Mercedes-Benz C-Klasse 205 C 180, 156 PS, 6-speed manual, rear-wheel drive (2014–2018)

Research for this car

• Generation guide Mercedes C-Class W205 (2014-2021): known problems and buying guide

  A solid premium saloon, but check the steering coupling recall, the air suspension and the engine fire warning before you buy.

Known issues for this car

Before you buy this car

From the generation guide

1. Air suspension: Park the car overnight and check whether a corner sinks. A scanner reads the level sensors and fault memory. Bad result: a low corner, a compressor that runs all the time, or cockpit warnings.
2. Timing chain: On M274 petrol engines, listen for a metallic rattle on cold start and look for oil stains. A scanner reads stored timing faults. Bad result: a rattle that lasts several seconds, or stored faults.
3. Front axle: On a lift, check the ball joints and axle mounts for play. Drive over bumps and listen. Bad result: play in a joint, or knocking from the front.
4. Steering coupling: Ask a Mercedes dealer to confirm the steering coupling lock by VIN. The check is free. Bad result: an open campaign, or noise and steering problems on the test drive.
5. Infotainment: Test every screen, the touchpad and the voice control. A scanner shows the software version. Bad result: freezes, reboots or a dead touchpad.
6. Rear drains: Check the drains at the rear window and sunroof, and the rear footwell for damp. Bad result: damp in the footwell or warnings from the electrics.
7. 12 V battery: Test the battery after the car has stood. Use a battery tester. Bad result: low voltage, or start-stop that stays off.

Running costs

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

ADAC versions