2016 Mercedes-Benz C-Class Review

Name: 2016 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
Brand: Mercedes-Benz
Rating: 4.3 (38 reviews)

Price Range: $7,999 - $43,990

2016 Mercedes-Benz C-Class AMG C63 S Sedan Exterior

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Edmunds' Expert Review

by the Edmunds Experts

Pros

Meticulous construction and engineering
refined ride and handling
elegant interior
diverse powertrain offerings
rip-roaring AMG C 63 model.

Cons

Cool but clumsy touchpad infotainment interface
pricier than most competitors.

What’s new

The 2016 C-Class sedan lineup adds new diesel (C300d) and plug-in hybrid (C350e) variants. The C400 has been replaced by the C 450 AMG, which upgrades to a higher-output turbo V6 and much of the AMG C 63 S model's performance hardware. An optional Night package adds black-and-silver 18-inch wheels and gloss-black exterior trim, while the Premium package is split into two individual packages, and a heated steering wheel joins the options list.

Edmunds says

With its luxurious interior, advanced powertrains and high-tech safety and driver assistance features, the 2016 Mercedes-Benz C-Class is one of the best small luxury sedans you can buy.

For sale near Des Moines, IA

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New Listing
2016 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
C 300 Sedan
$7,999
great price
$3,802 below market
- 119,000 miles
- 25 City / 34 Hwy MPG
- Jefferson Street Motors (87 mi away)
- Back-up camera
- Bluetooth
- Keyless Entry/Start
- Blind Spot Monitorin...
- Power Driver Seat
Close
Located in Waterloo, IA
Runs and drives good!
AutoCheck Vehicle History Summary Unavailable.
Features and Specs:
28 Combined MPG (25 City/34 Highway)
Listing Information:
VIN: 55SWF4JB0GU098831
Stock: 831
Certified Pre-Owned: No
Listed since: 09-17-2025
New Listing
2016 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
C 300 4MATIC Sedan
$20,998
fair price
$80 above market
- 30,090 miles
- No accidents, 2 owners, personal use
- 24 City / 31 Hwy MPG
- CarMax Irvine (1,427 mi away)
- Delivery available*
- AWD/4WD
- Back-up camera
- Bluetooth
- Navigation
- Sunroof/Moonroof
Close
Located in Irvine, CA
CarMax values transparency and wants you to love your next car, not settle on it. Certain vehicles may have unrepaired safety recalls. Check nhtsa.gov...
AutoCheck Vehicle History Summary
Accident Free Vehicle: Yes
Personal Use Only: Yes
History Provider: AutoCheck
Title Details: Clean Title
Salvage Vehicle: No
Frame Damage: No
Theft History: No
Lemon Status: No
Free History Report: No
Features and Specs:
27 Combined MPG (24 City/31 Highway)
Listing Information:
VIN: 55SWF4KB6GU117509
Stock: 27769081
Certified Pre-Owned: No

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Vehicle overview

Following last year's complete redesign, the 2016 Mercedes-Benz C-Class gives you even more reason to go with the three-pointed star for a small luxury sedan this year. Only three models were offered for 2015 — the four-cylinder C300, the V6-powered C400 and the V8-packing AMG C 63 — but now a four-cylinder diesel and a plug-in gas-electric hybrid have joined the party.

The compact 2016 Mercedes-Benz C-Class bears an unmistakable resemblance to its full-size S-Class sibling.

The new C300d diesel provides impressive fuel economy (above 40 mpg on the highway is likely) and a formidable 369 pound-feet of torque, while the C350e hybrid boasts an estimated all-electric range of 18.6 miles on battery power before its four-cylinder engine switches on. If it's performance you're after, don't fret; Mercedeshas got something new for you, too. The C400 has given way to the spicier 2016 C 450 AMG, which gets an amped-up turbo V6 and a slew of performance parts swiped from the top-dog C 63. If you want a C 63 but don't have the budget for one, the new C 450 presents an intriguing alternative.

Of course, the updated 2016 C-Class also carries over all of the strengths of the redesigned 2015 model, including added rear legroom and eye-catching styling inside and out, as well as an optional air suspension that's unique in the segment. Furthermore, the advanced safety technology that has become a modern Mercedes hallmark is fully present here, such as standard automatic emergency braking: a rare inclusion in this price range.

If you're shopping the C-Class, you'll also want to check out its arch-rival, the BMW 3 Series, which continues to hold plenty of appeal with its engaging driving dynamics and available wagon and coupe body styles. Also hailing from Germany are the 2016 Audi A4 and S4. They're nearing the end of their production cycles, but they've still got a lot going for them. We'd also suggest checking out the Lexus IS, which is newly competitive thanks to the IS 200t's turbocharged four-cylinder engine, or the sporty Cadillac ATS and well-equipped Infiniti Q50 if you're looking for a slightly less expensive alternative.

