KNOWN FAULTS · Mercedes-Benz

Mercedes-Benz Clase C (W204) C 180 / 200 / 250 (M271) common problems.

2007–2014 · Petrol

Sources are not verified in real time and no entry confirms that your car is affected.

2 known faults with sources

Applies if: Only if fitted with 7G-Tronic. Confirm the gearbox type.

7G-Tronic conductor plateGearbox

Engine / equipment: 7G-Tronic automatic gearbox (722.9) in the C, E, S-Class, ML, GL, SLK, Sprinter…
Period mentioned: 2004 onwards (more failures in 2004–2008)
Symptoms: Gearbox stuck in 2nd or 3rd (limp mode), harsh shifts, delay engaging D or R, gearbox warning often without an engine light; turning off and restarting clears it for a while.
Possible cause described: The conductor plate (the control unit with built-in speed sensors) fails from heat and vibration. Oil leaks through the 13-pin connector are also common.
Check for the garage: Diagnose with Xentry/STAR to see the sub-codes (a basic reader only shows P0700). Check for oil in the gearbox connector.
Cost cited in the source: Approx. €1,400–2,800 (estimate)A rough figure from the original database, not an up-to-date quote.

M271 chain and camshaft adjustersValve timing

Engine / equipment: M271 1.8 Kompressor / CGI (C 180/200 W203 and W204, E 200 W211/W212, CLK 200, SLK 200)
Period mentioned: 2002–2015
Symptoms: Rattle for 2–3 seconds or more on a cold start; engine light for camshaft timing deviation.
Possible cause described: A single-row chain that stretches and cast-iron camshaft adjusters whose teeth wear. On later versions the hydraulic tensioner fails more often.
Check for the garage: Listen to a cold start, read timing fault codes and check the chain replacement history.
Cost cited in the source: €1,500–3,000A rough figure from the original database, not an up-to-date quote.