IsItAGoodCar

Common Problems with the
2005–2011 Mercedes-Benz B-Class (W245)

We've identified 3 known issues that can affect the 2005–2011 Mercedes-Benz B-Class (W245). 1 of these are serious faults that could be expensive to repair.

3
Known Issues
1
Serious
2
Moderate
0
Minor

All Known Issues

CVT gearbox failure

SeriousGearbox & Transmission

The CVT transmission can suffer from worn variators, overheating and mechatronic unit failures. Jerky acceleration and whining noises are common. Regular fluid changes are critical to延 life.

Most affected: B 180, B 200, B 200 Turbo

Estimated cost: £800–£2,500Affects: 2005–2011Often appears around: 60,000–100,000 miles

Typical symptoms

  • •Whining noise from gearbox
  • •Jerky acceleration
  • •Limp mode activation

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Smooth pull-away from cold
  • ✓CVT fluid change history
  • ✓Listen for whining under load

DPF blockage (diesel models)

ModerateEngine

The diesel particulate filter clogs quickly on short urban journeys, triggering limp mode. Regular motorway driving is needed for passive regeneration.

Most affected: B 180 CDI, B 200 CDI

Estimated cost: £150–£500Affects: 2005–2011Often appears around: 30,000–80,000 miles

Typical symptoms

  • •Limp mode
  • •DPF warning light
  • •Loss of power

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Ask about driving patterns
  • ✓Check for DPF warning history
  • ✓Look for evidence of DPF cleaning or forced regen

Seat belt webbing fraying

ModerateBodywork & Rust

The seat belt webbing on B-Class models is prone to premature fraying at the edges, which is an MOT failure. Replacement belts are surprisingly expensive.

Estimated cost: £150–£250 per beltAffects: 2005–2011Often appears around: Age-related

Typical symptoms

  • •Visible fraying on seat belt edges
  • •MOT advisory or failure for seat belt condition

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Inspect all seat belt webbing carefully
  • ✓Run the belt fully out and check edges

Buying Tips for the 2005 Mercedes-Benz B-Class (W245)

  • ✓Check the CVT gearbox for smooth pull-away and whining noises; fluid changes are essential.
  • ✓Diesel models used for short trips will clog the DPF — look for limp mode history.
  • ✓Inspect seat belt webbing for fraying; replacements are expensive.

Browse 2005–2011 Mercedes-Benz B-Class (W245) in our Directory

View MOT history, registration data, and reliability scores for 2005–2011 Mercedes-Benz B-Class (W245) vehicles.

View 2005–2011 Directory

Other Mercedes-Benz B-Class (W245) Year Periods

2005–2011

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