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2018 Mercedes-Benz C300 body problems

14 complaints (14% of all complaints for this car). Typical mileage when it fails: 49,000. 2 crashes reported.

owner complaints
14
of this car's complaints
14%
typical mileage
49,000
crashes
2
recalls
3

Which part fails

  • Body
    8

At what mileage

Complaints by mileage at the time of the problem.

0k-25k
25k-50k
50k-75k
75k-100k
100k-125k
125k-150k
150k-175k
175k-200k
200k+

Mercedes-Benz C300 body problems in other years

2010201520202026

Related recalls

Structure: body: roof and pillarsReported December 15, 2023 · 2,976 vehicles affected
What is wrong
Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2014-2020 C-Class, CLA, GLA, S-Class, GLC, and GLE vehicles. Please refer to MBUSA's recall report for specific vehicle details. The front roof panel located between the windshield and the panoramic sunroof may not have been bonded correctly to the vehicle during a prior repair, allowing the front panel to detach from the vehicle.
Risk
A detached roof panel can become a road hazard, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the front panel, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on August 2, 2024. Owner notification letters will be mailed in phases, on, March 22,2024, and August 2, 2024. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1‑800‑367‑6372. This recall is an expansion of the federal safety agency recall number 21V‑197.

Recall number 23V854000 · Recall details

Structure: body: roof and pillarsReported March 19, 2021 · 15,096 vehicles affected
What is wrong
Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2017-2020 C300 Coupe, C43 Coupe AMG, C43 AMG, 2015-2020 C300, GLA250, 2016-2018 C350e, CLA45 Coupe AMG, 2015 C400, S65 AMG, 2015-2019 C63 AMG, 2016 C450, 2015-2016 GLA45 AMG, S600, 2016-2020 GLC300, 2017-2019 GLC43 AMG, GLE43 Coupe AMG, 2014-2019 CLA250 Coupe, 2014-2015 CLA45 AMG, 2018 GLC63 AMG, 2014-2017 S550, 2018-2020 S450, 2016-2019 GLE63 Coupe AMG, 2016 GLE450 Coupe, 2014-2020 S63 AMG, 2018-2019 S560, and 2019 GLC350e vehicles equipped with a panoramic sunroof. The front roof panel located between the windshield and the panoramic sunroof may not have been bonded correctly to the vehicle during a prior repair.
Risk
The adhesive bonding of the front panel might deteriorate, possibly causing the front panel to detach from the vehicle and become a road hazard, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Mercedes-Benz dealer will remove the bonded panel and will install a new front panel by following the detailed repair instructions and using the approved primer, cleaner and adhesive, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on September 3, 2021 and October 26, 2021. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1‑800‑367‑6372.

Recall number 21V197000 · Recall details

Structure: bodyReported July 10, 2018 · 10,826 vehicles affected
What is wrong
Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2017-2018 Mercedes C300 Cabriolet, C300 4Matic Cabriolet, C43 AMG Cabriolet, C63S AMG Cabriolet, and C63 AMG Cabriolet vehicles. Due to a bonding issue introduced in the production process, the rear beltline trim may separate from the vehicle.
Risk
If the beltline trim were to separate from the vehicle while driving, it could become a road hazard, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
MBUSA will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the rear beltline trim and replace the trim if necessary, free of charge. The recall began on September 21, 2018. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1‑800‑367‑6372.

