IsItAGoodCar
Reliability Guide

Common Problems with the
2004 Mercedes-Benz C-Class (W203)

The facelifted W203 addressed many of the earlier problems including improved corrosion protection and better build quality. However, M272 V6 balance shaft gear wear and M271 timing chain stretch remained concerns on petrol models.

What changed for 2004

  • •Facelift with improved build quality
  • •Better corrosion protection
  • •Updated interior trim
  • •M272 V6 balance shaft concern identified

Common MOT watch-outs

  • !M271 timing chain stretch
  • !M272 balance shaft gear wear
  • !Front suspension bush wear
3
Known Issues
3
Serious
0
Moderate
0
Minor

The 2004 period has 2 more issues than the Mercedes-Benz C-Class (W203) average across all year periods.

All Known Issues

Valeo radiator gearbox contamination

SeriousGearbox & Transmission

Radiator can leak coolant into the transmission fluid, destroying the gearbox.

Estimated cost: £1,500–£3,500Affects: 2000–2005

Typical symptoms

  • •Shuddering shifts
  • •Contaminated transmission fluid

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Radiator part history
  • ✓Smooth hot shifts

M271 timing chain stretch

SeriousEngine

The 1.8 Kompressor petrol engine uses a timing chain that stretches over time, causing rattling on cold start. In severe cases the chain can jump, destroying the engine.

Most affected: C 180 Kompressor, C 200 Kompressor, C 230 Kompressor

Estimated cost: £500–£1,500Affects: 2000–2007Often appears around: 60,000–100,000 miles

Typical symptoms

  • •Rattling noise on cold start
  • •Engine management light
  • •Loss of power

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Listen for chain rattle from cold
  • ✓Check engine oil change history
  • ✓Ask if the chain has been replaced

Rust on arches, sills and bootlid

SeriousBodywork & Rust

W203s are notorious for corrosion around the wheel arches, sills and bootlid edges. Structural corrosion on sills and subframe mounting areas is an MOT failure.

Estimated cost: £300–£2,000+Affects: 2000–2007Often appears around: Age-related

Typical symptoms

  • •Bubbling paint around arches
  • •Crusty sills
  • •MOT corrosion advisories

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Inspect front and rear arches
  • ✓Check sills and jacking points
  • ✓Look under bootlid edges for rust

Buying Tips for the 2004 Mercedes-Benz C-Class (W203)

  • ✓Facelift cars are significantly better
  • ✓Check M272 balance shaft history
  • ✓Front suspension inspection recommended
2001–2003 Mercedes-Benz C-Class (W203)2005 Mercedes-Benz C-Class (W203)

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Other Mercedes-Benz C-Class (W203) Year Periods

20002001–20032004200520062007

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