In this Vehicle Platform Guide, you will find the top common issues of Mercedes C240 (W203, Base - RWD 2001-2005 / 4Matic-AWD - 2003–2005) 2.6 V6 Gasoline, along with their fault codes, and the solutions from eEuroparts.com
The Mercedes-Benz C240 (W203), produced from 2001 to 2005, is a luxury compact sedan powered by a 2.6L V6 gasoline engine, delivering a refined performance of 168 horsepower. It features a 5-speed automatic transmission, ensuring smooth and responsive gear shifts for a comfortable driving experience. Available in both rear-wheel drive (Base, 2001–2005) and all-wheel drive (4Matic, 2003–2005) configurations, this model offers versatile handling and stability. The C240 boasts premium features such as high-quality interior materials, advanced safety systems, and a spacious trunk, providing comfort, security, and practicality for its occupants.
Top Common Issues with Mercedes-Benz C240 (W203, Base - RWD 2001-2005 / 4Matic-AWD - 2003–2005) 2.6L V6 Gasoline
ABS Wheel Speed Sensor
1. ABS Wheel Speed Sensor Failure
Fault Codes:
C1140–C1144: wheel speed sensor faults; C1014: CAN sensor communication issue; U0121: lost ABS module communication.
Why it happens:
ABS wheel speed sensor failure happens due to dirt, corrosion, or physical damage affecting the sensor's ability to accurately detect wheel speed.
Symptoms:
ABS warning light illuminated on the dashboard.
Reduced braking performance, especially on slippery or uneven surfaces.
Pulsing or unsteady braking during ABS activation.
Inaccurate speedometer readings, as the sensor also feeds speed data.
Parts to Replace
Front 2035400417 is a reliable replacement part designed to ensure accurate wheel speed data for the ABS system, enhancing braking performance and safety.
Rear Passenger Side 2035401417 is a reliable replacement part designed to ensure accurate wheel speed data for the ABS system, enhancing braking performance and safety.
Rear Driver Side 2035401317 is a reliable replacement part designed to ensure accurate wheel speed data for the ABS system, enhancing braking performance and safety.
The P0571 code signals a fault in the cruise control or brake switch circuit, often due to a faulty sensor or wiring issue.
Why it happens:
A brake light switch malfunction typically occurs due to wear and tear, corrosion, faulty wiring, or contamination affecting its ability to activate the brake lights.
Symptoms:
Brake lights staying on or not turning on at all.
Difficulty shifting out of "Park" in automatic vehicles.
Cruise control failing to engage or disengage.
Dashboard warning lights, such as ABS or traction control, illuminating.
Issues starting the car, especially in push-button start systems.
Front lower control arm bushing wear occurs due to constant exposure to road impacts, stress, and environmental elements, leading to material deterioration over time.
Symptoms:
Clunking or knocking noises, especially when driving over bumps or during turns.
Excessive vibration felt through the steering wheel or floor.
Uneven tire wear, due to misalignment caused by worn bushings.
Poor handling or steering response, leading to a loose or unstable driving feel.
Visible cracks or wear on the bushings during inspection.
Parts to Replace
Front Lower 2033330914 is a high-quality replacement part designed to restore proper suspension alignment and handling.
Rear Inner 2023520165 is a high-quality replacement part designed to restore proper suspension alignment and handling.
Rear Inner 2013528865 is a genuine OEM component designed to ensure proper suspension alignment and smooth handling.
Rear suspension link failure occurs due to wear, corrosion, or excessive stress from rough driving conditions, leading to weakened or broken components.
Symptoms:
Clunking or knocking noises, especially when driving over uneven surfaces.
Excessive rear-end sway, leading to instability during turns or lane changes.
Uneven tire wear, caused by misaligned suspension components.
Reduced handling performance, making the vehicle feel less responsive.
Visible damage or corrosion on the suspension links during inspection.
Rear Upper Rearward 2103503406 The Genuine Mercedes-Benz Suspension Control Arm is a high-quality replacement part that is designed to improve the overall performance of your Mercedes-Benz suspension system.
