RoadVitals

2015 Mercedes-Benz C 300 Problems

Owner-reported complaints filed with NHTSA, grouped by component

Data refreshed

Owner complaintsComplaints are reports submitted to NHTSA by owners and drivers. NHTSA does not verify most reports before publishing them, and a complaint does not establish that a defect exists. Volume is influenced by how many of a vehicle were sold, how long it has been on the road, and how much attention an issue has received.
379
Latest Aug 5, 2026
Components namedHow many of our component categories appear on at least one report for this model year. One report can name several.
16
Crash or fire reportedComplaints whose submitter recorded that a crash or a fire occurred. These are the reporter's own answers on the NHTSA form, not verified findings.
10

What this page shows

Everything below is an owner-reported complaint submitted to NHTSA about the 2015 Mercedes-Benz C 300, grouped by the component NHTSA recorded on the report. These are not confirmed defects, and they are not recalls. NHTSA does not verify most reports before publishing them, and a category with more reports in it is not evidence that a part is defective.

Complaints are reports submitted by owners and drivers to NHTSA. They are not verified and do not establish that a defect exists.

Reports by component

Ranked by how many owner reports name each component category

Percentages are of component mentions. A single complaint can name more than one component, so these do not sum to the total complaint count.

Each component in detail

What the reports in each category say, in the owners' own words

Engine

Reports naming the engine itself — including stalling, misfires, oil consumption, cooling and internal engine components.

128
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

The contact owns a 2015 Mercedes-Benz C300. The contact stated while driving 40 MPH, the vehicle unexpectedly veered to the left. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact stated that the steering wheel became inoperable, and the contact was unable to straighten the steering wheel. The brake pedal was also depressed. The contact attempted to depress the accelerator pedal however, the vehicle started to stall. The contact pulled over into a parking lot and was able to restart the vehicle. The dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 82,000.

NHTSA ID 11678756 · filed Aug 6, 2025

Check Engine light came on recently, fault code P052E is identified by scanner. Car has 60,000 miles on original it. MB dealer wants to charge $300 for diagnostics, repair job (parts and labor) may cost over $2,000. Since this is critical emission compliance part/system, why is it not recalling?

NHTSA ID 11669468 · filed Jun 26, 2025
All 128 reports naming engine

Fuel system

Reports naming fuel storage or delivery — tanks, pumps, lines, injectors and fuel leaks.

70
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

I was driving my car was sputtering or trying to shut off while I press the gas and I let go of the gas and it catches and stayed on. I took it to the dealership and they said they found nothing wrong. May 3rd around 12pm im driving on the freeway and as im getting on the express lane going 60 it dies and I couldn't move the steering wheel and I slammed into a guardrail. After doing research my car (vin [XXX] ) had multiple recals from the fuel pump and steering wheel and the dealership never fixed or checked any recalls before selling it to me. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ID 11736219 · filed May 7, 2026

Fuel hose system leaking. Inhalation of gas fumes caused headaches and nausea. Risk of vehicle fire. Yes, the problem has been confirmed by a Mercedes dealer. This is a known issue with Mercedes C300 2015 models and other years. There have been other complaints/lawsuits against Mercedes not wanting to pay for the issue. No warnings just strong gas smell.

NHTSA ID 11707032 · filed Dec 25, 2025
All 70 reports naming fuel system

Body & structure

Reports naming the vehicle structure, frame, body panels, doors, hood and trim.

58
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

The contact owns a 2015 Mercedes-Benz C300. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds and depressing the brake pedal, the vehicle fishtailed on several occasions. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where it was raised on a lift, and the mechanic discovered that the rear subframe was severely corroded. The mechanic determined that the failure was associated with Manufacturer Communication Number: MC-10232321 (Structure); and referred the contact to a dealer for assistance. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, where the failure was confirmed, and it was discovered that the rear subframe had separated. The dealer informed the contact that the vehicle was unsafe to drive. The contact was provided an estimate for the repair and was informed that goodwill assistance would not be provided. The vehicle was not repaired due to the cost. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that the dealer was unreachable. The failure mileage was approximately 120,000.