Clearly, there's an abundance of enticing alternatives here, but the Edmunds "A" rated 2016 Mercedes-Benz C-Class is undoubtedly one of the best small luxury sedans in the world.

Performance & mpg

A seven-speed automatic transmission comes standard on all 2016 C-Class trim levels. The C 450 AMG has a sport-tuned version of the seven-speed with quicker shift capability, while the C 63 trims have a specialized seven-speed automatic that's even more performance-oriented.

The 2016 Mercedes-Benz C300 is powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 241 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque. Either rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive ("4Matic") can be specified. According to the EPA, the C300 should return 28 mpg combined (25 city/34 highway) with RWD and 27 mpg combined (24/31) with AWD. On the diverse 120-mile Edmunds real-world driving loop, a C300 4Matic returned 26 mpg.

In Edmunds track testing, a C300 4Matic dashed from zero to 60 mph in a respectable 6.5 seconds.

The C300d is AWD-only and features a turbocharged 2.0-liter diesel four-cylinder rated at 190 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque. Fuel economy hasn't been announced as of this writing, but based on the diesel E-Class (which gets the same engine) we'd expect the C300d to achieve a combined fuel economy EPA estimate of close to 35 mpg.

Also new this year is the plug-in C350e hybrid. It's RWD only and pairs a turbocharged gasoline four-cylinder with an electric motor for a combined 275 hp and 443 lb-ft. Further details regarding fuel economy and charging times are forthcoming.

The all-wheel-drive C 450 AMG comes with a turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 rated at 362 hp and 383 lb-ft of torque. The EPA projects 24 mpg combined (21/29).

The AMG C 63 and AMG C 63 S employ rear-wheel drive and a turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 that pumps out either 469 hp and 479 lb-ft (regular C 63) or 503 hp and 516 lb-ft (C 63 S). In Edmunds performance testing, a 2015 C 63 S sprinted to 60 mph in a sizzling 4.1 seconds. Both the C 63 and the C 63 S are EPA-rated at 20 mpg combined (18 city/25 highway).

Safety

Every 2016 Mercedes-Benz C-Class comes standard with antilock brakes, stability and traction control, front side airbags, front pelvic airbags (which deploy lower than the side airbags), a driver knee airbag, full-length side curtain airbags and a driver drowsiness monitor. Also standard are a pre-crash preparation system and the Collision Prevention Assist Plus system, which warns of an imminent collision and can autonomously apply partial braking force to mitigate it. A rearview camera is optional.

Additional safety features are bundled in the Driver Assistance package and include enhanced collision mitigation (with pedestrian detection and both front and rear sensors), blind-spot monitoring, lane-departure intervention, semi-autonomous steering and rear cross-traffic alert. An available mbrace telematics system offers emergency services such as automatic collision notification, SOS call and assist, remote door unlock and stolen vehicle recovery.

In Edmunds brake testing, a C300 4Matic equipped with performance tires stopped from 60 mph in 114 feet, an average performance among its peers. A 2015 C400 (also with summer tires) needed just 110 feet, while a 2015 C 63 S did the job in an impressive 103 feet.

In government crash testing, the 2016 C-Class sedan received five out of five stars for overall crash protection, with four stars for total frontal protection and five stars for total side protection. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety awarded the C-Class its highest possible rating of "Good" in the moderate-overlap frontal-offset and side-impact tests. It was rated "Superior" (also the highest rating) for front crash prevention with the optional Driver Assistance package.

Driving

The snappy response from the C300's turbocharged four-cylinder is unexpectedly gratifying for an entry-level engine. The C300d's generous torque, meanwhile, promises ample real-world gravitas. Stepping up to the C 450 AMG nets you sports-car-like acceleration, while the AMG C 63 and C 63 S deliver simply breathtaking V8 thrust.

The 2016 C-Class has a dynamic driving feel that makes it an able competitor in this performance-rich segment.

All C-Class sedans have a sporty, athletic character and come with multiple drive modes that adjust gas pedal, transmission and steering response. The optional Airmatic air suspension offers a further degree of ride quality refinement that doesn't diminish handling prowess. The exceptionally capable AMG-tuned models are noticeably tauter over broken pavement, but regardless of trim, the C-Class is built for long-haul comfort. We drove for several hours straight in a C300 Sport model with sport seats and never once longed for a comfier perch.

Interior

The cabin of the 2016 C-Class departs dramatically from the conservative aesthetic of its predecessor. Whether upholstered in standard MB-Tex synthetic leather or the optional genuine article, this is a cool, contemporary driving environment. Materials quality is generally very good, and there's plenty of visual interest thanks to curvaceous trim panels that deftly blend wood, soft-touch surfaces and metallic accents. It's certainly a breath of fresh air for those who found earlier C-Class interiors too staid.

