GradeMercedes-Benz C-Class Reliability Grade
Above-average reliability
Grade a specific Mercedes-Benz C-Class
Reliability changes from year to year. Pick a model year to see its grade, then add mileage and price to get a deal score and estimated miles remaining.
The Mercedes-Benz C-Class earns a B+ overall reliability grade from GradeMyCar, with a B for its engine and an A- for its transmission. It ranks 7th of 17 luxury vehicles we grade. The engine (B) is the weaker of its two major components, so ask for oil-change records and have a mechanic check for leaks and oil consumption. Grades are based on 2,200 owner complaints filed with NHTSA for the 2013-2023 model years, adjusted for how many were sold.
Mercedes-Benz C-Class reliability by year
Overall grade for each model year, from owner complaints filed with NHTSA. Tap a year to see its full grade.
Best years: 2000, 2021, 2022 and 2023
Faded years are recent, so fewer complaints have come in. Their grades may change.
How long does the Mercedes-Benz C-Class last?
A rough estimate for the model across all years, not measured for each model year.
Mercedes-Benz C-Class vs. other luxury vehicles
| Model | Engine | Trans. | Overall |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lexus RX | A | A | A |
| Lexus ES | A | A | A |
| Lexus GS | A- | A | A |
| Lexus NX | A | A | A |
| BMW 5 Series | B | A- | A- |
| Audi A4 | B+ | A | A- |
| BMW 3 Series | B- | B+ | B+ |
| BMW X3 | B- | B+ | B+ |
| Mercedes-Benz C-Class | B | A- | B+ |
| Mercedes-Benz E-Class | B+ | A- | B+ |
| Audi Q5 | B | A- | B+ |
| Mercedes-Benz GLC | C+ | B+ | B |
| Mercedes-Benz GLE | B | B | B |
| Acura RDX | B+ | B | B |
| BMW X5 | C | C+ | C+ |
| Acura MDX | B- | D | C |
| Acura TLX | C | D | C- |
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Rate your C-ClassMercedes-Benz C-Class reliability FAQ
Is the Mercedes-Benz C-Class reliable?
Above-average reliability. The Mercedes-Benz C-Class earns a B+ overall reliability grade from GradeMyCar, with a B for its engine and an A- for its transmission. It ranks 7th of 17 luxury vehicles we grade. The engine (B) is the weaker of its two major components, so ask for oil-change records and have a mechanic check for leaks and oil consumption. Grades are based on 2,200 owner complaints filed with NHTSA for the 2013-2023 model years, adjusted for how many were sold.
How many miles will a Mercedes-Benz C-Class last?
We estimate a well-maintained Mercedes-Benz C-Class lasts around 175,000 miles. That's a rough figure for the model across all years, not measured for each model year, so check the grade for the year you're looking at.
What are the best years for the Mercedes-Benz C-Class?
Based on NHTSA owner complaints, the most reliable Mercedes-Benz C-Class model years are 2000, 2021, 2022 and 2023.
What Mercedes-Benz C-Class years should I avoid?
No Mercedes-Benz C-Class model year stands out as a problem year in NHTSA owner complaints.
Is the Mercedes-Benz C-Class transmission reliable?
GradeMyCar grades the Mercedes-Benz C-Class transmission an A- (excellent reliability). Reliability varies by model year, so grade the specific year you're looking at.
Is the Mercedes-Benz C-Class engine reliable?
GradeMyCar grades the Mercedes-Benz C-Class engine a B (above-average reliability).