NHTSA ID 11754977 · filed Aug 5, 2026

The contact owns a 2015 Mercedes-Benz C300. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, there was an abnormal sound coming from the vehicle. The vehicle was driven to the shoulder of the road. The contact inspected the exterior of the vehicle and became aware that the moon roof panel had detached, and the moon roof panel flew off the vehicle. The dealer was made aware of the failure. The contact stated that the vehicle was previously repaired under NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V197000 (Structure) in 2021. The contact was informed that the repair was not covered under warranty. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or the dealer. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure but provided no assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 62,612.

NHTSA ID 11733048 · filed Apr 22, 2026
All 58 reports naming body & structure

Electrical

Reports naming the electrical system — wiring, battery, charging, control modules, infotainment and electrical accessories.

50
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

I was driving my car was sputtering or trying to shut off while I press the gas and I let go of the gas and it catches and stayed on. I took it to the dealership and they said they found nothing wrong. May 3rd around 12pm im driving on the freeway and as im getting on the express lane going 60 it dies and I couldn't move the steering wheel and I slammed into a guardrail. After doing research my car (vin [XXX] ) had multiple recals from the fuel pump and steering wheel and the dealership never fixed or checked any recalls before selling it to me. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ID 11736219 · filed May 7, 2026

Power steering malfunction Car unable to drive I believe there is supposed to be a recall for this issue but not popping up when I put in VIN number Warning lamps come up. Sometimes every light on dashboard. Took it to Mercedes but it was when code was not popping up and they said I needed a new battery. Did that but still an issue. Has also happened when driving. Sometimes collision assist plus light comes on and power steering acts up. Light I am pointing at in picture is another light that consistently pops up I have been able to intermittently fix problem by resetting computer by unplugging battery for 15min or longer. As well as confirming full service on vehicle. Now it isn’t working though.

NHTSA ID 11660262 · filed May 11, 2025
All 50 reports naming electrical

Steering

Reports naming the steering system — racks, columns, power-steering assist and steering linkage.

23
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

I was driving my car was sputtering or trying to shut off while I press the gas and I let go of the gas and it catches and stayed on. I took it to the dealership and they said they found nothing wrong. May 3rd around 12pm im driving on the freeway and as im getting on the express lane going 60 it dies and I couldn't move the steering wheel and I slammed into a guardrail. After doing research my car (vin [XXX] ) had multiple recals from the fuel pump and steering wheel and the dealership never fixed or checked any recalls before selling it to me. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ID 11736219 · filed May 7, 2026

The contact owns a 2015 Mercedes-Benz C300. The contact stated while driving 40 MPH, the vehicle unexpectedly veered to the left. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact stated that the steering wheel became inoperable, and the contact was unable to straighten the steering wheel. The brake pedal was also depressed. The contact attempted to depress the accelerator pedal however, the vehicle started to stall. The contact pulled over into a parking lot and was able to restart the vehicle. The dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 82,000.

NHTSA ID 11678756 · filed Aug 6, 2025
All 23 reports naming steering

Driver assistance

Reports naming forward-collision avoidance, lane keeping, back-over prevention, cruise control and related electronic driver-assistance systems.

22
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

Check engine light came on, it has to be with the Positive Crankcase Ventilation Valve. So I found out that other people are experiencing the same thing. So I know that there is a recall by the manufacturer. And I want to do the same for me.

NHTSA ID 11641447 · filed Feb 7, 2025

Blind Spot Assis Inoperative. This message appears on dashboard showing the malfunction of the blind spot sensors. This always happen when the weather temp is hot and also while driving during rain. This concern is putting me, my wife and kids in high risk and unsafe driving condition. I did some research and found out that the manufacture of this car put these electronic sensors inside the rear bumper behind both rear wheels and are exposed so whenever driving, rain, dirt, salt and all road debris splash all over these electronic sensor causing them to corrode and destroyed as a result of water and salt getting inside these fragile electronic sensors and then, the whole blind spot system inoperative and of course high risk to get involved into an accident.

NHTSA ID 11537702 · filed Aug 10, 2023
All 22 reports naming driver assistance

Suspension

Reports naming suspension components — springs, struts, shocks, control arms and related hardware.

22
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

Rear subframe rust has deemed the car unsafe to drive. Hitting a pot hole at high speed or any sudden stop could cause the subframe to collapse causing loss of control of car. Car is available for inspection upon request. Car was taken in for regular oil change and multi-point inspection when rust was noticed by mechanic at the dealership. Car is located in East TN not the snow belt. There have been recalls on similar models for the year prior, but this vin is not part of the recall and has same issue, although the number 204 which is part of the recall is stamped on the part. (Pic attached below.)

