The contact owns a 2004 Mercedes-Benz CL500. The contact stated that while driving approximately 15 mph and attempting to make a left turn, the vehicle hesitated momentarily to shift from 1st to 2nd gear. The contact stated that the failure was most evident while the vehicle was being driven at speeds under 40 mph. Additionally, the instrument panel and several gauges failed to provide accurate information or readings. The contact also stated that trunk failed to remain upright when opened; the active body control (abc) workshop warning light was illuminated; there was an unknown green fluid leaking underneath the front of the vehicle; and the power steering pump and active body control (abc) pump were defective. The contact took the vehicle to a certified mechanic who confirmed the leak of the active body control (abc) and power steering fluid. The contact was informed that pressure built up in the valve body was the cause for the failures. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact contacted Mercedes Benz of West caldwell (1220 bloomfield ave, West caldwell, NJ 07006, (973) 227-3600) and was informed that the vehicle was not subjected to any recalls related to the failures experienced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The approximate failure mileage was 127,600.

- Newark, NJ, USA

I have black Mercedes C230 kompressor sports sedan 2004 model. Car was purchased brand new at Mercedes authorized dealer. There is no modification made to this car and all the servicing done at Mercedes authorized dealer since I bought this car. It had only 58000 miles. Last B servicing which checked any safety related issues and includes regular maintenance, was done at authorized dealer on 02/18/2012. No issue was informed on 02/18/2012 to us by Mercedes authorized dealer servicing department. On 06/21/2012, when I was driving this car from work to home, I turned on A/C, A/C shutdown and I started smelling smoke. On left side of my car there is A/C vent and I saw fire inside the hood through that vent.I pulled over car right away and electricity went out with in 1 min of my pulling over and within 4 min, whole car was burning. My car is now totaled. This poses following security concerns: 1. Mercedes C230 2004 is made of highly inflammable material and driver and users of car has very less chance to survive if there is fire. 2. Mercedes C230 2004 model A/C unit is not of highest quality and electrical system is faulty. Both of above issues poses very serious security risks to public and it needs through investigation. I contacted Mercedes head quarter for investigation and Mercedes declined to investigate. Geico stated in report that hood is stuck and cause of fire is unknown. Geico insurance company authorized Mercedes engineers to investigate further upon my request and Mercedes usa does not want to investigate further. I have pictures of burnt car and can share if it helps in investigation to rule out above 2 concerns. We do not want others to go through same ordeal as we went through. Updated 06/13/13 updated 06/17/2013

- North Potomac, MD, USA

2004 Mercedes Benz C- class wagon. Consumer writes in regards to defect that allows coolant to leak into the transmission, requiring replacement of the transmission, torque converter and radiator the consumer stated he was forced to spend over six thousand dollars to have the transmission replaced, to correct a defect Mercedes Benz was aware of.

- Pittsboro, NC, USA