Mercedes Benz PART AND REPAIR
Mercedes-Benz
Mercedes-Benz
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• c320
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• G55 AMG
• ML320
• S55
• SLK230
• Odds 'n ends
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News
• Mercedes Hopes to Buff Its Image
For many, the Mercedes-Benz represents the height of automotive engineering, or
something. For many others, it's a status symbol. The latter it most certainly
is. The former some of our readers aren't so sure about.
One reason for the recent spate of complaints may have to do with the growing
reliance on electronics in today's cars and porked-up SUVs. European cars have
always been known for, shall we say, delicate electrical systems. Adding gadgets
of the complexity now common in the Benz is a recipe for big trouble -- and very
big repair bills.
Here are a few of the more recent complaints ...
Nora of Fleischmanns NY (03/09/09)
I have an E350 2007 Mercedes Benz that caught on fire while I was in it with my
child for no apparent reason. No check engine, no fuses just went up in flames.
Starting at the front driver head light.
The bumber melted, the paint peeled off. I don't think the car is a total loss
but would you want to drive it ever again?
Robert of Memphis TN (02/26/09)
I own a ml320 Mercedes 2003 when i start it up in the morning or afternoon It
has this loud whining noise, I have own the suv for the last Three years and try
not to drive it much because the noise is very loud I have to drive for about
half and hour for the noise to go away. Was there ever a recall for this problem
something to do with the power steering.
Aaron of Coquitlam BC (02/25/09)
I purchased a used 2003 Mercedes Benz C230K two years ago. It had regular
maintenance before I purchased it and regular maintenance after I purchased
it... although not through the dealership but by my licensed mechanic. On
Wednsday February 18th it started to run very rough for no reason so I took it
in for an oil change which had been done 3 months previously. After no
improvement I drove straight home, parked it and called my mechanic and made
arrangements to drop it off Thursday morning.
I had called the dealership to make arrangements to have them look at it but
they were booked for the next month which didn't help me at all. On Thursday
morning I got into the car and tried to start it to take it to the mechanic.
However the it did not turn over and had to have the car towed to my mechanic
who in turn discovered that the engine dropped a valve into the cylinder. This
is gross mechanical failure resulting from some defect within the engine itself.
There was no reason for this to happen at all!
I wrote two emails to Mercedes Benz Canada explaining the situation and their
response was that because I did not have regular maintenance performed at a
dealership they are absolved of all responsibility. The repair cost for a good
used engine to replace mine is about $5000.
Mitch of Northfield IL (02/23/09)
I have a 2007 CLS 63 AMG. The wheels seem to have been made out of butter. Every
time I hit a bump, of any kind, the wheel bends and has to be replaced. I do
city driving, nothing out of the ordinary, mainly on city streets and interstate
highways. I've had to replace seven or eight wheels in less than two years.
I've replacedso many wheels and tires that I am now buying new, non-Mercedes,
wheels. IT's cost me at least $ 10,000.00 so far.
Wayne of Dothan AL (02/23/09)
My Mercedes C230 began to skip when in idle. It did not seem to skip while
driving. I took it to the dealer in Dothan and was told I had two broken motor
mounts and a broken transmission mount. It would cost appprox. $900.00 to
repair. I was concerned but had no choice and told the shop to fix it. I was
called the next day and was told I had a crimped super charger hose that was
causing the skipping problem. When I asked about the mounts I was told that
could have caused the problem too.
Now the cost was over $1000.00 I called Mercedes and explained my issue and was
told the even though Mercedes is a better car they also have problems from time
to time. I have owned two Mercedes cars. I will never buy another. I got ripped
off by the local dealer.
Joe of Lady Lake FL (02/22/09)
Bought '=C230 in 3/02, automatic trans, no sunroofs. As of 2/22/09, put 66,000
miles on it. Car is trouble-free, only replaced front brake pads & 2 oil/filter
chnges myself. Console cup holder broke, and drivers side sunvisor mirror flap
fell off and digital dash LED read-outs are dim and 2 brake light bulbs failed.
17 7 spoke alloy rims are soft metal and bend easily if you touch a curb.
NOTHING else. VERY happy with build quality and performance of the car. Car runs
strong, brakes very well and handles superbly. (I own other sports cars) We
intend keeping it as long as it runs well and doesn't fall apart. May never sell
it.
Kim of San Francisco CA (02/13/09)
I was charged $610.00 for an oil change on an 06 E350 with 52,000 miles on it.
I will never buy another MB again-ever. Instead of keeping current customers
happy and satisfied, they continue to charge inflated prices in a down market.
Ali of Chantilly VA (02/03/09)
I bought a Mercedes G55 from the Tysons Corner area mercedes a year ago and ever
since have had numerous problems with my car and have had no help and it always
comes back fixed and the next day it happons again. I own a $90,000.00 vehicle
and get treated like this! Today they refused to come pick up my car for service
because they have done as much as they can!
Sherif of Cairo OTHER (01/27/09)
I own a Mercedes car C200K model 2006, WDB 2030425A836694. All sevices has been
done in the authorized workshops. The car has not subjected to any accident. The
warranty has passed few moths ago. Aout 50,000 km, I heard a leak sound when I
turn the A/C on, and the temp. is not good. Day by day, the problem getting
worse. I went to the service center where they told me that there is a puncture
in the A/C coil which needs replacement. It will take tow days and price is
exteremly high.
I wonder how such a dangerous damage happens in a Mercedes car in such a short
operating time? As an engineer I think this is a material defect.
Antonio of Bakersfield CA (01/14/09)
The power seats in Mercedes C320s years 2001-2003 begin to constantly drain
one's battery causing the car to be unable to start if not turned on with a
12-24 hour period. Simply google disconnect power seats mercedes c320 and you'll
find forum after forum of individuals attempting to work around this issue to
avoid the extravagant mercedes serving costs.
The economic damage is about $1500 per vehicle
Harla of Irvine CA (01/07/09)
My 2003 E 320 has had more things go wrong with it in the year and a half that I
have owed it, than any other vehicle I've ever owened. I am VERY glad I bought
the extended warranty! All Tire Pressure Monitor Garuges have gone out, Power
Steering Leeked and had to be replace and is now (less than 6 months later)
leaking again! The 6 disc changer died and it took 4 months to get my CD's back
from the dealer.
This car is a nighmare. I'm getting rid of it and I'll be relieved, although
from the outside, she is a beautiful car, its to bad its not a sound car! I have
put 23,000 miles for all of these things to have gone wrong. I'm going back to
American Cars, well if their still in business. My last Pontiac lasted until
168K miles and replaced her water pump once and alternator twice with a fraction
of the cost of this MB! Plus many more miles. The Pontiac was totalled when I
was hit so thought I would splurge and buy the MB. What a mistake! Now I can't
get my money back out of it!
