Mercedes-Benz

C-Class (W203)

2001-2007 · Midsize Sedan
1,139 NHTSA Complaints
0 Recalls
48 Fire Reports
58 Crash Reports
Includes data from: C-CLASSC230
View all 4 generations of the Mercedes-Benz C-Class → 📋 Inspection checklist

NHTSA Safety Ratings About NHTSA ratings

Overall Not Rated
Frontal Crash
Side Crash
Rollover
ESC: Standard FCW: No LDW: No
Overall Not Rated
Frontal Crash
Side Crash
Rollover
ESC: Standard FCW: No LDW: No
Overall Not Rated
Frontal Crash
Side Crash
Rollover
ESC: Standard FCW: No LDW: No
Overall Not Rated
Frontal Crash
Side Crash
Rollover
ESC: Standard FCW: No LDW: No
Overall Not Rated
Frontal Crash
Side Crash
Rollover
ESC: Standard FCW: No LDW: No
Overall Not Rated
Frontal Crash
Side Crash
Rollover
ESC: Standard FCW: No LDW: No
Overall Not Rated
Frontal Crash
Side Crash
Rollover
ESC: Standard FCW: No LDW: No

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common 2001-2007 Mercedes-Benz C-Class problems?

The 2001-2007 Mercedes-Benz C-Class has accumulated 1,139 NHTSA complaints. The most frequently reported problem areas are Engine, Cooling System, Safety Systems. As with any used vehicle, a pre-purchase inspection and vehicle history report are recommended.

Which Mercedes-Benz C-Class engine is most reliable?

The 2001-2007 Mercedes-Benz C-Class was offered with 3 engine options. Based on NHTSA complaint data, the 4.0L 6-cyl has the lowest complaint density and is considered the most reliable choice for buyers.

Is the 2001-2007 Mercedes-Benz C-Class a good used car?

The 2001-2007 Mercedes-Benz C-Class can be a solid used car purchase depending on trim, mileage, and maintenance history. With 1,139 total NHTSA complaints on record, prospective buyers should review the known problem areas and check for open recalls before buying.

How many NHTSA complaints does the 2001-2007 Mercedes-Benz C-Class have?

The 2001-2007 Mercedes-Benz C-Class has 1,139 complaints filed with NHTSA as of our latest data pull. Complaint counts reflect owner-reported issues and do not necessarily indicate defects or safety risks on their own.

What recalls affect the 2001-2007 Mercedes-Benz C-Class?

There are 0 NHTSA recalls affecting some 2001-2007 Mercedes-Benz C-Class vehicles. Recall status varies by VIN — check the NHTSA recall database at recalls.nhtsa.dot.gov with your specific VIN to confirm which campaigns apply.

What should I check before buying a used Mercedes-Benz C-Class?

Before buying a used Mercedes-Benz C-Class, verify all open recalls are completed via the NHTSA VIN lookup tool. Pay particular attention to Engine, Cooling System, Safety Systems, which are the most commonly reported problem areas. Request maintenance records, have an independent mechanic inspect the vehicle, and run a vehicle history report to check for prior accidents or title issues.

What are the NHTSA crash test ratings for the C-Class?

The 2007 Mercedes-Benz C-Class received an overall N/A-star safety rating from NHTSA. Frontal crash: N/A stars. Side crash: N/A stars. Rollover: N/A stars. Electronic Stability Control: Standard. Forward Collision Warning: No. Lane Departure Warning: No. These ratings are based on standardized crash tests conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Data from NHTSA federal complaints database. 1,139 complaints analyzed. Data confidence: high. Last updated: 2026-04-07.

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