Used 2004 Mercedes-Benz C-Class Consumer Reviews
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Great Car for Price
Feels very substantial for a small car. Very reliable. Fun to drive -- great pick-up in the higher rpm range above 40 mph.
Mercedes says car is 10 years old, junk it,dealer serviced since day 1
purchased and serviced since day 1 at benzel busch, englewood,nj. service 1/8/2013 mileage 83,396.brake fluid service,flush,change brake fluid. (perform multipoint inspection) perform major service/shop quote,replace ball joints ($?)valve covers&breathers leaking oil $804.80,boots torn( were replaced at 42,000 miles,what again?), l/r spring cracked $611.40,product adviser at m-b states "not a common problem"engine light,service 5/21/2013,found vacuum hose dry rotted.labor $332.50 part $6.13. (multipoint inspection above?)/shop quote mileage 85,230 or 1,834 miles since 1/8. change brake fluid $195.20 (done above on 1/8(what again?)drive shaft&boot another $1255.11.
- C230 SedanMSRP: $3,85055 mi away
- C320 4MATIC SedanMSRP: $5,99084 mi away
- C240 4MATIC SedanMSRP: $5,995147 mi away
Merging Chrysler Showing in MEBE
Dangerous Aspect: Unpredictable total hesitation (as if engine stall) when accelerating from stop. Life threatening situation if crossing lanes of oncoming traffic. Uncomfortable Aspects: Smoothness of Ride: Better than a lumber truck. Not as good as a 1981 rear wheel drive MEBE Model 300D Driver's Compartment: Very cramped. Lumbar positioner is essential. Height: Needs more clearance. Head- rattling if not careful entering. Rear Seating: If passenger don't have rheumatism when getting in they will after sitting in rear compartment. Glove compartments: That's about all they are sized for: Cup holder is useless space clogger.
The ultimate lemon
10/1/04 I got involved in the worst car of my life. I didn't realize that the car was as small as it really is. The kid keeps kicking the back of the front seat. Mileage could be better. But the worst thing is the car. At 18g miles the tranny went. Poof gone. At 28g the tranny went again. Then a dozen other things kept breaking. Then to drive the nail home the engine started burning oil. I clocked the car burning oil at one qt per 1500 miles. The dealership in Greenwich basically said lets keep a eye on it. Ya , lets keep a eye on it. I called Mercedes headquarters and lodged my complaint. They are keeping a eye on it also. Next stop is the lawyer. Maybe he can keep a eye on it.
A fun drive between costly repairs.
The 1.8l Kompressor is impressive but overshadowed by a much worse than average reliability rating. Oil leaks, coolant leaks, oil in the water (blown head gaskets), warped aluminum heads are among the many nightmares of a bank depleting partnership with this 2004 gem.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
M-B Wagon
Great wagon! It is fun to drive and has all wheel drive. The gas milage is bad however. Very peppy engine. Spacious interior.
New C-320 4matic
I traded in the the '96 C280 on a C3204matic.Love all the new safety equipment--brake assist,ESP,8 airbags,6 disc CD changer,etc. After driving RWD Benzs for 15 yrs this AWD is like learning how to drive all over again. It's fabulous! However this car has a VERY annoying glare from the dash onto the windshield--seems to be there nearly all the time. MB needs to go back to black at the top dashes as VW,Audi,BMW and several Japanese cars have done.
C32 AMG 1 YR
Decent car: AMG did well on engine; suspension. My 1st automatic/"tiptronic transmission - hate it!! Too boring. Other: Tach way too small & should be in center for this car. Indicator light for speedo stays fixed - Dumb. Gear selection indicator - way too small - dumb. Self dimming rear view mirrors - can't judge cars behind - way too dangerous! & dumb. Elec windows either go all the up or down; have to take eyes off road to adjust - dumb. Car should CENTER BETTER on any road. I thought this would be a fun sedan; just too sedate (except speed) and boring in just about every category. Little character for the money. Plan to give up.
Great Small Sedan
Shopped like a madman. Have owned Lexus, Infiniti and a 240D MB. I simply thought that after reviewing and driving most of the $30-40K sedans, this was the obvious choice.
Good job!
