-The steering wheel and brake locked up and became unusable while driving at approximately 75mph. Cruise control was enabled for a few miles (maybe 2) and disabled after. Around 5 minutes after disabling, the car began to surge between acceleration and deceleration drastically on its own. All of the dashboard lights that come on when the key is initially inserted came on at once while engine was on/running and the car was in drive. After finally being able to reach a safe enough spot, I put the car in park and turned the engine off. I sat for a few minutes to try and turn the engine/car back on and the car would not crank, but the overhead lights, radio, and dash lights were functioning. -This was an extremely dangerous experience. The car began to decelerate rapidly in heavy freeway traffic. At that speed, with many semi-trucks traveling nearby, this sudden loss of speed created an extremely dangerous situation. My vehicle instantly became a slow moving obstacle in the lane. Only by luck and quick reaction was a serious or fatal collision avoided. The car would not start back up so I was sitting at the edge of the highway as many cars flew by just inches away from my car. -I am away at college in a rural city. Accessibility is limited as well as support because of lack of resources. -The car was towed to a mechanic who does not specialize in German cars and stated they did not have the proper tools to "get into the car" because the motor is "locked up" and the car wouldn't crank. -The vehicle will be towed to the nearest dealership (50mi away) who stated they won't be able to look at it for a few weeks from date of arrival. Research indicates this may be linked to a known issue with Electronic Steering Lock (ESL) / Electronic Ignition Switch (EIS) failure in Mercedes vehicles, which can electronically disable the engine and steering. This could've easily been fatal for me and still poses an alarming threat if not addressed.
The worst 2012 Mercedes-Benz C250 problems
Ranked by number of owner complaints. Mileage and cost come from what owners wrote.
Problems by type
Tap a problem to see which part fails, at what mileage and in which other years.
- Airbags168
- Engine63
- Fuel system18
- Brakes10
- Electrical9
- Body7
- Transmission6
- Steering5
- Acceleration3
- Driver assistance3
- Lights3
- Seats3
- Suspension3
- Visibility2
- Seat belts1
- Tires1
Specific symptoms reported on the 2012 Mercedes-Benz C250
Check engine light 36Stalling 9Loss of power 8Engine failure 7Airbag light 6Fuel pump 6Hesitation 6
Trouble codes owners of the 2012 Mercedes-Benz C250 mention
C250C 4P0002 3
Recalls 5
Air bags: frontal
- What is wrong
- Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2015-2016 E400 Coupe, 2012-2015 C250 Coupe, C350 Coupe, C63 AMG Coupe, 2011-2014 E350 Coupe, and 2012-2014 E350 Cabrio vehicles. An incorrect front passenger air bag may have been installed during a prior repair.
- Risk
- An incorrect air bag may not function properly in a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
- Remedy
- Dealers will replace the front passenger air bag on the affected vehicles, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on September 10, 2021. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1‑800‑367‑6372.
Recall number 21V638000 · Recall details
Air bags: frontal: passenger side: inflator module
- What is wrong
- Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC. (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2012 C250, C250 Coupe, C300, C350, C350 Coupe, C63 AMG, and C63 AMG Coupe vehicles equipped with a front passenger air bag assembly replaced under a prior recall. An incorrect replacement front passenger air bag may have been installed.
- Risk
- An incorrect passenger air bag may not provide adequate protection, increasing the risk of injury in the event of a crash.
- Remedy
- MBUSA will notify owners, and dealers will replace the passenger air bag module, free of charge. The recall began July 10, 2020. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1‑800‑367‑6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2020060011.
