Complaints over time
Complaints about the 2026 Mercedes-Benz C 300 by year filed
Owner complaints about this model year, by the year they were filed with NHTSA.
Source: NHTSA ODI complaints file. The lighter column runs through October.
Model year
2026 Mercedes-Benz C 300
Sedan, gasoline, RWD/Rear-Wheel Drive, built in South Africa. Owner complaints on file from May 22, 2026 to Sep 21, 2026.
Recall campaigns covering this model year1144k vehicles or units across those campaigns
Owner complaints22.0 times the median 2026 sedan
Severity index0.02026 sedans average 15.1
First 24 monthsOpenWindow has not closed yet
Components
50% of complaints about the 2026 Mercedes-Benz C 300 name airbags
Owner complaints by component. Hover or focus a bar for the crash, fire, injury or death count.
Source: NHTSA ODI complaints file. A complaint can name more than one component; it is counted under the first.
Recalls
One recall campaign covers the 2026 Mercedes-Benz C 300
Check a specific vehicle by VIN on NHTSA's site: a campaign may cover only part of a model year's production.
| Campaign | Filed | Subject | Component | Vehicles | Remedy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 26V-281 | May 1, 2026 | Infotainment control unit may reset while the vehicle is in motion and cause the instrument panel display to go blank | Electrical system | 144,049 | Software update |
Source: NHTSA ODI recalls file.
Owner complaints
What owners reported about the 2026 Mercedes-Benz C 300
The full text of every complaint filed with NHTSA about this model year, newest first. Complaints are filed by owners and are not verified by NHTSA; NHTSA removes personal details before publishing.
2 complaints on file, page 1 of 1.
- Filed Sep 21, 2026Failure Jul 31, 20261,729 milesSharpsburg, GAAir bags, Structure
The contact owns a 2026 Mercedes-Benz C300. The contact stated that there was white powder discovered inside the vehicle. The contact initially thought that it was mold. The contact stated that the heating system had caused the issue. The air bag dust was on the headliner and the driver's side A-pillar. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, who was unable to determine the cause of the issue. The vehicle was then taken to another dealer, Mercedes-Benz Atlanta South Parts Department (3800 Royal S Pkwy, Atlanta, GA 30349), who was unable to determine the source of the white powder, and indicated that it was dust from outside. The contact located an article related to the air bag leaking. The vehicle with driven with the windows closed and the air conditioner on. The driver had previously vacuumed the dust. The Mercedes-Benz manufacturer was contacted on the main number. The approximate failure mileage was 1,729.
NHTSA complaint 11765781 - Filed May 22, 2026Failure Feb 20, 2026Henderson, NVVehicle speed control
When driving 75mph in order to change my favorite radio station, I must go to the center tablet, scroll until I find the station desired and then must tap it in the center or it does not change. On my 2025 MB C model you could change the channels on the steering column. I asked MB to research this issue and I was told a third party wrote the 2026 software and did not include this option! Is it not a safety concern that when doing 75 mph you must take your eyes off the road to find and change a radio channel? No One cares at MB and I was told that I need to live with it !! Really that is the solution??
NHTSA complaint 11739607
Source: NHTSA ODI complaints file.
Investigations
NHTSA has not opened an investigation on this model year
Source: NHTSA ODI investigations file.
Service bulletins
82 manufacturer communications cover this model year
Technical service bulletins and other notices the manufacturer sent to dealers. A bulletin is not a recall; the 60 most recent are listed.