Drives like a charm
Love this car
I bought this car about two weeks ago, it had 36 grand on the odometer. So far this vehicle has far exceeded my expectations for a used entry level Benz. On my 250 mile trek back home from purchasing it, I got over 31 miles per gallon, and I loved every facet of the c230. My friend has a BMW 325i and he commented the ride better than his BMW, also the leg room in the front better than the BMW. He also said less road noise, and a few features the Benz had he wished the BMW had. The regular halogen headlight are phenominal, I mean super good, better than any other car I've ever had. The seats were great, power is fine and I just love this car. If you've never had one, get one, worth it
Not Bad Entry Level Luxury Car
This isn't a bad little car. Like others have mentioned it is NOT comfortable for the long haul. Seats are very firm up front and the kids complain about being cramped in the rear. The hesitation from stop is scary. Have almost been creamed a few times because of the hesitation. Those issues aside--fuel mileage is in the upper 20's on the highway, high teens in the city; It's much quieter than our old car- a 2002 Honda Accord. This isn't a bad car, just some quirks.
Fair
Very impressive, classy car. Always dependable, no mechanical issues since purchased in July 07. My only issues; this vehicle is zippy and performs fabulously on the highway, but a bit sluggish for a supercharged vehicle around town. I expected more power than this. You've got to put the pedal to the floor to get out of the way. I'm most disappointed in the front seats of this car as they have no lumbar support and built like cardboard. Not a good choice for long distance driving. I've had to add a lumbar support module to my front seat which looks rediculous and shabby in a Benz, but necessary. No lie, every passenger I've had in my car have complained about the seats.
Fun to drive
I bought brand-new silver C 230 Sport Coupe in May 03. I've driven over 11000 miles so far. Great fuel economy, good acceleration, and overall handling. Control panel is very well designed, and controls are easy to find.The list of standard safety features is really impressive. Overall this car ia a pleasure to drive, and it's a real head turner, built with expected Mercedes Benz quality.
Nice Ride!
We bought ours used w/39k miles on it. The car is beautiful, well maintained. I have one problem with an ESP/BAS warning and this appears to be affecting the operation of the sunroof. Hopefully this can be corrected by the certified warranty. The car feels as solid and safe as any car I've driven and after I got finished with it this weekend you can't tell its not new.
Excellent Benz
I have this car for 4 years and no problems at all. It is so much fun to drive. Pick up is excellent, road handling is excellent. I wish we have nicer highways in NY. Very good gas mileage. Maintenance free service was excellent ( I am just over 50K now) This is not a car for snow unless you want to slide all over.
Good value
I traded up from a '98 SLK, which I loved but needed more room. The sedan is not as balanced, responsive or sporty as the convertible but overall a great ride. The supercharged 4 is a phenomenal engine, superb torque, and amazing pull available throughout the smooth shifting gears. Ride quality and quietness are acceptable but no one will mistake it for an S Class. Too much body roll on hard cornering. Seats are pretty firm and not enough lateral support. If you normally use cupholders, forget about it! Brakes are excellent. Overall fit and finish top- notch, ergonomics plain but well laid out. Still the best buy in the 35K+/- price group.
Exceptional Vehicle
I have really enjoyed this car. It has been incredibly reliable and comfortable on long road trips. Short drives are enjoyable also.
An Exceptional Car
I had an Acura 3.2 CL Type S. I had a BMW 325i. Now I have the Mercedes C230 Kompressor Sport Sedan. Of the three, the Mercedes is by far the better car at the better price for what you get. This car is built for the driving enthusiast who also seeks the finest detailing and craftsmanship. I won't waste your time writing an amateur review. Just go drive one. You'll see.
A big dissapointment
My car is C240 Elegantmodel 2001. The troubles I had with this car were: After one year I had to change the original battery. After driving 30,000 km only, had to change the very expensive controlers M 209 545 07 01 and M 203 820 15 85. After a total of 40,000 km I had to change again very expensive parts: the pedal complet sensor M 203 300 01 04 and the oxigen sensor M 001 540 46 17. DaimlerChrysler AG70546 Stuttgart (Möhringen)Germany, the manufacturer, avoided replying to my complains and directed me to the dealer.
just got it, very cool
This is my first Mercedes. Had a Lexus RX and got tired of the SUV thing. Forgot how solid German cars are. This thing is heavy and solid. Very powerful with the V6. It rocks and fun to drive. The glass top is the best thing in the world and a very convertible feeling, but security of a solid roof. Car is quiet inside and can hear the throat of the engine just enough. Wish I had a 5 speed and not the automatic. It is very cool to look at and totally Mercedes. Needed the hatch for extra room and practical reasons with kids.
