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1998 Mercedes Benz C Class problems

The most common problem on the 1998 Mercedes Benz C Class is suspension. It has fewer complaints than a typical C Class model year.

Typical yearClose to a typical year
Owner complaints
6
Recalls
1
Service bulletins
3
Worst area
Suspension
Fuel economy
17mpg

The worst 1998 Mercedes Benz C Class problems

Ranked by number of owner complaints. Mileage and cost come from what owners wrote.

  • Suspension
    2
  • Airbags
    1
  • Body
    1
  • Fuel system
    1
  • Visibility
    1

Problems by type

Tap a problem to see which part fails, at what mileage and in which other years.

  • Suspension
    2
  • Airbags
    1
  • Body
    1
  • Fuel system
    1
  • Visibility
    1

Recalls 1

Electrical system: 12v/24v/48v batteryReported December 4, 2001 · 65,731 vehicles affected
What is wrong
Vehicle description: passenger vehicles equipped with hoppecke batteries. The battery maintenance schedule could be less than needed to maintain proper electrolyte levels.
Risk
The low electrolyte levels result in accelerated battery grid growth, increased potential for inter-cell rupture and sparking, and the potential for a battery explosion.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect the batteries, including fluid levels. Some batteries may be replaced if necessary, on a case by case basis. In addition to the battery inspection, the addition of labels in the vehicle owner's manual and engine compartment will be included to conspicuously remind owners as well as dealer and service personnel of the need to perform battery maintenance. Owner notification began february 20, 2002. Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact mercedes-benz at 1‑800‑367‑6372.

Recall number 01V366000 · Recall details

See all 1 recalls for the 1998 Mercedes Benz C Class

Defect investigations

Engine crankshaft pulley failureOpened December 17, 2003, closed April 22, 2004

The office of defects investigation (odi) opened this preliminary evaluation to investigate allegations of engine crankshaft pulley harmonic balancer failure that could result in loss of power-steering assist.odi has received a total of 546 non-duplicative reports that allege engine crankshaft pulley harmonic balancer failure on all mercedes-benz vehicles using the subject component.the subject component failures are progressive in nature and only a small percentage of the complaints and warrant claims involved a failure that had progressed far enough to effect power steering performance (6 of 55 odi complaints reference increased steering effort).there have been no crashes or injuries related to the alleged defect.a safety-related defect has not been identified at this time and further use of agency resources does not appear to be warranted.accordingly, this investigation is closed.the closing of this investigation does not constitute a finding by the federal safety agency that a safety-related defect does not exist.the agency will take further action if warranted by the circumstances.see summary report attached for further detail.

PE03058

Battery explosionOpened July 31, 2001, closed December 13, 2001

PE01029

Technical service bulletins for the 1998 Mercedes Benz C Class 3

Bulletins tell dealers how to fix known problems. A warranty extension means the manufacturer pays for that repair for longer.

1998 Mercedes Benz C Class fuel economy

Official EPA estimates in miles per gallon (MPGe for electric). Ranges cover trims that share the same engine.

EngineDriveCityHighwayCombined
4.3L 8‑cylRWD162117

What 1998 Mercedes Benz C Class owners say

Most recent owner complaints, unedited.

Filed Mar 2, 2014 · Suspension · 173,000 miles · IN

Was driving car and heard loud noise got out and saw front right side was sitting lower on one side. Car pulls hard to the right. Had my mechanic inspect. Concluded that the cup holder that holds the vehicles springs was rusted out. I have researched this issue and seems to be a common problem and or design flaw. Thankfully did not happen at higher speeds in dangerous conditions.

Filed Jan 18, 2000 · FL

Britax roundabout car seat does not fit into mercedes c class car.

Filed May 11, 1999 · Airbags · AL

While driving airbag warning light came on and then the airbag exploded . There was no accident. The vehicle was at the dealer at the time the airbag exploded. Manufacturer has been notified.

Filed Feb 8, 1999 · Body, Suspension · KS

Heat shield makes noise when vehicle is turned off, due to design.

Filed Feb 1, 1999 · Fuel system · CA

Gas gauge sensor failed.

Filed Feb 1, 1999 · Visibility · CA

Window failed. Nlm

Compare the 1998 Mercedes Benz C Class

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Questions about the 1998 Mercedes Benz C Class

Is the 1998 Mercedes Benz C Class reliable?

Owners have filed 6 complaints about the 1998 Mercedes Benz C Class, fewer than a typical C Class model year.

What is the most common problem with the 1998 Mercedes Benz C Class?

Suspension, with 2 complaints. Next is airbags (1).

How many recalls does the 1998 Mercedes Benz C Class have?

1 recall, covering electrical system.

What gas mileage does the 1998 Mercedes Benz C Class get?

Official estimates for the 1998 Mercedes Benz C Class range from 17 mpg combined. The most efficient version (4.3L 8-cyl, RWD) gets 16 city and 21 highway.

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