The 2016 C-Class boasts an eye-catching dashboard design with more visual flair than Mercedes fans are used to seeing.

Another change can be found in the rear compartment, where passengers now get 35.2 inches of legroom, up nearly 2 inches from the previous C-Class and now comparable to the Audi A4 and BMW 3 Series. Trunk space is about average at 12.6 cubic feet. The standard front seats are built for long-haul comfort, and even the firmer sport seats keep driver and passenger snug without fatigue.

The C-Class's technology offerings revolve around the standard 7-inch or optional 8.4-inch tablet-like display. The screens boast crisp graphics, though the fixed, freestanding design looks a bit odd, as if Mercedes stuck an iPad atop the center vents as an afterthought. The standard COMAND infotainment interface features a touchpad that floats above the traditional dial controller, mimicking tablet and trackpad gestures like swiping, pinching and tapping. You can also trace letters and numbers on the surface, though we've found it requires a patient and steady hand to produce anything better than chicken scratch. The touchpad is a neat idea, but takes some getting used to. We found it faster to access many functions using the dial-and-button controller.

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2016 Mercedes-Benz C-Class models

The 2016 Mercedes-Benz C-Class is a small luxury sedan offered in C300, C300d, C350e (plug-in hybrid), C 450 AMG, AMG C 63 and AMG C 63 S trim levels. The C300d and C350e are broadly similar to the C300 in terms of equipment, with further details forthcoming later in the model year. The coupe is on hiatus until next year.

Depending on trim level, the C-Class sedan is available in Luxury and Sport sub-trims, which differ in wheel design, suspension tuning, and interior/exterior styling details (such as different grille and steering wheel designs).

The C300 comes standard with 17-inch alloy wheels, automatic headlights and wipers, power-folding side mirrors with driver-side auto-dimming, dual-zone automatic climate control, a power tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, 10-way power front seats (with four-way lumbar), driver memory settings, synthetic leather upholstery ("MB-Tex"), 40/20/40-split folding rear seatbacks, the COMAND infotainment system (with a 7-inch central display screen and a console-mounted dial controller that's paired with an overlapping touchpad interface), Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity and an audio system with a CD player, dual USB ports, an SD card reader and HD radio.

The standard touchpad interface overlaps the control knob and provides added functionality, though we've found it a bit finicky in real-world operation

The C300's optional Premium 1 package bundles keyless entry and ignition with satellite radio, while the Premium 2 package tacks on LED headlights, LED taillights and a premium 13-speaker Burmester sound system. The Interior package adds leather upholstery, ambient interior lighting and heated and ventilated front seats (also adding power adjustments and memory settings for the front passenger seat). The Multimedia package brings an upgraded 8.4-inch display screen, a navigation system, voice controls and a rearview camera. The Lighting package adds adaptive LED headlights with automatic high-beam control, while the Air Balance package adds filtered and scented cabin air.

The Night package (requires the Sport sub-trim) contributes unique black-and-silver wheels and gloss-black exterior accents. The Airmatic package throws in an adjustable air suspension. Picking the Driver Assistance package gets you adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane-departure intervention, partial autonomous steering (a camera-based function that works to keep the car centered in its lane), an enhanced collision mitigation system with pedestrian detection and both front and rear impact sensors. The Parking Assist package piles on front and rear parking sensors, an automated parallel-parking system and a surround-view parking camera system.

The all-wheel-drive C 450 AMG comes only in the Sport sub-trim with a V6 engine, 18-inch wheels, upgraded brakes and steering, an adaptive sport-tuned suspension (with a wider front track), AMG-themed interior styling flourishes, sport front seat bolstering and the contents of the Premium 1 package.

The rear-wheel-drive AMG C 63 sedan adds a V8 engine, wider 18-inch wheels, a mechanical limited-slip differential and performance software with a lap timer. The AMG C 63 S further adds 19-inch wheels, red brake calipers, larger front brakes, an electronically controlled limited-slip differential, active engine mounts and minor upgrades to its interior trim.

The Premium 2 package remains optional on the C 63 trims, as do the other packages listed above. Additional C 63 options (some of which are also offered on the C 450 AMG) include a dual-mode sport exhaust, carbon-fiber exterior and interior trim, race-inspired front sport seats and two-tone leather upholstery. The C 63 S is also eligible for upgraded carbon-ceramic brakes.

Stand-alone options include a panoramic sunroof, front and rear parking sensors, automatic parking assist, a heated steering wheel, a head-up display, a power rear window sunshade, manual rear side window sunshades and a power-closing trunk.