Danke M-B!
A4, IS300, 325i, G35, TSX, look out and make way! Everything I wanted in performance and near luxury are in my new c230 sport sedan. Engine is responsive even when cruising in 6th! The upgraded vented discs up front are great for braking. The smooth lines and moldings separate this from the non sport version. The 5 spoke 17" wheels and performance tires are really the best exterior statement. Not only will a proud owner get the respect and looks from other drivers, but the car makes an overall "I've arrived" statement. The best value ever for your hard earned dollar. What are you waiting for?
CFP Motors, LTD
A very outstanding vehicle and fun to drive.
Best Car to Purchase!
This car speaks for itself. Nice horsepower, comfort, all the little toy gadgets to keep you occupied while enjoying everything in comfort. Favorite gadgets includes air climate control, controling radio volume/station selection/changing views to see on speedometer from the steering wheel. Also the sunscreen in the rearwindow as well as the cd player. The best part of it all is the ride. Don't let this car fool you its the greatest
Awesome car
The C230 is great! Fun to drive, but engine is a bit small. My favorite car so far!
just have fun
whenever you are riding in a car it is just a boring ride, but when it comes down to this mercedes it is like you are in a dream world.
2004 C230 Kompressor
I purchased this vehicle appox. 3 weeks ago. It's performance if good, a little sluggish when the AC is on but, not bad. There is very little room in the rear seats if you are tall and have the front seats all the way back. I have put 2500 miles on it so far with no concerns. Nicely equipt, the cost is approx. $34,000 + taxes . I would recommend it to other buyers. I had a 22001 BMW 3 series but, didn't like the ride. The Mercedes is much more comfortable while driving then the BMW. I also have a 2001 SLK Convertible which is fun to drive. Overall I am happy with both.
Sweet
The 230's supercharger is one of the greatest things about this car. The first three gears will put a smile on your face and the grip is amazing.
Best quality for the money!
For less than 40 K you can buy reliability, luxury and sophistication! GO FOR IT!!!!!!!!!!
love it
best car for these price no lex. no bimmer can beat this car i love it
Great Car!
As a former Porsche 911 SC owner it would take a pretty impressive automobile to compete with a Porsche. My Mercedes is such a fun car to drive with an impressive list of safety features. I didn't think that it would have much power, however. Although not the Porsche, it does have impressive pick up when needed. My only wish for the car would be a rear wind shield washer. I love this car so much that my best friend went out and bought the identical model! She loves it too!
Love the car!!
This car is a fun car to drive with everything I was looking for with an unbelievable low price. Interior of the car is sporty with aluminum trims and comfortable leather seats, race pedals. Not to mention the navigation system, cd changer etc. Car has the speed not expected from a 4 cylinder (faster than c240 V6). Performance is good but excellent for the price. Exterior look is great with a sporty kit, exhaust tip, 17 inch wheels that really stand out and gets a lot of attention, staggered wheels, sunroof, and bi xenon headlamps. For the price of in the low 30's it is an excellent deal!
Fun and sensible
It was either the C320 coupe for about $30k OTD. or the Maybach for $300k. Just kidding. I wanted a rear wheel drive fun commuter car. The V6 feels more powerful with its automatic than my audi felt with a manual. I love the idea of 8.5 quart oil capacity. All the technology and safety and quality is there. My oyster cloth interior with metal trim looks like a fine suit. But it's $15k less than the CLK320 and $9000 less than the C320 sedan. The free maintenance and lifetime roadside assistance are great. The car is comfortable and fun to drive.
Nice Car...
I'm a very young student. I just began driving no more than three years ago and decided to invest in a Mercedes. I couldn't have made a better choice. I'm very pleased with the quality and performance of my C-Class.
C230 Kompressor
The Benz has handled well in all driving conditions. The OEM tires from Continental were the only disappointment performance wise because of the short duration (27000 miles). Otherwise, awesome for a 4 cyl.
4Matic in Alaska
Excellent cold weather auto. Great reliability and handling in the worst conditions. However, the cupholders in the front are useless. Too close together and awkwardly placed...surprising for a Benz.
