IsItAGoodCar
Reliability Guide

Common Problems with the
2008 Mercedes-Benz B-Class (W245)

The facelifted B-Class improved build quality and resolved some early electrical issues. Timing chain stretch on M266/M271 petrol engines becomes a concern at higher mileages, while water ingress through rear air vent seals can damage the rear SAM module.

What changed for 2008

  • •Facelift with improved quality
  • •Updated infotainment options
  • •Improved electrical reliability

Common MOT watch-outs

  • !Water ingress from rear air vent seals
  • !Timing chain stretch on petrol engines
  • !CVT gearbox issues persist
3
Known Issues
1
Serious
2
Moderate
0
Minor

The 2008 period has 2 more issues than the Mercedes-Benz B-Class (W245) average across all year periods.

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 2008 Mercedes-Benz B-Class (W245)

  • ✓Check boot floor for dampness from failed vent seals
  • ✓Petrol models need timing chain inspection
  • ✓Diesel DPF regeneration history matters
2006–2007 Mercedes-Benz B-Class (W245)2009–2010 Mercedes-Benz B-Class (W245)

Browse 2008 Mercedes-Benz B-Class (W245) in our Directory

View MOT history, registration data, and reliability scores for 2008 Mercedes-Benz B-Class (W245) vehicles.

View 2008 Directory

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

20052006–200720082009–20102011

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