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Cost to Drive

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$160/mo

$154/mo

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Reliability

The 2016 Mercedes-Benz C-Class has a 4 years / 50,000 miles basic warranty and 14 recalls. RepairPal gives it a reliability rating of 4 out of 5, ranks it #20 out of 68 among Luxury Midsize Cars. Below you’ll find our owner reviews.

Reliability Rating by RepairPal

4 out of 5 stars4/5Above Average

#20 out of 68 among Luxury Midsize Cars

RepairPal Reliability Ratings are based on the actual cost, frequency, and severity of unscheduled repairs and maintenance on make/model data for select 2008-2022 vehicles. The reliability of a specific vehicle may vary depending on its maintenance and driving history, model year, trim, and features.

Cost

$559/yr

vs. $607/yr
for Average Luxury Midsize Car

Frequency

1.06x/yr

vs. 1.36x/yr
for Average Luxury Midsize Car

Severity

vs. 10.5%
for Average Luxury Midsize Car

Recalls

14 recalls found

Checking if a car has a recall is simple. Just type the car's VIN number into the NHTSA website (https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls). If there's an unrepaired recall, you'll see it there.

If a recall shows up, just call your local car dealer. They'll know about the recall and will work with the car maker to fix it for free (if the recall happened within 10 years of the car being first sold).

Recall Number:: 23V854000
Number of vehicles affected:: 2976
Defect Description:: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2014-2020 C-Class, CLA, GLA, S-Class, GLC, and GLE vehicles. Please refer to MBUSA's recall report for specific vehicle details. The front roof panel located between the windshield and the panoramic sunroof may not have been bonded correctly to the vehicle during a prior repair, allowing the front panel to detach from the vehicle.
Defect Consequence:: A detached roof panel can become a road hazard, increasing the risk of a crash.
Corrective Action:: Dealers will replace the front panel, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on August 2, 2024. Owner notification letters will be mailed in phases, on, March 22,2024, and August 2, 2024. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. This recall is an expansion of NHTSA recall number 21V-197.

Recall Number:: 21V961000
Manufacturer Recall Number:: 2022030003
Number of vehicles affected:: 139
Defect Description:: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2019 AMG G63, C300, E300, G550, AMG GT63, AMG GT53, 2019-2020 A220, GLA250, GLC300, 2016 C300, 2020 AMG A35, AMG C43, AMG C63, CLA250, E350, E450, GLB250, GLE450, GLS450, GLS580, S560, and SL550 vehicles equipped with a gasoline engine. During the manufacturing process, particles may have been trapped between the fuel rail and injectors, which can cause a fuel leak.
Defect Consequence:: A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source, such as hot engine or exhaust components, can increase the risk of a fire.
Corrective Action:: Dealers will replace the fuel rail and fuel injectors, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 22, 2022. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for the recall is 2022030003.

Recall Number:: 21V197000
Number of vehicles affected:: 15096
Defect Description:: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2017-2020 C300 Coupe, C43 Coupe AMG, C43 AMG, 2015-2020 C300, GLA250, 2016-2018 C350e, CLA45 Coupe AMG, 2015 C400, S65 AMG, 2015-2019 C63 AMG, 2016 C450, 2015-2016 GLA45 AMG, S600, 2016-2020 GLC300, 2017-2019 GLC43 AMG, GLE43 Coupe AMG, 2014-2019 CLA250 Coupe, 2014-2015 CLA45 AMG, 2018 GLC63 AMG, 2014-2017 S550, 2018-2020 S450, 2016-2019 GLE63 Coupe AMG, 2016 GLE450 Coupe, 2014-2020 S63 AMG, 2018-2019 S560, and 2019 GLC350e vehicles equipped with a panoramic sunroof. The front roof panel located between the windshield and the panoramic sunroof may not have been bonded correctly to the vehicle during a prior repair.
Defect Consequence:: The adhesive bonding of the front panel might deteriorate, possibly causing the front panel to detach from the vehicle and become a road hazard, increasing the risk of a crash.
Corrective Action:: MBUSA will notify owners, and dealers will replace the front panel, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin May 14, 2021. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372.

Recall Number:: 21V058000
Manufacturer Recall Number:: 2021020025
Number of vehicles affected:: 1292258
Defect Description:: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2016 - 2021 CLA-Class, GLA-Class, GLE-Class, GLS-Class, SLC-Class, A-Class, GT-Class, C-Class, E-Class, S-Class, CLS-Class, SL-Class, B-Class, GLB-Class, GLC-Class, and G-Class vehicles. Please refer to the Part 573 report for specific vehicle model details. The software design of the communication module may fail to communicate the correct vehicle location for the emergency call system (eCall) in the event of a crash.
Defect Consequence:: Failure of the eCall system may result in emergency responders being dispatched to the wrong location, increasing the risk of injury following a crash.
Corrective Action:: MBUSA will notify owners, and the communication module software will be updated by a dealer, or through an over-the-air (OTA) update, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin April 6, 2021. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-877-762-8267. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2021020025.

