In this Vehicle Platform Guide, you will find the top common issues of Mercedes-Benz C250 (W204, 2012–2014) 1.8L Inline-4 Turbocharged BlueEFFICIENCY 7G-TRONIC PLUS, along with their fault codes, and the solutions from eEuroparts.com.
The Mercedes-Benz C250 (W204), produced from 2012 to 2014, is a luxury compact sedan powered by a 1.8L turbocharged inline-4 gasoline engine equipped with BlueEFFICIENCY technology, offering a balance of spirited performance and enhanced fuel efficiency. It features the 7G-TRONIC PLUS automatic transmission, ensuring smooth and precise gear changes for a refined driving experience. Available in rear-wheel drive (RWD), this model delivers agile handling and a dynamic driving feel. The C250 is adorned with premium elements such as high-quality leather upholstery, advanced infotainment systems, and a suite of innovative safety features, ensuring comfort, connectivity, and security for its occupants.
Specifications
Engine and Powertrain
Engine:
1.8L Turbocharged Inline-4
Engine Code:
M271 DE18 LA
Transmission:
7-Speed Automatic (7G-TRONIC PLUS)
Fuel Type:
Gasoline
Horsepower:
~204 hp @ 5,500 rpm
Torque:
~229 lb-ft @ 2,000–4,300 rpm
Fuel Economy (EPA Estimates)
City/Highway Combined:
~ 22-31 MPG
Vehicle Weight
Curb Weight:
~ 3,483 lbs
Gross Weight:
~ 4,575 lbs
Configurations and Submodels
Body Styles:
Sedan
Seating Capacity:
5 passengers
Drivetrain Options:
Base (Rear-Wheel Drive - RWD) 4Matic (All-Wheel Drive - AWD)
Top Common Issues with Mercedes-Benz C250 (W204, 2012–2014) 1.8L Inline-4 Turbocharged BlueEFFICIENCY 7G-TRONIC PLUS
ABS Wheel Speed Sensor
1. ABS Control Module Failure
Fault Codes:
Fault codes C0035, C0040, C0041, C0046, and C003A indicate issues with wheel speed sensors or ABS circuits, affecting braking, traction, and stability control systems.
Why it happens:
ABS control module failure occurs due to electrical issues, damaged wiring, sensor malfunctions, or wear and tear, compromising braking performance.
Symptoms:
ABS Warning Light: The dashboard light illuminates, indicating a system fault.
Brakes Locking Up: Wheels may lock during braking, especially on slippery surfaces.
Increased Stopping Distance: Longer braking distances due to reduced ABS functionality.
Unresponsive Brake Pedal: Difficulty or failure in engaging the brakes.
Loss of Traction Control: Stability and traction control systems may be compromised.
Speedometer Issues: Speedometer readings may be affected in some cases.
Brake vacuum pump failure occurs due to wear and tear, contamination, overheating, or improper installation, leading to compromised braking performance.
Symptoms:
Hard Brake Pedal: The brake pedal becomes stiff or difficult to press due to insufficient vacuum.
Increased Stopping Distance: The vehicle takes longer to stop, indicating reduced braking efficiency.
Warning Lights: Dashboard warning lights, such as the "Check Engine" or brake system light, may illuminate.
Hissing Noise: A hissing sound may be heard when pressing the brake pedal, indicating a vacuum leak.
Engine Performance Issues: Reduced engine performance or stalling, as the pump may strain the engine.
Parking brake shoe wear occurs due to friction from regular use, contamination, overheating, or improper adjustment, leading to reduced braking efficiency.
Symptoms:
Reduced Parking Brake Hold: The vehicle may roll or fail to remain stationary when the parking brake is engaged.
Grinding Noise: Unusual sounds when applying or releasing the parking brake, indicating worn material.
Brake Warning Light: The dashboard may display a warning light for brake system issues.
Uneven Braking: The vehicle may feel unbalanced or pull to one side while braking.
Increased Lever Travel: The parking brake lever or pedal may require more effort or distance to engage fully.
Front lower control arm bushing wear occurs due to aging, harsh driving conditions, or exposure to contaminants, leading to reduced suspension performance.
Symptoms:
Clunking or Knocking Noises: Unusual sounds when driving over bumps or during turns.
Uneven Tire Wear: Irregular tire wear caused by misalignment of suspension components.
Poor Steering Response: Loose or unstable steering, especially at higher speeds.
Vibrations: Noticeable vibrations in the steering wheel or vehicle body.
Wandering: The vehicle may drift or pull to one side while driving.
Reduced Ride Comfort: A rougher ride due to compromised suspension support.
