Used 2006 Mercedes-Benz C-Class Sedan Consumer Reviews
See Edmunds pricing data
Has Your Car's Value Changed?
Used car values are constantly changing. Edmunds lets you track your vehicle's value over time so you can decide when to sell or trade in.
Great Value for the Money!
I am a new MB owner and am glad to have made the switch. I purchased my used 4matic this year and have been pleased with the performance thus far. My only dislikes would be the automatic wiper sensors when it rains and comfort mode. I highly recommend Sport mode to really know what your driving. I also think the windows should be a shade darker.
Problems
So my fiance got a C230. Had 400 miles when we met. But noticed a weird noise so took it to dealer and they replaced power steering assembly and that was at 400 miles! Then at 5000 miles idler pulley was replaced and sunroof needed reprogramming. Then now at 7600ish miles annoying rattling noise started to appear. This is a fun car but not really reliable vehicle. I cannot imagine drivng this vehicle without a warranty.
- C280 Luxury SedanMSRP: $3,799312 mi away
- C230 Sport SedanMSRP: $4,996368 mi away
- C280 Luxury 4MATIC SedanMSRP: $7,995424 mi away
Geared too low / Poor gas Mileage
Overall I love the car. 4500 miles with no repair issues. Car handles and rides great. Low road noise. Very good looking car. I have 3 minor issues; Manual transmission is geared to low, need a different rear end. This leads to poor fuel economy. Driving conservitavily I get 17-20 mpg around town. At 3500 miles the engine developed a low pitched howl. Dealer say it the metal chain on a nylon sprocket that drives the oil pump
C350 moves!
After testing the Jaguar X type, I purchased the Mercedes C350 instead, and am I glad that I did! The handling is buttery smooth, the pick-up incredible! The quality overall leaves nothing to be desired.
Not Such A Good Choice
I've had my '06 C280 for about 14 months now. I have had it into the dealer five times, each time with a list of minor problems. The last visit, three weeks ago, the transmission was replaced under warranty. Plenty of squeaks, rattles and vibrations. Transmission still seems to make a funny noise. My center console cover has come off four times. This is my first and last Mercedes. They have sacrificed quality and reliability.
Love my Mercedes
Mercedes has really stepped it up in the C class range. I fully anticipated that when I went to purchase my wife's new entry level Mercedes that the acceleration would be just decent and that the fit and finish would contain some plastic. For a 6'2'' male, this car has plenty of room and feels like a mid-size sedan and the handling is tight enough for aggressive cornering but comfortable enough for a luxury feeling. I am very satisfied with the purchase and would buy another any day.
Great car, great price
Owning The C230 Sport has been a great experience, I don't believe we've been happier with an automobile. The maintenace cost has only been a set of tires, which was a little disappointing, I thought the Michelins Pilots could have at least made 30k miles. The handling is outstanding.
Squeak, Rattle and Buzz!
Squeaks, rattles, and buzzes like a 30 yr old Blazer. Surprisingly poor build quality and blatant cheapness in materials. At idle the fuel pump rattles and thumps so bad it makes the car sound like a diesel. Not like the old school MBZ!
Truth after the deal
I have purchased a new sport C 230 with a navigation package. The car is fun to drive but a few mistakes can really cost you a lot. The front end is low to the ground and easily bumps into things like parking blocks or low curbs. The wheels are beautiful but very expensive along with the high performance tires. When parking the car care must be taken not to hit the curb or else you will hear $ signs scraping away...The navigation system is not user friendly but once programed is very accurate and fun to follow. My truth in a reccomendation would be to take a longer look at the competion.. I now wish I had..
Powerful luxury entry car
Good balance of luxury and performance at entry and compete well againt other euro cars. I was looking for cool car after driving a Toyota Corolla for 12 years without any problem and got bored. I ended up here after starting with 2007 Camry XLE V6. I am very happy and looking forward to enjoy this car for long time.
Retension belt
I had this car for less than one year, enough time for me to have all sorts of service issues. I was sold this car as a "certified" vehicle which is marketing bs talk for "used" car. In a nutshell, I had problems with the retension belt. I drove 8,000 until the belt had to be replaced. I argued that this is something that needed to be covered under warranty and even the Benz service guy agreed. It wasn't so I had to shell out $440. I bought a Hyundai Vera Cruz at about the same time as the C280. I'm on the verge of exchanging the C280 with a Sonata. Ata least my expectations won't be high with a Sonata.
Nice Ride but -------
Overall nice car but breaks all around at 24K seems like poor quality. The car is babied and goes on country drives for the most part. I work from home so a trip to the store 2/wk. Now my wheel bearing is making noise with just 24K.
