C-Class (W205)
NHTSA Safety Ratings About NHTSA ratings
Engine Reliability Ratings
4.0-V8-Gas
4.0L 8-cyl / 503 hpView details
Complaint Breakdown
Known Issues
2.0-I4-PHEV
2.0L 4-cylView details
Complaint Breakdown
Known Issues
Mercedes-Benz C-Class Unidentified Engine
View details
Complaint Breakdown
Known Issues
3.0-V6-Gas
3.0L 6-cylView details
Complaint Breakdown
Known Issues
1.8-I4-Gas
1.8L 4-cylView details
Complaint Breakdown
Known Issues
M276
3.0L 6-cyl TurboView details
Complaint Breakdown
Known Issues
M264
2.0L 4-cyl Turbo / 255 hpView details
Complaint Breakdown
Known Issues
2.0-I4-Gas
2.0L 4-cyl / 241 hpView details
Complaint Breakdown
Known Issues
Show 1 additional engine variant with limited data
3.5-V6-Gas
3.5L 6-cylView details
Complaint Breakdown
Known Issues
Vehicle-Level Issues
These issues affect the Mercedes-Benz C-Class regardless of engine variant.
Recalls (6)
Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2021-2023 C-Class, E-Class, S-Class, CLS, SL, GT, GLC, GLE, GLS, and G-Class vehicles. Please refer to MBUSA's recall report for specific vehicle details. The fuel pump may shutdown, which can result in a loss of drive power.
Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2017-2022 CLA-Class, GLA-Class, GLE-Class, GLS-Class, SLC-Class, A-Class, AMG GT-Class, C-Class, E-Class, S-Class, SL-Class, GLC-Class, CLS-Class, GLB-Class, and G-Class vehicles. Please refer to MBUSA's recall report for specific vehicle model details. An error in the communication module's SIM card software can cause a mobile network connection failure, disabling the emergency call (eCall) system.
Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2018-2021 CLA-Class, GLE/GLS-Class, A-Class, C-Class, E-Class, E-Class Coupe/Convertible, GLA/GLB-Class, GLC-Class, and CLS-Class vehicles. Please refer to MBUSA's recall report for specific vehicle model details. The rearview camera may not display the rearview image due to a software error. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2021 C300 Cabriolet, C43 AMG Cabriolet, C63 AMG Cabriolet, C63 AMG S Cabriolet, E450 Cabriolet, and E53 AMG Cabriolet vehicles. The rear headrests may be incorrectly mounted to the seatbacks.
Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2016 - 2021 CLA-Class, GLA-Class, GLE-Class, GLS-Class, SLC-Class, A-Class, GT-Class, C-Class, E-Class, S-Class, CLS-Class, SL-Class, B-Class, GLB-Class, GLC-Class, and G-Class vehicles. Please refer to the Part 573 report for specific vehicle model details. The software design of the communication module may fail to communicate the correct vehicle location for the emergency call system (eCall) in the event of a crash.
Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2021 C-Class, E-Class, E-Class Coupe and Convertible, GLC, CLS, AMG GT 4-door Coupe and G-Class vehicles. Please refer to MBUSA's recall report for specific vehicle model details. A faulty electrical contact within the seat position switch may prevent the driver and passenger air bags and seat belt force limiters from properly activating during a crash.
All Generations
Alternatives in Compact Sedan
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common 2015-2021 Mercedes-Benz C-Class problems?
The 2015-2021 Mercedes-Benz C-Class has accumulated 1,214 NHTSA complaints. The most frequently reported problem areas are Engine, Fuel System, Electrical System. As with any used vehicle, an inspection before buying and a vehicle history report are recommended.
Which Mercedes-Benz C-Class engine is most reliable?
The 2015-2021 Mercedes-Benz C-Class was offered with 9 engine options. Based on NHTSA complaint data, the 4.0L 8-cyl has the lowest complaint density and is considered the most reliable choice for buyers.
Is the 2015-2021 Mercedes-Benz C-Class a good used car?
The 2015-2021 Mercedes-Benz C-Class can be a sound used car depending on trim, mileage, and maintenance history. With 1,214 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 2015-2021 Mercedes-Benz C-Class have?
The 2015-2021 Mercedes-Benz C-Class has 1,214 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 2015-2021 Mercedes-Benz C-Class?
There are 6 NHTSA recalls affecting some 2015-2021 Mercedes-Benz C-Class vehicles. Recall status varies by VIN โ 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, Fuel System, Electrical System, 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 2021 Mercedes-Benz C-Class received an overall 5-star safety rating from NHTSA. Frontal crash: 4 stars. Side crash: 5 stars. Rollover: 4 stars (11.1% rollover probability). 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. 1,214 complaints analyzed. Data confidence: high. Last updated: 2026-05-23.