Recall number 18V456000 · Recall details

Related investigations

Front Roof Panel DetachmentOpened January 8, 2021, closed October 14, 2021

On January 8, 2021, after ongoing review with Mercedes Benz, the federal safety agency Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened PE21-001 to assess allegations of front roof panel detachments while driving at highway speeds in certain 2015 Mercedes-Benz (Mercedes) C-Class vehicles.The subject front roof panel is a stationary panel composed of polycarbonate and is attached to the vehicle via adhesive at the time of manufacture. The panel is found on subject vehicles equipped with panoramic sunroofs. Over time, the subject panels may exhibit cosmetic degradation leading to replacement of the panel, a procedure which entails: removal of the old panel and adhesive, site preparation, and installation of a replacement panel with new adhesive.The consumer complaints that prompted the opening of PE21-001 all described detachments of front roof panels that had been replaced after the vehicle was put into service.Mercedes' internal investigation identified a broader scope of affected vehicles (2014-2020 CLA, GLA, C, S, GLC, and GLE class) and found the following potential service procedure- related causes of front roof panel detachments:- Improper surface pretreatments such as the use of the wrong primer or cleaner or scoring of the surface; or - Use of the incorrect adhesive.These conditions lead to a front roof panel bond that, even if sound at the time of repair, cannot maintain its strength over time and environmental exposure.Mercedes updated its service and parts ordering systems to reinforce the proper use of specified kits and procedures via webinars, shop foreman meetings, and explicit reference to the risks incurred by diverging from the repair procedures. Mercedes is also furnishing parts ordering assistance, and will hold dealerships accountable for improper repairs.ODI's analysis of the ten complaints it has received from the public (VOQ's) and MBUSA's complaint data submitted in response to the information request letter for PE21-001 identified a total of 57 non-duplicative reports alleging incidents in which the front roof panel detached from the vehicle while in motion. Included within the 57 reports are incidents where consumers state the panel detached ...and flew off into traffic.On March 19, 2021, Mercedes notified the federal safety agency that it would recall subject vehicles with front roof panels known to have been replaced after the original sale of the vehicle. In total, the recall (designated as Recall 21V197) covers 15,099 vehicles that were ever registered in the United States. Based on Recall 21V197 and the remedy implemented by Mercedes, further investigation does not appear to be warranted at this time.Accordingly, this investigation is closed.The ODI complaints cited above can be viewed at under the following ODI identification numbers: 11376425, 11352686, 11351629, 11349158, 11341541, 11337594, 11324100, 11311591, 11222127, 11404183

PE21001

What 2018 Mercedes-Benz C300 owners say

Most recent owner complaints, unedited.

Filed Sep 16, 2026 · Body · NC

Front roof panel came detached at hwy speed

Filed Aug 26, 2026 · Body · 83,000 miles · FL

The contact owns a 2018 Mercedes-Benz C-300. The contact stated that while driving 70 MPH South on the interstate towards Miami, the front panel detached without warning. The contact pulled over to inspect the vehicle and became aware that the panel between the windshield and sunroof had detached. The contact stated that water started entering the vehicle from several areas. The sunroof was inoperable. The contact called the insurance company. The contact associated the failure with the federal safety agency Campaign Number: 23V854000 (Structure). The local dealer was contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was contacted, but no additional assistance was provided. The approximate failure mileage was 83,000.

Filed Mar 5, 2026 · Body · CA

The contact's wife owns a 2018 Mercedes-Benz C300. The contact stated that while washing the vehicle, a part of the panoramic roof started moving while depressing the glass. The contact stated that there was water leaking into the vehicle from the glass. Upon investigation, the contact discovered the federal safety agency Campaign Number: 23V854000 (Structure); however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, and a case was filed. The manufacturer confirmed that the VIN was not included in the recall. The contact was then referred to the federal safety agency Hotline to report the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.

Filed Aug 19, 2025 · Body · 109,000 miles · TX

The contact owns a 2018 Mercedes-Benz C300. The contact stated that while driving approximately 60 MPH, a part of the panoramic roof towards the driver's side detached from the vehicle. The contact pulled over to inspect the vehicle. The part was no longer attached, and the contact had to continue driving. The failure caused additional electrical failures due to water entering the cabin of the vehicle. The contact stated that the sunroof failed to open, and the infotainment center was inoperable. The contact found information on the federal safety agency Campaign Number: 23V854000 (Structure); however, the VIN was not included. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who related the failure to the recall; however, the vehicle could not be repaired under the recall because the VIN was not available. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was informed of the failure and opened a case. The manufacturer confirmed that the VIN was not included in the recall. The manufacturer referred the contact to the federal safety agency Hotline to file a complaint. The failure mileage was approximately 109,000.

Filed Jun 4, 2025 · Body · 49,000 miles · CA

The contact owns a 2018 Mercedes-Benz C300. The contact stated that after washing the vehicle, the contact became aware that the adhesive attaching the rear window to the convertible top had started to detach. Upon further inspection, the contact became aware that water had seeped into the vehicle through the crack. There was no warning light illuminated. The local dealer was contacted; however, the vehicle was not diagnosed. The contact was also informed that the VIN was not under recall. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 49,000.

Filed Sep 12, 2024 · Body · NC

Problem a recall was done on certain Mercedes vehicles where the front panel of the roof between the panoramic sunroof and windshield has defects in gluing or bonding agent from the manufacture. I believe my vehicle is showing possible premature bonding agent issues below the surface of panel. Where the manufacture bonding glue is causing interior flaking and cracking and lifting from the stress of the wrong/incorrect specified bonding material not used during the manufacturing process . I am afraid that while driving my vehicle at highway speed has the opportunity / potential for my panel to eventually break off and cause damage of flying panel pieces to harm myself or other vehicles traveling on the road. I believe the wrong bonding material is also causing other issues with the panel and the workmanship material used. My vehicle falls under the year, make, W222 and I am already seeing issues with my panel that by being proactive on my vehicle then reactive. I don’t want to wait for my panel to fly off when early detection and rectification is the safest way/option. My second concern is that there has already been changing dates on this recall information sent out in 2017, 2019 and now 2021. I am worried!!

