Used 2002 Mercedes-Benz C-Class Consumer Reviews
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The Service Manager is my best friend
I have had my C320 for 3 months and I have had 5 service visits. Items like windows and sunroofs not operating are one thing, but when the car stalls out on you 5 times in different traffic situations, it's time to move to another vehicle. Yesterday was the last straw. Driving around 70 on a packed Interstate, the engine lost power. From the fast lane, I have to negotiate to the shoulder of the road. It was a pretty hair-raising and frustrating experience. When I hit the shoulder, the engine perked up again and I was able to drive to the dealership. I am very disappointed and I will be getting rid of it ASAP. I expected more from MB.
The Nicest Terrible Car I Ever Owned
I bought this Benz used in 2006 and it was in really good condition and low miles. Ever since then it has slowly fallen apart. Mechanically it is decent other than the expensive maintenance but the fit and finish of the car is sub par. Everything form the trim to the cup holders to the seats have broken at one time or another. This is the bottom of the MB line-up and it shows. They really just cranked these out and spit them at the consumers without quality control. Makes me never want to buy a MB or any German car for that matter again. What a shame.
- C230 2dr HatchbackMSRP: $950281 mi away
- C240 SedanMSRP: $5,000320 mi away
- C240 SedanMSRP: $4,500453 mi away
Wolf in sheep's clothing
I ended up selecting a near-mint '02 C32 over an equally pristine '04 M3 SMG after driving both back-to- back...twice. The C32 is such an interesting car. It's interior space is very functional seating 4 easily and comfortably. It's styling. Just technical enough and different enough to set it apart. And finally, it's performance is eye opening if you pay attention - what I mean by that is the super-charged 3.2 is sooooo much smoother than the M powerplant in the M3, that unless you are truly aware of what's going on, you almost take it for granted. I would have given it a 10 in every category except it's features are almost overwhelming. The fuel economy scores low - that's my foot.
Wonderful Q Ship
My 2002 Mercedes-Benz C32 AMG is a wonderfully smooth and powerful car. To the uninitiated, it appears like any other C-class sedan, but those in the know understand the AMG badge. It is roomy enough to have two car seats in the back, yet tidy enough to park easily. Though not as single-minded as an M3, it is a lovely alternative to those who need 4-doors.
Love My Little Car
My experience owning a C230 has been delightful. I enjoy the spacious interior especially the fact that even someone with long legs may ride comfortably in the backseat. The sunroof has been such a pleasure. Also the glass top over the rear passengers seats make it unique. The car is very maneouverable and easy to fit into almost any parking space. The option to go from automatic to manual is fun. I appreciate the safe design of the car and the high crash test rating. The car is fun, safe and such a pleasure to drive. The only thing I see they could improve upon would be the comfortability of the seats. They feel too hard and flat. The actual seats leave alot to be desired.
2002 320C Review
This is my second 2002 C Class. I bought a 2002 230C and traded it in 18 months later for the 320C. I enjoy driving the car and like the feel of the larger engine. I had a lot of lights blow out in my 230 and have not had that problem in the 320.
Amazing value.
I needed a car that could get me to work in bumper-to-bumper traffic, and also handle periodic days at the race track. I cross-shopped the Audi S4 and the BMW M3. It was a close call, but I have no regrets picking the C32. Very, very fast, but not very flashy. Good MB quality and reliability.
Another jewl from Stuttgart
Hands down the best car I've ever owned. Solid build quality and breath taking performance. The acceleration and tight handling allow you to jump in and out of traffic with ease. The cabin is comfortable and functional, though it could do with some more usable storage up front. The only unscheduled maintenance has bee a recurring problem with the lighting system causing it to burn out bulbs about every six months. Fortunatly the vehicle has auxillary lamps that function in place of the main ones when they fail, so the car remians safe to drive until it can be serviced.
Nice car but not the best year of C240
Had lots of little quirk problems with this car, but overall it drove fairly nice and was comfortable. Definitely a timeless look. Electronics were always having some sort of problem. I recently upgraded to a 2005 and like it much better.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Finally gone!
This car was bought from a Cadillac dealership - it had been traded for a Cadillac. That should have been our first clue. Though fun to drive, at times, the car is extremely unreliable, falling apart around us, very expensive to repair, and one of the most uncomfortable luxury or near luxury vehicles I have ever driven. The C class is the epitome of over engineering, poor quality build, and a manufacturer currently resting on a mythical reputation. This was our families second and last Mercedes. We just traded it (for a pittance) on a Lincoln MKZ. It might not be German and for that, we are truly grateful. Perhaps the only thing to miss is the sound the MB door makes when closing.
