The Most Reliable Mercedes C-Class, Ranked

Choose the Mercedes C-Class you think is the most reliable!

Author: Gregor Krambs
Updated on Apr 27, 2024 06:56
Welcome to StrawPoll, where your opinion matters! We're excited to present to you our latest ranking: "What is the most reliable Mercedes C-Class?" Delve into the world of luxury and performance as we explore the best of the best in Mercedes' iconic C-Class lineup. Thousands of automotive enthusiasts have already cast their votes, and now it's your turn to have a say! Will it be the powerful C63 AMG or the sleek C300 that takes the top spot? Or perhaps you have a different favorite that you'd like to suggest? Your input is valuable, so don't hold back! Join the conversation and make your vote count as we crown the ultimate Mercedes C-Class champion. Let the rankings begin!

What Is the Most Reliable Mercedes C-Class?

  1. 1
    39
    votes
    Mercedes C-Class W204 (2007-2014)
    Bull-Doser · Public domain
    This generation of the C-Class is known for its reliability, with relatively few reported problems. It also has a solid build quality and a comfortable ride.
    The Mercedes C-Class W204 (2007-2014) is a compact executive car produced by Mercedes-Benz. It is a part of the fourth generation of the C-Class lineup and offers a balance of luxury, style, and performance. The W204 model was widely recognized for its reliability and timeless design.
    • Engine Options: Various petrol and diesel engine options
    • Transmission: 6-speed manual or 7-speed automatic
    • Body Type: Sedan, coupe, and estate models
    • Fuel Efficiency: Varies depending on engine choice
    • Safety Features: Multiple airbags, stability control, ABS
  2. 2
    60
    votes
    Mercedes C-Class W203 (2000-2007)
    IFCAR · Public domain
    Although there were some issues with rust and electrical problems, the W203 is generally considered to be a reliable car. It has a good safety record and a comfortable interior.
    The Mercedes C-Class W203 (2000-2007) is the third generation of the C-Class line of compact executive cars introduced by Mercedes-Benz. It was produced from 2000 to 2007 and offered various body styles, including sedan, wagon, and coupe. Known for its luxurious design, advanced safety features, and reliable performance, the W203 C-Class quickly became a popular choice among Mercedes enthusiasts and luxury car buyers.
    • Engine Options: Various petrol & diesel engines available
    • Transmission: 6-speed manual or 5-speed automatic
    • Drive Type: Rear-wheel drive or optional 4MATIC all-wheel drive
    • Power Output: Up to 362 horsepower
    • Fuel Efficiency: Approximately 17-30 MPG (city/highway)
  3. 3
    31
    votes
    Mercedes C-Class W202 (1993-2000)
    Thomas doerfer · CC BY-SA 3.0
    The W202 was the first generation of the C-Class, and it set a high standard for reliability. Although it is an older car, it is still considered to be a solid choice for those looking for a reliable Mercedes.
    The Mercedes C-Class W202 (1993-2000) is a luxury compact executive car produced by Mercedes-Benz. It is the first generation of the C-Class lineup, designed to replace the aging Mercedes-Benz 190 series. The W202 model was known for its solid build quality, elegant design, and advanced safety features.
    • Engine Options: Various petrol and diesel engines
    • Body Style: Sedan
    • Transmission: 5-speed manual or 4/5-speed automatic
    • Drive Type: Rear-wheel drive or optional all-wheel drive
    • Suspension: Independent front and rear suspension
  4. 4
    32
    votes
    Mercedes C-Class W205 (2014-2021)
    M 93 · CC BY-SA 3.0 de
    The most recent generation of the C-Class has been generally well-received for its reliability, although there have been some issues reported with the infotainment system. It has a comfortable ride and good fuel economy.
    The Mercedes C-Class W205 (2014-2021) is a line of compact executive cars produced by the German automaker Mercedes-Benz. It is the fourth generation of the Mercedes-Benz C-Class, offering a luxurious and comfortable driving experience. The W205 model debuted in 2014 and remained in production until 2021.
    • Engine Options: Various engine options including petrol, diesel, and hybrid variants
    • Transmission: 7-speed automatic transmission with manual shift mode
    • Drive Type: Rear-wheel or all-wheel drive (4MATIC)
    • Fuel Efficiency: Varies based on engine choice and configuration
    • Technology: Advanced infotainment system, intelligent driver-assistance features
  5. 5
    11
    votes
    Despite being an older model, the W201 is known for its durability and reliability. It has a simple, straightforward design and is easy to maintain.
    The Mercedes C-Class W201 (1982-1993) is a compact executive car produced by Mercedes-Benz. It is the first generation of the C-Class lineup, commonly referred to as the 'Baby Benz'. It was designed as a successor to the successful Mercedes-Benz W123 and aimed to offer a more compact option with superior engineering and luxurious features.
    • Body Style: 4-door sedan
    • Engine Options: Petrol, diesel, and later a sporty AMG variant
    • Transmission: 4-speed manual or 4/5-speed automatic
    • Suspension: Independent suspension with MacPherson struts at the front and multi-link setup at the rear
    • Drive Type: Rear-wheel drive
  6. 6
    4
    votes
    Mercedes C-Class AMG (2008-2014)
    Navigator84 · CC BY-SA 4.0
    The AMG version of the C-Class is known for its performance, but it is also surprisingly reliable. It has a solid build quality and a comfortable interior.
    The Mercedes C-Class AMG (2008-2014) is a high-performance version of the Mercedes C-Class luxury sedan. It offers a combination of luxury, comfort, and sportiness along with powerful performance.
    • Engine: 6.2L V8
    • Horsepower: 451 hp
    • Torque: 443 lb-ft
    • Acceleration (0-60 mph): 4.4 seconds
    • Top Speed: 155 mph (electronically limited)
  7. 7
    11
    votes
    The estate version of the C-Class is a practical and reliable choice. It has a spacious interior and a comfortable ride, and it is well-built.
    The Mercedes C-Class Estate (2007-2014) is a station wagon variant of the popular Mercedes C-Class mid-size luxury car. It offers a blend of style, practicality, and performance. With its elegant design and spacious interior, it caters to those who require the versatility of a larger cargo area without compromising on luxury and comfort.
    • Engine Options: Various petrol and diesel options
    • Transmission: 6-speed manual or 7-speed automatic
    • Drive Type: Rear-wheel drive or optional all-wheel drive
    • Fuel Efficiency: Ranges from 22-37 mpg
    • Cargo Capacity: Up to 53 cubic feet with rear seats folded
  8. 8
    13
    votes
    The coupe version of the C-Class is known for its sleek design, but it is also a reliable car. It has a comfortable interior and good performance.
    The Mercedes C-Class Coupe (2011-2015) is a two-door luxury compact car produced by Mercedes-Benz. It offers stylish design, sporty performance, and advanced features.
    • Model Years: 2011-2015
    • Body Type: Coupe
    • Engine Options: Various petrol and diesel engines
    • Transmission: 6-speed manual or 7-speed automatic
    • Wheelbase: 108.7 inches
  9. 9
    8
    votes
    The 4MATIC version of the C-Class is a reliable choice for those who need all-wheel drive. It has a comfortable interior and good handling.
    The Mercedes C-Class 4MATIC (2008-2014) is a luxury compact sedan produced by Mercedes-Benz. It is known for its reliability, making it a popular choice among car enthusiasts. With its elegant design, advanced features, and solid performance, this model offers a comfortable and enjoyable driving experience.
    • Engine: 2.5L V6 / 3.0L V6 / 3.5L V6
    • Transmission: 7-speed automatic
    • Drivetrain: 4MATIC all-wheel drive
    • Horsepower: 201 - 268 hp
    • Torque: 185 - 258 lb-ft
  10. 10
    4
    votes
    The BlueTEC version of the C-Class is a diesel-powered option that is known for its fuel efficiency and reliability. It has a comfortable interior and good performance.
    The Mercedes C-Class BlueTEC (2013-2015) is a luxury compact executive car that offers a combination of performance, comfort, and fuel efficiency. It is part of the C-Class lineup produced by the German automaker Mercedes-Benz.
    • Engine: 2.1L 4-cylinder diesel engine
    • Power Output: approx. 170 horsepower
    • Torque: approx. 295 lb-ft
    • Transmission: 7-speed automatic
    • Fuel Economy: up to 37 mpg combined