- LI35.31-P-080353 Sep 14, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Complaint Whining / humming noises (described as foghorn‑like) from the drivetrain in the rear axle area during cornering. (figure 1) On the above‑mentioned vehicles with a mileage up to 15,000 km (about 9,300 mi), noises can occur from the rear axle differ… - LI54.71-P-079104 Sep 11, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Complaint Traffic sign symbol for "Traffic Sign Assist" is blinking in instrument cluster without obvious cause usually with one of the following scenarios: • Flashing without a speed limit ("‑ ‑"). • Flashing when current vehicle speed is under speed limit… - LI82.60-P-079747 Sep 4, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Complaint The Apple Music app is no longer available in the head unit apps menu after updating the software of the (A26/17 ‑ MBUX multimedia system + instrument cluster (head unit)) to E333.8 / A236 904 19 00. Cause Head unit software (CIVIC206) Remedy NOTE… - LI83.90-P-080935 Sep 25, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Complaint CEL illuminates and/or AC does not blow cold. Cause Potentially relevance to hardware and/or software Remedy Scenario 1: 1. If the AC does not blow cold air, replace compressor (if compressor's index and part number Figure 1 match against Table 1)… - PSL-NCU Return Parts 9/18 Sep 18, 2026 · Other
Dear Dealer Partners, The part numbers listed in the chart below should no longer be installed and any existing stock must be returned to your facing PDC. The deadline for all dealer returns is Thursday, October 8th, 2026. After October 8th, we will no long… - LI46.35-P-067339 Aug 28, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Complaint During part of the steering movement, it feels heavier or more difficult to steer in the same spot every time. OR Rattling, humming, dry sliding/gravel noise from the electric steering system when steering (see attachment). Complaint does not imp… - LI54.71-P-079104 Aug 22, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Complaint Traffic sign symbol for "Traffic Sign Assist" is blinking in instrument cluster without obvious cause usually with one of the following scenarios: • Flashing without a speed limit ("‑ ‑"). • Flashing when current vehicle speed is under speed limit… - LI72.20-P-075746 Aug 24, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Complaint Tailgate opens unintentionally. Cause Accidental or unnoticed activation of the button to open the tailgate on the vehicle key. EXAMPLE: when stored in trouser pocket, handbag etc. Remedy As of the 6th generation, the vehicle key can be recoded so… - PSL-NCU Return Parts 8/14 Aug 15, 2026 · Other
Dear Mercedes-Benz USA Dealers, The part numbers listed in the chart below should no longer be installed, and any existing stock must be returned to your facing PDC. The deadline for all dealer returns is no later than Thursday, September 3rd, 2026. After S… - LI82.85-P-079088 Aug 14, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Complaint The following most common complaints may be observed: • Brief connectivity interruptions when using Apple CarPlay over Wi-Fi • Audio cuts out • Device not recognized • No operation possible Cause There are multiple possible causes for an iPhone di… - LI54.65-P-080132 Aug 12, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Complaint 1. General Diagnostic Tips 2. One or More PARK Sensor Activations 3. Red Ring Around Vehicle 4. "Active Parking and Parking Assist Inoperative" on Instrument Cluster 5. Cameras 6. Other Park Topics. Cause Various root causes Remedy See attached di… - LI54.30-P-078529 Aug 10, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Complaint During cold starting, a tortoise symbol may be displayed in the event of reduced engine output. For "non-hybrid vehicles", the thermostat symbol must be displayed. Cause Coding N133/1 IC Instrument cluster Remedy Perform N133/1 IC-Instrument-Clust… - LI82.62-P-078631 Aug 6, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Complaint Clanking noise from the area of the speakers in the doors. Cause Under analysis. Remedy To narrow down the cause, first of all remove the door trim. • If the noise continues to occur even with the door trim removed, then continue the diagnosis wor… - LI82.60-P-080806 Aug 4, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Complaint DAB, FM, or SDARS radio reception is limited, only a few stations are found. Cause The firmware installation was incomplete. Remedy In the A26/17 control unit "MBUX multimedia system" (head unit), use XENTRY to carry out the special process "All M… - LI47.10-P-079604 Jul 27, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Complaint Audible "slurping" operating noise from the fuel tank Cause Conditions: • The fuel tank is around half full • The secondary chamber is almost empty. The suction jet pump suctions up small quantities of fuel and air. This results in vibrations and … - OTA-MBUX Software Update Jul 2, 2026 · Over The Air
