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2021 Mercedes Benz C Class: Recalls, Complaints & California Lemon Law

Below are recalls and complaints reported to NHTSA for the 2021 Mercedes Benz C Class. This information is consumer-reported and provided for general informational purposes only. Vehicles like this may qualify under California lemon law depending on their individual repair history.

7
Recalls reported to NHTSA
14
Complaints filed with NHTSA
310-256-2622
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Recalls Reported to NHTSA

The following recalls were reported to NHTSA. A recall does not by itself establish that any individual vehicle is defective.

SEAT BELTS:FRONT:RETRACTOR

NHTSA #21V032000

Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2017-2021 C300, 2017-2020 AMG C43, and AMG C63 vehicles. The front seat belts might not fully retract to their stowed position. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."

Reported consequence: If the seat belt does not fully retract, the occupant may find the operation of the seat belt inconvenient and not wear it, increasing the risk of injury in the event of a crash.

Remedy: MBUSA will notify owners, and dealers will check the retraction function of the front seat belts and adjust the damping foam within the B-pillars, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began February 26, 2021. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2021020010.

BACK OVER PREVENTION:DISPLAY FUNCTION

NHTSA #22V232000

Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2018-2021 CLA-Class, GLE/GLS-Class, A-Class, C-Class, E-Class, E-Class Coupe/Convertible, GLA/GLB-Class, GLC-Class, and CLS-Class vehicles. Please refer to MBUSA's recall report for specific vehicle model details. The rearview camera may not display the rearview image due to a software error. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."

Reported consequence: An inoperable rearview camera display reduces the driver's rear view, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy: Dealers will update the rearview camera software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 15, 2022. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2022060007.

SEATS:MID/REAR ASSEMBLY:HEAD RESTRAINT

NHTSA #21V406000

Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2021 C300 Cabriolet, C43 AMG Cabriolet, C63 AMG Cabriolet, C63 AMG S Cabriolet, E450 Cabriolet, and E53 AMG Cabriolet vehicles. The rear headrests may be incorrectly mounted to the seatbacks.

Reported consequence: Incorrectly mounted headrests could move or detach from the seat during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.

Remedy: Dealers will inspect the rear seatback guide bushings and replace them if necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 16, 2021. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2021060010.

SEAT BELTS:PRETENSIONER

NHTSA #21V230000

Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2021 C-Class, E-Class, E-Class Coupe and Convertible, GLC, CLS, AMG GT 4-door Coupe and G-Class vehicles. Please refer to MBUSA's recall report for specific vehicle model details. A faulty electrical contact within the seat position switch may prevent the driver and passenger air bags and seat belt force limiters from properly activating during a crash.

Reported consequence: Air bags and seat belts that do not perform properly in a crash can increase the risk of injury.

Remedy: MBUSA will notify owners, and dealers will replace the seat position switches, free of charge. Owner letters were mailed May 21, 2021. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2021040016.

COMMUNICATION: AUTO CRASH NOTIFICATION

NHTSA #21V058000

Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2016 - 2021 CLA-Class, GLA-Class, GLE-Class, GLS-Class, SLC-Class, A-Class, GT-Class, C-Class, E-Class, S-Class, CLS-Class, SL-Class, B-Class, GLB-Class, GLC-Class, and G-Class vehicles. Please refer to the Part 573 report for specific vehicle model details. The software design of the communication module may fail to communicate the correct vehicle location for the emergency call system (eCall) in the event of a crash.

Reported consequence: Failure of the eCall system may result in emergency responders being dispatched to the wrong location, increasing the risk of injury following a crash.

Remedy: MBUSA will notify owners, and the communication module software will be updated by a dealer, or through an over-the-air (OTA) update, free of charge. The recall began March 12, 2021. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-877-762-8267. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2021020025.

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP

NHTSA #23V445000

Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2021-2023 C-Class, E-Class, S-Class, CLS, SL, GT, GLC, GLE, GLS, and G-Class vehicles. Please refer to MBUSA's recall report for specific vehicle details. The fuel pump may shutdown, which can result in a loss of drive power.

Reported consequence: A loss of drive power can increase the risk of a crash.

Remedy: Dealers will replace the fuel pump, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on June 14, 2024. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2023070012.

COMMUNICATION: AUTO CRASH NOTIFICATION

NHTSA #22V365000

Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2017-2022 CLA-Class, GLA-Class, GLE-Class, GLS-Class, SLC-Class, A-Class, AMG GT-Class, C-Class, E-Class, S-Class, SL-Class, GLC-Class, CLS-Class, GLB-Class, and G-Class vehicles. Please refer to MBUSA's recall report for specific vehicle model details. An error in the communication module's SIM card software can cause a mobile network connection failure, disabling the emergency call (eCall) system.