Benz beats all
Best bang for your buck bar none! Especially for a world class product.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Highly Disappointed
I would not recommend this vehicle to anyone looking for a reliable automobile. This car has lost more interior pieces than I have been able to keep up with. The electrical components of this car leaves a lot to be desired. I had to replace the alternator at 52,000 miles - the first time in my lifetime as a car owner that I have had to change an alternator this soon. This vehicle has really tarnished my image of the Mercedes Benz brand. When you pay this much for a small sedan, you expect reliability, quality, and decent peace of mind. Wish I would have opted for the Lexus instead.
Not Impressed
I bought this car as a present to myself. Who knew I would be so underwhelmed by the experience. Too many 'minor' repairs in the first few months (purge valve, wind noise because stuff around door jam not secure, and rear sun shade worked only when it wanted to). These things were fixed and now I'm experiencing other prblems! The back of the passenger seat fell off, the driver side door handle broke off (no unusual use!!!), and the gear shift moves when you change gears. And don't get me started about the squeaking brakes. UGH!!!!
i geess i got one of the good ones
not alot of people are happy with the c230. the only reason i purchesed mine is because the dealer drop it $6500.00.m-b gave the dealer $4k because of slow sales.discounted it another $2500 , took it. have 10,000 miles on mine and have had no trouble with it other than having to replace the sun shades.it gets 33 mpg on the hwy.i dont care for the stiff ride or the way the auto shifts. and dont even try to put xm radio with the m-b radio.cd is about $900 extra if the dealer puts it in, and no other cd changer will work with the bose system. i would not recomend this car as many of the coupes are having too many problems.
Smooth and sporty
A great vehicle in all aspects. Silky V6 engine provides good acceleration and excellent passing power, especially with the TouchShift transmission. Sporty styling almost makes you forget it's a sedan, back seat is good for two people with decent leg room. Trunk swollows 2 or 3 regular size suitcases but not much more.
Buy one if you can find one.
If you enjoy driving a pure sports car but don't want to sacrifice passenger space, this car is perfect for you. The 6spd manual tranny provides peak power at any speed. It corners like a dream. The supercharger sounds sweet. Sometimes I put the window down just so I can hear it getting on the highway. Desite its small appearance, it fits two 6' tall adults comfortably in the backseat. After two years, $0 repair/maintenance cost. It's all covered by Daimler/Chrysler!
I am growing to love this car
I could not pass up purchasing a MB for under $30K. I was luke warm on the back end styling and really wanted more trunk space and 4 doors, HOWEVER, after owning the car for over a month it has really grown on me. It does so many things well that I have changed my mind on the styling and found that I can easily live with 2 doors. I had two minor cosmetic flaws which are being taken care of. Otherwise, the car is fun to drive, full of gadgets (I am still not finished reading the owners manual), and has real curbside appeal.
DON'T TRADE-IN
OURS NEEDS CHANGED SO WE WERE TRADING IT IN FOR THE MERCEDES SUV. WE HAD ALL THE UPGRADES (LEATHER) IN, WHEN WE WENT TO TRADE IT IN THEY ONLY WANTED TO GIVE US$18,000 AND ONLY 7000 MILES ON IT. THEY DEPRECIATED IT HALF WHAT IT COSTS. NEEDLESS TO SAY WE STILL HAVE IT, UNFORTUNATELY A CAR WE LOVED, NOW WE FEEL STUCK WITH. ON TOP OF THAT THE MERCEDES DEALERSHIP WE TOOK IT TOO WAS EMABARASSED TO HAVE THESE CARS ON THE LOT. SAID IT WAS A MISTAKE MERCEDES MADE BY PRODUCING THIS MODEL.
vibration
my 2002 c230 coupe is comfortable,[to sit in] fast and cool. quiet it is not. but the one thing i find unacceptable is the vibration that i feel from 35-40 mph to 60-65 mh. i feel the vibration in the seat, pedals, gear shift, steering wheel. mercedes has told me that it is normal, but ive heard no one else complaining about it. so am i the only one?
It's been real good
The car is coming up on seven years old. In those years it has been quite reliable. The supercharged engine gets 32-35 MPG on the highway, but still has great pick up when you need to punch up acceleration. City MPG suffers a bit in stop & go traffic. I am 6' 1" and find there is plenty of leg and head room. The hatch is great - too bad Americans do not favor this handy body style.
Good, but...
I got my 2002 C240 3 months ago, brand new from the dealer. I like the looks of it. when i went to pick it up, i noticed a malfunction msg on the board (Rear lamp), was a loose wire. Few weeks later, i had a tape stuck in the cassette, and took it back to the dealer. Now, three months later, i have 2200 miles on it, and drives good. Yestrday I noticed the left window button lost its one-touch charm, so i need to take it back..i also had 3 occurances where i hear a loud whistle when i start the car in the morning...the dealer couldn't pin-point the problem.