Mercedes-Benz AG, the manufacturer of Mercedes-Benz vehicles, has determined that on certain subject vehicles, there is a new software update for the MBUX Infotainment System. An OTA update will further enhance functionality and stability of the MBUX Infota… - LI82.60-P-080806 Jul 17, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Complaint After an "Over the Air" update (OTA), FM or SDARS radio reception is limited; only a few stations are found. Cause The firmware installation was incomplete. Remedy In the A26/17 control unit "MBUX multimedia system" (head unit), use XENTRY to carr… - LI54.71-P-079104 Jul 9, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Complaint Traffic sign symbol for "Traffic Sign Assist" is blinking in instrument cluster without obvious cause usually with one of the following scenarios: • Flashing without a speed limit ("- -"). • Flashing when current vehicle speed is under speed limit… - LI35.30-P-058566 Jul 14, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Single throttle lift-off clunking noise from the side shaft when moving off (audible at the outboard end). The noise is heard once in each instance when changing direction of travel. Note: Sound file in attachment Cause If the complaint is eliminated by exp… - LI33.20-P-078406 Jul 8, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Complaint Creaking noise, in irregular sequence when driving slowly in combination with slight steering movements and/or Creaking/crackling noises from the area of the wheel bearing on the front axle when cornering/ maneuvering. Sound file attached for comp… - PSL-NCU Return Parts 7/3 Jul 3, 2026 · Other
Dear Mercedes-Benz USA Dealers, The part numbers listed in the chart below should no longer be installed, and any existing stock must be returned to your facing PDC. The deadline for all dealer returns is no later than Thursday, July 23rd, 2026. After July … - LI33.20-P-078406 Jul 7, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Complaint Creaking noise, in irregular sequence when driving slowly in combination with slight steering movements and/or Creaking/crackling noises from the area of the wheel bearing on the front axle when cornering/ maneuvering. Sound file attached for comp… - LI82.60-P-080383 Jul 8, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Complaint Radio station cover art does not refresh when switching stations. The UI continues to show the old station’s artwork instead of updating to the new one. Cause When a new station change request is triggered, a temporary glitch is causing the Head U… - LI00.20-P-077615 Jul 1, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Complaint 1. "Perform vehicle handover" in the workshop menu to start the maintenance computer for service A/B cannot be carried out. 2. Service confirmation is not possible because "Perform vehicle handover" is displayed. This cannot be carried out. 3. The… - LI54.30-P-080649 Jul 1, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Complaint General information on the operation of the PRE-SAFE® Impulse system: The PRE-SAFE® Side Impulse system is a preventive, i.e. pre-collision occupant protection system. The task of the system is to provide additional protection to vehicle occupants… - ANN Interm. Issues Flash Jul 2, 2026 · Other
We are experiencing intermittent issues when flashing A26/17 - MBUX multimedia system + Instrument cluster (Head unit) when using flashing method ethernet to USB-C. Until further notice, please flash via VCI only. - LI00.20-P-078424 Jun 12, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Complaint The remaining time shown on the instrument cluster in the workshop menu (days to next due service) is implausible (>365 days) for the following conditions: • for the date of the vehicle handover • or the last conducted and confirmed Service A/B Ca… - LI00.20-P-077615 Jun 12, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Complaint 1. "Perform vehicle handover" in the workshop menu to start the maintenance computer for service A/B cannot be carried out. 2. Service confirmation is not possible because "Perform vehicle handover" is displayed. This cannot be carried out. 3. The… - LI82.85-P-080507 May 26, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Complaint After successful commissioning of the HERMES control unit (N112/9) with XENTRY Diagnosis DVD 03/2026, the message "SOS - service not activated" appears on the instrument cluster. In addition, the following two conditions are also met: • HERMES (N1… - LI46.80-P-080662 Jun 1, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Complaint Rattling/knocking noise from the rear axle steering is audible when driving on rough terrain or cobblestones. Large play in the rear axle steering. Cause Diverse functional play in the rear axle steering. Remedy 1. Detach underfloor paneling under… - LI00.20-P-077615 May 29, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Complaint 1. "Perform vehicle handover" in the