Reported consequence: A disabled eCall system would prevent a vehicle occupant from contacting the emergency services call center in an emergency, potentially delaying emergency responders and increasing the risk of injury.

Remedy: The communication module software will be updated through an Over-the-Air (OTA) update or by a dealer, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 8, 2022. Owner notification letters will be mailed in phases, on July 8, 2022, May 17, 2024, July 29, 2024, and September 27, 2024. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's numbers are for this recall is 2022060005 and 2023110006.

Complaints Filed with NHTSA

The following are consumer-reported complaints filed with NHTSA. These are unverified allegations and are not proof that any defect exists.

Engine5 complaints

The contact owns a 2021 Mercedes-Benz C300. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle stalled and failed to exceed 30 MPH, with the check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle did not require a restart. The contact also stated that while stopped at a traffic light, the vehicle was shaking abnormally. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed and determined that there was a misfire in cylinder #2. The contact was informed that the cylinder head needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The vehicle was then taken to the dealer, where the same diagnostic information was provided, and the contact was informed that the cylinder head needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 86,078.

NHTSA #11706514

2021 Mercedes-Benz C300 with M254 2.0L turbo engine experienced sudden cylinder head failure at 44,000 miles due to manufacturing porosity in the cylinder head and camshaft bore scoring. Dealer confirmed defect. This is a known, recurring issue on 2021–2023 M254 engines with multiple documented failures under 50k miles. Sudden loss of compression and misfires create a safety risk of engine failure or fire while driving. TSB NUMBER LI07.16-P-074000 (February 2023, updated multiple times). This is a known production/early break-in issue with the M254 engine, not the result of owner misuse or delayed maintenance.

NHTSA #11701560

Cylinder head needed to be replaced on the M264 engine at 35,000 miles. The replacement part is also known to be defective for the same reasons. This is a common defect known to the manufacturer and they have not issued a recall. My concern is that of a roadside breakdown that would endanger my wife and myself. Thank you for your consideration.

NHTSA #11643229

Show 2 more

the check Engine light fault code P012D12 The pressure sensor upstream of the turbocharger had a short circuit to positive. Found Kink wire on upstream pressure sensor. A short circuit to positive. Electrical Wire replaced.

NHTSA #11579561

Piston Connecting Rod broke and left the engine making holes in both sides of the block; Mercedes Benz rejected any responsibility because the car has a branded title. Currently a new engine (brand new) is being installed, my concern is that what will happen if the new engine has the same defective part and blew up again.

NHTSA #11525102

Fuel/Propulsion System2 complaints

My car had a coolant leak last year a hose broke and I have a 2021. My son’s mercedes sis the same thing on 11/23/2025. I have researched ma y others with this same issue. There should be a recall on that hose or whatever the problem Is.

NHTSA #11701496

While driving car on Sunday 10/5, it suddenly failed to respond to gas pedal pressure. The car stopped accelerating and rather slowed to 15 MPH, almost causing a car from behind to hit me in the rear side.

NHTSA #11691568

Fuel System, Gasoline1 complaint

The contact owns a 2021 Mercedes Benz C. The contact stated that while driving on the highway, the vehicle began to lose power, riding rough. The check engine light illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the dealer where it was diagnosed with a fuel injection failure. The vehicle read diagnostic code P1CEF85. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The approximate failure mileage was 60,000.

NHTSA #11738727

Suspension,Power Train,Air Bags1 complaint

Driving and something came from underneath the vehicle and cause me to swerve in all the airbags deployed

NHTSA #11704073

Visibility1 complaint

I am reporting a safety defect involving the panoramic sunroof on my 2021Mercedes-Benz Coop vehicle. The panoramic sunroof has malfunctioned due to an apparent design or manufacturing defect. The sunroof fails to open / close and makes grinding or popping noises which malfunctioned unexpectedly. This issue occurred without misuse and during normal operation of the vehicle. The defect creates a safety concern because it can distract the driver, allow water intrusion that may affect electrical components, and/or cause sudden glass or mechanical failure while driving. The vehicle has been taken to a Mercedes-Benz dealership for diagnosis and the issue was not resolved due to denied coverage. I was informed that the repair would be costly despite the issue appearing to be a known defect in Mercedes-Benz panoramic sunroof systems. I believe this defect may affect other Mercedes-Benz vehicles with panoramic sunroofs and should be investigated for a potential safety defect or recall.

