There are no safety recalls for the 2003 Mercedes-Benz 230, but owners have filed 5 complaints with NHTSA.
2003 Mercedes-Benz 230 problems reported by owners
| Problem area | Reports | |
|---|
| Air Bags | 2 | |
| Fuel System, Gasoline | 1 | |
| Electrical System | 1 | |
| Visibility | 1 | |
| Latches/Locks/Linkages | 1 | |
Most reported parts
- Fuel System, Gasoline › Storage › Tank Assembly › Filler Pipe and Cap — 1
- Air Bags › Side/Window — 1
- Visibility › Sun/Moon Roof Assembly — 1
Typical mileage at the time of the problem: 30,000 miles (median of owner reports).
Problems that are not covered by a recall are paid repairs; labor rates follow local mechanic pay — see what auto mechanics earn in each state.
Recent 2003 Mercedes-Benz 230 complaints
Owner reports filed with NHTSA, as written (personal details removed). Complaints are not verified by NHTSA.
Latches/Locks/Linkages · at 30,000 miles · reported Feb 18, 2011
Mercedes 230 c kompressor. Lifted hood after 'check engine' lit up. As hood was being lifted the spring loaded passenger side hood latch release flew out with tremendous force - striking nose and eyeglasses - dropped hood instantly - yanking right shoulder causing injury requiring ongoing medical treatment along with permanent scar on nose. Mercedes inspected part but never provided ;technical report regarding defective part which utilized plastic insert.
Visibility · reported Dec 29, 2009
My 2003 mercedes c230 moonroof broke completely by summer 2009. I experienced problems with the moonroof squeaking/rattling from the first day I purchased the vehicle and it was serviced a number of times and other times the mechanic would say they couldn't recreate the noise and then it finally wouldn't open anymore. Mercedes wants an incredible amount to repair it (Approx. $4,500).
Electrical System · at 83,000 miles · reported Mar 17, 2009
I have a 2003 mercedes c230 with 80k miles, the car would stop running either while idol or driving down the road. Took it to the dealer, replaced o2 sensor, next week same problem, replaced 02 sensor again, it died again while at the dealer, dealer then explained the oil harness leaked into the 02 sensor and knocked out the cam sensors and crank sensor as well, so they replaced those parts plu the harness and subharness. I understand from 2007-2008 mercedes service blogs that "seems to happening on the m271 motor's (2003-2005 c230); the cam sensors leak oil were the wire goes into the sensor…
Fuel System, Gasoline · at 19,139 miles · reported Aug 16, 2005
Gas cap cover central system did not release on three separate occasions . The manual provides emergency trunk release but none exists notwithstanding gouging of arm on exposed sharp internal fender-trunk screws . Mercedes complaint office insists trunk release exists. Finally new country mb dealer, hartford, ct service mgr and chief mechanic admit to erroneous info in manual as did roadside assistance previously - even after contacting mb engineering I was able to prove this defect exists. Causing likelihood of injury to anyone following manual instruction re reaching into trunk panel…
Air Bags · reported Sep 22, 2004
The air bags are deploying. So far no injuries. The air bags have deployed on two service techs. And one tow truck driver. Deployment is do to a defect.
Frequently asked questions
Does the 2003 Mercedes-Benz 230 have any recalls?
No. NHTSA has no safety recalls for the 2003 Mercedes-Benz 230 as of this update. Check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls for the latest status.
What is the most common problem with the 2003 Mercedes-Benz 230?
Owners report air bags problems most often (2 reports), followed by fuel system, gasoline (1). The typical mileage when problems were reported is about 30,000 miles.
Are Mercedes-Benz recall repairs free?
Yes. Safety recall repairs are free at authorized Mercedes-Benz dealers, whether you are the first owner or bought the car used.