I own a C 280 (96) [xxx] car started consuming more gas than normal, was harder to start, started missing and drove sluggish. I replaced the spark plugs and cables. But it got worse, and then quit, as if it was out of time. I send it to an imported car service shop in dalton, ga. They told me that it is a common problem on this Mercedes Benz Benz. The wiring harness underhood (insulation on the wiring) crumbled to pieces, like dust and shorted relays and all the car. I paid over $2600 to have it repaired. I still have the old harness as evidence that it should be a recall because Y could lead to a worse problem, like fire. The mechanic told me that he has repaired several C-280 with the same problem and that Mercedes Benz has been notified and they will not do anything. An expensive car as it is should be built better than this. (the wiring harness itself is worth $1600 or more. Updated 07/17/2012 information redacted pursuant to the Freedom Of Information Act (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

- Dalton, GA, USA