Solid and Fun
Never thought I'd use the word "fun" to describe a wagon, but this one has plenty of power, and handles almost as well as my 328i, which is impressive for a wagon. Solid construction, interior is roomier than I was expecting given the car's dimensions. Enough cargo space to meet our needs on long trips (2 adults + 2 kids). Rear seats fold down flat, giving lots of hauling room when needed, and cargo floor is "flush" with a low loading height--no need to lift objects over a lip to get them in the back.
Amazingly great car
I bought this car a few months ago and love it. This car gets awsome gas mileage at 23 mpg city-33 mpg hwy and is very comfortable to sit in on long trips, not to mention it turns a lot of heads.
my rate
i really like this car my family loves to drive this car we love to go on vacation with our benz.
Solid Performance But Few Thrills
I have owned the car since new. In mainly city driving with some long distance trips, I have averaged 21.4 mpg over 13,500 miles. The only repair was a fuel filler door that did not lock. The car has been very dependable and is a comfortable long distance cruiser (up to 28 mpg on the highway). 4matic is great in the snow even with the standard all season tires. My main complaint is that the engine lacks low end punch. Once on the highway, performance is acceptable but not thrilling. If you want performance, don't buy the 240, move up to the 320. (I did not like the 230 because of the compressor whine; simply a matter of taste.) Headroom improves significantly without the sunroof.
C320 4matic sport sedan
Excellent performance, excellent value, dependability, comfort, responsive. The vision is excellent, making it an all around wonderful experience.
All-weather Commuter
I commute 2 to 2 1/2 hours a day, plus customer calls. This car is solid, reliable and sure- footed in all weather. It goes through monsoon-type rain, blizzards and ice storms without missing a beat. The car handles extremely well, is responsive and it is a pleasure to drive. I am also very impressed by the numerous safety features. There is not a car on the road with more safety technology for the money.
Drives Like a Dream
This car is a perfect blend of luxury and sports performance. It's surprisingly well-priced. It handles hair pin turns like a true high performance sports car, yet rides like a luxury sedan. The 4 cylinder Kompressor engine has a surprising amount of power. One would never guess the car has a four cylinder engine. The interior is impressive. The seats are comfortable. The car comes with many features that are found in its more expensive models. It's a little tight in the back but still makes for a comfortable ride. The sound system is impressive. This car is a must on your list of cars to test drive.
glad I bought it
I really like this car. Performance is excellent, great gas economy (I avg 31 on hwy), and comfortable inside.
Great car at a relatively great price
C230 sport sedan is a great deal. If you don't mind giving up a little bit of refinement (V6 vs I4), this is the one to get and save about $3000 over a BMW 325i. The car has been flawless so far, and I like the car more and moreas I drive it. You won't be dissapointed.
Real Pricing on a C240 4Matic Wagon
If you're looking for a C-Series, you need to bargain harder than the Edmunds price. A C240 4matic wagon with leather, sunroof package, metallic paint and CD changer stickers for $39,040; the Edmunds TMV price is $37,336 and I bought this car yesterday in Denver for $33,700, including delivery and dealer handling. By the way, this is six grand less than a comparably equipped BMW 355xi wagon.
A Really Good Car
It is definetly a very fun car to drive. It turns heads especially with the sports package. You can press on the accelerator and be launched forward like a slingshot. Throw it into turn and its very controlable even with the extra speed. The extra options are definetly worth it and all buttons are easy to use and clear. Extremely good gas mileage.
Love it so far!
I just purchase a C320 Sport Sedan a few weeks ago. I traded in a 98 Corvette for this car, so I'm still having a little problem getting used to being without 350 HP. But the handling is wonderful on German cars. There's nothing quite like them. I love the looks of the car. Chromed the big 5- spoke wheels last week to give it a little more "bling-bling". So far I'm loving it.
Excellent Choice
Had my mind made up to buy BMW 3 series, but the C320 was a lot more fun and smoother. Gave the Audi a shot but no comparison. I am very happy with my C320.
MB C class 2004
We have been very happy with our car for the first 12 years . We recently replaced Cat. Converter, Exhaust Manifold and the Thermostat at the Foothill MB at a high cost and smog checked it. I guess you expect to pay a few $$$ for a 14 years old car...We have advertised it with Craig list, so far we have been getting calls from people promoting their own websites or want to sell it for us for a fee...We are confident it will sell. The car is in EXCELLTENT condition inside and outside and RUNS great.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value