1996 Mercedes Benz 280
Safety record from NHTSA: recalls, owner complaints, investigations and service bulletins.
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Vehicles › Mercedes Benz › 280 › 1996
These records cover every 1996 Mercedes Benz 280. To see whether one car still needs a recall repair, decode its VIN or check it with NHTSA.
Owner complaints
13 complaints2 involved a crash1 injuries
What owners report most
Latest complaints
- Electrical system › Wiring
Ever since I bought this mercedes C280 1996 three years ago (2004) it had a problem with the wiring harness and it IS just too expensive to replace it. *jb
- Electrical system › Wiring › Front underhood
During a recent service of my vehicle at an authorized mercedes benz service center, I was informed that the insulation covering my wires were decomposing and the wires were exposed to the engine, hence creating a safety hazard for me and my family. Due to the severity of the problem, and the…
During a recent service of my vehicle at an authorized mercedes benz service center, I was informed that the insulation covering my wires were decomposing and the wires were exposed to the engine, hence creating a safety hazard for me and my family. Due to the severity of the problem, and the possible consequences if the wires caught on fire. The mechanic said it was a material defect. He revealed that this was not the first time he had observed this problem with 1996 280C- class. Since this appeared to be a habitual defect with this make and model; I asked if a recall had been issued to replace this decomposing wire harness. He replied "no." I don't think I should have to pay to have the harness replaced. It IS a defect and should be paid by the manufacturer. I have searched online and found many other owners, @ mercedeshop.com site, have the same problem with their 280C class. Can you please help me? *tr
- Visibility › Windshield wiper/washer
Windshield washer fluid sensor failed.
- Vehicle speed control
After parking the vehicle and turn off the ignition, the vehicle lurches forward or rocks backward, problem still exist.
- Electrical system
Electrical system has has numerous failures since owner purchased vehicle.
- Power train › Automatic transmission › Park/neutral start interlock switch
On slight incline, after gear shift was put into park, key removed and shut door while walking toward house, the vehicle rolled backwards down the hill, hitting two trees. please describe details. *ak *nlm
- Suspension › Front · Unknown or other
While driving the vehicle engine light comes on and the vehicle will start to vibrate. Cause unknown. please provide details. *ak
- Equipment › Appliance › Air conditioner
Air conditioner failed.
- Air bags › Frontal · Seat belts › Front › Anchorage
Driving vehicle; air bag light keeps coming on. Had the seat belts and air bags replaced; took to dealer who had repaired problem temporarily, but problem still exists. *ak
- Tires
Michelin tire failed. (Size p195/65r15)
- Air bags
No deployment of driver's side air bag in accident.
- Engine and engine cooling › Engine › Gasoline › Belts and associated pulleys
Fan belt failed.
- Service brakes, hydraulic › Foundation components
When brakes are applied, they make a loud noise and car continues to move. *ak
Every Mercedes Benz 280 model year
Bars are owner complaints, dots mark years with recalls. Select a year to open its report.