2014 Mercedes-Benz C-Class Suspension
Owner-reported problems and safety issues filed with NHTSA. Review common failures, severity levels, and complaint trends over time.
Complaint Timeline
Chronological view of owner reports
The left rear subframe separated from the main frame causing the car to pull to the left when braking. I had an episode where I was stopping for a traffic light and the car started fishtailing and I almost lost control of the car. Following this episode, I took the car to a mechanic who advised me that the car was unsafe to drive. My mechanic also told me that he has repaired a number of these vehicle with the same problem, and that Mercedes Benz has extended their warranty from 4 years 50,000 miles to 20 years unlimited mileage. They did the extension after someone filed a class action suit in Georgia about the problem. The vehicle is presently at a Mercedes dealer awaiting the new subframe.
Rotted rear sub frame due to poor design retaining water
took car in for oil change and was informed that car should not be driven because rear subframe had rotted thru and rear link was completly unattached and hitting gas tank. havent had a response from 2 dealerships this car is unstable and hitting the brakes requires a lot of attention to keep on road
Rear sub frame rusting through
Rear left sub frame is found to be broken due to corrosion and rust. Right side is near to be broken. Driving under such condition is very dangerous.
Car has approximately 60,000. miles. Upon it's state inspection Mercedes Benz service center indicated rear subframe is rusted. Service advisory says it is okay now, but will need to be replaced. Searching Mercedes forums, I've noted this is a n oft reported issue. Many do not realize there is an issue until it breaks and car pulls to one side at rear upon braking. Others have experienced rusted brake lines at the same area as the subframe issue. Others have noted damage to the gas tank from suspension parts banging the fuel tank after it breaks. I realize this is a 8 year old vehicle. But the vehicle shows zero signs of rust on the undercarriage except for the subframe. Sure seems like a manufacturer's defect that should be recalled by Mercedes. Because of safety concerns, I now have to decide to repair or trade the car because of safety concerns. But the rusted subframe zaps the value I thought I had in the vehicle for a trade. What is the protocol for manufacturer's to issue safety recalls. Sure seems like this one qualifies.
My 2014 Mercedes C300 4matic currently has a rusted through rear subframe. I know this has been reported to your Bureau numerous times by various people. This affects all 2008-2014 C Class and E Class Mercedes (as I used to work for a Mercedes dealer). Mercedes is trying to avoid liability at the sheer cost and man hours required to replace these parts. This is a MAJOR safety hazard, and has caused numerous drivers to lose control of their vehicle when they do in fact break off at one of the weld joints. The car is 8 years old with approximately 90k miles. This is a STRUCTURAL part of the car, and should never have to be replaced. Subaru dealt with suspension recalls on their vehicles, and I believe Mercedes should be reliable as well. Thousands of these cars are a ticking time bombs on the road. This issue was confirmed by my personal mechanic, and he stated this will not pass the next inspection (luckily I have 6 months left).
R/F TIRE BUBBLE IN SIDEWALL. AT 1959 MILES A BUBBLE APPEARED IN THE R/F TIRE. I DISCOVERED THE BUBBLE WHILE WASHING THE CAR . THIS APPEARED ABOUT TWO MONTH AFTER PURCHASE. AUGUST 19 20014 THE DEALER RELUNCTANTLY REPLACE THE TIRE. I HAVE NOT SEEN ANY BUBBLES SINCE THAT DATE. I AM NOT SATISFIED WITH THE CONTINENTAL TIRES. *TR
Trend Over Time
Complaints by year
Other Issues
Common problems reported
Quick Summary
The 2014 Mercedes-Benz C-Class has 8 Suspension complaints on file. Review the timeline above for detailed owner experiences.