Recall Number:: 19V787000
Manufacturer Recall Number:: 2019120008
Manufactured from:: 2012-01-20 to 2016-10-06
Number of vehicles affected:: 24226
Defect Description:: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC. (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2013-2017 vehicles due to a software fault that may cause the date and time for the emergency call system (eCall) to differ from the actual date and time, potentially relaying an inaccurate vehicle location. For a full list of the affected models visit: https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/rcl/2019/RMISC-19V787-4620.pdf
Defect Consequence:: An inaccurate vehicle location may delay emergency responders, increasing the risk of injury.
Corrective Action:: MBUSA has initiated an Over the Air (OTA) remote update. MBUSA will also notify owners, and dealers will check software for a successful OTA or update the communication module software as needed, free of charge. The recall began December 23, 2019. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2019120008.

Recall Number:: 18V850000
Manufactured from:: 2018-01-02 to 2018-10-05
Number of vehicles affected:: 6162
Defect Description:: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2015-2016 Mercedes Benz C300, 2017-2019 C300 Cabrio, C300 Coupe, C63 Cabrio, 2015 C63S AMG, 2018-2019 C300, C350e, C63 AMG, C63S AMG Cabrio, 2018 C63 AMG Cabrio, C63 AMG Coupe, C63S AMG, C63S AMG Coupe, E300, E400 Cabrio, E400 Coupe, 2019 CLS450, E450 Cabrio, and E450 Coupe rear-wheel drive vehicles. A locknut in the steering rack may break under high load, possibly causing the steering to become stuck in one position.
Defect Consequence:: A car that cannot be properly steered has an increased risk of a crash.
Corrective Action:: MBUSA will notify owners, and dealers will replace the steering rack, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin January 25, 2019. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372.

Recall Number:: 17V654000
Manufacturer Recall Number:: 2017110002
Manufactured from:: 2014-11-04 to 2016-05-30
Number of vehicles affected:: 2098
Defect Description:: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2015-2016 C63 AMG, 2015-2017 C63S and 2017 C63S AMG Coupe and C63 AMG Cabrio vehicles. The rear axle differential mounting flange may fracture from repeated aggressive launches.
Defect Consequence:: A fractured rear axle mounting flange can cause the rear differential to become misaligned, possibly resulting in failure of the driveshaft and a loss of propulsion, increasing the risk of a crash.
Corrective Action:: MBUSA will notify owners, and dealers will update the vehicle's stability system software and chassis control unit software, free of charge. The recall began on November 20, 2017. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2017110002. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-877-496-3691.

Recall Number:: 17V627000
Number of vehicles affected:: 495290
Defect Description:: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC. (MBUSA) is recalling these vehicles: 2014-2018 CLA250, CLA250 4Matic, CLA45 AMG 4Matic, 2015-2018 GLA250, GLA250 4Matic, GLA45 AMG 4Matic, C300 4Matic, C63S AMG, 2012-2014 C250, C350, C300 4Matic, E550 4Matic, 2013-2014 C63 AMG, 2012-2015 C250 Coupe, C350 Coupe, C63 AMG Coupe, 2013-2015 C350 4Matic Coupe, GLK250 4Matic BlueTec, GLK350, GLK350 4Matic, 2016-2017 C350e, C43 AMG, 2015 C400 4Matic, 2016-2018 C63 AMG, GLC300, GLC300 4Matic, 2017-2018 C300 Coupe, C300 4Matic Coupe, C43 AMG, C63 AMG Coupe, C63S AMG Coupe, C300 Cabriolet, C300 4Matic Cabriolet, C43 AMG Cabriolet, C63 AMG Cabriolet, C63S AMG Cabriolet, GLC300 4Matic Coupe, GLC43 AMG, GLC43 AMG Coupe, 2014 E350 Coupe, E350 4Matic Coupe, E350 Cabriolet, E400 Hybrid, 2015-2017 E400 Coupe, E400 4Matic Coupe, E400 Cabriolet, 2014-2017 E550 Coupe, E550 Cabriolet, B250e, 2014-2016 E250 BlueTec, E63 AMG 4Matic Wagon, 2012-2013 E350 BlueTec, 2012-2016 E350, E350 4Matic, 2015-2016 E400, E400 4Matic, 2012 E63 AMG, 2014-2015 E250 4Matic BlueTec, 2013-2016 E350 Wagon, 2017 GLC300d 4Matic, and 2018 GLC350e 4Matic. The driver's air bag may unexpectedly deploy due to insufficient grounding of the steering components if an electrostatic discharge occurs and the air bag clockspring is broken.
Defect Consequence:: If the driver air bag inadvertently deploys, it can increase the risk of injury and a crash.
Corrective Action:: MBUSA will notify owners, and dealers will add sufficient grounding to the steering components, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin in December 2017. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-877-496-3691.