Parts to Replace
Lemforder Control Arm Bushing PART # 34756 01 The Lemforder Suspension Control Arm Bushing part number 34756 01 for Mercedes-Benz is a must-have component for every car lover who seeks smooth and comfortable rides.
Front Driver Side C2509 is a high-quality replacement designed to enhance ride comfort and stability. It is compatible with various Mercedes-Benz models.
Strut mount bearing failure occurs due to wear and tear, exposure to contaminants, improper installation, or impact damage, compromising suspension performance.
Symptoms:
Unusual Noises: Clunking, squeaking, or popping sounds during steering or when driving over bumps.
Steering Issues: Stiff, jerky, or heavy steering, especially during low-speed maneuvers.
Vibrations: Excessive vibrations felt through the steering wheel or suspension.
Uneven Tire Wear: Irregular tire wear patterns due to misalignment caused by the failing bearing.
Poor Handling: Reduced stability and control, particularly during turns or on uneven roads.
Vehicle Leaning: The car may tilt or lean to one side, indicating suspension imbalance.
Fault codes P0300 and P0301-P0304 indicate random or cylinder-specific misfires, disrupting engine combustion and affecting performance.
Why it happens:
Engine misfires occur due to issues like faulty spark plugs, ignition coils, fuel injectors, or an imbalance in the air-fuel mixture, disrupting proper combustion.
Symptoms:
Rough Idling: The engine may idle unevenly or vibrate noticeably due to combustion irregularities.
Reduced Power and Acceleration: Misfires disrupt engine performance, causing sluggish acceleration and lack of responsiveness.
Engine Stalling: Severe misfires can lead to the engine shutting off unexpectedly during operation.
Unusual Sounds: You might hear popping, chugging, or backfiring noises from the engine.
Increased Fuel Consumption: Inefficient combustion forces the engine to consume more fuel, reducing mileage.
Excessive Emissions: Misfires can result in higher levels of unburned fuel in the exhaust, leading to pollution and failed emissions tests.
Check Engine Light: The vehicle’s diagnostics system may detect misfires and trigger the warning light, often with related fault codes.
Power steering pump failure occurs due to low or contaminated fluid, worn-out components, overheating, or a damaged drive belt, leading to reduced hydraulic pressure.
Symptoms:
Stiff Steering: Increased effort required to turn the steering wheel, especially at low speeds.
Whining or Groaning Noise: Unusual sounds coming from the pump while steering, often due to low fluid or wear.
Fluid Leaks: Visible power steering fluid leaking under the vehicle or near the pump area.
Steering Wheel Vibrations: Noticeable vibrations in the steering wheel while driving or turning.
Slow Response: Delayed or uneven steering response when turning the wheel.
Dashboard Warning Light: Illumination of a power steering or general engine warning light.
Steering rack and pinion bellow leaks occur due to worn seals, contamination, excessive pressure, or physical damage, compromising the system's ability to retain hydraulic fluid.
Symptoms:
Fluid Leaks: Visible hydraulic fluid near the bellows or under the vehicle.
Loss of Power Steering: Difficulty in steering, especially at low speeds, due to reduced hydraulic pressure.
Steering Noise: Whining or groaning sounds when turning the steering wheel.
Steering Drift: The vehicle may pull to one side, indicating uneven pressure in the system.
Excessive Play in Steering: Loose or unresponsive steering behavior.
Increased Effort: More effort required to steer, especially during sharp turns or parking maneuvers.
Fault codes P0236, P0237, P0299, P0045, P2562, and P0034 indicate issues with turbocharger boost sensors, underboost, solenoids, and bypass valve circuits affecting engine performance.
Why it happens:
Turbocharger failure typically occurs due to oil contamination, restricted oil flow, foreign object damage, excessive heat, or wear from high-speed operation, all of which compromise its functionality.
Symptoms:
Reduced Engine Power: A failing turbocharger leads to a noticeable drop in engine performance and acceleration.
Excessive Exhaust Smoke: Blue or gray smoke from the exhaust indicates oil leakage into the combustion chamber.
Unusual Noises: Whistling, whining, or rattling sounds during acceleration suggest internal damage to the turbo.
Increased Oil Consumption: A damaged turbo may cause oil leaks, leading to higher oil usage.
Check Engine Light: The vehicle's diagnostics system may detect turbo-related issues and trigger the warning light.
Poor Fuel Efficiency: A malfunctioning turbo can disrupt the air-fuel mixture, reducing fuel economy.
Overheating: Excessive heat buildup in the turbocharger can lead to engine overheating.
Parts to Replace
Mercedes MAP Sensor 0051535028 The Genuine Mercedes-Benz Manifold Absolute Pressure Sensor is a high-quality replacement part for your Mercedes-Benz vehicle.