Filed Jun 2, 2024 · Body, Driver assistance · CA · crash

I am wanting to add information to my original complaint. Tracking#11589822 When I called in the electrical issue to AAA the agent said this is a common problem on these cars. Next, I want to add photos the Mercedes of Fresno service department sent me during the 2nd time my car was taken in to be checked. I honestly don't remember off hand when the collision occurred, I have that paper work somewhere. I will find it and send it in also. I will also get paper work from the auto body place that fixed as much of the wiring that it could. There was also a video on line I will try to find again and send that in.

Filed May 21, 2024 · Body, Driver assistance · CA · crash

While I was driving to work in a heavy rain my abs malfunction light came on in my car. I decided to take it to the Mercedes-Benz dealership in Fresno. They said it was the ABS module that needed to be replaced. After being in the shop for almost 3 weeks they said it was fixed. When I went to pick it up, the moment I turned it on the ABS malfunction light came on again. I was told that it was okay to drive and they would have somebody come check it out at my work the next day. My car went back into the shop for another week and they could not figure out what was wrong with it. They did take pictures and the second time I took it in they noticed a bunch of water underneath the floorboard. By this time, I had lost confidence in them fixing my car the manager basically kicked me off the lot and told me never to go back again. So I continued to drive my car since I was told it was okay first time they fixed it. Short while later, I rear-ended another car. The ABS system did not warn me that I was too close. When I took my car in to get the body work fixed I was also given a name of somebody who would be able to fix the electrical problems and insurance would pay for it. He was able to fix the ABS system but could not find where the short was that controlled the passenger seat and the driver side back seat window and for the needle that tells me if my car is overheating. Nobody could figure out where the water had been coming from. It wasn't until recently when we just had a heavy storm that I noticed water leaking from inside the car through a seam. The running boards on the top of my car were not installed correctly so water seeps in there during rains and then it travels down underneath my floorboards and sits which was the cause of the shorts in my electrical system. My concern is that I don't know how bad other components of the car might be that one of the wires might at any of the wires might short while I'm driving now but unable to download receipts which I have

Filed May 3, 2024 · Body · FL

The contact owns a 2018 Mercedes-Benz C300. The contact stated while driving at approximately 65 MPH, there was a windy sound coming from the front of the vehicle. The contact then noticed the sound of an impact on the rear driver's side of the vehicle. The contact pulled to the side of the road and noticed that the front roof panel had separated and had struck the rear driver's side of the vehicle above, the wheel. The contact was able to continue driving. The vehicle was taken to an unknown dealer, where it was determined that the failure was related to the federal safety agency Campaign Number: 23V854000 (Structure) however, the VIN was not included. The dealer informed us that the repair would be an out-of-pocket expense. The insurance company towed the vehicle to an independent mechanic for the repair. The vehicle was being repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and referred the contact to the federal safety agency Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was unknown.

Filed Oct 25, 2023 · Body · 45,000 miles · FL

The contact owns a 2018 Mercedes-Benz C300. The contact stated while attempting to close the sunroof, the sunroof failed to close properly. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was not taken to the dealer or an independent mechanic. The vehicle was not repaired. After investigating the failure, the contact related the failure to the federal safety agency Campaign Number: 21V197000 (Structure) but the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, and a case was opened. The failure mileage was 45,000.

Questions about the 2018 Mercedes-Benz C300 body

Does the 2018 Mercedes-Benz C300 have body problems?

Owners have filed 14 complaints about the body of the 2018 Mercedes-Benz C300, 14% of all its complaints.

At what mileage do 2018 Mercedes-Benz C300 body problems start?

The typical (median) mileage in owner complaints is 49,000 miles.

Was there a recall on the 2018 Mercedes-Benz C300 body?

Yes, 3 recalls: 23V854000, 21V197000, 18V456000. Check your VIN to see if your car still needs the free repair.

What year does the Mercedes-Benz C300 have the most body problems?

The Mercedes-Benz C300 model years with the most body complaints are 2015 (61 complaints), 2013 (58 complaints) and 2012 (55 complaints).

Other 2018 Mercedes-Benz C300 problems

Engine 35Steering 12Electrical 10Fuel system 10Driver assistance 5Airbags 4Lights 3Visibility 3Brakes 2Tires 2Transmission 2Seat belts 1Seats 1Wheels 1

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