workshop menu to start the maintenance computer for service A/B cannot be carried out. 2. Service confirmation is not possible because "Perform vehicle handover" is displayed. This cannot be carried out. 3. The… - LI46.15-P-070510 May 22, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Complaint Noises from the area of the steering column. - Creaking - Squeaking - Chattering - Humming - Grinding Cause At present, there are no known noise problems with the steering column. Remedy Check surrounding area of the steering column for possible n… - LI54.10-P-080602 May 20, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Complaint 48V battery (A66) part numbers A 000 982 78 24, A 000 982 57 30, A 000 982 88 31, A 000 982 50 32, A 000 982 87 32) may trigger a fault message ("48 V Service Required" with fault codes P0ADA91, P0ADE91, P0AA100, P0ADD00 or P0AA000) in the instrum… - LI91.10-P-076097 May 19, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Complaint Play/noise at height adjuster or in seat guide rail on front seats Cause Tolerances and variations in the manufacturing process Remedy 1. Inspect Seat Height Adjuster Barcode Label (See Pic.1) • Locate the barcode label on the cross tube of the se… - LI82.30-P-059239 May 19, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Complaint There are several types of complaint about noises or poor windshield wiper wiping performance: A: Wiper blades squeaking, chattering, shuddering B: The windshield is not wiped completely (streaking) C: During the downward movement water is pulled … - LI91.29-P-080554 May 15, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Complaint One or more seat functions are restricted or inoperative. This may include: • Seat memory • Automatic seat adjustment • Easy Entry/Exit • Head restraint presetting • Collision avoidance with bench seat at rear • Actuation by other vehicle systems … - LI54.65-P-080132 May 12, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Complaint 1. General Diagnostic Tips 2. One or More PARK Sensor Activations 3. Red Ring Around Vehicle 4. "Active Parking and Parking Assist Inoperative" on Instrument Cluster 5. Cameras 6. Other Park Topics Cause Various root causes Remedy See attached dia… - LI33.20-P-078406 May 12, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Complaint Creaking noise, in irregular sequence when driving slowly in combination with slight steering movements and/or Creaking/crackling noises from the area of the wheel bearing on the front axle when cornering/ maneuvering. Sound file attached for comp… - LI46.15-P-070510 May 8, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Cause At present, there are no known noise problems with the steering column. Remedy Check surrounding area of the steering column for possible noises. • Instrument panel support • Steering column switch module If noise only occurs when adjusting the steeri… - LI91.10-P-076097 May 4, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Complaint Play/noise at height adjuster or in seat guide rail on front seats Cause Tolerances and variations in the manufacturing process Remedy 1. Inspect Seat Height Adjuster Barcode Label (See Pic.1) • Locate the barcode label on the cross tube of the se… - LI82.10-P-078301 Apr 16, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Complaint Headlamp, front fog lamp leaky or fogged. Cause Fogging of the headlamps is a natural phenomenon, which can occur under certain climatic conditions. It does not lead to any technical impairment of the headlamp. If a pressure compensation diaphragm… - LI00.01-P-078887 Apr 24, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Complaint The intent of this document is to provide workshops with helpful technical reference language. • Commonly used acronyms in LI's and TIPS cases. • Control unit names, numbers, and how to identify. • Network/wiring architecture groups to baumuster q… - LI33.20-P-078406 Apr 17, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Complaint Creaking noise, in irregular sequence when driving slowly in combination with slight steering movements and/or Creaking/crackling noises from the area of the wheel bearing on the front axle when cornering/ maneuvering. Sound file attached for comp… - LI83.70-P-080411 Apr 13, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Complaint No heating output is available during electric driving operation. In conventional (combustion engine) driving operation, full heating output is available. Cause Possible defect in the N33/5 water heater (high-voltage PTC booster heater) Remedy If … - LI72.20-P-075746 Apr 2, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Complaint Tailgate opens unintentionally. Cause Accidental or unnoticed activation of the button to open the tailgate on the vehicle key. EXAMPLE: when stored in trouser pocket, handbag etc. Remedy As of the 6th generation, the vehicle key can be recoded so… - LI54.71-P-079104 Apr 2, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Complaint