MAP Sensor 0061539728 The Genuine Mercedes-Benz Manifold Absolute Pressure Sensor is a reliable replacement option for your vehicle’s damaged or malfunctioning sensor.
Bosch Mercedes MAP Sensor 0261230250 The Bosch Manifold Absolute Pressure Sensor is a high-quality replacement part designed to perfectly fit Mercedes-Benz vehicles.
P0087 signals low fuel rail pressure, P0627 points to a fuel pump control circuit issue, and P0191 indicates a problem with the fuel rail pressure sensor's range or performance.
Why it happens:
Fuel pump failure occurs due to contamination, overheating, wear and tear, or running the vehicle with consistently low fuel levels.
Symptoms:
Difficulty Starting: The engine struggles to start or requires multiple attempts.
Engine Stalling: Sudden stalling during operation, especially at high speeds.
Whining Noise: Unusual whining or humming sounds from the fuel tank area.
Loss of Power: Reduced engine performance, particularly during acceleration or uphill driving.
Poor Fuel Efficiency: Noticeable decrease in mileage due to inconsistent fuel delivery.
Check Engine Light: Illumination of the warning light indicating fuel system issues.
P0443 indicates an issue with the purge control valve circuit, P0455 signals a significant EVAP system leak, and P0441 highlights incorrect purge flow in the EVAP system.
Why it happens:
Vapor canister purge solenoid valve failure occurs due to electrical malfunctions, vacuum leaks, contamination, or wear and tear, disrupting the EVAP system's functionality.
Symptoms:
Check Engine Light: The dashboard warning light illuminates due to EVAP system issues.
Increased Emissions: Higher emission levels caused by improper vapor recycling.
Rough Idle: The engine runs unevenly, especially when stationary.
Hard Starting Conditions: Difficulty starting the vehicle due to disrupted fuel vapor flow.
Poor Engine Performance: Reduced efficiency and responsiveness during acceleration.
Vapor Canister Purge Solenoid 0004708993 The Genuine Mercedes-Benz Vapor Canister Purge Solenoid is a reliable and high-quality component designed for your Mercedes-Benz vehicle.
Fault codes B1014, B1660, B1661, and B1A75 signal headlamp system and lamp malfunctions, impacting lighting functionality.
Why it happens:
Headlight control module failures occur due to moisture intrusion, electrical surges, aging components, or wiring issues, leading to malfunctioning headlights.
Symptoms:
Erratic Headlight Behavior: Headlights may flicker, dim, or fail to turn on/off properly.
Dashboard Error Messages: Warning lights or error codes related to the lighting system may appear.
Fault codes U1000, U0100, and various circuit-specific codes indicate communication issues within the vehicle's electronic systems, affecting module interactions and overall functionality.
Why it happens:
Fuse box malfunctions occur due to overloaded circuits, faulty wiring, aging components, or moisture intrusion, disrupting electrical system functionality.
Symptoms:
Frequent Blown Fuses: Overloaded circuits or faulty wiring can cause fuses to blow repeatedly.
Flickering Lights: Voltage fluctuations or loose connections may lead to inconsistent lighting.
Burning Smell or Scorch Marks: Overheating components can produce a burning odor or visible damage.
Tripping Circuit Breakers: Short circuits or ground faults may cause frequent breaker trips.
Non-Functional Electrical Devices: Appliances or systems connected to the fuse box may fail to operate.
Parts to Replace
OEM Mercedes Fuse Box 2045403550 The Genuine Mercedes-Benz Fuse Box is the perfect replacement part for your Mercedes-Benz vehicle.
Crankshaft position sensor codes (e.g., P0335-P0338) indicate issues with the sensor's circuit, affecting engine timing, performance, and starting reliability.
Why it happens:
Crankshaft position sensor failures occur due to wiring issues, magnetic interference, physical damage, or wear and tear, disrupting engine timing and performance.
Symptoms:
Difficulty Starting the Engine: The engine may struggle to start or fail entirely.
Engine Stalling: The engine might stall unexpectedly while driving.
Poor Acceleration: Reduced performance and hesitation during acceleration.
Check Engine Light: The dashboard warning light may illuminate.
Engine Misfires: Irregular firing of cylinders, causing vibrations or power loss.
Reduced Fuel Efficiency: Incorrect timing can lead to inefficient fuel consumption.
Camshaft position sensor codes (e.g., P0340-P0349) indicate issues with the sensor's circuit or timing, affecting engine synchronization and performance.
Why it happens:
Camshaft position sensor failures occur due to wiring issues, wear and tear, magnetic interference, or exposure to extreme heat, disrupting engine timing and performance.