P0300–P0306 fault codes indicate misfires in one or multiple engine cylinders, potentially due to ignition, fuel, or compression issues.
Why it happens:
Ignition coil failure occurs due to overheating, electrical wear, or insulation breakdown, resulting in weak or inconsistent sparks for engine combustion.
Symptoms:
Engine misfires or rough idling, due to inconsistent spark generation.
Reduced fuel efficiency, as incomplete combustion wastes fuel.
Difficulty starting the engine, especially in cold conditions.
Loss of engine power or poor acceleration, affecting overall performance.
Check Engine Light activation, often accompanied by misfire-related fault codes like P0300–P0306.
Backfiring or unusual engine noise, caused by unburned fuel igniting improperly.
Parts to Replace
The Hitachi IGC0143 Direct Ignition Coil is a reliable and cost-effective replacement part for Mercedes-Benz vehicles. This aftermarket direct ignition coil is engineered to match the design and performance of the original.
Inner and outer tie rod wear typically occurs due to constant stress, exposure to road debris, or lack of maintenance, leading to deterioration over time.
Symptoms:
Uneven or excessive tire wear.
Loose or unresponsive steering, often with excessive play in the steering wheel.
Vibrations or shaking felt in the steering wheel, especially at higher speeds.
Difficulty maintaining proper wheel alignment, causing the vehicle to pull to one side.
Clunking or knocking noises when turning or driving over bumps.
Parts to Replace
Front Inner 2033380215 is a genuine OEM component designed for various Mercedes-Benz models. It connects the steering rack to the steering arm.
Front Driver Side Outer 2033303303 is a high-quality OEM replacement part designed for various Mercedes-Benz models. It connects the steering knuckle to the steering rack.
The Bison Performance Steering Tie Rod End part number BPSS20104 is the perfect replacement part for your Mercedes-Benz vehicle.
Steering rack boot failure typically occurs due to wear and tear, exposure to debris, or lack of proper lubrication, leading to cracks or damage in the protective boot.
Symptoms:
Visible cracks or tears in the boot.
Leaking grease or fluid around the steering rack area.
Increased steering stiffness or difficulty turning.
Unusual noises, such as grinding or knocking, during steering.
Accelerated wear on the steering rack components due to exposure to debris.
P0101 and P0102 indicate issues with the Mass Airflow (MAF) sensor, affecting the measurement of air entering the engine and disrupting performance.
Why it happens:
Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor failure typically occurs due to contamination, wiring issues, or sensor wear, leading to inaccurate air intake measurements.
Symptoms:
Check Engine Light activation, often accompanied by fault codes such as P0101 or P0102.
Poor engine performance, like hesitation, rough idling, or stalling due to incorrect air-fuel mixture.
Reduced fuel efficiency, as the engine compensates for inaccurate airflow readings.
Difficulty starting the engine, particularly in colder conditions.
Black smoke from the exhaust, indicating a rich fuel mixture caused by faulty sensor readings.
Pierburg 7.22684.11.0 is a premium-quality component designed to measure air intake accurately, ensuring optimal engine performance and fuel efficiency.
P0128 indicates that the engine coolant temperature is below the thermostat's regulating temperature, often due to a faulty thermostat or a coolant sensor issue.
Why it happens:
Thermostat housing and sensor failure occurs due to corrosion, physical damage, or sensor wear, leading to inaccurate temperature regulation and potential coolant leaks.
Symptoms:
Engine overheating or running cooler than usual due to improper temperature regulation.
Coolant leaks, often visible near the thermostat housing, leading to low coolant levels.
Check Engine Light activation, with fault codes like P0128 indicating temperature-related issues.
Fluctuating temperature gauge readings, pointing to inaccurate sensor data.
Reduced fuel efficiency, as the engine operates outside the optimal temperature range.
Parts to Replace
Wahler 428187D is a high-quality thermostat designed to regulate engine temperature effectively.
