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Mercedes-Benz C 200 CDI common problems: what to check before you buy

Credov's researched list of the 2 faults the Mercedes-Benz C 200 CDI is known for (2005–2009), 2 of them serious or costly. Each one says what to look for when you check the car, so you can spot it before you buy. Not every car has these faults: they are the ones worth checking on this model.

Known problems on the Mercedes-Benz C 200 CDI

OM646 injector seal leak

Costly if missed

2005–2009 · OM646 · diesel · Engine

What to look for: With the engine cover off, look around each injector for black tar-like crust or wet oily deposits.

Why it matters: Caught early it is a simple seal change, but left for long the injector seizes in the head and the seats corrode, turning a cheap job into injector extraction or head work.

Sources: 1 2

Electronic steering lock fails

Costly if missed

2008–2014 · Electrical

What to look for: Start the car several times from cold and hot, feeling for any delay, click or pause before it fires.

Why it matters: A failed ESL can leave the car needing a tow with no warning, and the repair - a new ESL coded to the car, sometimes with the ignition switch - is a few hundred to over a thousand dollars.

Sources: 1 2 3

Got a question about a Mercedes-Benz C 200 CDI? Ask Credov: a noise, a warning light, a part or how to fix it.

Also check on every car

On top of the faults above, every Credov inspection covers the basics: fuel smell, leaks or filler rust, engine oil leaks, power steering fluid leak, drive belt cracks or squeal, rust underneath: chassis and mounts, engine mounts, engine oil level and colour, coolant level, colour and leaks, head gasket failure signs, cold start: rattle, knock or smoke, rough or hunting idle, engine running hot on gauge, gearbox or diff oil leak, swapped gearbox without lvv and more.

Other Mercedes-Benz models

Researched by Credov from manufacturer recalls and service bulletins, owner reports and workshop sources. Repair prices are typical ranges, not quotes. See also fault codes and repair costs.