The common problems of the Mercedes c350e
Upon its introduction, the Mercedes C350e was seen as a reliable luxury car. Yet in practice, it turns out that this car is not entirely without problems. In this blog post, we discuss the most common problems of the C350e and give tips on how to deal with them.
1. Problems with the hybrid battery
One of the C350e’s biggest strengths is its plug-in hybrid drive, but this is precisely where the first problems often arise. The battery can degrade over time, leading to a shorter electric driving range. Some owners even report that the battery had to be completely replaced, a costly joke outside the warranty period.
Possible causes:
Regular full discharge of the battery.
Prolonged idling of the car without use.
Solution: Make sure the battery is charged regularly and avoid fully discharging. Regular use of the car helps prolong the life of the battery.
2. Problems with charging
Some C350e owners complain of glitches during charging, such as error messages or a charging process that stops unexpectedly. This can be frustrating, especially if you rely on the electric driving range.
Common causes:
Faulty charging cables or charging stations.
Problems with the car’s on-board charger.
Solution: Check if the problem occurs at different charging stations and cables. If this is the case, then the problem probably lies with the car itself and a visit to the dealer or a specialist is unavoidable.
3. Known software problems
The advanced technology in the C350e is a boon, but it can also be a source of irritation. Software problems in the infotainment system or on-board computer are common. This can lead to choppy screens, navigation not working or malfunctions in driver assistance systems.
Solution: A software update at the dealer can often solve these problems. Make sure you always have the latest firmware installed.
4. Gearbox problems
There are reports of jerky or slower shifting in the automatic gearbox. This may be especially noticeable at low speeds or when shifting between electric and combustion modes.
Possible causes:
Wear of components in the gearbox.
Incorrect calibration of the software.
Solution: A software recalibration or, in more serious cases, a mechanical check may be necessary. Always have this carried out by a specialist.
5. Problems with the air suspension system
The Mercedes C350e is often equipped with an air suspension system for extra driving comfort. However, this system can malfunction over time, such as uneven ride height or a noticeable deterioration in ride comfort.
Solution: Regular maintenance can prevent premature wear and tear. In case of problems, it is advisable to have the air suspension system checked quickly to avoid further damage.
Is the Mercedes C350e still a good choice?
Despite these problems, the Mercedes C350e remains a popular choice for those looking for a luxury plug-in hybrid. Many of the aforementioned issues can be prevented or fixed with proper maintenance and timely updates. In doubt about buying a used C350e? Then always have the car properly checked by a specialist and ask about its maintenance history, especially with regard to the battery and software updates.