Missing your favorite Mercedes C-Class?

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Ranking factors for reliable Mercedes C-Class

  1. Year and model
    Different model years and configurations may have different reliability ratings.
  2. Maintenance records
    A well-maintained vehicle is likely to be more reliable than one with a history of neglect.
  3. Mileage
    Higher mileage vehicles may be more prone to reliability issues.
  4. Recalls
    Check for any recalls that may affect the specific model and year of the vehicle.
  5. Consumer Reports ratings
    Consumer Reports provides objective ratings based on surveys of vehicle owners.
  6. Warranty
    The length and coverage of the manufacturer's warranty can provide an indication of their confidence in the vehicle's reliability.
  7. Expert reviews
    Reviews from automotive experts can provide valuable insights into the reliability of a particular model or year.

About this ranking

This is a community-based ranking of the most reliable Mercedes C-Class. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or Mercedes C-Class is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!

Statistics

  • 8741 views
  • 163 votes
  • 10 ranked items

Voting Rules

A participant may cast an up or down vote for each Mercedes C-Class once every 24 hours. The rank of each Mercedes C-Class is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.

More information on most reliable mercedes c-class

The Mercedes C-Class has been a popular choice for luxury sedan buyers since its introduction in 1993. Over the years, the C-Class has undergone several updates and redesigns, resulting in a range of models with varying levels of reliability. While some models have been praised for their durability and performance, others have been plagued with mechanical issues. When it comes to determining the most reliable Mercedes C-Class, there are several factors to consider. These include the model year, engine type, and overall maintenance history. It's important to note that even the most reliable models may experience issues over time, especially if they are not properly maintained. To help narrow down your options, it's a good idea to consult expert reviews and consumer reports. These resources can provide valuable insights into the performance, reliability, and overall satisfaction of different Mercedes C-Class models. With careful research and consideration, you can find a reliable and high-performing C-Class that meets your needs and exceeds your expectations.

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