Recall number 20V298000 · Recall details
Air bags: frontal: passenger side: inflator module
- What is wrong
- Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2014 C250, C300 4Matic, C350, C63 AMG, E350 4Matic Coupe, E350 Cabrio, E350 Coupe, SLS AMG Cabrio, SLS AMG Coupe, 2014-2015 C250 Coupe, C350 4Matic Coupe, C350 Coupe, C63 AMG Coupe, GLK 350, GLK250 BlueTec 4Matic, GLK350 RWD, 2015-2017 E400 4Matic Coupe, E400 Cabrio, E400 Coupe, 2014-2017 E550 Cabrio, and 2014-2016 E550 Coupe vehicles sold, or ever registered, in the states of AL, CA, FL, GA, HI, LA, MS, SC, TX, PR, AS, GU, the MP, and VI or "Zone A." Additionally, MBUSA is recalling certain 2012-2014 C250, E350 4Matic Coupe, SLS AMG Cabrio, 2012-2015 C250 Coupe, C350 4Matic Coupe, C350 Coupe, C63 AMG Coupe, 2011 C300, 2011-2014 C300 4Matic, C350, C63 AMG, E350 Cabrio, E350 Coupe, SLS AMG Coupe, 2015-2016 E400 4Matic Coupe, E400 Cabrio, E400 Coupe, 2011-2016 E550 Cabrio, E550 Coupe, 2011-2015 GLK350 4Matic, GLK350 RWD, and 2013-2015 GLK250 BlueTec 4Matic vehicles ever registered in the states of AZ, AR, DE, DC, IL, IN, KS, KY, MD, MO, NE, NV, NJ, NM, NC, OH, OK, PA, TN, VA, and WV or "Zone B." MBUSA is also recalling certain 2012-2014 C250, E350 4Matic Coupe, SLS AMG Cabrio 2012-2015 C250 Coupe, C350 4Matic Coupe, C350 Coupe, C63 AMG Coupe, 2010-2011 C300, 2010-2014 C300 4Matic, C350, C63 AMG, E350 Coupe, 2011-2014 E350 Cabrio, SLS AMG Coupe, 2015-2016 E400 4Matic Coupe, E400 Cabrio, E400 Coupe, 2016-2017 E550 Cabrio, 2010-2016 E550 Coupe, 2010-2015 GLK350 4Matic, GLK350 RWD, and 2013-2015 GLK250 BlueTec 4Matic vehicles ever registered in the states of AK, CO, CT, ID, IA, ME, MA, MI, MN, MO, NH, NY, ND, OR, RI, SD, UT, VT, WA, WI and WY or "Zone C." These vehicles are equipped with air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules that may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, temperature and temperature cycling.
- Risk
- An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the passenger or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
- Remedy
- MBUSA will notify owners, and dealers will replace the passenger frontal air bag module, free of charge. The recall began March 29, 2019. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1‑800‑367‑6372.
Recall number 19V010000 · Recall details
Air bags: frontal
- What is wrong
- Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC. (MBUSA) is recalling these vehicles: 2014-2018 CLA250, CLA250 4Matic, CLA45 AMG 4Matic, 2015-2018 GLA250, GLA250 4Matic, GLA45 AMG 4Matic, C300 4Matic, C63S AMG, 2012-2014 C250, C350, C300 4Matic, E550 4Matic, 2013-2014 C63 AMG, 2012-2015 C250 Coupe, C350 Coupe, C63 AMG Coupe, 2013-2015 C350 4Matic Coupe, GLK250 4Matic BlueTec, GLK350, GLK350 4Matic, 2016-2017 C350e, C43 AMG, 2015 C400 4Matic, 2016-2018 C63 AMG, GLC300, GLC300 4Matic, 2017-2018 C300 Coupe, C300 4Matic Coupe, C43 AMG, C63 AMG Coupe, C63S AMG Coupe, C300 Cabriolet, C300 4Matic Cabriolet, C43 AMG Cabriolet, C63 AMG Cabriolet, C63S AMG Cabriolet, GLC300 4Matic Coupe, GLC43 AMG, GLC43 AMG Coupe, 2014 E350 Coupe, E350 4Matic Coupe, E350 Cabriolet, E400 Hybrid, 2015-2017 E400 Coupe, E400 4Matic Coupe, E400 Cabriolet, 2014-2017 E550 Coupe, E550 Cabriolet, B250e, 2014-2016 E250 BlueTec, E63 AMG 4Matic Wagon, 2012-2013 E350 BlueTec, 2012-2016 E350, E350 4Matic, 2015-2016 E400, E400 4Matic, 2012 E63 AMG, 2014-2015 E250 4Matic BlueTec, 2013-2016 E350 Wagon, 2017 GLC300d 4Matic, and 2018 GLC350e 4Matic. The driver's air bag may unexpectedly deploy due to insufficient grounding of the steering components if an electrostatic discharge occurs and the air bag clockspring is broken.
- Risk
- If the driver air bag inadvertently deploys, it can increase the risk of injury and a crash.
- Remedy
- MBUSA will notify owners, and dealers will add sufficient grounding to the steering components, free of charge. The recall began in December 6, 2017. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1‑877‑496‑3691.
