This is a C230 kompressor coupe. The rear differential made a loud noise and then locked up after being driven slowly to a shop. It was later learned that this is a very common occurrence with the early 2002 C class cars but as usual, there is no recall. I contacted mbusa and they offered no assistance. This car has also recently shown evidence of rusting. I contacted mbusa about that and learned that the mb corrosion protection in the U.S. is merely four years. I also found that most of the other german luxury automakers have used galvinized steel for decades, unlike the manufacturing practices of mb. Overall, between built-in mechanical failures and the rust, and the fact that mbusa does not stand behind their vehicles, I will certainly steer clear of Mercedes in the future.

- Mentor, OH, USA

The contact owns a 2002 Mercedes Benz C230. On October 15, 2008, while driving 65 mph, the vehicle suddenly decelerated to 15 mph on its own. The vehicle was towed to the garage. It was diagnosed that the radiator failed and coolant fluid penetrated the transmission reserved fluid. The mechanic replaced the radiator and cleaned the transmission at the cost of $5,000. The mechanic stated that the transmission will eventually also need to be replaced. The failure mileage was 56,146 and current mileage is 59,000. Updated 02/24/09. Updated 02/25/09.

- New Smyrna Beach, FL, USA

While driving my C-240 between 30 & 60 mph I can feel a vibration on the shift lever & the steering wheel & if put my hand on top of the instrument panel. You can sense the vibration around you. It seems to come from the power train, via drive shaft, trans. Or differential, the dealer replaced & balanced all four tires, and it I thuoght it was corrected but the problem still persits sometimes it is more noticible than others, I took the car back to the dealer to have it checked out but on a test drive the service man said he can't feel anything wrong & that it might be me....

- Bayside, NY, USA