Mercedes-Benz C-Klasse 203 C 180 Kompressor, 143 PS, 5-speed automatic, rear-wheel drive (2002–2004)

Research for this car

• Generation guide Mercedes C-Class W203 (2000-2007): known problems and buying guide

  A middling buy. Check the timing chain, gearbox cooler and body first, and expect rust on cars built before the 2004 facelift.

Known issues for this car

Before you buy this car

From the generation guide

1. Start the car cold and listen for a metal rattle. Ask for proof that the chain, tensioner and cam sprockets were replaced together. A scanner reads camshaft codes. Bad result: a rattle, a check-engine light or no record.
2. Drive in drive and reverse. Shifts must be smooth. A sweet antifreeze smell or cloudy fluid is bad. A scanner reads gearbox codes.
3. On a lift, check the wheel arches, sills, lower door edges, boot lid and tailgate. Bad result: bubbling paint, holes or fresh filler.
4. Check the boot for damp under the trim, and the sunroof drains. Test the rear and brake lights. Bad result: damp under the trim or a rear light that does not work.
5. Turn the key through all positions and start the engine. Ask whether the ignition unit was replaced and coded, and how many keys work. Bad result: a stuck key or a starter that does not respond.
6. On a lift, check ball joints, control arm bushes and tie rods for play. Bad result: knocks over bumps or uneven tyre wear.
7. Look for oil at the camshaft adjuster magnet valve and ask whether an oil-stop cable was fitted. Bad result: oil on the plug or wiring.

Running costs

ADAC figures for 15,000 km a year over 60 months

ADAC versions