Recall number 17V627000 · Recall details
Air bags: frontal: passenger side: inflator module
- What is wrong
- Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2012 C300 4Matic, C250, C250 Coupe, C350, C350 Coupe 4Matic, C350 Coupe, C63 AMG, C63 AMG Coupe, E350 Coupe 4Matic, E350 Cabrio, E350 Coupe, E550 Cabrio, E550 Coupe, GLK350 4Matic, GLK350, SLS AMG Cabrio, and SLS AMG Coupe vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands, or "Zone A." Additionally, unless included in "Zone A" above MBUSA is recalling certain 2009 C300 4Matic, C300, C350 and C63 AMG vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia, or "Zone B." Additionally, unless included in "Zone A" or "Zone B" above MBUSA is recalling certain 2008 C300 4Matic, C300, and C350 vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, New Hampshire, New York, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. These vehicles are equipped with certain air bag inflators assembled as part of the passenger frontal air bag modules, and used as original equipment or replacement equipment. In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the front air bags, these inflators may rupture due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to absolute humidity and temperature cycling.
- Risk
- An inflator rupture may result in metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
- Remedy
- MBUSA will notify owners, and dealers will replace the front passenger air bag modules, free of charge. Owners were sent an interim notification in March 2017. Second notices started going out in October 2018 and continue to be mailed as parts become available. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1‑877‑496‑3691
Recall number 17V017000 · Recall details
See all 5 recalls for the 2012 Mercedes-Benz C250
Defect investigations
Desiccated Air Bag Inflator Rupture
From 2000 through 2017, Takata produced millions of air bag inflators using two types of phase-stabilized ammonium nitrate ("PSAN") propellant -- propellant 2004 and propellant 2004L. After prolonged exposure to high temperature cycles and humidity, inflators using propellant 2004 can degrade, causing the propellant to burn too quickly when ignited. The rapid burning can cause the inflator to rupture during deployment, potentially causing serious or even fatal injury to vehicle occupants. See 2016 Blomquist Report at all frontal inflators using propellant 2004 that do not contain a "desiccant" (a substance that traps and holds moisture) in US vehicles are under recall. These "non-desiccated" inflators either have been or are required to be replaced.In some cases, the remedy part for these recalled inflators was, or will be, an inflator using either propellant 2004 or 2004L that does contain a desiccant. None of these "desiccated" remedy parts (which were installed in older model year vehicles) are currently under recall for a degradation concern. Certain subsets of desiccated PSAN inflators using propellant 2004 for use as original equipment, however, have been recalled for a degradation concern. All Takata inflators produced with propellant 2004L contain desiccant, and none of these desiccated inflators using propellant 2004L are under recall for a degradation concern. There have been no reported field ruptures in any non-recalled desiccated PSAN inflators.It is understood that desiccants fully saturate at some threshold, at which point any additional moisture will not be captured. This means the degradation process observed in non-desiccated inflators using propellant 2004 may also occur in non-recalled desiccated inflators using propellant 2004, assuming additional moisture enters the inflator and high temperature cycling occurs. Based on available information, desiccant saturation can occur within the first five years in the worst environments, and the time required for full saturation is affected by multiple factors. While no present safety risk has been identified, further work is needed to evaluate the future risk of non-recalled desiccated inflators using propellant 2004.Three entities -- Takata (now known as TK Global), the Independent Testing Coalition, and Exponent -- have been studying the long-term behavior of Takata desiccated PSAN inflators using propellant 2004L (as well as 2004) in the presence of moisture and temperature cycling. The research efforts, which include development of predictive modeling techniques and field sample analysis, are ongoing. To date, none of the researchers have identified field evidence showing that propellant 2004L is undergoing a degradation process that leads to aggressive deployment and potential rupture. However, the time in service of such inflators remains short compared to that of the inflators using propellant 2004. Further study is needed to assess the long-term safety of desiccated inflators using propellant 2004L.The Office of Defects Investigation is opening this investigation to examine whether a safety defect related to propellant degradation exists in non-recalled desiccated PSAN frontal inflators manufactured by Takata. This investigation will require extensive information on Takata production processes and surveys of inflators in the field. Lists of recall actions that may have used desiccated PSAN inflators as remedy parts, as well as the makes and models originally manufactured with them, is available with the downloadable version of this document (see -- note this information is subject to change/revision as the investigation proceeds). This investigation does not supersede EA15-001, which remains open.
EA21002
Technical service bulletins for the 2012 Mercedes-Benz C250 112
Bulletins tell dealers how to fix known problems. A warranty extension means the manufacturer pays for that repair for longer.
