Mercedes-Benz C-Class Estate (2008 - 2014) C250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY Sport 5d Auto Owner Review

Please don't buy one of these. In the space of a year the ignition lock failed (new part has to be coded by mb £500), water pump failed, another water leak on the fuel filter housing, various air leaks in the intake system and then inlet manifold failed (really common, and a total pig to change, £1500 from a decent garage). The engine has far too many parts made from substandard plastics, the ride is annoyingly firm for something that does not handle that brilliantly, the 5 speed auto gearbox is sluggish, the seat wears too easily, the interior feels very cheap and it is nothing special on fuel economy, but not that quick either. And the infotainment system is just plain annoying. And because MB are so awkward with their diagnostic systems it is a nightmare to fix at home and expensive in a garage. Reliability and longevity is important in a second hand car, this has none. I have had a few alfas, various classics and bangers. All of them were better than this. Save yourself massive repair bills and avoid this as a second hand buy. Get something Japanese, or Italian. That's right, we know the Japanese build a reliable car, but the Italians can do a far better job too. Seriously disappointing. And to top it off, when you do come to sell it, you get loads of dodgy punters trying to rip you off/scam you, 'cos is a merc and some people still think these are desirable. Fingers well and truly burnt.... Rant over