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2013 Mercedes-benz C-class

The Verdict

22 Check Engine

The 2013 Mercedes-benz C-class has 567 owner complaints filed with NHTSA. The most reported issues are electrical (296 complaints) and body (163 complaints). With a Klunk Score of 22/100, it earns a "Check Engine" rating. If you're shopping for a Mercedes-benz C-class, consider the 2024 model year which has 97% fewer complaints.

Safe Bet

The 2024 has 97% fewer complaints

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22

Klunk Score: Check Engine

More complaints than most vehicles. Known issues exist — budget for potential repairs.

How is this calculated?

The Klunk Score ranks this vehicle year against all others in our database based on total owner complaints filed with NHTSA. 100 = fewest complaints (top tier), 0 = most complained-about. Scores above 60 are better than average; below 40 means more problems than most.

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Under the Hood

Each number is a complaint. Darker = bigger problem.

YearBodyBrakesElectricalEngineTransmission
200266671398
200326124487
200426415302
2005261703310
2006272428823
20072835814544
2008145156144614
200915124439409
201010683034016
201112012307629
201213222321946
2013163162968210
20146411170336
201516785119113
201611582715411
20171025311086
201858318433
201931510243
20202515113
2021201101
2022826100
2023136321
202453121

By Category

Electrical
296
Body
163
Engine
82
Brakes
16
Transmission
10

By Severity

1
266
2
268
3
6
4
27

Worst Problems

Compare Against

See how the 2013 Mercedes-benz C-class stacks up against rivals.

Complaints

Electrical 1

Over the past few weeks Ive had instances where the car has power but wont crank, Ive had the SRS light come on the dash but after it starting it goes away.

1mo ago
Body 2

REAR SUB FRAME RUST NEEDS INSPECTED SUPER CLANKY

1mo ago
Body 1

I am filing this complaint regarding a serious and recurring steering system defect involving my Mercedes-Benz vehicle and Recall Campaign No. 2017120022 (steering column defect). Mercedes-Benz corporate representatives provided conflicting information regarding whether the recall repair was completed in 2018. One representative stated it was performed; another stated no record exists. I was never notified that a recall repair had been completed. This inconsistency raises immediate concerns regarding recall documentation integrity and owner notification compliance. The identical steering column system has now failed again, resulting in a complete steering column lock and vehicle immobilization. The repair estimate exceeds 2,500. A total steering lock is a critical safety failure with clear risk implications. If the recall repair was completed, recurrence of the exact same safety-critical component failure within only a few years strongly indicates that the original recall remedy was either improperly performed, defective in itself, or fundamentally inadequate to eliminate the defect. Steering column assemblies are not routine wear items. Mercedes-trained master technicians have confirmed that such failures are rare over a vehicle’s lifetime and highly unusual shortly after replacement. Federal safety recall law requires manufacturers to fully and permanently remedy safety defects at no cost to the consumer. A failed recall remedy that results in repeat failure of the same component shifts the burden improperly onto the owner and undermines the purpose of the recall system. I respectfully request that NHTSA formally investigate whether Recall 2017120022 has resulted in recurring steering column failures following recall repairs, evaluate the sufficiency of the remedy, review Mercedes-Benz USA’s recall tracking and notification procedures, and require reimbursement if the defect represents a failed recall correction.This matter shows a serious vehicle safety concern.

4mo ago
Electrical 2

ESL emulator is bad. Keeps no crank Steering lock Also sunroof water spouts are not working as they should they do no open to release water.

5mo ago
Engine 2

The vehicle was represented to me as safe to drive, with no major mechanical issues, and that it would pass emissions after only a simple minor fix. After I took possession, the check engine light came on. The car began running rough and showing hesitation. A scan immediately showed a camshaft position sensor fault, cylinder misfire, lean fuel condition, and oxygen sensor/emissions faults. I was also told by a professional shop that the timing chain may be failing. I was then warned that these problems can cause power loss or engine stalling while driving, and that the vehicle in this condition would likely not pass a legal emissions inspection. I was never told about any of these safety or emissions problems before taking the vehicle. This situation creates a safety risk because sudden loss of engine power or stalling can happen in traffic.

8mo ago
Electrical 1

I had just gotten off the highway it was a rainy day and pulled into my driveway when airbag deployed on its own. I am lucky to be alive. I purchased this vehicle about 2 yrs or so ago and ran carfax that showed recall was fixed by manufacturer. I contacted Mercedes corporate office and it’s been almost two weeks with me calling and emailing w no call backs or any resolution. I don’t have a car and could have been seriously injured. Please help.