Great Alternative To SUV's
Growing tired of SUV's, we looked at a number of wagons (BMW, VW, Audi, Volvo, & MB) before deciding on the C-320 Sport Wagon. The engine is very strong. Fit & finish is typically perfect Mercedes. The car has a slightly heavy feel during cornering, but there is very little body lean and NO noise from the body or chassis. The dash display is a little clunky, not matching the simple elegance of the rest of the interior. And the Bose stereo is pathetic at reproducing the lower frequencies. Shockingly pathetic. Still a VERY nice car. Give it a try, ... you'll probably love it.
Fun fun fun~!
Just got my baby C 1 week ago. Man, once I start the car, I don't want to get out. A lot of power for a small car, and the 2.3L eng. makes beauifull sound...
I want my money back
What a piece of good looking crap. We are in the process of trying ot get our money back. I have never owned a car with so many problems. Shock problems, electrical problems, broken plastic truck liner, sun roof sticking, rattles, We were looking forward to getting this car and now we look forward to getting rid of it.
You can't go wrong.
I am a police officer specializing in traffic reconstruction. I have seen many crashes involving all kinds of vehicle makes and model. NOTHING impressed me more than a Mercedes Benz. AMG elevated Mercedes to a higher level. Not only can an owner enjoy the safety Mercedes offers, AMG provides the horse power other manufacturers strive to achieve. It has four doors. In my opinion for its price range, it is the best value. Owning one truly gives me the best of both worlds. A car that is built like a tank that can run with Porsches and Corvettes. Not that I do, but knowing I can is good enough. It is a wolf in a sheeps cloak.
it's a Chrysler
repairs so far - differential whine - replaced p Gears; rear seals leaked - replaced; 4 new shocks; OE Micehelin sports dead after 9000 miles; replaced computer; replaced CD; replaced cupholder. Interior squeaks and rattles will drive you nuts. Engine is crudely loud and exhaust note is tinny. Gear shift is notchy. However - handles very well, has good power and gets great gas mileage. My first and likely last MB.
Best Choice
I never associated MB with value, but that's what the C230K gives. It is incredibly fun to drive, and lots of looks from other people as I drive by. The Kompressor growl going up hills is great. The C230K can easily accomodate 4 adults (its bigger inside than it looks). The panoramic sunroof makes an ordinary sunroof look downright inadequate. The C7 wheel package is a steal, and makes the car look even better. Like others, I was considering an Acura RSX hoping to save some bucks. The C230K is worth every penny of the price difference, and more. Drive the two cars and you will know immediately which one you want.
MB AMG First Timer
Great automobile, the best balance of performance and luxury that I have experienced to date with an emphasis on performance. Outstanding brakes, suspension and drivetrain. Some minor ergonomic/design issues with interior controls such as cruise control and heated seats. Better quality and structure than BMW M3. So pleased that I am ordering a next generation SLK AMG for my wife!
It's a love/hate thing
I bought this car b/c I love hatchbacks and Mercedes. I love the drive, feel and performance of this car. BUT, I have had problems similar to other owners: tape deck replaced, fuel pump/tank replaced, front differential replaced, squeaky sunroof. The service is excellent but that's I'd prefer to not know my service rep on a first name basis. I will definitly buy another MB, but will consider turning this one in at the end of the warranty.
J-C230k
Afterall, it is a Mercedes
Great Ride But Fix Pull To Right
CONS - Car pulls to right. Dealer & MB have checked alignment and tires several times and still no fix after a year. Advise if you have similar problem via edmunds.com review or e- mail to ajt38ca@yahoo.ca. Similar sunroof noise problem fixed by dealer by removing roof liner & installing foam sheet and silicon. Brakes spongy & non-linear in feel. PROS - Good looking especially in Paprika with lots of looks from others; fantastic interior ambience with panorama roof & top quality leather ; excellent interior materials, fit & finish. Both better than A4 or X-Type. GENERAL - Ride is firm. OK if you are sporty driver, not if more comfort oriented.
Selling this car
I got this car two years ago and loved it. But after 6 months everthing started to fall apart. My sunroof doesn't work. And the dealership said it would cost around $1000 to fix. My engine has had so much work done and has taken 5 weeks total. And it still needs more work. And the exhaust needs work too. This car is a money pit!
C230 Hatchback - fun
this car is really fun to drive. It has acceleration when you need it and is easy to manuver in and out of traffic etc. We have three Land Rovers so this is a nice change!
Good Car, Little Problems
Overall this is an excellent car, but it seems to be bothered by small, nagging problems with reliability. Over 7500 miles several small problems (none are close to being critical) have come up, which is a little disappointing. But, compared to the positives (decent power, crisp handling, excellent brakes, solid feel, safety, luxury), the shortcomings (rattles, notchy 1-2 shift) are easy to overlook.
Awesome car
I recently purchased this car, and have loved every minute of my driving time since!