NHTSA ID 11753660 · filed Jul 30, 2026

Failed/Malfunctioned Component: Rear subframe (structural/chassis component) exhibited advanced corrosion (perforation/rust-through), compromising structural integrity and alignment/handling. Availability for Inspection: Yes. The vehicle and the subframe are available for inspection upon request. I can provide photos, videos, and repair estimates if needed. The corroded subframe is fracture and detach suspension mounting points, which may lead to: Sudden loss of vehicle stability or control (especially during braking, cornering, or over bumps). Unpredictable alignment changes causing pulling, vibration, or abnormal tire wear that can escalate into a loss-of-control event. Increased stopping distance and potential for wheel misalignment or collapse, raising the risk of a crash involving occupants and other road users. I limited driving/use due to the risk; issue is a structural safety concern rather than cosmetic. Confirmation: Yes on multiple visits since Oct 2023 -Yes—diagnosed and documented by Mercedes-Benz of Silver Spring on Oct 2 2023, Nov 2023 and Dec 2025. Technician confirmed severe corrosion/rust perforation on the rear subframe requiring replacement. No No

NHTSA ID 11712059 · filed Jan 20, 2026
All 22 reports naming suspension

Powertrain (other)

Powertrain reports that are not specifically the engine or transmission — driveshafts, axles, transfer cases and differentials.

20
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

Rear subframe completely rusted out. While driving on the hwy I heard a loud noise, a couple minutes later I hit the brakes to slow down to get off my exit and after pressing the brakes the car instantly fishtailed sending me sideways across 2 lanes of traffic. Luckily no one was injured or killed. I’ve seen that the car manufacturer was replacing this issue on models 2008-2015. My vehicle is a 2015 and they are telling me my vehicle is not covered for the issue. The car is not drivable and Mercedes needs to be held accountable. A critical component such as rear subframe completely rusting out in just under 10 years is unheard of and I can’t afford to pay 10k to fix it. Please help

NHTSA ID 11696650 · filed Oct 30, 2025

Rear-subframe corrosion at the lower-control-arm mounts has progressed to the point where both arms have play and produce loud metallic bangs while braking or turning at low speed. Two independent shops lifted the car, documented flaking rust around the bushing sleeves, and advised the subframe is structurally compromised and could let a control arm detach under load. The corroded subframe remains installed and can be inspected on request. Safety risk: a detached rear control arm would cause sudden, unpredictable steering and loss of control. The vehicle already pulls right under braking, and feels very unstable in curves Problem has been reproduced and photographed by two independent repair facilities. No manufacturer representative has inspected the vehicle so far. Additional component failures possibly linked to the same progressive chassis stress: premature wear of both front CV axles; timing-chain stretch with worn guides; slack oil-pump chain; upper & lower oil-pan gasket leaks; water-pump seepage; right engine-mount collapse; persistent misfire traced to a loose intake-hose clamp; transmission-cooler hose clip released under pressure, dumping all ATF and destroying the automatic transmission; excessive play in all four lower control-arm bushings. The transmission and the other components were replaced 1-2 months before the subframe bro History: A faint clank from the rear suspension first appeared roughly three years into ownership. Dealer service dismissed it as “normal noise,” and warranty would not cover “loud clanks,” so the issue went unaddressed. The noise has grown steadily into the current condition, suggesting long-term subframe corrosion that was never inspected or remediated. No collision, flood, or off-road use; the car has typical Northeast winter-salt exposure. The failure pattern matches subframe-corrosion cases already acknowledged by the manufacturer on this model, although this serial number is not yet included in the official campaign.

NHTSA ID 11663816 · filed May 29, 2025
All 20 reports naming powertrain (other)

Visibility

Reports naming windshields, glass, wipers, defrosters and mirrors.

16
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

The contact owns a 2015 Mercedes-Benz C300. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked, the contact became aware that the panoramic roof failed to close as intended. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was determined that the panoramic roof guide rails had failed. The contact was informed that the panoramic roof guide rails needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure, and a case was filed. The contact was informed that the mileage and age of the vehicle had exceeded the limitation. The failure mileage was approximately 110,000.

