Mercedes-Benz C-Class Problems

I’ll assume you’re talking about a C200, Kevin, which was the most popular Benz model with a 200 in its name back in those days. The good news is that, no, that engine doesn’t need a timing belt change. That’s because it uses a timing chain rather than a rubber timing belt and, all things being equal, the timing chain should last the lifespan of the car itself.

All Mercedes-Benz passenger cars from that era would all have been sold brand-new with two keys. If you’ve bought the car second-hand with just the one key, you can contact a Mercedes-Benz dealership, quote the car’s VIN and the dealer will be able to order the correct key and electronically code it to work in your car. It could cost several hundred dollars, however.

I assume the noise you are unhappy with is road noise. You could try a Michelin tyre, which is probably your best option, but the tyres are run-flats, so you won't get a soft ride whatever the brand you fit.

There is nothing that should cause them any concern, the C-Class ’Benz is a well-engineered and well-built car. While they are generally reliable they can, like any car, breakdown and need repairs. Servicing can be expensive, you pay for the name. Otherwise, any common faults are likely to show up on our problems page. 

Buying a smaller, new car would give you the certainty of a long warranty and the benefit of capped price servicing. You could consider a Kia Rio, for instance, which would have a 7-year, unlimited kilometre warranty.

In terms of reliability and common faults there is little difference between Mazda, Honda and Toyota. They are all good, reputable brands building cars of a good quality with few reliability issues. Choose the one that best suits your family needs.

We’ve asked Mercedes-Benz for help with your problem, but in the meantime you could take the car to a Mercedes-Benz specialist mechanic and have then show you, or do it for you.

Is it a minor service? Perhaps it’s a major one? The cost depends on what needs to be done. The best thing to do is to ring around and check a number of service places, from main retails outlets like Kmart, Repco, Ultra-Tune etc., and some specialist Mercedes-Benz mechanics. That would you a good guide.

The C63 is a good car worth buying, if it hasn’t been thrashed and had a good record of regular servicing. With that sort of mileage on it you should be able to enjoy many years of reliable and fun motoring in the future. Costs of servicing can be high if you used a dealer, but you can reduce the cost by going to an independent Mercedes-Benz specialist mechanic.