C230 Coupe
Some minor problems initially (oil leak and rattles)that were corrected by the dealer within the first 7K miles. I've got 27K miles on it now and the car has been flawless. I ordered this car and have been driving it daily since Nov 2001. Great in the snow as long as you have four snow tires mounted.
Can I get heat with that
Picked up our new C240 8hrs after arrival at dealer Thurs. Wasn't ready as promised. Heater wouldn't work. Called at 10am next day as instructed. Car ready. Arrive 12:30pm and pick up car. Minutes away from dealership, turn heater on full blast. Thirty minutes later arrive at my office and cold air still flowing. Therefore, can assume one of two things: dealer never fixed heater; dealer fixed heater and it broke a second time before driven off the dealer's lot. Lemon?
The Ultimate in Stealth
This is my first Mercedes. Having been a loyal Cadillac owner for over 8 years, I do find the C32 AMG a bit cramped at times, but that's pretty much the only complaint I have. The C32 has a sporty enough exterior, but still gives no real clue of its awesome power to unsuspecting challengers until it's too late. "Stealth" I also like the fact that this is a rare and special car. I have not seen another one like it to date. It is 100% Mercedes quality too. Powerful and handles like a dream. "If you have the means, I highly recommend picking one up." - Ferris Bueller
Value you just can't beat!!!
I've had it for 3 weeks now and have already passed the 1000 mile mark and I love the car. I got it because I drive alot for my job and needed a fuel efficient, comfortable car...and I got it! It cools well. The sunroof is great. The Bose sound system is better than other Bose systems I've heard. But, I wish I could fit a full set of golf clubs in the trunk (I also have a convertible BMW 328, and they managed to do that). Also, I have the Nav and w/o the CD changer, you can either listen to CDs or do the Nav (not both).
Nice Luxury - Lacking in Sport Dept.
A nice comfortable car with lots of electronic goodies, however the suspension is a little soft and their is a significant amount of body roll. I drive it on a 40 mile comute, it is very comfortable and safe. Very quiet and cruises nicely at 80. When I hit the backroads it doesn't match a BMW. The car is quick and gets about 27 mpg on my commute. The Kompressor is a nice engine but again doesn't match BMW's inline sixes.The automatic is smooth with a little Kompressor lag if you are driving mildly but you get used to it. The radio isn't the best but with the CD changer it is more that adequate. Made by Alpine. Seats are firm and comfortable.
Great car
To start, I am a Mercedes loyalist. When I was forced to buy a new car, I considered the BMW 3 series, volvo S60, and the Audi A4. I am really glad I chose this car. It's fun to drive, great to ride in, has great handling, performance, etc. Long trips are fun; short trips are fun.
Good Ride
Still new to the ride..about 2500 miles. My second Benz. So far fuel consumption excellent. 4 people and luggage, 300 miles RT...31 MPG. Power and six speed excellent. Fit and finish awesome.
Over Priced Neon
Noisey! Sunroof constantly squeaks dealer unable to eliminate. Drivers seat squeaks. This is the noisest car I've owned since my 1980 Citation. Stereo system sub-par. Can't hear rear speakers (mounted in lower door trim) Way over priced
Nothing but problems
It's been in twice for engine work. The sunshade has broken twice as well first the front and then the back. The shift casing is constantly coming off. They had to replace my radio once because it kept fading in and out. It's too bad because I love it when its working, but now I'm trying to get rid of it. Also any dealer that has voicemail in their service dept. should be flogged.
Huge disappointment
This was my first and probably last MB. $32000 was paid and within 2 years the AC system was replaced twice. Electrical systems are a constant headache. Front right blinker stopped working and was redesigned (not recalled due to ongong failure)and then one day started working correctly again. Quality of the product is poor. I had hoped for an experience like my last car, a Toyota. Drove the Toyota for 200K miles. I would not recommend a MB to anyone.
great car
I've really enjoy the build quality and preformance. Its hard to image a hatch back could get much better. The 230K has many of the nice features from the Smart. Cool
Beauty & the Money Pit
This was MB's attempt at wooing the younger generation to become MB owners. Unfortunately, once you get past the great looks and supercharged fun driving and look at what you got, you become very disappointed - cheap, ugly cloth seats, plastic pieces that break easily, cheap looking faux-carbon dash and frequent trips to the mechanic for problems they just can't seem to chase down because it's all computerized. Just avoid them. I tried to love it, I really did but it's just not reliable.
Great Car
The 2.3L is fun to drive, has good hp and torque over a rather large rpm band. The Editor's reviews have cupholders getting as much weight as the engine performance. No, the cupholders aren't too functional (although their "ejection" mechanism is cool), but I'll take the car's performance/value ratio over the cupholder/big gulp ratio.
C230 Coupe
4000 Miles no problems excellent car and value for the money.
Great Car!
The cheapest AMG model, but definetly value for every dollar spent! Although being my first car, it's hard to judge until i drive others.