Mercedes-Benz C-Class W204/S204/C204 C 350 CDI
Model overview
A comfortable C-Class with several body styles and engines. Ageing chassis, electrical equipment and gearbox condition shape ownership costs.
Pros
- Good motorway comfort
- Solid cabin feel
- Useful body-style choice
Cons
- Age-related electrical faults
- Premium repair costs
- Gearbox upkeep varies by version
Common problems & ownership concerns
Potential impact: Low · Medium · High. This describes possible consequences, not fault likelihood.
- Suspension wearMedium
- Electrical equipment faultsMedium
- Automatic transmission faults on affected versionsHigh
Maintenance
Use the exact engine and gearbox schedule and maintain brakes, suspension and corrosion protection.
Engine overview · 3.0L 6-cyl DIESEL
Condition and service history matter more than the catalogue engine label.
Pros
- Refined six-cylinder performance
- Strong long-distance usability
- Manual and automatic applications available
Cons
- Emissions-system complexity
- Potentially labour-intensive engine access
- Different specifications across model years
Common problems & ownership concerns
Potential impact: Low · Medium · High. This describes possible consequences, not fault likelihood.
- Oil cooler seal leaks on applicable OM642 installationsMedium
- Intake swirl-flap or actuator faults on applicable OM642 versionsMedium
- EGR, DPF and intake carbon loading on short-trip vehiclesHigh
- Diesel injector seal or fuel-system leakage on affected examplesMedium
Maintenance
Follow the VIN-specific manufacturer schedule, approved engine oil specification and relevant fuel, cooling and timing-drive requirements.
These are general ownership concerns, not a diagnosis. Equipment and engine details vary by version and production date.
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