". Which after an extensive search at the time - was I tall order. I was happily amazed. It's a great work car, (work while stuck in traffic) use the integrated phone - great for taking clients and employees - and while working in san fransico - I found what it really could do - just propel itself up hills & navigate wet streets. Comfortable for long trips with the great seats. My back actually feels better when I get out of the car than when I started out the day driving. Great mileage on long trips. I haven't had anything but good experiences.
Pay to Play
Really fun to drive. Love the immediate response when I press the gas. Purchased used w/ 63K miles from a 'mom & pop' dealership (Big Mistake!!!) Stay w/ a larger dealership who offers the MB warranty or you will regret it!! In less than 10 months already replaced the drag link ($500) and condenser ($1200) My independant warrranty covers harly anthing costly.
Proud owner of MB C280
I love my baby. It's got classical beauty, retaining the more traditional looks of its forefathers (not the funky looking headlights of later generations). Extremely reliable and built to last. This is not a race car but one designed for comfort driving (a requiste for those long hours spent behind the wheel in rush hour traffic). Smooth handling.
Solid Performer
Fine build quality and wonderful handling. The seats are a tad hard and the car could use a few more cc's when you really need the power, but it is an excellent car for the money. The car remains tight even at 135K miles with not a single rattle or squeak. Car pulls effortlessly to 95mph. Over 100 engine noise becomes noticeable tho.
Perfect mix of luxury and sportiness
The '99 C280 Sport is an excellent mix of luxury and sportiness. Recent reviews of MB's have opined poor quality. However, in '99 MB built the C280 like it built Mercedes of old: rock solid. This car is an absolute joy to drive. The suspension is like no other car I've owned. The Sport version has a firmer suspension than the standard model. However, it remains a very subtle ride and sticks in corners adding fun. The V-6 engine takes premium fuel and I'm getting between 22MPG to 26MPG in mixed driving. The quality of the car is excellent. It looks new even though it is six years old.
A Must Have
This car is definitely a must buy if you don't already have one. Acceleration is exceptional and handling is sharp and very responsive. I took a road trip to Utah last summer and let me tell you, the car felt great at high speed. Overall, the Mercedes-Benz C280 is definaitely worth the money.
good to keep
it is a great and safe to drive car
Good Decision
This car has few faults. My ownership experience is 2 yrs and 24K miles. Maintenance: I replaced battery (recall) and headlights at 50K miles and an emission sensor at 60K miles. Mileage is 25 in town and 30 on the highway at 75 mph.
mercedes c 280 sport
when i went to buy this car my wife hated the color(black/blackinterior) ...then she drove it;-). we were signing the papers right after the test drive;-)
Value & Elegance
The C280 is undeniably part of the Benz tradition of exellence and luxury. From it's solid construction to its ability to turn heads around, the C280 is the best small Benz yet.
my 280
Not a single problem or adjustment since purchase. On trips the car averages over 26mpg.
On The Money
I leased this car and I was sure I'd give it back once the lease was up. I have a couple of months left on lease, and I have already made arangements to buy it out. It has been the best and most reliable car I could have asked for. I would recommend a 230 to anyone.
C280 sport
I bought this vehicle used with 31k miles and have driven it about 10k since. It is fun to drive, looks good, and is very comfortable for trips. It has enough power for nearly any demand, although I have to admit I have fantasized about a C43. It is an exceptional highway car, moving easily from 60 to 90 MPH.
I Love My Baby!
I have put 25,000 miles on my car in less than a year and have not had one problem. It has been on a 2,000 mile round trip to Key West effortlessly. I have taken it to the Mountains , had my camping gear in the trunk. This car has seen it all. This is my 4th Mercedes and I have nothing but praise for the 3 point star. Solid as a Rock.
Fun to drive
I love my C280. It handles like a dream, small turning radius, lots of power, not too big, not too small. Have had some electrical problems ( replaced starter, alternator, fuel guage after 50K mi). I will probably buy another small MBZ or the new BMW 330I
do not recommend
Before warmed up enough, a little too sluggish. Experienced a few glitches in the shift. I don't know why I cannot direct the heater toward feet only.
Cant beat it.
1999 i guess they did the best vehicle ever. Thinking that it would be the last before 2000. End of the world. But didnt happen so best car. Still strong fast smooth. Just beat a corvette . imagine that. Needs new paint minor body work but over all still alive. U dont find junk mers out there. Thats why parts are expensive got to buy new. Reason why they last long. Am good with my mers.my ford van still great over 400000. Miles and still going. Like a timex.
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Problems and problems
Got this car and was really happy at first. During the winter the wiper motor broke. Replaced at 1700$. 6 months go by, the motor breaks again. Dealer says the motor broke because the mechanism broke first, No warranty. 1700$ again. Sent letters to the dealer and straight to MB Canada. Big step from them if they even acknowledged my request of refund. MB should really do something about their customer service. They might be selling cars, but they sure don't keep their customers.
C280 - More Mercedes than Chrysler
Sadly, this will be my last MB for a while. When compared to the new C class, the '99 has been rock solid and reliable. Can't say that for the post 2000 C class. Handles great, good fuel economy, a smart looking, buttoned-up German sport sedan.
2 door Fun to 4 door Enjoyment
I was a very happy owner of the MB SLK- 230. My daughter returned home, and it just wasn't practical, so I resigned myself to the 4-door C class. Much to my pleasant surprise, not only was the SLK engine still maintaining the driving fun, but I actually don't feel the "loss" of the funness going into what I thought was going to be my grandmother's stuffy sedan feel. I like being wrong sometimes ;-)
Best Buy!!!
I purchased my '99 C230 in April of 2003 with 68K miles on it. What a great car. I have had absolutely no problems with this car and now I have 101K miles on it. The W202 C Class is much more reliable than the newer W203 C Class. I know, my wife's '01 C240 has been nothing but problems from day one.
What a great decision
More than a year ago I was faced with the need to find a replacement car. I chose the Mercedes for its combination of style, comfort, value, and of course prestige. I have never been dissapointed with my decision to purchase this vehicle instead of a new Honda Accord. I now understand why those who buy one Mercedes can't help but keep buying them!!