NHTSA ID 11753779 · filed Jul 30, 2026

Failed component: Front Sunroof Clip What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? Sunroof clip, yes. How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? The glass pane lifted while the car was in motion and had to be held down to secure it until the car stopped. Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? Yes Has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives or others? No Were there any warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure, and when did they first appear? No While merging to enter the freeway at approx 45-50 mph I opened my sunroof. At about halfway back the glass began to lift up off the track/railing as if it was going to fly off the track. Had I not been holding the button to open the sunroof I would not have noticed and the entire glass pane would have blown off, possibly damaging the car or worse flying off and hit another car. I had to hold the glass in place to keep it from flying off until I was able to exit the freeway. Once I stopped the car to inspect the sun roof I noticed the clip that secures the glass to the track was broken (crumbled) in the sunroof track. I removed the pieces of broken plastic from the track and was then able to close the sunroof. I am now unable to safely open my sunroof while the vehicle is in motion.

NHTSA ID 11672076 · filed Jul 8, 2025
All 16 reports naming visibility

Airbags

Reports naming the air-bag system — deployment behaviour, inflators, sensors and warning lights.

12
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

My car is a 2015 Mercedes Benz, I bought it at the agency in 2022. When I tested the vehicle at the agency, I noticed the steering was a little hard. I asked the sales person and he told me it was normal. Then, after 1 year and 5 months, it was on its way. I went to work and the steering wheel jammed and it wouldn't cross and the car turned off then it didn't want to start and it said the following on the dashboard power stering see operator manual

NHTSA ID 11583449 · filed Apr 17, 2024

The contact owns a 2015 Mercedes-Benz C300. The contact stated while starting the vehicle, the front driver’s side air bag warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer and the mechanic stated that the vehicle had experienced the failure listed in NHTSA Campaign Number: 16V081000 (Air Bags) however, the VIN was not included. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was contacted, and a case was filed. The failure mileage was 50,000.

NHTSA ID 11527272 · filed Jun 15, 2023
All 12 reports naming airbags

Other / unspecified

Reports whose component NHTSA recorded as unknown, or that do not map to one of the categories above.

9
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

There wasn’t any warning lamps prior to my rear right tire exploding on highway.

NHTSA ID 11458118 · filed Mar 24, 2022

SUSPENSION PARTS ARE RUSTING OUT FAST I DON'T LIVE IN A SALTED ROAD FOR BLACK ICE TYPE OF ENVIRONMENT CAR ONLY HAS 66K MILES AND AC POURS FUEL ODORS IN THE CABIN INTERIOR MATERIALS ARE BUBBLING UP FAST EVEN AFTER UV TREATMENTS.

NHTSA ID 11397130 · filed Feb 20, 2021
All 9 reports naming other / unspecified

Brakes

Reports naming service brakes, the antilock braking system, brake hoses, master cylinders or the parking brake.

9
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

The contact owns a 2015 Mercedes C300. The contact stated that the driver's side rear brakes and rotors were rusted. The contact stated that when the brakes were applied, they were slow to respond. The TPMS warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a braking center, which declined the warranty for the aftermarket parts. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified. The approximate failure mileage was 176,000.

NHTSA ID 11740646 · filed May 28, 2026

My crankcase vent valve needs to be replaced also EBD traction abs module which alone cost over 1500 for part needs to be replaced

NHTSA ID 11541416 · filed Aug 29, 2023
All 9 reports naming brakes

Tires & wheels

Reports naming tires, wheels, hubs, or the tire-pressure monitoring system.

3
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

The contact owns a 2015 Mercedes C300. The contact stated that the driver's side rear brakes and rotors were rusted. The contact stated that when the brakes were applied, they were slow to respond. The TPMS warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a braking center, which declined the warranty for the aftermarket parts. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified. The approximate failure mileage was 176,000.

NHTSA ID 11740646 · filed May 28, 2026

The tire exploded on highway,left sever damage on my car. The dealership ruined even more by trying to fix it. I think this tires are not safe to drive on the road. since I didn’t use the car less then 4000 miles a year.

NHTSA ID 11458126 · filed Mar 24, 2022

Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.

Seat belts

Reports naming seat belts, buckles, retractors and pretensioners.