NHTSA #11712287

Power Train,Engine1 complaint

My C300 only had about 42,000 miles and was less than 5 years old. Just after the factory warranty expired, the engine was running rough and hot, and "check engine" light illuminated. My local garage quickly diagnosed the problem as a failed cylinder head, stated that it is common with Mercedes 4-cylinder engines from about 2017, and said Mercedes may cover it since it is a "known problem" and shouldn't happen with that mileage. I was charged $7,860 by my local Mercedes dealer, and despite multiple contacts with MercedezUSA, they refuse to acknowledge this is a problem or cover the cost, although in on-line the forums some people were arbitrarily reimbursed. There should be a recall to check for this obvious defect and should be covered. This defect can cause sudden engine failure and is a significant hazard to the driving public.

NHTSA #11678865

Back Over Prevention1 complaint

Rearview camera not displaying any image when transmission is put in reverse.

NHTSA #11623522

Electrical System,Engine1 complaint

First day leasing the vehicle within 6 hours lights malfunction and malfunction warning on dash to seek workshop, vehicle was taken for inspection to original dealer (Mercedes Benz of Bakersfield). During inspection I added additional concerning complaints about passenger door not closing correctly/wind noise seeping through when closed, and hood not closing promptly. One month into leasing vehicle passenger window malfunction, took for inspection and repair to original dealer (MBofBakersfield). Concerned with caution for me, my family, and friends when in that vehicle for giving faulty signs so early. One year into leasing vehicle check coolant warning on dash, took for inspection to original dealer. I am now more concerned as it went form electrical to coolant components losing coolant with no reasoning from original dealer service other then a top off. Vehicle drive is rough. 1 year and 6 months into leasing vehicle, again check coolant warning on dash. Took in for inspection, gave no reasoning from original dealer service dept, other then a top off done. Vehicle drives rough. While driving 70mph, a vehicle behind was approaching quick when I went to excel to merge vehicle seemed to be slipping in gear/slow down. No warning lamps on, Quickly decided/managed to merged to next lane so vehicle behind didn’t hit us as we were slowing down With 2 children in the back seat. decided to exit to nearest exit to pull off as it felt unsafe to drive, as exiting and slowing down vehicle began to shake, knock, and make loud bangs. Managed to pull over, and check dash for messages for any type of warnings. No warning lamps, but many symptoms of a faulty unsafe vehicle. Had vehicle towed to original dealer service for diagnosis and report the unsafety incident that occurred with absolutely no warning lamps. Inspection lead to repair of engine but nothing done about no warning lamps/electrical system

NHTSA #11568290

Air Bags1 complaint

The contact owns a 2021 Mercedes-Benz C300. The contact stated while driving at an unknown speed, there was a burning odor inside the vehicle. The contact stated the passenger side air bags was enabled warning light was illuminated. The contact also stated the vehicle made an abnormal noise. The contact took the vehicle to the local dealer but was unable to duplicate the failure. The manufacturer had not been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.

NHTSA #11453645

Vehicles like this may qualify — get a free review

If your 2021 Mercedes Benz C Class has had repeated repairs for the same problem, you may have rights under California lemon law. Tell us about it and we will review your situation at no cost and no obligation.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Does the 2021 Mercedes Benz C Class have any recalls?
There are 7 recalls reported to NHTSA for the 2021 Mercedes Benz C Class. Recalls are issued by the manufacturer or NHTSA and do not by themselves establish that any individual vehicle is defective.
How do I know if my vehicle might qualify under California lemon law?
California lemon law generally applies when a substantial defect covered by the warranty is not repaired after a reasonable number of attempts, or the vehicle is out of service for repairs for an extended period. Whether any individual vehicle qualifies depends on its own repair history. We offer a free review to evaluate your specific situation.
Are these complaints proof that the vehicle is defective?
No. Complaints are consumer-reported allegations filed with NHTSA. They are unverified, do not establish that any defect exists, and are provided here for informational purposes only.
Does a case cost me anything?
In qualifying California lemon law cases, attorney fees are typically recoverable from the manufacturer. Past results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Contact us for a free, no-obligation review of your situation.

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The recalls and complaints shown here are reported to NHTSA and are consumer-reported, unverified allegations. They do not establish that any defect exists in any individual vehicle, and nothing on this page should be read as asserting that the 2021 Mercedes Benz C Class is defective. Counts reflect items filed with NHTSA and may not be current. “May qualify” statements are general and do not mean any particular vehicle or owner qualifies.

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