Nice Vehicle, But Depreciated Too Fast
I bought my 2006 C230 new and loved it- -it handle extremely well and had good acceleration and superb braking. But the back seat was cramped for adults, so I finally decided to sell it. I cannot rate the vehicle as a good investment, because of its depreciation. The Kelly Blue Book value I advertised drew little interest, so I lowered the price. Then I looked at Kelly Blue Book a week later and the car had depreciated another $1500! I then unloaded it as fast as I could, at $17,000, and felt lucky to get even that. (Dealers only offered $14,600 for it on trade!) I paid $33k for the car, and am disappointed it depreciated so much with only 27k miles and being only 34 months old.
Great M/B Love it
I worked in the assembly of Dodge Trucks and this C230 sport is the best vehicle I have owned. Safety, comfort , and fun to drive. Now I see why M/B vehicles are nice. I will keep you updated in the future.
Mercedes Not Worth the Aggravation
Vehicle was purchased because I bought into the Mercedes mystique that their engineering was a far cut above all others. Not only was that a mistake I found that the required preventative maintenance you have to perform on this vehicle could make you deplete a small fortune. First year cost for preventative scheduled maintenance was about average it is the subsequent years that send you spinning. My average trips to the dealer for scheduled maintenance was hitting me for a bout $600 a pop and they hadn't got to the transmission/coolant flushes and etc yet. Best thing I did lately was trade this dog.
So far, so good
I now have driven my Black C350 Luxury Sedan some 2500 miles and really enjoy it. I went on a long (~ 200 miles) trip of interstate highway driving and the mileage was excellent (~ 34 mpg) if the trip computer is accurate. The car has plenty of acceleration and is very comfortable. I sold a car I loved (BMW 325i) for my new Mercedes and have not been disappointed. Will check in with you after a few more thousand miles!
2006 MB C230 Sport is one GREAT car!
If you decide to buy this car; my car you will get a garage kept and detail is beautiful. Just had it looked at to sell and was told that I would be able to get $5,000. for it. I love the car but it's time for a nused car ...2016 I believe. Great car for a young kid!
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Engine Fire
I will never own another Mercedes. My 2006 C230 caught fire. As it turned out it was still under warranty as I had purchased the 5 yr/100,000 mile extra. I had it towed to Hoehn Mercedes Carlsbad. Adding insult to injury I was told it was their opinion the car caught fire because I ran over a cigarette butt so the warranty was void. I contacted Mercedes directly. They were equally as insulting and unconcerned. They told me it could take months to ever really figure out what started the fire and in the meantime the warranty was void. Needing to move on with my life, I filed an insurance claim. They intend to get to the bottom of this. This experience has been most disappointing.
best birthday EVER
This car was my 18th birthday gift from my parents last April (I know! How am I not spoiled?...) Anyway, they made a big deal out of driving it up in the middle of the party, and it stunned like only a Mercedes can! I still get a lot of attention for driving this car, and I love it. It's a real lady killer. The level of performance is great, and the interior is very comfortable. On long drives home from college, I often find myself just hunkering down in the leather seats and enjoying the ride. It's got great torque for passing and red lights. I love the design, too, both inside and out. This is, in my opinion, one of the sportier of the less expensive MBs. A definite recommendation!
My 2006 C230
Great car. I have only had it for two weeks but it rides smooth and comfortable. Pretty good power but it could use more torque like the 2.3 kompressor engine.
My next wife!
I had a dream once that my Benz will fit me like a glove. This C class is good on gas and sweet with the ladies. The seats are comfortable and heated. You have to test drive this vehicle to get a appreciation of what I am talking about.
New 2006 C230
So far I had this car for a week and car feels very sturdy. Acceleration is slightly slower than 2002 C23 coupe I had, but it is alright. I got it with NAV and it works great. I have only been to few places and so far it is accurate.
Performance Decrease for 2006
I assume it was for "Marketing" purposes but starting 2006, Benz is putting a 6cyl just breaking that "magic barrier" at a reported 201HP. Well I just traded my 2004 C230 Kompressor in for a 2006 that I had ordered. It was the first 2006 C230 to be delivered so I hadn't driven a 2006. Big Mistake! There is a significant perforance drop compared to my 2004 even though it has a reported 189 HP, but I think the key is there is less torque on the new 6 cyl compared to the 4 cyl.
Perfect so far
Purchased used with 24k. still under warranty. Ride is quiet and firm. Gas mileage is 25 in town 30 on the hwy. Stereo is exceptional. Brakes are first rate. Turns on a dime. No shakes, rattles or rolls. No squeaks,thumps,or vibrations of any kind.Transmission is smooth and fun to drive in sports, manual mode. No problems at all in 10k of daily driving. A great car so far.