P0201–P0206, P0300, and P030X fault codes indicate issues with the fuel injector circuits or cylinder misfires, affecting engine performance and efficiency.
Why it happens:
Fuel injector malfunction occurs due to clogging, electrical issues, or wear over time, leading to improper fuel delivery and engine inefficiency.
Symptoms:
Rough idling or engine misfires, as fuel delivery becomes inconsistent.
Reduced fuel efficiency, due to improper combustion.
Loss of engine power or acceleration, stemming from inadequate fuel supply.
Strong fuel odor, caused by leaking or faulty injectors.
Check Engine Light activation, often accompanied by fault codes like P0201–P0206 or P0300/P030X.
Black smoke from the exhaust, indicating a rich fuel mixture.
Bosch Mercedes Fuel Injector 62649 is a high-quality component engineered for precise fuel delivery, ensuring optimal engine performance and efficiency.
P2503, P0562, and P0620 fault codes indicate issues with the vehicle's charging system or generator circuit, leading to low system voltage and potential electrical malfunctions.
Why it happens:
Voltage regulator faults occur due to wear, overheating, or electrical issues, leading to unstable or insufficient voltage supply to the vehicle's electrical system.
Symptoms:
Dim or flickering lights, caused by unstable voltage supply to the electrical system.
Battery warning light activation, indicating charging system issues.
Battery overcharging or undercharging, leading to decreased battery lifespan.
Electrical system malfunctions, such as erratic behavior of accessories like radio or power windows.
Engine stalling or difficulty starting, due to insufficient voltage reaching critical components.
B1004 and B1005 fault codes indicate issues with the blower motor or its control unit, potentially disrupting the vehicle's heating, ventilation, or air conditioning systems.
Why it happens:
Blower motor failure occurs due to worn-out bearings, overheating, electrical faults, or debris obstructing its operation, leading to inefficient airflow in the HVAC system.
Symptoms:
Weak or no airflow from the vents, regardless of fan speed settings.
Unusual noises, such as grinding or squealing, coming from the HVAC system.
Intermittent operation, with the blower motor working inconsistently.
Burning smell due to overheating or electrical faults in the motor.
HVAC system malfunction, where heating or cooling becomes ineffective.
Parts to Replace
The Genuine Mercedes-Benz HVAC Blower Motor Assembly part number 203820251464 is the perfect replacement for your old or worn out blower motor assembly in your Mercedes-Benz
Motor 2038202514 This HVAC Blower Motor is responsible for circulating climate controlled air within the cabin of the vehicle.
P0715 and P0700 fault codes indicate issues with the transmission system, such as an input/turbine speed sensor malfunction or overall transmission control problems.
Why it happens:
Conductor plate or valve body failure occurs due to wear, fluid contamination, or electrical faults, impairing transmission control and shifting efficiency.
Symptoms:
Erratic or delayed shifting, indicating poor transmission control.
Transmission slipping, causing unstable power delivery to wheels.
Harsh or jerky gear shifts, affecting driving comfort.
Illuminated Check Engine Light, often accompanied by transmission-related fault codes like P0715 or P0700.
Reduced fuel efficiency, due to improper gear selection or shift timing.
Limp mode activation, restricting vehicle speed and performance to prevent damage.
Engine mount deterioration typically occurs due to prolonged exposure to heat, vibration, and engine movement, which can weaken the rubber or hydraulic components over time.
Symptoms:
Excessive vibrations felt in the cabin or steering wheel.
Clunking or banging noises during acceleration or deceleration.
Misalignment of the engine, leading to uneven wear on connected components.
Rough idling or increased engine noise.
Visible damage or cracks in the mounts.
Fluid leaks, especially in hydraulic engine mounts.
Parts to Replace
AWD PART # 2032401617 is a genuine OEM component designed for various Mercedes-Benz models.
RWD PART # 2032411113 is a genuine OEM component designed for various Mercedes-Benz models. It plays a vital role in securing the engine to the chassis while minimizing vibrations and noise.