I do not recomment buying any 2003 E320 Sedan! Also I did not know when I bought
this Pre-Owned Benz that it had been in a car wreck prior to my purchase! Carmax
pointed it out to me when I tried to sell it!
Gregory of Marlton NJ (01/05/09)
Vehicle experienced total unexpected brake failure. Dealer has not been
forthcoming about issue except to say that the entire ABS hydraulic system
failed
No harm done but warning to other drivers out there on this model year.
Cyril of Jamaica Est NY (12/17/08)
i baught a 2001 mercedes benz ml 55 amg brand new. i paid 61000 dollars for it.
the first month the stering got very hard. i took to the dealer they check it
and said it is ok. it did the same ting again. i took my suv four times to
dealer and they said it is ok. i finally took it again and they said i need a
steering rack which will cot me 3000 dollars
also i have problum with my suv the first month i baught. the battry will die if
park for 3 days it will not start. they sent 2 mechanic by my house to check my
suv. they chang the battry and said to i should start my suv every day. i chang
4 battry in suv. now the dealer said i need a coplete raido ana gps system which
will cost 3200 dollars. i had the the gps system check out it is good
i or my family cannot used the suv as we like
Cyril of Jamaica Est NY (12/17/08)
i baught a2001 mercedes benz ml 55 amg brand new i paid 61000 dollars for it the
first month the stering got very hard i took to the dealer they check it and
said it is ok it did the same ting again i took my suv four times to dealer and
they said it is ok i finally took it again and they said i need a steering rack
which will cot me 3000 dollars also i have problum with my suv the first month i
baught the battry will die if park for 3 days it will not start the sent 2
mechanic by house to check my suv they chang the battry and said to i should
start my suv every day i chang 4 battry in suv now the dealer said i need a
coplete raido ana gps system which will cost 3200 dollars i had the d the gps
system check out it is good ho
i or my family cannot used the suv as we like
Mohit of Potomac MD (12/15/08)
bought a C240 in 2002. Within 1 year and 6,000 miles three different tires blew
requiring replacement, hassles, time, etc. All the blown tires were the fault of
the driver according to MBenz even though we never hit a nail, etc. Now with
less than 45,000 miles; I have to replace all 4 tires from premature wear. I
will not buy Mercedes again, buy American or Japanese.
Charles of Brooklyn NY (12/02/08)
I have been having issues with the 10 spoke/sport style rims/wheels on my 2007
Mercedes-Benz E350. I have had no luck with the dealership as they deny
responsibilty for the rims as they are not covered under the warranty because
they are wear and tear items. I strongly disagree with that statement as rims
are not expected to be damaged.
With only 11,000 miles on the car; all four rims were in need of replacement due
to dangerous cracks and dents. The damages can be felt at all speeds but
especially above 50MPH. As the problem got more serious, the tires became
damaged. I had to replace three out of four tires on the car with less than
14,000 miles. Now, at 33,000 miles, I have spent thousands of dollars in repairs
and countless hours dealing with the issues.
I have spoken to the service manager and General Manager over at Mercedes of
Manhattan as well as the corporate office in New Jersey dozens of times. Not
only have I have read about several lawsuits and other complants. I have also
met other people with the same vehicle who have the exact issues. Does anyone
have a similar story?
A.l. of Baltimore MD (11/21/08)
Purchased a pre-owned, certiifed MB c240. When I took it to another dealer to
have the B-service performed, they stated that the car should have had the
fluids cahnged as pert of the certification process, and that it had never been
done before, particularly the brake fluid which is supposed to be changed every
two years. The MB certification process is [ridiculous]. They do not recondition
these autos as they should, and MBUSA does not stand behind their products.
Ms. of Norfolk VA (11/12/08)
I have an 20003 ML 500 and was wondering how do catalytic converters just
somehow develope a crack. I mean come on it's a Mercedes. So I started to look
around the internet to see if anyone else had this problem. Wow that many?! So
now i'm wondering where do I go from here. I saw some information about the EPA
sueing MB and a recall. How do I get more infomation for this comman problem.
J.y. of San Jose CA (10/06/08)
I financed a lease-end 2003 C230 Coupe Kompressor in 2006 for $22K. Did not have
any notable mechanical failures until the extended warranty expired (Nov07).
Since then, the moon roof has completely died on me but more traumatically, I've
discovered a compression problem - cylinder #2 is dying and the cylinder head
needs to be completely rebuilt ($7K repair dealership, $4.2K repair certified
mechanic). The car is now worth less than the outstanding loan I hold on it. How
could Mercedes not have recalled this engine?? A customer writing in that forum
mentions writing MBUSA and receiving no help or advice with the problem. Is
there a class action possibility here?
John of Mahopac NY (09/30/08)
To Follow is a letter i have sent to mercedes challanging them on the shameful
switch they pulled. I have unlimited documentation to back up everything i am
saying.
Thank you for your concern on the deadline of the ordering date of the 2009
Mercedes Benz C300 Sport you mentioned in your letter. Its not my lack of
knowledge of what your information packet stated that has delayed the order
placement of the car that I won in the Hole-In-One contest for the Make a Wish
Charity - Mercedes outing. Truth be told what has held up this order is the way
your company has changed the winning prize after the prize was won by me and
awarded to me at the awards ceremony, the new post win prize has been reduced to
as you put in your letter base model?
C300 sport sedan, changing it drastically from the car presented to me as my
prize on the day of the event. Clearly the car you now speak of is not the same
car that was parked beside the tee box of the 17th hole par 3 on the day of the
outing at Manhattan Woods. I am baffled as to how a company such as Mercedes can
so un-shamefully change the grand prize after the fact. It is obviously poor
sportsmanship as well as poor customer relations the way Mercedes has handled
the outcome of my hole-in-one win. The car that your company proudly and
prominently displayed was a C300 sport 4-matic with navigation, automatic
transmission & premium packages. Possibly you were not aware of the grand prize
that was displayed.
I was told after I won the car and the prize was changed that it was clearly
stated in my invitation what the prize was.? In the invitation I received there
was nothing mentioned about the car at all. I have enclosed a copy of the
invitation that I received. Also, this being a celebration of a golfers dream, I
have several pictures of myself and friends that were present at the 17th hole,
they were also present at the award ceremony when the keys to my prize were
presented to me. These photos clearly show that the car that was presented to me
was not a C300 base model? as you now contend. It cannot be any clearer to me
that whoever put this deal together did not plan on anyone winning. The sad part
of this is I have been a Mercedes customer for years and have purchased several
Mercedes Benzs and would not have expected the lack of integrity your company
has displayed. I am looking for nothing more than the prize car I was awarded as
well as presented with the day of the outing.
the difference in the car that was at the tee box as well as presented to me at
the award ceremony is aproximately 15,000. different than the car that is being
offered to me as my prize I have countless pictures of the car the day of the
event as well as letters from mercedes as they have reduced the prize. I also
have my oeriginal invitation that was emailed to me. There is NOTHING stated
about the car on the invitation what so ever. Anybody knows the prize that sits
on the tee box at a hole in one contest is the prize that is awarded.