- Mercedes-Benz AG (“MBAG”), the manufacturer of Mercedes-Benz vehicles, has extended the warranty for the...
- Engine
- Engine
- Visibility/wiper
- Repeat workshop visit for vehicle vibration while braking from 60MPH. NOTE: Although the symptom is...
- Clanking noise from the area of the speakers in the doors
- A popup is seen on the HU with the message "data connection temporarily not available". Potentially...
- Single throttle lift-off clunking noise from the side shaft when moving off (audible at the outboard end)
- Creaking noise, in irregular sequence when driving slowly in combination with slight steering movements...
- There are several types of complaint about noises or poor windshield wiper wiping performance: A: Wiper...
2012 Mercedes-Benz C250 fuel economy
Official EPA estimates in miles per gallon (MPGe for electric). Ranges cover trims that share the same engine.
| Engine | Drive | City | Highway | Combined |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1.8L 4‑cyl | RWD | 21 | 31 | 25 |
What 2012 Mercedes-Benz C250 owners say
Most recent owner complaints, unedited.
The contact owns a 2012 Mercedes-Benz C250. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, there was an abnormal rattling sound coming from the vehicle with the check engine warning light illuminated. The contact drove the vehicle to the shoulder of the road. The contact stated that the rattling sound continued, and the vehicle shuddered abnormally. The vehicle was towed to the residence. The independent mechanic provided mobile service and diagnosed the vehicle with cam shaft timing chain adjuster failure. The contact was informed that the cam shaft timing chain adjuster needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure but provided no assistance. The contact was advised to contact the federal safety agency Hotline and report the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 150,000.
The contact owns a 2012 Mercedes-Benz C250. The contact stated while driving 35-40 MPH and depressing the brake pedal, the brake pedal was significantly stiff, and the vehicle failed to respond as needed. The contact stated that upon standing on the brake pedal, the vehicle responded as needed. The contact stated that the failure recurred while driving 65 MPH. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where the vacuum pump was replaced; however, the failure recurred. The vehicle was taken to Mercedes-Benz of Beaumont (1865 I-10 S, Beaumont, TX 77701), where it was test-driven, and the dealer became aware that the brake pedal was extremely firm. The dealer diagnosed the vehicle and determined that the vacuum pump needed to be replaced. The part was replaced; however, the failure persisted. The contact stated that the failure increased, causing the contact to engage the parking brake to stop the vehicle. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, but no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 96,826.
The model/year Mercedes-Benz are well known for experiencing this/these particular issues. My research has shown that these year/make/model vehicles are experiencing the same type of mechanical failures nationwide. The issues all relatively begin around 75,000 miles. I've only had my car 3 years putting 30000 on it hardly driven/cared for **Issue Found:** Oil was leaking onto the ignition coil and spark plug of cylinder 3. **Source of Leak:** Valve cover gasket failure. **Recommended Repairs:** - Replace the valve cover gasket (to halt the oil leak). - Replace spark plugs and ignition coil (which were contaminated/damaged by oil). **Relevance to Warranty:** The valve cover gasket is only covered if it fails as a result of an internally lubricated engine part causing damage. Ignition coils and spark plugs are maintenance items and are not covered by warranty plans. **Required Repairs (Identified Mechanical Issues)** - **Coolant Pipe Leak – $850** **Issue:** Coolant leaking from a pipe on the side of the cylinder head. **Relevance to Warranty:** Typically not covered unless it pertains to a failure in a covered system such as the water pump or cylinder head due to an internal breakdown. This is likely classified as an external plumbing component, which is not included. - **Oil Feed Line Leak – $600** **Issue:** Oil leaking from the side of the engine, traced back to the oil feed line. **Relevance to Warranty:** This is not typically covered unless the oil feed line is part of the oil pump system and has failed due to an internal issue (usually regarded as an external line). **Other Items Found (Worsening Issues)** - **Timing Chain Rattle / Cam Adjuster Noise – $6,000** -**Issue:** Rattling sound during startup. **Diagnosis:** Noise emanating from the timing chain and camshaft adjusters. **Relevance to Warranty:** This is covered under Secure Plus, as both the timing chain and camshaft adjusters are recognized as internally lubricated par
The contact owns a 2012 Mercedes-Benz. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the Check Engine and High Pressure Fuel Pump warning lights was illuminated. The failure occurred on several different occasions. The vehicle was taken back to the residence. The contact did research and was made aware of an unknown the federal safety agency Campaign Number however, the VIN was not included. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.Â
