1998 Mercedes Benz C280
Only 15 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict.
This verdict reflects complaint volume compared to this model's typical year. Recalls and safety issues below apply regardless of the verdict — always check them.
Only 15 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.
COMPLAINTS PER YEAR
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 1994 | 9 |
| 1995 | 16 |
| 1996 | 4 |
| 1997 | 7 |
| 1998 | 15 |
| 1999 | 34 |
| 2000 | 4 |
| 2006 | 29 |
| 2007 | 56 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
Only 15 complaints on file for this model year -- too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
7 of 15 total reports mention: electrical system, most commonly citing 12v/24v/48v battery and interior/under dash.
INJURYShow complaint excerpts
WHILE HUSBAND WAS MOVING OBJECTS IN TRUNK. TOUCHED BATTERY AND EXPLODE AT HIS FACE, INJURING PARTS ON FACE AND BODY.*AK THE CONSUMER SUFFERED EYE DAMAGE, NASAL FRACTURE AND FACIAL LACERATIONS AS THE RESULT OF BATTEY EXPLOSION.
NHTSA ODI report, 20010504
4 of 15 total reports mention: suspension, most commonly citing coil springs and air suspension system.
Show complaint excerpts
WITHOUT ANY WARNING ATTEMPTING TO MAKE A TURN AROUND THE CORNER CAR JUST MADE A VERY LOUD SOUND COMING FROM UNDER DRIVER'S SIDE IN THE FRONT. CAR CAME DOWN ON DRIVER SIDE VERY CLOSE TO TIRE.
NHTSA ODI report, 20151203
WHILE TRAVELING ON THE INTERSTATE AT 70 MPH, THE SPRING PERCH SUPPORTING THE LEFT, FRONT COIL SPRING BROKE.
NHTSA ODI report, 20140107
THE FOLLOWING IS A LETTER SENT TO MERCEDES WHIDH DESCRIBES THE ISSUE. DEAR MERCEDES: I RECENTLY HAD AN ALMOST TRAGIC INCIDENT IN MY MERCEDES.
NHTSA ODI report, 20070806
2 of 15 total reports mention: fuel system, gasoline, most commonly citing tank assembly and hoses, lines/piping, and fittings.
1 of 15 total reports mentions: wheels.
1 of 15 total reports mentions: visibility, most commonly citing windshield wiper/washer.
SAFETY TIMELINE
No recalls on file for this model year.
ENGINE CRANKSHAFT PULLEY FAILURE
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
1998 Mercedes Benz C280 — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for electrical system issues (7 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for suspension issues (4 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for fuel system, gasoline issues (2 reports on file for this year).
FAQ
Is the 1998 Mercedes Benz C280 reliable?
There isn't enough NHTSA complaint data on file yet to give this model year a verdict.
What are the most common problems with the 1998 Mercedes Benz C280?
The most-reported component is electrical system, accounting for 47% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 1998 Mercedes Benz C280 have?
No recalls are on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-09-16 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.