Michelle of Dunwoody GA (09/07/08)
My brakes failed and I was involved in a serious accdinet.
My car was deemed totaled, by Progressive insurance Co.
Tony of San Diego CA (08/26/08)
We bought this 2002 ML 320 new. it working ok. till it reach 30000 miles start
burning 1 Q of oil every 2000 miles, it been service by this dealer only, & they
told me that this burning oil problem it normal I end up sold this vehicle dirt
cheap.
Bruce of Chicago IL (08/02/08)
We had a lease on a 2006 CLK 350. We loved the car and was happy to keep it
until the end of the lease. A sales person called and said that someone wanted
to buy our car, it has a special order color and very low miles. They implied
that there was no early termination fee. We were pressured into buying a new car
alreadty in inventory in a very short peroid of time to get all the incentives.
At the time of sale the cost of the car was $10,000 more than sticker price. We
were not give any explanation for the discepency. I am filing fraud complaints
with Mercedes USA and ILL attorney generals office. I feel that more consumers
need to know of this scam.
Paying $10,000 over sticker price during an ecomonic turn down where auto sales
are stagnant.
Camille of La Quinta CA (07/21/08)
Service representative said repairs were needed on vehicle that were not needed.
Also said repairs were done that were not done. Vehicle runs worse than before I
took it in for repairs. Also driver's door was dented and driver side rear tire
was vandalized requiring me to replace the tire. Vehicle interior was also
vandalized with grease. Dealer had this car on 2 occasions in an attempt to make
repairs. They had vehicle for nearly one month and have failed to correct rough
idle. Idle is now worse than before I took it to this dealership.
Judy of Langhorne PA (07/20/08)
We purchased Mercedes-Benzs Extended Limited Warranty in June 30, 2006 for
$3922.00. When we traded in the vehicle on May of 2008, we contacted the
Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC for refund of our warranty as we have done with other
companies (Dodge, Honda and Toyota). We barely had 12,000 miles on the Mercedes
vehicle. Never mind the extended warranty; we did not even use the standard
warranty that came with the vehicle. We contacted Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC and
they refuse to refunds on the warranty that we never used.
Lisa of Atlanta GA (06/17/08)
Ive had my car every since 1999, I know for a fact you have a defect with your
lighting system. I've replaced my whole entire system, bought bulbs over and
over again and my lights still goes out to this date. I've gotten tickets for no
tail lights. I also drive around with my child in the car and if someone ever
hit me because of no lights, I would hate to think of what may come of it.
Diana of Burlingame CA (06/16/08)
We have owned many Mercedes Benz over the course of 30 years. It seems clear to
me that Mercedes quality has hit an all time low. We now own the 430 model and
have had nothing but problems with it. I was recently told that Mercedes is
building their cars for the leasing market and they only want their cars to last
3 or 4 years. I am begining to believe this is true. I have had problems with
basic items in the car, my visor, the air conditioner, the windows are growing
mold between the two pieces of glass on 3 of the 4 windows, I have had so many
problems with the engine noise I have stopped counting. I am purchasing a new
car this week and I will not be going to a mercedes dealer. Lexus will be the
first stop we make. How sad!
Roshawn of Los Angeles CA (06/16/08)
I brought a brand new C230 Mercedes Benz in 2006 and the anti-lock brakes caught
on fire and burned my car to the medal.A total loss .The car had been parked for
a week because i was out of the country.Imagine if I was in it,what would of
happened or if it would of caught my house on fire! I service the car on time
and every time maintenances was required.I spent a lot of time and money for
service and now to find out that the electrical anti lock brake burned my car to
the ground.If you have a 2006 Mercedes Benz C230,BEWARE of the defects.
Richard of Salem MA (06/12/08)
We were loyal MB customers who bought 7 and leased 1 of their cars from
1976-2005. All were diesels save the chintzy 2006 E350 (lease). The diesels were
something to behold, built to standards that epitomized Mercedes Benz in the
eyes of the world and earned them the reputation they have chosen to throw away.
Our travails begain when the badly designed 603.970 6 cylinder diesel engine
gave out on our 1991 350SDL. Research proves that MB knew since the beginning
about the defects in 30-50% of these engines, but kept it a secret as the
dealers waltzed the customer with this and that explanation for 1 quart/500 mile
oil consumption. When the warranty expired, MB swiftly told the customer where
he or she could go. When we contacted MB USA, one Ron St. Pierre, the NE
Manager, said MB couldnt help us as news of that could get around?. We wrote to
the company in Germany and got an impertinent letter from one of their little
minions at MBUSA named Lisa Tognetti. She told us that she was happy to deny our
request for assistance and thanked us? for the opportunity our letter had
afforded the little twit to confirm MBs corporate position. Ill ride a large dog
before I buy another Mercedes. The design and quality of their post-1998 cars
has declined appallingly. Anyone thinking of doing business with them should
know that Daimler Benz and MB USA have the morals of opium dealers. Buy a
Mercedes at your peril.
Nizam of Titusville FL (06/02/08)
I bought a Mercedes C240 and now it just sits in my garage and looks good. I
cant drive it because the check engine light is on. I took it to a technition
and the said I needed new plugs after running the test. $400 dollars and a day
later, the light is back on. Now they tell me the car needs a new computer box.
I work hard to pay for this car and I cant afford to fix it. With the gas prices
going up every day, I think I will just let the bank take it back. For now it
will make me look good in the neighbourhood
Haysha of El Centro CA (04/01/08)
I went on:oct/30/07 to this dealer and ask for a oil change and a tune-up, they
told me that they will perfome this services with service named b or c something
like it,they even told me that it wasnt call like that anymore(since am a
woman)so i agree on their promises believing on them. i came back the next day
to pick up my vehicle and the guy who perfom the service told me that he only
did a oil change on it, so i went inside and talk to criss and he told me that
after i sign the agreement there was nothing else to do with it and that they
couln't refound me anymore, so i left and next day i calld the manager asking
him to refound me for the tune-up that wasn't made but it was charged up to a
total $285.70 dlls he told me same,this was my first experience going to this
dealer and for sure the last one. I couln gone to this other place on west
covina,ca that charge me $75 dlls for oil change instead i opted to go to this
dealer since i was planning on them to do my tune-up,and i dont wanted to get
mess-up. I will very pleased if someone please can help me out on this matter,
this was too pricie for the poor service they did. Thank you one again.