Recall Number:: 17V243000
Manufactured from:: 2016-07-11 to 2016-11-03
Number of vehicles affected:: 3
Defect Description:: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC. (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2016-2017 C300 vehicles. The electrical contacts for the power steering electric motor may not have been properly welded, possibly resulting in a loss of electrical contact.
Defect Consequence:: A loss of electrical contact will cause the electric power steering assist to deactivate, increasing the risk of a crash.
Corrective Action:: MBUSA will notify owners, and dealers will replace the electric power steering rack, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin in June 2017. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372.

Recall Number:: 17V177000
Manufactured from:: 2008-01-01 to 2017-01-01
Number of vehicles affected:: 51
Defect Description:: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2016 AMG GT-S, GLC300, CLA250 and GLE300d 4Matic vehicles, 2013 C250, E350 BlueTec and G63 AMG vehicles, 2008-2014 C300 vehicles, 2013-2014 C300 4Matic and ML350 4Matic vehicles, 2009 C350 vehicles, 2014 CLS550, E350 4Matic, E350 Coupe 4Matic, E350 Wagon 4Matic, GLK350 and SL550 vehicles, 2012 CLS550 4Matic vehicles, 2012-2016 E350 vehicles, 2016-2017 GL450 4Matic vehicles, 2012-2014 ML350 4Matic BlueTec vehicles, 2015 S550, S550 4Matic and C300 4Matic Sedan vehicles, 2015-2016 C300 Sedan vehicles, and 2017 SL63 AMG vehicles. Various control units on these vehicles may have been updated with incorrect software, potentially affecting the correct deployment of the air bags in the event of a crash.
Defect Consequence:: If the air bags do not deploy as intended in the event of a crash, there would be an increased risk of injury in the event of a crash.
Corrective Action:: MBUSA will notify owners, and dealers will update software in the affected control units, free of charge. The recall began April 2017. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372.

Recall Number:: 17V114000
Manufactured from:: 2014-02-01 to 2017-02-01
Number of vehicles affected:: 307629
Defect Description:: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC. (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2015-2017 C300 4Matic, C300, CLA250, CLA250 4Matic and CLA45 AMG vehicles, 2017 C300 4Matic Cabrio, C300 4Matic Coupe, C300 Cabrio, C300 Coupe, E300, E300 4Matic, E400 4Matic Wagon, E43 AMG 4Matic, GLA250, GLA250 4Matic and GLC300 4Matic Coupe vehicles and 2016 C350e and GLC300 vehicles and 2016-2017 C450 4Matic AMG Sport and GLC300 4Matic vehicles. In the event that the engine or transmission cannot turn over, the starting current limiter may overheat from the repeated attempts of the starter motor attempting to start the vehicle.
Defect Consequence:: If the starting current limiter overheats, the surrounding components can melt, increasing the risk of a fire.
Corrective Action:: MBUSA will notify owners, and dealers will install an additional fuse in the electrical line to the starter, free of charge. Parts to remedy the vehicles are not currently available. Owners will be notified of the recall beginning in late March 2017. Owners will be mailed a follow up notice when remedy parts are available, currently expected to be in July 2017. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372.

Recall Number:: 16V603000
Manufactured from:: 2016-02-08 to 2016-05-18
Number of vehicles affected:: 62
Defect Description:: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain model year 2016 GLC 300 SUV, GLC 300 4Matic SUV, C300 Sedan and C300 4Matic vehicles manufactured February 8, 2016, to May 18, 2016. The affected vehicles may be equipped with an Electronic Stability Program (ESP) control unit that may have been damaged before being installed.
Defect Consequence:: A damaged ESP control unit may inadvertently activate the stability control altering the vehicle's path. Additionally, the electronic parking brake may not function. Either condition may increase the risk of a crash.
Corrective Action:: MBUSA will notify owners, and dealers will replace the ESP Hydraulic control units, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin in October 2016. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372.

Recall Number:: 16V438000
Manufactured from:: 2015-11-04 to 2016-03-01
Number of vehicles affected:: 17
Defect Description:: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain model year 2016 C300 4Matic vehicles manufactured November 4, 2015, to March 1, 2016. In the affected vehicles, the electric power steering assist system may shutdown due to a software error.
Defect Consequence:: If the vehicle experiences a loss of power steering assist, extra steering effort will be required at lower speeds, increasing the risk of a vehicle crash.
Corrective Action:: MBUSA will notify owners, and dealers will update the software for the electric power steering control unit, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin in July 2016. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372.

