Used 1999 Mercedes-Benz C-Class C280 4dr Sedan Consumer Reviews
Used C-Class for sale
A workable car if you are willing to learn
MB owner, Altamonte Springs, FL, 09/19/2018
Mercedes-Benz C-Class C280 4dr Sedan
6 of 6 people found this review helpful
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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Saved My Life
m2e2r2, 03/18/2007
Mercedes-Benz C-Class C280 4dr Sedan
6 of 6 people found this review helpful
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.
1999 Mercedes-Benz C-Class for sale near you
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- C230 SedanMSRP: $9,997234 mi away
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10 years of happy ownership
bickar, 01/27/2010
Mercedes-Benz C-Class C280 4dr Sedan
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
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.
"Mid-life" Treat
PHB, 10/07/2002
Mercedes-Benz C-Class C280 4dr Sedan
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
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
Benzmeister, 12/20/2009
Mercedes-Benz C-Class C280 4dr Sedan
6 of 7 people found this review helpful
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