So far so good
I have bought this car used, and so far I am happy. The fuel economy I have been getting is an average of 25 mpg, what is not bad considering that this is a sport car. If you drive city only that will drop badly, but on high way it is very efficient. There are only two things I disliked: 1) The fact that MB did not make the phone system standard, it is pre-wired, so you have to buy the module, which cost $600 online or $1500 at the MB dealer. 2) The seats should be fully electric and not only two ways. If you are selling a luxury car, it is expected at least that.
Oudstanding
I get 32 mpg on highway and 23 mpg in city driving. I don't understand how people can rate the mpg less than ten. This is my third M-B, and I love it as much as my prior two. It requires very little maintenance expenditures. All I have spent $ for since I purchased it was for 2 tires and the usual oil and filter changes.
'06 C280 4Matic
I just took delivery on 8-21-05 and boy was I excited. The new Nano paint technology makes this car look like a jewel. I've had several new cars in the past to include, BMW, Infiniti, VW, etc. and by far, Mercedes put their best foot forward this year. Before leaving the lot, the salesman told me to start the car so he could show me some features. I told him it was running the entire time we were talking. Unbelievely the quietest car on the market. Quality inside and out.
Super Car
This car is very unique. It is small and compact but it has all the luxury of a large sedan or limo. The car is so cool. Even the key is cool. It has buttons and it doesnt use metal in the ignition. You use a little box at the front of the key
My Lemon
I always heard Mercedes was a well made car, but then I got mine. My car goes into the shop every month for something. After 3000 miles my a/c leaked out all over inside my car. My last straw was when my car handle broke off after being in the shop for a month. Mercedes is willing to fix the problems but not do anything else. I find this VERY wrong for such a big car company. AND THEY also stated every year you own the car the value reduces $5000 to $7000 because they tried to give my $20000 for a year old bought brand new car.
2006 C230
This is a well built & designed car. it's very fast and drives great. I picked it over the 3-series and g35 coupe
Expected longer romance for the money
My C280 is the sixth MB I have owned from the same dealership. I have always been happy, until this car. At first, it was what I had come to expect from MB. Now, after 64,000 miles, there are creaks and squeaks, the "check engine" light comes and goes, and the silver trim on the interior is peeling away. Adding the ultimate insult, I visited the dealership to trade for a new one, and was offered $12,000 for trade. YIKES! On a three year old car! The resale value was enough to send me running to the nearest Cadillac dealership, and the plastic finish in the C300 didn't help. The CTS 3.6L out performed the C300 hands down. The luxury finish out sealed the deal.
Carolyn's comments
I bought my new 2006 E350 4 dr sedan last month so it's hardly a relationship as of yet. I was attracted immediately to the body styling and the roomy interior without looking bulky. The trunk is spacious and can fit five pieces of luggage comfortably. I am a little disappointed with the sound system since it vibrates a little when you crank it up. The gas mileage has been fair but not what the manufactured promissed. The traction on this car is amazing as I drive a mountain road daily. It handles almost like a sports car with ride as smooth as cream. All bumps are cushioned and with the windows closed and driving around 80 it's just me and my new car.
C230 Sport Sedan
What a car and what a change from the 2005 C230 and C240. The new 2.5l I6 is wonderful, smoother and quieter than the previous 240 and of course a whole lot different than the 230 4 cyl Supercharged. I took a 2005 C240 as a loaner during routine maintenance for comparison and you could not give me it compared to the 2006. Much quieter, smoother and the fuel economy. We are getting near 32MPG on the road at 75mph. The 7 speed takes some getting used to as you the driver seem a bit disconnected to it compared to the 5 speed in the 2005. This is our first MB and it won't be our last! Now if they would just bring out an ML320D!
Bang For Your Buck!!!
I bought my wife a 06 C230 and she loves it. I have to admit, I love it also. We looked at the Acura TL and she loved the stereo but didn't care for the bland styling. The acura out performs the C230 but it is just lacking that....something. The C230 has above average performance and beautiful styling. The interior is nicely laid out and very plush. The sound system is very nice but not among the best in it's class. We bought it with the entertainment package and the stereo isn't even in the same league as Acura TL. Overall, I think this is a great vehicle and a bit under rated.
Very good choice in C-350
I finally got my loaded C350 luxury 3 months after ordering, and it is living up to all my expectations! Mileage is fantastic at 29-30 mpg, drive is silken smooooth, very refined and powerful! The steering feels so light even when running tight corners at high speed. Bad roads are a thing of the past now... I easily chose this over BMW 330 as I did not like its styling, and interior.