8mo ago
Body 2

Vehicle Information: Year: 2013 Make: Mercedes-Benz Model: C300 (4MATIC) Approximate Mileage: 126,026 Component: Latches/Locks/Linkages – Interior Door Handle Summary of Issue: On October 10, 2025, the interior driver-side door handle on my 2013 Mercedes-Benz C300 broke, making it impossible to open the driver’s door from the inside. The handle broke through normal use upon trying to open the car door from the drivers side. The only way to exit the vehicle now is to roll down the window and reach around to use the exterior handle. On October 14, 2025, I spoke to two Mercedes-Benz dealerships in my area. They both confirmed this is a recurring problem on this model but stated there is no recall. One of them physically inspected the vehicle door problem. I believe the actual broken replacement part costs about $50. However, according to these same authorized Mercedes Benz repair shops I spoke to, Mercedes-Benz REQUIRES replacing the entire door panel assembly, which costs between $950 and $1,480 in labor and parts. This is not a reasonable or safe solution for such a critical component. This poses a serious safety hazard. In the event of a fire, collision, electrical failure, or if the windows become inoperable, the driver (myself) could become trapped inside the vehicle, leading to potential injury or death! I strongly urge the NHTSA to investigate this recurring defect, as it directly affects occupant safety and the ability to exit the vehicle in an emergency. Universal Imports, Rochester, NY – Inspected and confirmed recurring problem, no recall, verbal repair estimate $950, and Mercedes‑Benz of Rochester (West Herr Automotive), NY] – Confirmed recurring problem, verbal repair estimate $1480 Requested Action: Please investigate whether this defect warrants a safety recall or mandatory manufacturer repair campaign. The interior door handle failure on Mercedes-Benz C-Class vehicles represents a clear safety risk to occupants.

8mo ago
Engine 2

The contact owns a 2013 Mercedes-Benz C-350. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the check engine warning light illuminated. In addition, the contact became aware of an abnormal rattling sound. The vehicle was driven to the shoulder of the road and turned off. While the vehicle was started, the contact became aware of an abnormal rattling sound. In addition, the check engine and the check coolant warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed with an oil leak, and that oil was leaking onto the wires. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be dismantled, and the wires needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure, and a case was filed. The failure mileage was approximately 129,000.

10mo ago
Body 2

The interior door handle of the driver's side door snapped, which does not allow the driver to open the door at all. In the event of a crash, fire, or emergency, the door can only be opened from the exterior. This is a widespread issue with this model of car, which Mercedes-Benz is very aware of. There are hundreds of videos and online discussions of this common saferty issue that Mercedes refuses to make right. This is a risk for the safety of all drivers of these vehicles. The car has been inspected and confirmed by a MB dealer. There were no warning indications before or after this happened. Mercedes Benz wants $1200 to fix this obvious defect.

11mo ago
Engine 2

The contact owns a 2013 Mercedes-Benz C300. The contact stated that while attempting to start the vehicle, the vehicle failed to respond as intended. No warning light was illuminated. A dealer was contacted. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed and determined that engine oil had traveled through the wiring harness causing the ECU to fail. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and offered to cover a portion of the repair cost. The approximate failure mileage was 160,000.

11mo ago
Engine 1

The contact owns a 2013 Mercedes-Benz C300. The contact stated that upon starting the vehicle, there was an abnormal rattling sound coming from the engine compartment. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer where it was diagnosed, and the contact was informed that the timing chain tensioners were faulty and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact had experienced the failure with the timing chain tensioner on three separate occasions. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 60,000.

14mo ago
Engine 1

THIS IS THE SECOND TIMING CHAIN TIMING CHAIN TENSIONER THAT HAS GONE BAD. EVEN THOUGHT THERE HAVE BEEN MANY PROBLEMS REPORTED, MERCEDES WILL NOT ACKNOWLEDGE THIS AS A RECALL PROBLEM. MY SAFTY IS AT RISK IF MY ENGINE BECOMES DISABLED ON THE HYWAY.

14mo ago
Engine 2

News Channel Update | Warranty Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC A Mercedes-Benz AG Company One Mercedes-Benz Drive Sandy Springs, GA 30328 770.705.0600 IMPORTANT EXTENDED WARRANTY INFORMATION Mercedes-Benz AG (“MBAG”), the manufacturer of Mercedes-Benz vehicles, has determined that on certain Model Year (“MY”) 2012-2015 Mercedes-Benz Model 204 and 172 vehicles (C250 and SLK250), the warranty on the camshaft adjuster will be extended from the original 4 years/50,000 miles to 10 years/120,000 miles (whichever occurs first) from the original warranty start date. This camshaft adjuster extended limited warranty applies to all conditions that necessitate the replacement of the camshaft adjuster under the standard warranty terms and conditions. The extended warranty is applicable to the following vehicles: Model Years Sales Designation Engine Type C-Class 2012-2014 C250 M271 C-Class 2012-2015 C250 Coupe M271 SLK-Class 2012-2015 SLK271 Please be advised that all camshaft adjusters being claimed under warranty must have a short test with fault code attached and will be inspected. All camshaft adjusters found to be functioning properly or without proper documentation will be returned and the claim debited in full. The following damage codes and parts kit can only be claimed for the replacement of the camshaft adjuster: Damage Code: 05050 – Camshaft adjustment, intake camshaft Damage Code: 05052 – Camshaft adjustment, exhaust camshaft Parts: A 271 050 21 00 80 – Camshaft adjuster, kit IMPORTANT: 1. Always check VMI to determine if a vehicle is covered under the 10 year/120,000 mile warranty period 2. Short Test Documentation with fault code information (P001477, P001600, P001762, P001662, P001177, P001700, P001192, P001492, P034062, P036662) must be attached to all returned camshaft adjusters Please check the VIN in Netstar/VMI before scheduling the appointment for the repair. Applicable vehicles will be visible in Netstar/VMI on October 30, 2020