Trung of Coon Rapids MN (03/24/08)
Car C320 2001. Too many things wrong with this vehicle. Thing break as soon as 2
week of driving. Signal and head light goes out. EPS system does not work. Fuel
Pump break after one year. Rear window curtain fail after two year of rarely
use. Care seat control computer keep draning the battery if left car off for 24
hours.
Zoraida of Miami FL (02/20/08)
In the 2002 C320 (Sedan/Wagon)and later models, there is a command module under
the seat which controls multiple functions including the SRS (Supplemental
Restrain System/air bags), plus power seats, mirrors, etc. The modules appear to
fail after 40-50K miles. They begin to draw current and drain the battery. This
impacts other sub-systems causing the vehicle to issue multiple failures.
Lossing power and jump starting the vehicle can also damage several sensitive
convenience features. These can only de diagnosed, reset,reprogrammed or
repaired at the costly MB dealer. A command module repair itself costs well over
$600.00 and there are two of them (left/right)under the front seats. Although
every Mercedes Benz service shop and Technician I have contacted is aware of the
issue, MB will not recall the part. This is a safety issue plain and simple and
I cannnot understand why it would be ignored. Our family owns/owned multiple
Mercedes Benz models over the years; CLK's, E's SLK's and we still believe them
to be safe, well engineered cars. Unfortunately, Mercedes Benz reliability is
now well below the mark throughout the entire line. Toyota/Lexus and Honda/Acura
clearly surpassed them long ago. I have been told to ask for the factory
representative at my local dealership and argue the issue. They may agree to a
50/50 compromise. However, would you want to take a 50/50 chance with your life
or the lives of your loved ones?
Sharad of Yorktown VA (02/05/08)
I purchased a new E320 in 2003. I am very disappointed with one aspect of this
car. In approximately four and half years, its climate control system has failed
five times. I do put about 20k miles per year. But this car has its climate
control system failing about every 20K miles. For a fifty eight thousand dollar
car, FIVE failures in a common comfort system are unacceptable. I suppose Luxury
Car means luxury from these hassles of every day problems. 1. Apr 8, 2006 Leak
Detection Drier Bottle O-Ring in A/C 2. Sept 8, 2006 Leak at Drier Bottle 3. Jan
8, 2007 A/C Sensor Replaced 4. Sept 29, 2007 Clear Fault Code in A/C System 5.
Jan 30, 2008 Heating system failed Every car I owned Mazda, Honda, Acura or
Saab, it is the only car where climate control system fails on an average every
20K miles. BYT, there were other service issues with this car which I dont wish
to expand. On the reliability rating, this vehicle did not meet our expectations
at all. Now lets look at the service level, I wrote to the Mercedes two times
and I got nasty replies like this one: We regret you disappointment with the
performance of your vehicle and any inconvenience you may have experienced while
attending to repair. Lacking direct involvement in the operation and maintenance
of your vehicle prevent us from commenting the specifics. Your dealer is in the
best position to evaluate vehicle performance and, if necessary, request
technical assistance for repairs from Mercedes-Benz USA. . We value your
patronage of our products and are sorry that your E320 did not meet your
expectations. Please accept our best wishes for many years of safe and pleasant
driving.. Read this an ARROGANT response to my second complaint from General
Manager, Customer Assistance Center, Mercedes-Benz USA: If your request is that
we continue to cover repairs to your vehicle indefinitely, then we must
decline.? After full explanation that problems have started well within the
warranty period and still continuing a Customer Service General Manager cant
determine what a customer is saying. This car and this company both sucks. I
bought a new car this month and I am glad to report it is not Mercedes but
Lexus.
Ierachmiel of Elkins Park PA (01/29/08)
own two MB's : one a 1999 300 Diesel Turbo and a 2002 SLK 230. My issue is with
the 300D. Suddenly in the last 2 months the car, without any prior warning would
not start, although it cranks very well, be it in the garage or after a long or
short drive. It was towed in 4 times in the last 2 months to my dealership .
They cannot find the problem because the car starts on the first try immediately
after sitting a few hours . On their recommendations, I replaced a battery,
voltage regulator, all fuel filters ( including the ones in the tank) checked
glow plugs etc. They claim to have consulted even their national experts and no
one has an answer. They would allow me a trade in towards any of their cars. I
am not enthusiastic about the 350 E Class. I simply hope that someone will come
up with the brilliant idea and solve my issue.
Ken of Kentfield CA (01/17/08)
I discussed the price of a car listed on the internet with a sales associate and
in great detail. I provided a time that I would arrive to purchase the vehicle
the next day. On the day of, I called in the morning to confirm the time. 25
minutes before arriving, I called again to confirm. Upon arrival, I was told
that the sales associate had left for the day, and was given a new sales person.
The price of the vehicle offered by the second sales associate was wildly
different and was informed that a mistake must have been made as the price the
original sales associate had provided was clearly 'too good to be true'.
Additionally I was informed that the car had undergone a comprehensive
inspection. Unfortunately, this is not possible as the car's trouble indicator
lights began going off within 125 miles, and the car had over 60 trouble codes
in it's computer. The car has had no servicing whatsoever and had pretty
significant issues that any mechanic would have identified by the naked eye
(completely non-functional thermostat, severely bent tire-rod, etc.). I believe
that this dealership made false representations about the inspections they
perform on these vehicles, and as well used unethical sales practices to get me
to drive 50 miles to visit their dealership. Additionally, when discussing the
price, the sales person manipulated the terms of the deal (price and interest
rate changes while holding the payment constant) and represented this as the
exact same thing, I presume on the assumption that the same thing to him meant
that as long as the payments were the same it makes no difference to a buyer.
Quite possibly he was gaming his own commission system, but in any event the
terms of these deals (sales price to be taxed on, interest rate over time) do
affect buyers and by stating that it is the exact same thing is a
misrepresentation that will possibly mislead a less than savvy buyer. In short,
unethical sales process, false representations of inspections or service
performed on the vehicle, misleading financial term negotiations.
Gary of Farmington GA (01/17/08)
I have a two page letter written in Microsoft that I forwarded as an attachment
to Mercedes. I cannot cut and paste it on this form. Please send an e-mail
address for me to send it to or a physical address for me to mail it to. My 2003
C230K has been to the shop too many times for similar recurring problems,
supposedly fixed under warranty. The four year warranty has expired and the last
little bag of rubber gaskets and hoses cost me $1080. The car was in the shop
for three days as parts were not in stock. One of the little hoses (crankcase
ventilator hose) cost $15 and $460 to replace. Temperature sensor and thermostat
cost about the same for labor to replace. The temperature sensor had been
replaced under warranty about a year ago. I have many complaints about cheap
plastic trim and accessories breaking and not repaired under warranty. From
reading other complaints about this model, mine are quite similar. I doubt
Mercedes will respond favorably to my note requesting the last bill to be
refunded and covered by warranty. The problems were all pre-existing and not
repaired or repaired with faulty parts prior to the warranty expiring. I am all
for joining a class action suit.