2
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

I would like to bring to your attention a potentially dangerous design flaw in my 2015 Mercedes C300. That design flaw resulted in me having to cut the seat belt off a passenger, my wife, in order to free her from the car. I will also explain in detail the admittedly rare circumstances that led to this potentially dangerous incident. In May 2021, my wife underwent outpatient surgery of her left shoulder. After the surgery a nurse brought my wife to the curb in front of the hospital, where I had pulled up my car. The nurse and I assisted my wife with her transfer from the wheel chair into the passenger seat. My wife was wearing a sling supported by a spacing pillow on her left arm. The nurse then proceeded to fasten the seat belt around my wife. Since the nurse’s procedure is of importance to this incident, I will explain it in detail. After my wife was seated, the nurse unwound the passenger seat belt entirely and inserted the belt tongue into the buckle so that the lap part of the seat belt went properly around my wife’s lap. To protect the fresh surgical site from external forces, the nurse then placed the part of the seat belt that is normally worn across the chest BEHIND my wife’s back. Had the seat belt been placed properly across my wife’s chest, it would have been forced to pass over her left arm, which was tied to her body by the sling and bandages. It was thus not possible to wear the chest part of the seat belt properly over the chest but under the left arm. Lastly, the nurse allowed the fully extended seat belt to wind up onto the pretensioner. Upon arrival at home I wanted to take the seat belt off my wife. To this end I opened the passenger door, and gently pulled on the seat belt in order to slacken it enough to get the seat belt off her. However, I could not get any slack. Per instructions in the user manual, I opened the belt buckle but the belt was tightly wound around my wife's body. Ultimately, I had to cut the belt with scissors.

NHTSA ID 11425042 · filed Jul 15, 2021

BACK DRIVER SIDE SEAT BELT HARD TO ENGAGE AND WILL COME UNENGAGED WITHOUT PROMPTING. BRAKE PADS WEAR OUT EVERY 30,000 MILES BACK PASSENGER SIDE TIRE AND VALVE HAS BEEN REPLACED 4 TIMES IN LESS THAN 70,000 MILES AND STILL LOOSES AIR INTERMITTENTLY. CAR CAN BE PARKED OR MOVING. NO CONSISTENCY IN WHEN OR AMOUNT AIR PRESSURE IS LOST.

NHTSA ID 11286700 · filed Dec 3, 2019

Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.

Interior & seats

Reports naming seats, latches, locks, linkages and interior fittings.

2
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

1. A faint smell of fuel, occasionally, external of vehicle. 2. The headlights has a water fog mist inside of headlight lens. 3. The seats and car interior cracks easily. (Seats, arm rest and dashboard) etc.

NHTSA ID 11550450 · filed Oct 17, 2023

UNABLE TO MOVE DRIVER'S POWER SEAT FORWARD INTO SAFE OPERATING POSITION. HAD TO DRIVE CAR BY SITTING ON FRONT EDGE OF THE SEAT. BROUGHT TO DEALER FOR SERVICE AND SEAT OPERATION WAS RESTORED TO NORMAL AFTER A SOFTWARE RESTORE/RESET. SERVICE CONSULTANT COULD PROVIDE NO DEFINITE INFORMATION AS TO WHAT IS THE CAUSE OF THE PROBLEM. THE NEXT DAY IN THE MORNING, THE PROBLEM REOCCURED. I AM CONCERNED THAT THIS IS A CHRONIC PROBLEM THAT CANNOT BE REPAIRED. IT IS A BRAND NEW VEHICLE AND I DON'T KNOW IF THIS IS SOMETHING THAT AFFECTS OTHER VEHICLES.

NHTSA ID 10747042 · filed Aug 7, 2015

Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.

Exterior lighting

Reports naming headlights, tail lights, turn signals and other exterior lighting.

1
report

From owner reports, verbatim

1. A faint smell of fuel, occasionally, external of vehicle. 2. The headlights has a water fog mist inside of headlight lens. 3. The seats and car interior cracks easily. (Seats, arm rest and dashboard) etc.

NHTSA ID 11550450 · filed Oct 17, 2023

Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.

Higher-selling and older vehicles accumulate more reports. Counts are not failure rates and are not directly comparable between vehicles that sold in very different numbers.

Elsewhere on this vehicle

Data sources

Data on this page last refreshed .