Credov's researched list of the 6 faults the Mercedes-Benz C-Class W204 is known for (2008–2011), 4 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.
What to look for: Ask for proof the Takata airbags were replaced, or check the VIN on the NZ Takata lookup.
Why it matters: The notices describe the inflator housing rupturing and propelling metal fragments into the cabin, with a risk of serious injury or fatality; an open Takata recall is also a hard problem on a retail car.
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.
What to look for: Check that no airbag warning message or red airbag light stays on after start-up, and ask for the recall record.
Why it matters: The notice describes the driver's airbag deploying without a collision, which could injure and distract the driver; a live airbag warning also needs resolving before the car is retailed.
What to look for: Check the SRS airbag light comes on then goes out at start-up, and ask for the recall record.
Why it matters: Deactivated airbags remove the safety equipment the buyer is paying for, and the notice also describes restraint components triggering without cause.
What to look for: Look and smell for diesel wetness or stains around the fuel filter, and ask for the recall record.
Why it matters: Diesel on the road or on hot components is the hazard the notices describe, and both campaigns land on W204/W212 diesels of an age now common in NZ stock.
What to look for: Check the power steering fluid level, look for wetness at the pump, and listen for a whine turning lock to lock.
Why it matters: Running the pump dry destroys it; the recall population is common in NZ-new W204 stock.
Got a question about a Mercedes-Benz C-Class W204? Ask Credov: a noise, a warning light, a part or how to fix it.
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.
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.