Craig of Melbourne FL (12/04/07)
I have learned through two Mercedes ownership experiences never to buy or lease
a Mercedes product ever again. I am currently being held hostage by what I can
only describe as reprehensible customer service policies by a company that
simply does not care about the people who buy the cars as ling as people buy
them. The Mercedes brand was a valuable and impressive one and luckily for them,
it does not die overnight, but I believe things are starting to catch up with
current management. Mercedes refused to support me with a problem the local
dealership was having in repairing my new Mercedes and was very clear in their
hands off approach that they do not get involved at the dealership level. I was
appalled at how little they cared and tried to call again just to see if it was
a fluke and got the same response from a supervisor. I can't help you, was his
closing line to me. Now I have a buyer who would like to take over one of my
leased vehicles and has been approved and Mercedes wants to take 8 weeks to
process as they do not deem this service as a priority to them. They get their
money no matter what so why would they offer a service to a current and
multi-car owner? I think the lack of support in multiple incidents with separate
vehicles points to a serious problem that consumers must be made aware of. If
the manufacturer is not going to support owners as they have clearly
demonstrated, this should be public knowledge.
Philip of Rancho Cucamonga CA (11/13/07)
Since I purchased the vehicle I have had problems all time. One in particular
has occurred 3 to four times. the seat belt trim loosens and then it breaks. I
have taken to fix but I still continue to have problems with it.
Raffeal of Laurel MD (09/27/07)
On Saturday July 7th, approximately at 10:45pm or so, my Mercedes Benz CL 500
caught fire. I was on my way out for a night out in DC when suddenly on M St and
Mass, I heard a pop or like something exploded. Immediately smoke started coming
from the car but the strange thing was it was coming from both sides of my front
fender wells and it was white as a cloud in the sky. I immediately pulled over,
and was very upset because it just happened out of the blue; no warning.
At this time my light indicator came on and said ABC control.... drive
carefully. I just pulled over. Not 5 minutes had gone by and I was calling AAA,
a guy drove past me and stop at the light. He got out of his car and yelled,
theres a fire under your car!! I WAS STILL IN THE CAR! I go out and look under
the car, and there was some fire that fell to the ground. I immediately called
the Fire Dept. By time they got there the whole front of the car was completely
engulfed in flames. It was very embarrasssing because on a Saturday night in the
middle of DC, there are plenty of people everywhere, and its not everyday you
see a Benz like mine which was decked out on fire. I notified my isurance
company that very night.
The following week I get a letter from Mercedes Benz in the mail. Its a recall
letter stating that there is a defective part in my model care from a certain
year to another and that it could possible cause a fire. well, IT WAS TO LATE! I
immediately called my insurance company and faxed them this information. I
haven't followed up with Mercedes Benz about this but I have been encouraged to
do so because not only did I lose the car I loved, my insurance didn't cover the
full cost of my vehicle, and I ended up paying $5000 to cover the rest of my car
loan. So its a lose/lose for me. I'm currently gathering all my info and I will
be sending the comany a letter along with all the info I can provide. I should
be compensated somehow....
Dave of Solana Beach DE (09/05/07)
The Mercedes Benz CLK 350 I bought a few months ago suddenly bolted backward at
the top of a hill as a light turned from red to green. It is a new, more hilly
route I have to take. The car has NO HILL START ASSIST to freeze the brake pedal
for about 2 seconds to allow the right foot to transfer to the accelerator.
Conseuqently, the car slides backward on all hills, even the slightest incline,
such as a driveway. I NEARLY HIT THE CAR IN BACK OF ME. Now, I'm very afraid to
stop on any hill, especially at a red light. They essentially will do nothing
about it and claim the sliding is normal. They say if I want to trade my car in
for another, I have to drive a SUV (which is too large for me) or else pay $200
MORE a month to PURCHASE a 2004 SLK that does not have the problem, caused by
the newer 7-speed transmission. I can't BELIEVE they are so uncaring. Thank you
for your response!!
Alex of The Woodlands TX (09/04/07)
I own a MB C238 Kompressor with 40,000 miles - and have had nothing but problems
with this car. While it is supposed to be the best of cars, and while
performance in general is good, every 6,000 miles or so, something big breaks
down. To-date I've had to replace the supercharger 2 times, the computer 2 times
and just recently even the sunroof!!!!!!
I
Wes & Marie of Lindon UT (04/07/07)
I have a 1999 Mercedes Benz ML320 that developed cracks in the catalytic
converters. The dealer said they would fix them at a cost of over $1000 a piece.
After some research I see that this is a common problem on ML vehicles from 1998
to 2001.
The EPA sued MB and a recall was supposed to be performed; however, MB failed to
notify the owners of the affected vehicles. MB tells me they did not send me a
recall letter nor will they fix my vehicle under the recall since I'm not on
their VMI list, even though my VIN is on the list of affected vehicles on the
EPA documents and the MB service campaign documents.
The more research I do, the more I see that this is common complaint with ML
owners. It appears that MB is doing all they can to avoid the issue. The dealer
even told me, before I knew about the recall, to take it to a muffler shop to
have them weld the faulty converter, prbably in hopes that I would do that and
never find out about the recall. In addition, the emission control pump has
failed om my vehicle (second time) that I suspect is being caused by the faulty
converters. Is their anyone else you are working with with the same complaint?
Is there any way to enforce the EPA mandated recall?
mer).
Angelo of Atlanta GA (03/14/07)
I purchase a brand new 2006 G55 Amg, 8 mos ago and I had a aftermarket
navigation system installed. The car has been in their service department for at
least 60 days, because of electrical problems. Now I have been told they aren't
going to repair or replace the vehicle. I also purchased a extended warranty for
the vehicle.
Kevin of Alexandria VA (02/11/07)
On my Mercedes 2002 CLK series. The drain plugs around the trunk were defective
allowing water to leak onto the amplifer which is placed directly below the
plugs, each time the car became wet including going thru car washes and getting
morning dew which dripped into the area where the amplifier is housed.
The amplifier would malfunction, ultimately blowing with a extremely load
feedback noise which blew out the speaker on the driver door and my left ear.
Mercedes replaced the amplifier several times before discovering the problem
with the drain plugs.
Unfortunately I suffered acoustic trauma which has resulted in permanent ringing
in my ears, and sensitivity to normal levels of sound which sound loader.
