Skip advert
Advertisement

Used Mercedes C-Class (Mk4, 2014-2021) - What should you look for?

The Mk4 Mercedes C-Class has had its fair share of issues, with owners often reporting reliability problems

In its final year being featured as a car available to buy new, the Mercedes C-Class Mk4 wasn’t exactly a standard-setter in our 2021 Driver Power survey. The C-Class was ranked 71st out of 75 cars, and owners said they weren’t impressed with the build quality or reliability. Keep a look out for the issues below when you’re looking around used examples.

Common used Mercedes-Class Mk4 problems

Brakes

Advertisement - Article continues below

The brakes on the Mercedes C-Class Mk4 can squeal, in particular the ones on the front wheels, and this can be difficult to rectify.

Wind noise

Poorly fitting doors and seals can result in an excessive amount of wind noise entering the cabin.

Audio

Many Mercedes C-Class Mk4 owners say the standard-fit stereo isn’t punchy enough. Even the upgraded sound system has suffered from this issue.

Trim

The artificial leather MB-Tex seat upholstery can discolour and appear stained.

Recalls

The Mercedes C-Class Mk4 has suffered 20 recalls to date, covering a variety of faults and defects. These include a leaking AdBlue filler pipe on diesel models, loss of power assistance for the steering, oil and fuel leaks and the engines running the risk of stalling. Other issues the fourth-gen Mercedes C-Class has been recalled for include seatbelts failing to function properly and airbags failing to go off in the event of an accident, and a loss of control when driving due to the steering column working free.

 

Skip advert
Advertisement

New & used car deals

Mercedes C Class

Mercedes C Class

RRP £32,830Used from £13,200
BMW 3 Series

BMW 3 Series

RRP £31,915Avg. savings £5,008 off RRP*Used from £8,000
BMW 5 Series

BMW 5 Series

RRP £52,195Avg. savings £8,090 off RRP*Used from £44,328
Audi A6

Audi A6

RRP £39,640Avg. savings £7,356 off RRP*Used from £16,990
* Average savings are calculated daily based on the best dealer prices on Auto Express vs manufacturer RRP
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

Citroen is plotting a new 2CV – but the risks are huge
Citroen 2CV retro render

Citroen is plotting a new 2CV – but the risks are huge

We talk to Citroen bosses on plans to reboot its icon – and do they go retro or futuristic?
News
8 Jun 2025
New Kia Sportage breaks cover and it’s sleeker than ever
Kia Sportage - front

New Kia Sportage breaks cover and it’s sleeker than ever

Full specification and details have been announced for the UK version of Kia’s big-selling mid-size SUV
News
4 Jun 2025
Best mid-size SUVs to buy 2025 - our expert pick of the top options
June 2025 Best mid-size SUVs

Best mid-size SUVs to buy 2025 - our expert pick of the top options

Mid-size SUVs are hugely popular in the UK, and these are the very best of the current crop
Best cars & vans
4 Jun 2025