Recall Number:: 16V087000
Manufactured from:: 2015-12-12 to 2015-12-23
Number of vehicles affected:: 53
Defect Description:: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain model year 2016 C300 vehicles manufactured December 11, 2015, to December 23, 2015, C300 4Matic vehicles manufactured December 12, 2015, to December 29, 2015, and C450 AMG 4Matic vehicles manufactured December 12, 2015, to December 22, 2015. The affected vehicles may be equipped with a panoramic sunroof that may not be properly bonded, allowing the glass to detach and fall from the vehicle during operation.
Defect Consequence:: If the panoramic glass detaches during vehicle operation, it can increase the risk of injury or crash.
Corrective Action:: MBUSA will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the bonding of the rear sunroof glass panel, replacing it as necessary, free of charge. The recall began on April 12, 2016. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372.

Warranty

4 years / 50,000 miles Basic Warranty

Basic Warranty: 4 years / 50,000 miles
Drivetrain Warranty: 4 years / 50,000 miles
Rust Warranty: 4 years / 50,000 miles
Roadside assistance Warranty: 4 years / 50,000 miles

Mercedes-Benz C-Class Owner Reviews

4.3

38 reviews

5(61%)

4(21%)

3(10%)

2(5%)

1(3%)

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Most Helpful Owner Reviews

A great car

Paul Schroeder, 10/10/2016

2016 Mercedes-Benz C-Class C 450 AMG 4MATIC 4dr Sedan AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 7A)

This is a great car. We previously had a 2014 C300 4Matic. I would frequently tell my wife that what that car needed was more horsepower and a quicker shifting transmission. This car has both. The transmission shifts in an instant (almost as good as Porsche's PDK) and rev matches downshifts. The handling is sharp and the steering is precise. The ride is good for a car with these …

Happy every time I drive it

Russell, 02/27/2017

2016 Mercedes-Benz C-Class C 300 4dr Sedan (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 7A)

A perfect balance — favors luxury / comfort, but handles well. I keep discovering touches that are just done right, additional conveniences. "Exceeds expectations" as HR would say. My last car was a Lexus GS430. This is almost as quick but much better mileage, more luxurious inside and of course more modern gadgets. Of course I always want faster acceleration *and* better mileage; the … C300 is a great balance and competitive with other modern cars. I got the Airmatic and love the controlled but compliant ride — the adjustment from comfort to sport is noticeable but not huge; can't say how it compares to the steel suspension. Distronic is fabulous — would never again buy a car without this feature. Lane Keeping Assist is a far cry from "auto steer" (it's called "assist" for a reason). But in stop-and-go traffic these two systems work together and follow the car in front almost perfectly, hugely reducing the stress level of those situations. I wanted something smaller than the GS but with the same room for me (6'5", 175 lbs), and the C300 delivers. The seats and driving positions are great (no sunroof — didn't want to give up that extra inch of headroom). I test drove against current GS, BMW 3 and 4, and Infiniti Q50. The C300 was the hands-down winner for me, and I have no complaints. Buying was also painless — I configured a build here at Edmunds, emailed the result and "True Market Value" to MB San Jose (now part of Auto Nation), and they ordered it for me. No hassles, everything done as promised. My biggest reservations were based on having owned an SLK 250 — which was a super fun top-down cruiser but had a lot of drawbacks as daily transportation — seat comfort for long trips, highway noise, turbo lag + low seat / long hood / quick steering made it hard to drive on narrow roads with confidence. The C300 has none of these problems: more predictable handling, better seating position for both winding roads and interstate cruising, almost no turbo lag (which together with the excellent transmission programming means I never miss the traditional shift lever or need the shift paddles — they're a nice toy). And more refined COMAND. I keep finding details: the fact that the trunk hinges have their own pockets so they don't crush cargo. And the folding box that stows under the trunk floor. Etc. I love this car. I've owned Audi, Volvo, Ford SHO, MB, and Lexus and was pretty happy with all of them, but this is by far my favorite car.