Excellerated loss of hearing and a life which I can no longer enjoy quite.
Hai of San Jose CA (02/10/07)
My 2006 Mercedes C230 sport sedan had transmission problem since day one. The
transmission shifts funny, slips, bangs into gear, and consistently chooses the
wrong gear.
I took it to the shop three times within 10 months. Every time, my advisor said
it should be okay after updating the transmission with new software. It is
getting better after the service, but the problem still exists.
The transmission still has very rough up/down-shift from 1st to 2nd gear,
especially in cold weather. After 10,000 miles, the engine starts to make noise,
and it gets worse when the air conditioner is turned on
Dennis of Chicago IL (01/28/07)
I hope MBenz finaly realizes that this is an embarassment to all us who own such
a prestige vehicle that realy is a LEMON. PLEASE FORWORD THIS EMAIL... I was a
proud owner of a 2001 C320 and now looking to buying a LEXUS because of the
ongoing battery/electrical draining problem with this car and noticed there are
thousands of other benz customers with the same situation in which nothing is
being done about exept drainging our wallets. I would understand that if you
took your car into the Benz dealer and you pay that money that problem would get
fixed and you would be on your way and not back for a while.
I don't think the Dealers even know what the problem is with the C320. Why has
there not been a recall issue we are all wondering. In my eyes and in thousands
of others with this electrical/battery problem should have a recall. Please go
to this website - and not only hear this from me. THANK YOU!
.
Carlos of Port Orange FL (01/09/07)
This is related to a critical safety issue on Mercedes-Benz vehicles
manufactured approximately from 1993-1997. All these vehicles have an
acknowledged and widely known problem with the engine wiring harness that has
caused fires, vehicle sudden stalls on highways and other incidents. The harness
will fail on all these vehicles as it is defectively constructed with an
unsuitable insulation that prematurely disintegrates over time regardless of
usage or mileage. The harness is a critical element of the vehicles operation as
it directly affects ignition, fuel injection, timing, cooling, rpm, mixture and
other critical functions of the engine. The manufacturer is aware of the
problem, and, absent involvement from the NHTSA or civil action, has refused to
address it in a proactive and responsible manner. It is of the utmost importance
that the DOT gets actively involved before a very preventable ang regrettable
fatal accident occurs as a result of this defect.
Russel of Reno NV (12/20/06)
I leased a C-230 in Feb, 2006. Within 3 months, I was bringing the vehicle in
because the tires were rubbing in the turns. It took 3 times of bringing the car
in for the dealer's mechanics to notice a problem. They then started replacing
parts in the suspension of the front end, struts, shocks and then put in a sway
bar. The vehicle continued to rub but this time they diagnosed it as from the
rear. They then replaced the springs and shocks in the rear. I had a rear tire
go out and had a local tire shop tell me it was from the tire rubbing against
the rear strut. Mercedes at first did not want to honor the tire but the service
manager did after reviewing the history. Electrical problems started occurring
such as the interior lights not functioning, the doors locks worked when they
wanted to and the turn signals would not return to neutral. The ESP malfunction
light went off on the dash and did so during a snow storm that had ice on the
roads.
Gordon of East Falmouth MA (11/21/06)
Regards Gulfstream--they painted my vehicle with new state of the art painting
system direct from Germany. 3 years later and present vehicle has almost
complete;y peeled 1994M-B C280 I have owned since brand new. As of 11/20/06
vehicle has 63,000 oroginal miles.
Also, this vehicle has many many electrical problems. We have had to have
service to make brake lights work and directionals. At this time no radio and
headlights switch harness started smoking two days ago.
Ben of Pompano Beach FL (11/15/06)
I read the consumer complaint from Pam Columbia CA and had one of my greates fun
evening in my life. Obviously she used such extravagant and sophisticated car
for anything but what it is built for, especially without any information about
that it does not need a oil stick by no means, because it will have always the
right amount, even if the computer fails. Computer are men made and new on the
market, Mercedes does not built them, others do and sell them. 190 years of
German technology can never be beaten by immitations. Beside my Mercedes CLK 430
I have a Chevy Van, this computer failed and there is no one on the market to
exchange. True is, also Mercedes Benz cars are built in these days from human
beings like other cars are, and this is for all cars the same. Different is that
Mercedes Benz still is focused on quality products and technic, which is unique.
You drive it you feel it!
Rachel of South Pasadena CA (11/06/06)
I bought a new Mercedes GL 450/ year 2007 SUV on July 04,2006. This car has less
than 3,000 mile on as of today. More than 2/3 of time I own this car, I was
fixing this car for SRS light on dash board, the message also states retrained
system mel fuction, drive the car to workshop. It's has been fixed five times
and the very same light showed up less than a half hour I got the car back from
dealers. At first, my dealer tried to help me. They pick up my car at my work,
so at least I do not need to take off work to fix my new car! But no one can
either fix the car or shut off the dangous message! Finally, I asked dealer to
buy back the car. Last week, The Mercedes corp. told me that they are reviewing
my case. Every day I have to drive this over $70,000 dangous car transport my
seven years old daugtor on free way to school or after school program. One of
the major reason for purchasing this car is the their Safy features for my young
kid. Not only I have to pay the expense payments for all the time the MBZ trie
to figure out how to fix this car, everyday I will receive a letter from my
dealer for recomminding their excellent service (?) and some computer even call
me and left me a message about my car is been recall that I should contact my
dealer! (It is so strange that there is no commuication between the Corp. office
and dealer!) The Mercedes Benz coustomer service department refuse to help, the
woman called me back one day (after I left a message as directed) told me her
name was Robin(no last name) and they are reviewing this case, I should contact
my own dealer for further assissant! The ball kick back to my dealer again! Does
Mercedes Benz understand all business condoucts in USA should comply US law?
Does Lemon law apply to German Cars? How long it should take for my to continue
my payments for the new car that no one know how to fix?
Narasinghal of Independence OR (11/05/06)
My 2005 C-230 Sports Sedan leased on January 7, 2005 showed Check Engine on
November 4, 2005 and again on December 4, 2005. The first time, the service
garage of Valley Motor corrected what they said was a computer problem and the
second time they took 10-12 days to replace valve springs on exhaust valves,
update control unit and perform SCN coding. Thereafter, on August 2, 2006, I
complained about soft brake paddle and on October 10, about a foul order
emission from the AC system. On October 30 last, the SRS malfunction light came
on. They fixed it. When I wondered why a new Mecedes C-230 was not functioning
satisfactorily, the service supervisor said all this was normal and even
suggested that my expectations for a C class was unrealistic. I leased the
vehicle at the price of $ 34,000.00 and I have never felt secure while driving
it at night or long distance.