Traffic sign symbol for "Traffic Sign Assist" is blinking in instrument cluster without obvious cause usually with one of the following scenarios: • Flashing without a speed limit ("- -"). • Flashing when current vehicle speed is under speed limit… - LI82.60-P-080383 Apr 2, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Complaint Radio station cover art does not refresh when switching stations. The UI continues to show the old station’s artwork instead of updating to the new one. Cause When a new station change request is triggered, a temporary glitch is causing the Head U… - LI91.60-P-076303 Apr 8, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Complaint SRS indicator light illuminated in the instrument cluster. Electrical fault in the rear airbag/window airbag that may cause a connection between the airbag pins or to the vehicle mass Cause Contact problems that create a short circuit between the … - LI82.20-P-080425 Apr 8, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Complaint Optical irregularity in the light guide of the ambient lighting. Cause Exposure to external factors, e.g. cleaning or disinfecting agents, creams, mechanical stress, or impacts. Remedy The assessment of the complaint must be carried out from the n… - LI83.70-P-080411 Mar 30, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Complaint No heating output is available during electric driving operation. In conventional (combustion engine) driving operation, full heating output is available. Cause Possible defect in the N33/5 water heater (high-voltage PTC booster heater) Remedy If … - LI00.01-P-078887 Mar 25, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Complaint The intent of this document is to provide workshops with helpful technical reference language. • Commonly used acronyms in LI's and TIPS cases. • Control unit names, numbers, and how to identify. • Network/wiring architecture groups to baumuster q… - LI46.10-P-079374 Mar 25, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Complaint Customer concern for ESP/Brake or Steering yellow instrument cluster message AND C220564 in the N80 Steering Column Control Module (Valeo Parts only). To check which supplier steering column module is present in the vehicle, see attachment "Suppli… - LI91.10-P-078305 Mar 26, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Complaint The "easy entry and exit feature" function deactivates itself after a brief period. (see attachment) Cause The cause is currently being investigated. Remedy Update the HU7 to the latest software version, then perform a factory reset of the HU7. St… - LI82.60-P-080383 Mar 25, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Complaint Radio station cover art does not refresh when switching stations. The UI continues to show the old station’s artwork instead of updating to the new one. Cause Root cause currently being investigated. Remedy Please do not replace any parts. Please … - LI82.85-P-080359 Mar 19, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Complaint Mercedes me connect services inoperative (me-Call, Remote Status, etc.). Mercedes me services - activation not possible Notes: - The event code "B16AC00 - The configuration of the SIM card is erroneous" is active and stored - The head unit shows n… - LI82.85-P-078722 Mar 11, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Complaint The vehicle's position on the map is displayed far away from its actual position, e.g. the vehicle is displayed as being in the middle of the ocean. Note: No relevant DTC is displayed during the quick test. Cause The GNSS antenna is not correctly … - LI54.65-P-080132 Mar 9, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Complaint 1. General Diagnostic Tips 2. One or More PARK Sensor Activations 3. Red Ring Around Vehicle 4. "Active Parking and Parking Assist Inoperative" on Instrument Cluster 5. Cameras 6. Other Park Topics Cause Various root causes Remedy See attached dia… - LI82.00-P-080029 Mar 9, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Complaint The seat may no longer be adjustable using the electric seat adjustment switch on the door module. No related error is stored in the quick test. Cause Under certain conditions, the electric seat adjustment switch may remain in sleep mode. It is th… - LI82.10-P-078301 Mar 9, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Complaint Headlamp, front fog lamp leaky or fogged Cause Fogging of the headlamps is a natural phenomenon, which can occur under certain climatic conditions. It does not lead to any technical impairment of the headlamp. If a pressure compensation diaphragm … - LI54.10-P-073164 Mar 4, 2026 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
Complaint Yellow information message in driver display (instrument cluster): "Switch on motor to charge the 12V battery" Cause The state of charge (SOC) of the 12V battery has dropped to 45% or less. Remedy This warning message appears as soon as the state …
Source: NHTSA manufacturer communications files.