1999 Mercedes Benz C280
Not enough comparison years on file yet 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.
- Complaints
- 34
- Recalls
- 0
- Investigations
- 1
- Top problem
- Engine and engine cooling
None on file
Opened by NHTSA
32% of complaints
Complaints per year
1999: 34 complaints
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
Percentages can add to more than 100% — a complaint can name more than one system.
Engine and engine cooling
32% · 11 reportsMost commonly citing belts and associated pulleys and engine.
Suspension
18% · 6 reportsMost commonly citing front and coil springs.
Show complaint excerpts
On July 30, 2015 around 1900 hrs. I was leaving home going to pick up my kids from around the corner. I came to a stop light (Red). Begin to move forward when a loud bang happened then scraping.
NHTSA ODI report, 2015-07-31
Also filed under Structure
Tl* the contact owns a 1999 Mercedes Benz C280. The contact stated that while driving at approximately 5 MPH, the upper spring perches became fractured. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure.
NHTSA ODI report, 2014-11-13
Exterior lighting
15% · 5 reportsMost commonly citing tail lights and concealment devices.
Show complaint excerpts
Tl* the contact owns a 1999 mercedes C280. The contact stated that the rear lights constantly burn out and had been replaced at least twenty times.
NHTSA ODI report, 2011-08-08
Tl*the contact owns a 1999 Mercedes Benz C280. The rear tail light bulbs and plastic holder melted seven times. The dealer has not diagnosed the vehicle; however, they replaced the plastic holder and bulb under warranty.
NHTSA ODI report, 2008-10-23
Consumer states while driving and switch to dim the head lights cuts off. Ts
NHTSA ODI report, 2002-10-25
Electrical system
12% · 4 reportsMost commonly citing 12v/24v/48v battery and alternator/generator/regulator.
Steering
9% · 3 reportsMost commonly citing hydraulic power assist system and anti-theft device.
Safety timeline
No recalls on file for this model year.
0 recalls · 1 investigation · oldest first
To check one car, enter its VIN on the NHTSA recall page. Check a VIN →
-
I
2003-12-17Preliminary evaluationClosed 2004-04-22 Engine crankshaft pulley failure
Buy-smart checklist
1999 Mercedes Benz C280 — pre-purchase inspection
Inspect
- Engine and engine cooling: 11 reports on file for this year.
- Suspension: 6 reports on file for this year.
- Exterior lighting: 5 reports on file for this year.
FAQ
- Is the 1999 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 1999 Mercedes Benz C280?
- The most-reported component is engine and engine cooling, accounting for 32% of complaints on file.
- How many recalls does the 1999 Mercedes Benz C280 have?
- No recalls are on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-10-31 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.