Lost of drive power and the vehicle steering wheel locked on my mercedes from a damaged malfunctioning steering lock actuator module due to mechanical issues within the steering column such as bad steering wheel assembly, faulty steering lock module or issue with the wiring or other electrical components and the mercedes dealer is the only one who solves this issue no other mechanic in general. My safety was at risk due to I lost power and lost of front brakes due to bad sway bar assembly or components could of caused and accident when this happened on November 12, 2024 the problem dealership found during vehicle inspection was code 25464 they told me recommend to replace electric lock module and repair estimate was $2,829.78 and before I approved the the amount I told Mr Ivan Velasco service advisor that after they replace the module that if my vehicle was going to be working again and that if I was just going to make 1 payment of $2,829.78 then I would approved it so I did. Weeks later I got an email asking for more money they wanted another payment for $600 saying it needed a sensor that has something to do with the transmission because after replacing the new module the vehicle did not start up there was no type of communications nothing at all and I responded that I was not going to pay $600 more just cause they don't know what their doing because they promise me the car was going to work after they replace the module now that it did not want to crank up they found another issue that's their fault on not doing there job the right way and for telling lies yes their was flashing blue or red icon on my dashboard that look like a car and a lock would go on and off and it displayed a message saying The theft protection is activated. I want to know if I can get this issue approved and to be considered a recall can you please help I'm so frustrating and mad that they want more money when it's already so expensive please help I would of appreciate it thank you.
1. The car radio, blue-tooth, speakers, sound, car remote sound. Happened after a battery change by AAA - unsure if it's related. CUstomer service tried to resolve it - radio turns on, but nothing else works. 2. Doors won't unlock outside or inside - except passenegers side is open. 3. Accelerator acting strange - won't pick speed after 30, then 60 4. there was an air bag recal of this car a while ago.
The contact owns a 2012 Mercedes-Benz C250. The contact stated while the vehicle was parked, the anti-lock theft prevention feature failed to function as intended. The contact stated that the steering wheel was seized, and the vehicle failed to start. The vehicle was towed to the residence. The contact was informed by the tow truck driver that the failure was due to the electronic lockout system. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or the dealer. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 143,000.
My vehicle, has the engine making noise ,when starting,, the lifters rattle...I was told to check with mercedes benz for recall info...however, the company states,this vehicle is not included....it has 52,000 original miles, and has been maintained...I believe, this problem should be covered by the manufacturer...please advise.....I have had the mb dealer do a diagnosis..they confirm the lifters are disfunctioning....
I got stranded in the middle of the street my vehicle does not crank steering lock so I had my vehicle towed into the Mercedes dealership the one in Figueroa st Monday November 18 2024 at around 03:24pm and this is what they told me. Needs immediate attention custom recommendation ELECTRIC STEERING LOCK During vehicle inspection found electric steering lock has malfunction code 25464 recommend to replace electric steering lock first and perform re-check. Repair total estimate: $2,829.78 I definitely can't afford to pay that amount please help with this issue
Compare the 2012 Mercedes-Benz C250
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Questions about the 2012 Mercedes-Benz C250
Is the 2012 Mercedes-Benz C250 reliable?
Owners have filed 272 complaints about the 2012 Mercedes-Benz C250, 1.7 times a typical C250 model year.
What is the 2012 Mercedes-Benz C250 year score?
The 2012 Mercedes-Benz C250 scores 54 out of 100 (below average). The score compares it with the other model years of the Mercedes-Benz C250: 75 is a typical year, 50 means twice the usual complaints, and serious complaints and recalls lower it.
What is the most common problem with the 2012 Mercedes-Benz C250?
Airbags, with 168 complaints, typically around 55,000 miles. Next is engine (63).
How many recalls does the 2012 Mercedes-Benz C250 have?
5 recalls, covering air bags.
Was there a recall on the 2012 Mercedes-Benz C250 airbags?
Yes, 5 recalls: 21V638000, 20V298000, 19V010000. Check your VIN to see if your car still needs the free repair.
What year does the Mercedes-Benz C250 have bad airbags?
The Mercedes-Benz C250 model years with the most airbags complaints are 2012 (168 complaints), 2013 (163 complaints) and 2014 (94 complaints).
What gas mileage does the 2012 Mercedes-Benz C250 get?
Official estimates for the 2012 Mercedes-Benz C250 range from 25 mpg combined. The most efficient version (1.8L 4-cyl, RWD) gets 21 city and 31 highway.
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