So far I have not incurred any economic or physical damage. But I am
psychologically upset and even have become apprehensive of any sudden erratic
behavior of the car's engine. It seems I am saddled with a lemon with a 48-month
lease payment @$440.00 per month. I have never been so suspicious of a new car
and this all the more galling and sad as this one happens to be a Mercedes!
Elizabeth of Elverson PA (10/22/06)
My husband and I purchased a new Mercedes C240 in 2001 for $35,000.00 from the
dealership. Like many other people we were so excited to own such a fun little
car. Soon afterward, we started feeling the suck from our wallet to keep this
fun little car running. The electrical system has been replace many times, the
first time about 3 months after we purchased the car. When the car is repaired
it runs for only a few weeks before it breaks down again. It has cost us over
$15,000.00 in repairs and has been dealer maintained! Over the years we
expressed our concern many times to the dealership and they said that we were
the only customers who have expressed such a problem. One gentleman said that he
understood our frustration but Mercedes would never do anything about it. For
the past year it has sat in our driveway because every time we use it, the
electrical system wipes out whether we were on a highway or at home. The car is
now undrivable. The electrical system is frozen and we are afraid to sink
anymore money into the car for fear that it will break down immediately again. I
have never felt so frusterated & taken advantage of by a company before. We
can't trade the car in and we can't sell it because it is undrivable so for
right now it makes an expensive lawn ornament.
Thousands of dollars spent in good faith to maintain what we now feel was a
lemon. Looking back we were taken advantage of by Mercedes Benz.
Leon of Los Angeles CA (10/09/06)
On November 25,2005,I purchased acertified pre-owned 2002 Mercedes ML-320 from
Mercedes Benz of Beverly Hills.This car had 40,629 miles on the odometer, and
was sold to me with an 18-month warranty,which runs until July 17 2007.On June
30,2006 I took the car to Mercedes Benz of Beverly Hills for servicing.I
specifically asked them to check the reer tires. When I picked the car up that
evening,they told me they forgot to check the tires,and told me to return
another day.I returned on July 10.When I came to picked up the car, they said
they could not fix the problem as I had wrecked the car.The car has the right
rear susp. tie rod damage,right upr.rear susp. control arm and right rear
susp.knuckle damage.On the Pre-Owned inspection and Certification Report has
writen-right front fender and right rear fender was painted. I have only put
3,000 miles on the car in the 8 months since I purchased it.I suspect there was
an accident involving this car which they did not disclose to me at the time of
purchase. And obviously if the tires are worn out after only 3,000 miles, they
were not new as they told me when I purchased it.
The damage is $2,163.
Kristie of San Diego CA (10/03/06)
On 9/25/05 I drove from S.D. to L.B. in order to look at a car at Mercedes-Benz
long beach. I traded in my pristine 2000 S430 for what I thought was a certified
preowned vehicle only to find out it was a certified piece of junk. According to
MB Certified program the car was to be in like new condition with very specific
guidelines in order for a car to meet their certified criteria. It was not. When
driving the car, it always would go towards the right. There was wind coming in
from around the side frame when I drove. There was a hole in the carpet they
tried to cover up with floor mats. Yellow began coming through the leather w/in
a day. It needed tires badly. It had no spare keys nor any owners manuals. etc
etc etc. Finally 3 days later I took off of work to return it to mb long beach.
They were horrible!They said I couldn't get my S430 back, I couldn't return the
ML320 that was in service just 3 days after purchasing it, but I could pay
$5,000 more for a comporable vehicle.. UNACCEPTABLE
Well, I went from an S430 mercedes to an ML320 to walking. I have a loan out on
the S430 that they won't give back. I have notified MB finance that I am flat
cancelling the loan for the ML320 and told my credit union to reject any payoff
from them. But I have 2 days off of work, rental car fees, insurance I am paying
for no car, I have the $8500 downpayment they haven't mention and I'm still
walking.
Kevin of Tulsa OK (08/16/06)
I purchased a 2001 ML430 from Jackie Cooper Imports in Tulsa. 2 years later, the
battery was dead. I had the dealership send someone out to replace the battery.
When they did my odometer lost 30,000 miles. When I inquired about it they said
it was no big deal, but when I went to trade it back in 2 years later, now it is
a TMU car (total miles unknown) which dropped it's value in half. After talking
to the dealership and customer service, nothing has been done. They really don't
care. They just implied that I should lie about the mileage and just sell it.
Sorry, can't stoop to their level.
Ken Vancouver WA (08/16/06)
The car pulls to the right when first driven off the lot. It was reported to
Mercedes but I was told to drive it 2000 miles before it could be fixed. When
2000 miles was reched it was attemped to be repaired by alignment. This failed
and it was returned again for the same complaint. Mercedes repaired this time
using an adapter kit which was said to be against Mercedes-Benz advice. The car
is better but not perfect as it should be. The total milage is 2,600 now and it
still pulls to the right..Now the airconditioning is going weak too.
Monica of Quincy MA (08/08/06)
I had an auto accident with my Mercedes-Benz C-220. I drove the car into a brick
wall of a Dunkin-Donuts and the passenger side air bag deployed but the driver
side air bag did not. Most of the damage sustained was to the driver's side in
the front. The car was a total loss. This leaves me to question the safety of
purchasing another Mercedes-Benz automobile. This could cost me more than the
price of a new automobile. The airbag along with the safety belt saved my son
from serious injury. But the seatbelt alone had to work for me.
Jez of Los Angeles CA (07/19/06)
I leased to purchase a Mercedes Benz ML 350 last June 05. After a month the air
bag light came on and there was a squeaking noise when you brake. The dealer had
fixed the problem but after a few months later the coolant light came on and
they said that the wind shield wiper water levels was low so it triggered the
coolant light to come on. Last month my car started to jerk while driving. They
said that it was a faulty computer module so they changed it. When I drove the
car home it still had the same problem so I took it in again. This time they
said it was the transmission valve so they had it replaced.
While I was driving out of the driveway the car jerked so hard my daughter and I
almost got into a car accident. Now they are saying that my car needs a new
transmission. I thought Mercedes Benz is a reliable high quality vehicle. My car
only has 14,000 miles and it needs a new transmission. I've never heard of such
thing! I am really disappointed! Now that they are going to operate on my car I
don't think I will feel safe in it anymore. Especially, because of the last
incident. I am really unhappy about my situation.
Karl of Los Gatos CA (04/14/06)
I purchased a new ML 350 (AMG) on January 13. "Unfortunately I was involved in
an accident and had to send the car to a bodyshop 2 days later. AS of today the
bodyshop hasn't gotten the right spare parts in order to finish their job. One
particular spare part was 2 - 3 times wrongly sent and had to be returned. It
also appears that the drawings for this new car aren't 100% accurate and
therefore for this AMG version the spare part don't match.