Finally...a Mercedes With BMW/Audi Handling

Michael C, 11/09/2016

2016 Mercedes-Benz C-Class C 450 AMG 4MATIC 4dr Sedan AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 7A)

This is my second Mercedes, with the last one being an E550. I've long admired Mercedes for quiet, comfort, and engineering, and in some instances, performance (such as that E550). None, however, have been road handling champs. Even this model's big brother, the C63, is notoriously tail happy. That has now changed. Put this thing into Sport+ mode and it will stick to anything, and in wet … or dry conditions. Want the more traditional Mercedes ride? Comfort mode is just the ticket. More than any car I've driven, the difference between these are akin to driving 2 different cars. The interior is simply superb with respect to materials, just as you would expect from Mercedes. There's been a fair amount of criticism of the 'stuck on' nav display, and I confess that I had my doubts about it - prior to actually seeing the car. In practice it is far less obtrusive than it appears in photos, where the typical shot suggests that it might be in the line of sight of an average driver. That is definitely not the case. I am only 5'8", and it causes no problem whatever. In addition, the quality of the display itself is excellent. Would I rather have, say, a pop up type of display? Sure, but in the end it's nothing more than a minor, inconsequential factor. One more small complaint...the transmission can seem to get a bit confused at times. At least one professional review made a point of this. I don't notice the problem until I get into stop and go traffic, when it seems to anticipate a shift into a higher gear just as I'm lifting my foot to brake. I'm fortunate not to drive often in such conditions, but it's worth noting for those who do. And finally, a word about the performance. This car will move fast when asked, pure and simple. Mercedes claims 0-60 times at 4.9 seconds, I believe. That is pessimistic. I've timed it on numerous occasions at 4.5. Perhaps equally importantly, acceleration from 60 to 80 mph seems to take no time at all - and it sounds good getting there. My one comment is that the exhaust note is not as satisfying as that of the older E550. That's not a complaint...nothing sounds like a big V-8. My wife has said that I now have a cheetah rather than a lion. I find the analogy to be apt. In summary, this is simply the best all around car that I've owned in over 40 years of driving. It's the rarest of all cars - a seriously comfortable daily driver that turns into a beast (a well-behaved one) at the touch of a button.

Hard to find fault in a Mercedes!

Steven Polaski, 10/22/2018

2016 Mercedes-Benz C-Class C 300 4MATIC 4dr Sedan AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 7A)

I haven't been happier in anything I have purchased prior to the C300. It's exactly what you would expect out of a luxury car, making the driving experience effortless aided by Rain Sensing Wipers, a quiet and comfortable ride, and brisk acceleration. The front seats are the best I've ever sat in and the I get compliments on the Burmester sound system whenever anybody rides with me. …

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2016 Mercedes-Benz C-Class video

2016 Mercedes-Benz C-Class Walkaround Review

With its luxurious interior, advanced powertrains and high-tech safety and driver assistance features, the 2016 Mercedes-Benz C-Class is one of the best small luxury sedans you can buy.

2016 C-Class Highlights

Type:

Sedan

Trim:

C 300

Base MSRP Excludes Destination Fee	$38,950
Engine Type	Gas
Combined MPG	28 MPG
Cost to Drive	$160/month
Seating	5 seats
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place	12.6 cu.ft.
Drivetrain	rear wheel drive
Warranty	4 years / 50,000 miles

See all features & specs

Safety

Key safety features on the C-Class include:

Alarm
Tire Pressure Warning
Stability Control
Pre-collision safety system

NHTSA Overall Rating

The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.

Frontal Barrier Crash Rating
Overall4 / 5
Driver5 / 5
Passenger4 / 5
Side Crash Rating
Overall5 / 5
Side Barrier Rating
Overall5 / 5
Driver5 / 5
Passenger5 / 5
Combined Side Barrier & Pole Ratings
Front Seat5 / 5
Back Seat5 / 5
Rollover
Rollover4 / 5
Dynamic Test ResultNo Tip
Risk Of Rollover11%

IIHS Rating

The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.

Small Overlap Front Driver-Side Test
Good
Small Overlap Front Passenger-Side Test
Not Tested
Moderate Overlap Front Test – Original
Good
Moderate Overlap Front Test – Updated
Not Tested
Side Impact Test – Original
Good
Side Impact Test – Updated
Not Tested
Roof Strength Test
Good
Rear Crash Protection / Head Restraint
Good

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2016 Mercedes-Benz C-Class Review

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2016 Mercedes-Benz C-ClassC 300 Sedan

2016 Mercedes-Benz C-ClassC 300 4MATIC Sedan

AutoCheck Vehicle History Summary

Vehicle overview

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2016 Mercedes-Benz C-Class models

Cost to Drive

Reliability

Reliability Rating by RepairPal

Cost

Frequency

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Recalls

Warranty

Mercedes-Benz C-Class Owner Reviews

Most Helpful Owner Reviews

A great car

Happy every time I drive it

Finally...a Mercedes With BMW/Audi Handling

Hard to find fault in a Mercedes!

2016 Mercedes-Benz C-Class video

2016 Mercedes-Benz C-Class Walkaround Review

2016 C-Class Highlights

Safety

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