Recalls: Mercedes W203 C 32 and C 55 AMG
Overview
Manufacturers, or importers, issue recalls for defects or faults which have the potential to cause injury. Generally, manufacturers will inform the original buyers if their vehicle is subject to a recall and of the steps required to remedy the defect or fault. Please note that the recalls below (if any) are for Australian-delivered vehicles only. Furthermore, the number of recalls should not be taken as an indication of a model’s reliability or its safety more generally.
Recalls: Mercedes W203 C 32 and C 55 AMG
Mercedes W203 C 32 and C 55 AMG with sunroof: glass panel may separate
In August 2020, recall campaign RC2752 was issued for Mercedes W203 C 32 and C 55 AMG Sedans that had sunroofs. In these vehicles, the durability of the bonding between the sunroof glass panel and the sliding roof frame may not meet specifications and the glass panel may separate from the vehicle. If this occurred, there was an increased risk of a collision and risk of injury to road users. For the VINs of the recalled vehicles, please see PRA 2020/18467.
2001-07 Mercedes-AMG W203 C-Class Sedan: glass sunroof panel may detach
In July 2021, recall campaign RC2888 was issued for 2001-07 Mercedes-AMG W203 C-Class Sedans. Over time, the bonding of the sunroof glass panel may deteriorate and the glass panel may separate from the vehicle. If the sunroof panel detached, it would increase the risk of a collision and injury for road users. For the VINs of the recalled vehicles, please see REC-001647.
2001-05 Mercedes-AMG W203 C-Class Sedan: sunroof panel may detach
In February 2023, recall campaign RC3109 was issued for 2001-05 Mercedes-AMG W203 C-Class Sedans that were equipped with panoramic glass sliding sunroofs (option code 413). Due to a manufacturing defect, the sliding sunroof panel and frame may not have been bonded correctly. As a result, the sunroof panel may detach from the vehicle. If the panel partially or fully detached from the vehicle, there was an increased risk of injury to road users. For the VINs of the recalled vehicles, please see REC-005620.
2005-07 Mercedes-AMG W203 C-Class Sedan: sunroof panel may detach
In February 2023, recall campaign RC3108 was issued for 2005-07 Mercedes-AMG W203 C-Class Sedans that were equipped with panoramic glass sliding sunroofs (option code 413). Due to a manufacturing defect, the sliding sunroof panel and frame may not have been bonded correctly. As a result, the sunroof panel may detach from the vehicle. If the panel partially or fully detached from the vehicle, there was an increased risk of injury to road users. For the VINs of the recalled vehicles, please see REC-005619.
2001-07 Mercedes-AMG W203 C-Class Sedan: sunroof panel may detach
In February 2023, recall campaign RC3110 was issued for 2001-07 Mercedes-AMG W203 C-Class Sedans that were equipped with panoramic glass sliding sunroofs (option code 414). Due to a manufacturing defect, the sliding sunroof panel and frame may not have been bonded correctly. As a result, the sunroof panel may detach from the vehicle. If the panel partially or fully detached from the vehicle, there was an increased risk of injury to road users. For the VINs of the recalled vehicles, please see REC-005621.
Problems and faults: Mercedes W203 C 32 and C 55 AMG
Overview
This section identifies potential problems, causes and fixes based on the experiences of owners and repairers, online sources and technical service bulletins. This information is provided solely for reference purposes and AustralianCar.Reviews recommends that only properly qualified persons carry out repairs or modifications. Furthermore, the number of items below should not be taken as an indicator of a model’s reliability or the frequency with which they may occur.
To report a problem or fault to the AustralianCar.Reviews team, please use the Contact Us form. Note that AustralianCar.Reviews does not offer advice on automotive problems or disputes; such enquiries will not receive a reply. For vehicles purchased from dealers after 1 January 2011, please see our Australian Consumer Law fact sheet.
Engines
- For models fitted with V6 engines, the engine may run rough or hesitate due to water entering the crankshaft position sensor; if so, the sensor and wiring assembly require replacement.
Problems and faults: Mercedes W203 C 32 and C 55 AMG
- Knocking noises from the front suspension – particularly on rough roads – may be due to worn torsion bar links as water enters the ball joints through split seals.
- A whistling sound from under the bonnet when the brakes are released may be due to a faulty power brake booster.
- Tapping noises from the fuel tank may require a restrictor to be installed in the fuel vent line.
- The power steering hose may leak at the connection with the rack-and-pinion assembly due to O-ring damage.
- A scraping noise from the transmission tunnel area may be due to insulation drooping and coming into contact with the drive shaft.
- The air conditioning may stop working due to water leaking into the evaporator sensor.
- The battery in the key fob may drain – and its programming erased – if the key is left in the ignition for extended periods (up to 36 hours).
- For early models, the upper radiator support brackets bolts were susceptible to breaking.