Mercedes Benz has admitted that they have a problem, but are until today unable
to determine when and how they are goingf to fix this problem. In the meantime
(3 months have passed !!!!) I still don't have my car back and have to pay my
car rental bills on an ongoing basis. It is really sad that a big company cannot
fix such a simple problem (e.g. sent somebody down to the warehouse, pick up the
part and sent it overnight to my body shop).
Michael of Hobe Sound FL (03/09/06)
I have had to replace the window switch 4 times in my 2000 ML 320. The quality
control on these Mexican made parts are terrible.
La'verne of Pennsauken NJ (02/23/06)
On February 19, I was driving my vehicle with my child present and the left side
suspension fell out onto the road disabling my vehicle. Luckily, I wasn’t moving
with considerable speed because we would have been seriously injured, even
killed. When I took the vehicle for repairs, it was discovered that the front
suspension on both sides had considerable wear on it. In addition, the auto body
shops and the Allstate Insurance Adjuster are advising that this is a common
problem with this vehicle make
How can the front suspension fall out of a vehicle in such a short period of
time, particularly a Mercedes which is supposed to stand for superior quality
and workmanship? How is it possible that a vehicle with this much potential to
be dangerous to its passengers be certified by a prestigous company as Mercedes?
I put in a claim with my insurance company, which to them will be considered an
at-fault claim. As a result, my premium is going to increase. They are only
covering me for the side of my car that is now damaged, leaving me to have to
pay for the other side (passenger). The damages to the left side only cost
$5700. I now feel like I am making monthly payments on a car that is not safe
Alvin of Tiverton RI (01/19/06)
I have a faulty passenger seat occupation sensor in my 2000 Mercedes ML320. This
is a safety problem and should be addressed by Mercedes. The device is designed
to activate the airbag of the pasenger seat if occupied. I have contacted
Mercedes via Tel. They recommended I try to settle the issue with the
Dealership. The dealer will not assume responsibility for this safety issue.
They want $1000 to remedy the problem.
The device is designed to activate the airbag of the pasenger seat if occupied.
The faulty sensor my cause the airbag not to activate as designed and could
potentially cause bodily harm or death to a unprotected passenger.
D. of Piscataway NJ (01/09/06)
My Mercedes ML430 has a service recall for the catalytic converter. The car is
disabled because I have a hole in my converter and it sounds like a blown
exhaust when i drive. It is too loud to operate. The problem is I have been
waiting over a month for the part to come in from Mercedes. I have called the
service dept at the dealer several times and I have also contact Mercedes Benz
customer service. I am being told the part is not available and there is no ETA
for the part.
I HAVE BEEN WAITING OVER A MONTH FOR THIS PART AND THEY ARE TELLING ME IT COULD
BE ANOTHER MONTH OR TWO. They dont really know when. I explained that I have had
to rent a car for the past month costing approximately $800 and I will have to
continue to do so until my vehicle is fixed. I don't make car parts and I could
care less if they are having trouble with their part suppliers. This is totally
unfair to the consumer which has to pay for a rent a car in addition to my
regular car pmts.
I was told that an expedite request was put in about a month ago. I wonder how
long it would take if it wasnt expedited. Can you light a fire under these
people for me, even if its just a phone call to the dealer or to Mercedes
directly. If I was someone famous this would have been taken care of a long time
ago. I'm also going to contact an attorney to see what my rights are.
Myra of Teaneck NJ (01/06/06)
I have a 2001 ML 320 that I hardly used. It only has 26,000 mileage and it is
now practically undrivable. The whole computer system shut down and needs
complete replacement. It affected the whole braking system that also needs to be
replaced otherwise i'd be driving a car that would end up killing me because of
brake system failure. It stalled me in the highway when the problem started and
literally came to a full stop (in the middle of snow storm). I always brought
this car to the dealer for all services that it needs, never found any problems
with it until the warranty expired.
Anybody would think that this car would live up with it's "high end"
expectations after paying such a high price for it would surely be disappointed.
I am VERY disappointed and would never recommend this car to anyone. I truly
think that it is not fair for consumers to pay a high price and expect to have a
"disposable" car as soon as the warranty expires. In my opinion, this problem is
even worse than any of the problems you can get from any cheapest car.
I called the custumer service and the dealership who both told me plainly that
the warranty has expired and that i have to pay for any repairs that the damage
incurs.
Walter of Rolling Hills Estates CA (12/12/05)
Two months ago my Mercedes E320 broke down because of faulty crankshaft and
related parts. Repairs cost $570.00. On December 7 I received a recall notice
from Mercedes-Benz for precisely this problem. Seeking re-imbursement, I talked
to several representatives of MB and was informed that the recall campaign ended
in April, consequently they would not authorize payment. The fact that the only
notice to me of the possible problem was the December letter to me made no
difference. Apparently, the recall was kept a secret until the customer had no
redress.
The cost to me of repairing a defect that Mercedes knew about and did not inform
me of until it was too late to have it corrected.
Gabriela of Corona CA (11/16/05)
I purchased a S430 2006 Mercedes-Benz on 10/31/05 it was delivered to me on
11/01/05 I drove the car it felt funny when I pressed the breake it will go
foward, I call my sales person he advised me to take it to the nearest
Mercedes-Benz for check up, so I did. they said there was a problem with the
transmission, I call the original dealer told them I did not want the car since
the car the had sold me was defective I took the car back on 11/10/05 and left
it at the service center at Laguna Niguel, they call back stating that the only
thing they can do is fix the car since I already own the car. I feel this is not
fair I bought a car in good faith I never test drove the car.
Jean of Ponte Vedra Beach FL (10/25/05)
I bought a 2002 Mercedes-Benz 320 new from a dealer. The paint is peeling and
rust is setting in. So far the dealer has replaced the hood and the roof. Now
there is more paint peeling on the right rear panel and the gas tank flap. When
I inquired about trading the car in, the dealer gave me an estimate of $16,500
-- because the appraiser saw new paint on the car, he presumed it had been in an
accident and had hidden damage.
The car has never been hit. I paid about $50,000 for it, with all the ups and
extras including an onboard navigation system. The car only has 14,475 miles on
it and is just now qualifying for service B. My friends tell me Mercedes isn't
what it used to be. It is now definitely Daimler Chrysler. Including this car, I
have purchased six new Mercedes since 1985. I will not ever buy another one.
Salvatore of Commack NY (10/22/05)
Purchased 2001 430 clk. Oct 15' 04 the vehicle is falling into the lemon law.
It's been in service 5 times for a multitude of computer issues. They simply
said they cannot find the problem. They are refusing to refund my moneys which
are 23 thousand dollars. They are now ignoring my calls.