Sarah's Review
This care is perfect. It is heavy for a car, and it drives SO smoothly. It seems to hug the road. I absolutely love this car!
325 Vs. 230
This is my 2nd MB, the 1st 92'E300. My wife owns a '00 BMW 323 since birth. And before I purchased the C230, I test drove the new '06 BMW 325. The cockpit is very ergo for my wife & I, she's 5' 00" and I'm 5'10". In Automatic mode, from the start, the take off studders, however, in manual mode, the power is in your hands and I feel a smoother acceleration. Two driving modes, "cold" & "summer". When "cold" is engage, the car feels extra stable and driving feels safe. I didn't feel this w/ the 325.
Great Car!
The comments from this website really made me backed out from buying the car, but I finally couldn't resist and bought it. Now I have owned it for a month, and I LOVE IT! Accelertaion on the freeway is very smooth. If you are going to buy the car, the extended warranty is highly recommended, because there will be some mechanical problems. There IS a cup holder in the back. You have too pull out the thing in between the seats.
C280
This is a great automobile to drive. Ride,comfort and performance are outstanding. Build qualiy is excellent and the C280 is just the right size for getting around town or on the interstate.
Charles' Review
I have driven the car 13,000 miles since September. Car has been a joy to drive. Handles great with great gas mileage, esp highway (32 MPG). It is a great looking car with the AMG package. Could use a little more power off the line but has good acceleration past 25 mph. The base stereo system is better than expected.
Great Car!
I've had this car for 2 months now, and I love every minute I drive it. I have a 6 speed manual, and its shifting is so smooth, and has amazing power and pickup, with decent fuel economy (23/30). So far I haven't had any problems with it. I'd definitely recommend this vehicle to anyone considering it. The V6 is definitely a plus compared to the old 1.8 I4 vacuum sounding engine from previous years
Drives like a dream
Recently bought this car and it is a dream to drive it. Really smooth! Have the automatic transmission, which lets you select between sports style or comfort. If you select sprt style it is a more agressive engine! More fun to drive!
Very Nice car
For an entry level Mercedes this car has a lot of features and is very nice to drive. Handling is tight, engine is quick and the turning radius is awesome.
Sam's Baby
I have wanted a Mercedes all of my adult life. My husband finally bought me one for our 30 anniversary. I love it! It's my baby! My old car is only two years old but when I drive it it feels like it is 10 years old. Nothing drives better than my Mercedes. I look forward to my next one. I hope that I will have the chance to move up to an even nicer model.
Here is my early review...
I took possession of my Silver C230 in December. Although it's too early for a full review, here are my thoughts so far. This is my first Benz. It definitely has more of a solid feel vs other cars I have driven ('98 Maxima). It's not as high a performance beast as the BMW 325 miight be, but the 201hp is more than enough to move around. The car is a little hesitant from a dead stop, but it drives smoothly once you get going. Gas has been as expected, obviously better on the highway than when you are stoping at every light & stop sign. The car carries that certain feeling that others in its class do not. It may not be the best value or offer the most, but you feel safe driving it. I like it.
Mercedes on a Budget
My very first Mercedes. So far so good. Drive is solid compared to other Japanese vehicles I had including Toyota and Nissan. It is just tight inside. Not for the big fellas. But the electronics bells and whisles are nice. Loaded with gadgets. This definitely gets looks and attention. Feels classy and yet sporty.
"WOW"
I purchased this car a couple of days ago. One word..."WOW." Performance was very surprising. The acceleration was great and is easy to handle. Very smooth. The sleek look for me is part of the appeal.
My Benz
I love the feel of the steering. i love the memory seats and steering wheel. The stereo sounds great and it looks so good in black. I have a 2004 Acura TL and this car is now my favorite to drive. Its not fast like my TL but the steering feel is much better. maybe because its rear wheel drive instead of friont drive. The car also goes over the bumps in the road smoothly. the car feels so solid. Wish it had a few more options for the money but still it is a great vehicle even if a little pricey for what you get in comparison to the Japanese cars.
Class and Sporty
Two thumbs up for the new V6 for 2006 Powerful and sporty.. not to mention the nice drive with class and style.
Nice
I can't say enough good things about the car. It gets very good gas mileage (31 MPG on highway with 6 speed manual trans), its comfortable, looks good and handles well. People come up often and say "what a great looking car you've got." I've added the iPod interface which is VERY nice (MB was the first auto mfg to integrate this feature). Your iPod sits in the glove box and you control it from the steering wheel. I also purchased Winter tires that make winter driving much easier to deal with.