Symptoms:
Difficulty Starting the Engine: The engine may have trouble starting or fail to start at all.
Engine Misfires: Irregular combustion can cause misfires and vibrations.
Poor Fuel Efficiency: Incorrect timing may lead to increased fuel consumption.
Check Engine Light Activation: The dashboard warning light often signals sensor issues.
Reduced Engine Performance: Loss of power, poor acceleration, or stalling during operation.
Rough Idling: The engine might idle unevenly or sound rough.
2. Automatic Transmission Control Solenoid Failure
Fault Codes:
Fault codes P0750, P0755, P2714, and P2709 indicate issues with shift solenoids and pressure control solenoids, affecting transmission performance and gear shifting.
Why it happens:
Automatic transmission control solenoid failure occurs due to electrical issues, dirty transmission fluid, or wear and tear, disrupting gear shifting and fluid regulation.
Symptoms:
Delayed or Erratic Gear Shifts: Difficulty in smooth gear transitions, causing hesitation or unpredictable shifts.
Transmission Stuck in Gear: The vehicle may remain locked in a single gear, unable to shift.
Unusual Noises: Clicking, buzzing, or whining sounds from the transmission area.
Slipping Gears: The transmission may fail to engage properly, leading to loss of power during acceleration.
Parts to Replace
(Blue) 2202770998 is an OEM component designed for precise fluid regulation and smooth gear shifting.
Black 2202771098 is an OEM component designed for precise fluid regulation and smooth gear shifting.
On valve body PART # F026001015 The Bosch Automatic Transmission Valve Body Solenoid is a high-quality replacement part that is designed to ensure the smooth operation of your Mercedes-Benz.
The P261B fault code indicates a performance issue in the Coolant Pump "B" control circuit, often caused by electrical malfunctions, mechanical failures, or damaged wiring.
Why it happens:
Electric water pump failure occurs due to electrical issues, mechanical wear, overheating, fluid contamination, or improper installation, leading to reduced cooling efficiency.
Symptoms:
Engine Overheating: The engine temperature rises due to insufficient coolant circulation.
Coolant Leaks: Visible coolant leaks near the pump or under the vehicle.
Unusual Noises: Whining, grinding, or buzzing sounds from the pump area.
Dashboard Warning Light: Illumination of the engine temperature or coolant system warning light.
Reduced Heater Performance: The cabin heater may blow cold air due to inadequate coolant flow.
Hepu Mercedes Engine Water Pump P1511 is a high-quality OEM component designed for efficient coolant circulation and optimal engine temperature regulation.
Thermostat housing leaks occur due to wear and tear, damaged seals, cracks, or exposure to extreme temperatures, leading to coolant loss and potential engine overheating.
Symptoms:
Coolant Leaks: Visible coolant pooling under the vehicle or near the housing.
Engine Overheating: The engine temperature rising due to reduced coolant levels.
Mahle Thermostat PART # TM53103 The MAHLE Engine Coolant Thermostat is a top-quality replacement part for your Mercedes-Benz vehicle’s engine cooling system.
P0130–P0161 fault codes indicate various sensor circuit malfunctions, often related to oxygen sensors, including issues like poor signal, circuit range errors, or performance problems.
Why it happens:
Oxygen sensor failure occurs due to contamination, high temperatures, aging, or electrical issues, disrupting accurate air-fuel mixture readings.
Symptoms:
Check Engine Light: The warning light often illuminates due to incorrect sensor readings.
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
What type of engine does the Mercedes-Benz C250 (2012–2014) have?⌄
The C250 is powered by a 1.8-liter inline-4 turbocharged engine that delivers around 201 horsepower and strong low-end torque for smooth, efficient performance.
How reliable is the 2012–2014 Mercedes-Benz C250?⌄
Overall reliability is solid when properly maintained. Regular oil changes, quality fuel, and scheduled servicing help prevent common issues like timing chain wear or sensor faults.
What kind of fuel economy does the Mercedes-Benz C250 1.8L get? ⌄
This model averages around 22 MPG in the city and 31 MPG on the highway, making it one of the more fuel-efficient options in the C-Class lineup of its era.
How many passengers can the Mercedes-Benz C250 seat comfortably?⌄
The C250 seats up to five passengers comfortably, featuring supportive front seats and a refined cabin that balances sportiness with luxury comfort.
What are common issues with the 2012–2014 Mercedes-Benz C250? ⌄
Owners occasionally report issues with the timing chain tensioner, turbo boost sensor, or balance shaft wear. Using OEM parts from trusted sources like eEuroparts.com helps ensure reliability.
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