Mercedes-Benz

C-Class (W204)

2008-2014 · Midsize Sedan
3,927 NHTSA Complaints
0 Recalls
71 Fire Reports
127 Crash Reports
View all 4 generations of the Mercedes-Benz C-Class → 📋 Inspection checklist

NHTSA Safety Ratings About NHTSA ratings

Overall 5/5
Frontal Crash
4/5
Side Crash
5/5
Rollover
4/5 (10.5% risk)
ESC: Standard FCW: Optional LDW: No
Overall 5/5
Frontal Crash
4/5
Side Crash
5/5
Rollover
4/5 (10.5% risk)
ESC: Standard FCW: Optional LDW: No
Overall 5/5
Frontal Crash
4/5
Side Crash
5/5
Rollover
4/5 (10.5% risk)
ESC: Standard FCW: Optional LDW: Optional
Overall 5/5
Frontal Crash
4/5
Side Crash
5/5
Rollover
4/5 (10.5% risk)
ESC: Standard FCW: Optional LDW: Optional
Overall Not Rated
Frontal Crash
Side Crash
Rollover
4/5 (10.5% risk)
ESC: Standard FCW: No LDW: No
Overall Not Rated
Frontal Crash
Side Crash
Rollover
4/5 (10.5% risk)
ESC: Standard FCW: No LDW: No
Overall 4/5
Frontal Crash
3/5
Side Crash
5/5
Rollover
4/5 (10.5% risk)
ESC: Standard FCW: No LDW: No
Overall 4/5
Frontal Crash
3/5
Side Crash
5/5
Rollover
4/5 (10.5% risk)
ESC: Standard FCW: No LDW: No
Overall Not Rated
Frontal Crash
Side Crash
Rollover
4/5 (10.5% risk)
ESC: Standard FCW: No LDW: No
Overall Not Rated
Frontal Crash
Side Crash
Rollover
4/5 (10.5% risk)
ESC: Standard FCW: No LDW: No
Overall Not Rated
Frontal Crash
Side Crash
Rollover
4/5 (10.5% risk)
ESC: Standard FCW: No LDW: No

Alternatives in Midsize Sedan

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common 2008-2014 Mercedes-Benz C-Class problems?

The 2008-2014 Mercedes-Benz C-Class has accumulated 3,927 NHTSA complaints. The most frequently reported problem areas are Safety Systems, Electrical System, Steering. 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 2008-2014 Mercedes-Benz C-Class was offered with 7 engine options. Based on NHTSA complaint data, the 2.4L 4-cyl has the lowest complaint density and is considered the most reliable choice for buyers.

Is the 2008-2014 Mercedes-Benz C-Class a good used car?

The 2008-2014 Mercedes-Benz C-Class can be a solid used car purchase depending on trim, mileage, and maintenance history. With 3,927 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 2008-2014 Mercedes-Benz C-Class have?

The 2008-2014 Mercedes-Benz C-Class has 3,927 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 2008-2014 Mercedes-Benz C-Class?

There are 0 NHTSA recalls affecting some 2008-2014 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 Safety Systems, Electrical System, Steering, 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 2014 Mercedes-Benz C-Class received an overall 5-star safety rating from NHTSA. Frontal crash: 4 stars. Side crash: 5 stars. Rollover: 4 stars (10.5% rollover probability). Electronic Stability Control: Standard. Forward Collision Warning: Optional. 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. 3,927 complaints analyzed. Data confidence: high. Last updated: 2026-04-07.

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