14mo ago
Engine 1

Hola a todos. hace 3 meses compre un mercedes benz c250 año 2012 en argentina. A eso de tener un mes el auto salí a la ruta. (Acá en argentina es muy normal que las rutas sean de un solo carril y doble mano, por lo que hacer un adelantamiento tiene que ser una maniobra muy precisa). Al querer acelerar mi auto a fondo se me cortó la aceleración bruscamente. Perdió la potencia y me encendió la luz amarilla del check engine. Por suerte pude llegar a pasar. Legué a mi casa sorprendido e investigué en las redes. Me encuentro con que la bomba de alta presion de mi vehículo tiene una falla (aparentemente le pasó a mucha gente) Espero que estas quejas lleguen a las autoridades de mercedes benz y se hagan responsables antes de que esta falla provoque un accidente mortal. ENGLISH TRANSLATION: Hello everyone. Three months ago, I bought a 2012 Mercedes-Benz C250 in Argentina. About a month after I had the car, I hit the road. (Here in Argentina, it's very common for roads to be single-lane, two-way, so overtaking requires very precise maneuvering.) When I tried to accelerate my car fully, the acceleration abruptly cut out. I lost power and the yellow check engine light came on. Luckily, I was able to get through. I arrived home, surprised, and I did some research online. I discovered that my vehicle's high-pressure pump was faulty (apparently, it's happened to a lot of people). I hope these complaints reach the Mercedes-Benz authorities and they take responsibility before this fault causes a fatal accident.

15mo ago
Engine 2

The contact owns a 2013 Mercedes-Benz C250. The contact stated while driving approximately 50 MPH, there was an abnormal knocking sound and a metal-on-metal grinding sound coming from the vehicle. The contact slowed down and stopped the vehicle. The contact restarted the vehicle and heard the same abnormal sounds coming from the vehicle. The contact stated that there was no warning light illuminated. The contact had the vehicle towed to a local dealer, where it was diagnosed and determined that the camshaft needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was informed of the failure and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 75,000.

15mo ago
Engine 2

I was told this from a BENZ dealer. There was a warranty extension on this VIN: [XXX] that ended on 03/02/2023 which, had to do with adjustment units for the camshafts. Nothing we could assist with goodwill on this due to the age of vehicle. This is NOT fair and I’m experimenting this exact process and Mercedes Benz does not want to take responsibility and get this fixed for me. Now my vehicle can not pass a smog test required. Please help INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

15mo ago
Body 1

Recently my Mercedes has been pulling and swaying to the side while breaking even at low speeds.Yesterday I got my 2 front tires replaced and asked them to take a look at what could be causing my rear end to pull.When I returned to pick up my car they informed me my rear subframe was completely decayed/rusted through and not safe to continue driving.

15mo ago
Electrical 2

The contact owns a 2013 Mercedes-Benz C300. The contact stated that while attempting to start the vehicle, the vehicle failed to start. The contact stated that after several attempts, the vehicle started. The security alert warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed that the anti-theft module had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle had not been repaired, and the failure persisted. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.

16mo ago
Engine 2

The contact owns a 2013 Mercedes-Benz C300. The contact stated that the fuel tank was leaking after refueling. The fuel had leaked out to half tank. The Fire Department was called, but no assistance was provided. The contact stated that there was a puddle of fuel in the driveway. Additionally, the passenger’s air bag warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed that the sensor in the module needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. Additionally, the dealer confirmed that the leak was coming from the filler tube entering the fuel tank. The dealer recommended replacing the fuel tank. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was contacted and confirmed that there were no recalls on the VIN. The failure mileage was approximately 90,000.

17mo ago
Engine 1

Fuel tank is leaking at connection between fill tube and tank. Multiple recalls have been issued apparently for similar problems with cars of other years. With less than 1/2 tank, the fuel leak is not as pronounced. With the tank full, the tank drips fuel. Fire department in Riverside was called and confirmed issue. Upon bringing vehicle to Clearwater Mercedes and other mechanics, the problem was confirmed. Dealership says that Mercedes Benz denies that the problem is theirs to resolve. Dealership fixed other issue that was not producing symptoms but stated that the cost to resolve was $5000.00 (about the value of the car at this point).

17mo ago

567 total

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