The P0230 fault code indicates a malfunction in the primary fuel pump circuit, often caused by issues with the fuel pump relay, wiring, or control module.
Why it happens:
Fuel pump relay failure typically occurs due to electrical issues, such as power surges, corrosion, or worn-out components, disrupting the relay's ability to supply power to the fuel pump.
Symptoms:
The engine cranks but fails to start due to lack of fuel delivery.
Sudden engine stalling while driving, as the fuel pump loses power.
Rough acceleration or hesitation during driving.
No audible noise from the fuel pump when the ignition is turned on.
The "Check Engine" light may illuminate, indicating fuel system issues.
Parts to Replace
Bosch Mercedes Relay Bosch 0332017300 is a versatile multi-purpose relay used in various Mercedes-Benz models. It serves functions such as controlling the fuel pump, auxiliary water pump, fog lights, and more.
A coolant expansion tank crack typically occurs due to prolonged exposure to heat, pressure fluctuations, and material fatigue, which weaken the plastic over time.
Symptoms:
Low coolant levels due to leaks, often visible as puddles under the vehicle.
Sweet coolant odor, resembling maple syrup, noticeable inside the cabin or near the engine.
Engine overheating, as the cooling system fails to maintain proper pressure and coolant levels.
Fluctuating temperature gauge readings, indicating irregular cooling performance.
Parts to Replace
OEM Mercedes Expansion Tank 2035000049 is a genuine OEM coolant reservoir designed for various Mercedes-Benz models. It plays a crucial role in maintaining proper coolant levels and pressure within the cooling system.
eEuroparts offers a wide selection of OEM and well-reviewed aftermarket parts chosen for compatibility with Mercedes-Benz vehicles. Parts are listed with fitment details and trusted brand options to help you find components that are appropriate for routine maintenance and common repairs.
Exceptional Delivery, Unmatched Logistics
We know that every moment counts when your car is out of commission. That’s why we focus on getting your parts to you as quickly as possible. Our efficient logistics network and fast shipping mean minimal downtime for your vehicle.
Competitive Prices, Superior Value
Our catalog includes everything from timing chains, camshaft adjusters, and PCV valves to wheel bearings, control arms, and fuel pumps, sourced to meet or exceed OE standards. Whether you prefer genuine Mercedes-Benz parts or trusted aftermarket brands, we offer top-tier quality at better-than-dealer pricing.
Trusted Excellence
Our catalog includes parts from top-tier brands like Bosch, INA, ZF, Pierburg, Elring, Lemforder, and Rein. Whether you're resolving transmission issues, electrical faults, or suspension wear, our parts meet or exceed OEM standards for fit, durability, and performance.
Conclusion
Whether you’re replacing worn items or addressing a specific fault, use these listings to identify likely parts and plan repairs. For vehicle-specific advice, consult a trusted technician to confirm fitment and service steps before installation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Mercedes-Benz C240 (W203) reliable for daily driving?⌄
Yes, the C240 is known for solid reliability when maintained properly. Regular servicing, quality engine oil, and genuine replacement parts help keep it running smoothly for years.
What are common issues owners face with the Mercedes-Benz C240?⌄
Typical problems include minor electrical faults, worn suspension components, and aging seals or gaskets. Using OEM parts from eEuroparts.com ensures long-term durability and fitment accuracy.
How often should the Mercedes-Benz C240 be serviced? ⌄
Mercedes recommends servicing every 10,000 miles or once a year, whichever comes first. Regular maintenance keeps the engine responsive and prevents expensive repairs down the line.
Are replacement parts for the Mercedes-Benz C240 easy to find?⌄
Yes, most components are readily available online. eEuroparts.com offers OEM and aftermarket parts tailored specifically for the C240, ensuring proper fitment and factory-grade performance.
Is the C240 a good choice for first-time Mercedes owners? ⌄
Definitely. The C240 balances comfort, handling, and affordability, making it a great entry into the Mercedes lineup—especially when supported by proper care and genuine parts.
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