2007-2014 · 1.8L M271 turbocharged petrol (184 hp)
Popular executive compact that delivers Mercedes prestige on a budget. The M271 CGI engine combines decent performance with reasonable fuel economy, but timing chain and camshaft adjuster issues are serious concerns, especially on pre-2012 models. Electronic steering lock failures can leave you stranded. Proper maintenance history is essential. The 7G-Tronic automatic has known valve body issues. Post-2012 facelift models are more reliable with improved M271 EVO engine. Diesels are generally more dependable for high-mileage use.
Chain stretches due to weak tensioner causing cold start rattle, can lead to valve damage · more· less
The M271 engine's timing chain tensioner has a release valve that weakens over time, allowing oil pressure to bleed overnight. This results in a distinctive rattle for 1-30 seconds on cold start, typically appearing between 60,000-100,000 km. If rattle lasts more than a few seconds, the chain, guides, tensioner, and sprockets all need replacing. Independent specialists charge €1,000-2,200, while dealers ask €3,000-3,500. Ignoring this can lead to chain skip and catastrophic valve/piston contact. Pre-2012 models particularly affected. Extended oil change intervals accelerate the problem.
Motor brushes wear out after 8-10 years, preventing steering unlock and engine start · more· less
Probably the biggest W204 issue. The ESL worm drive electrical motor brushes wear out, typically after 8-10 years. Symptoms include intermittent steering wheel unlocking or complete failure to unlock, accompanied by unusual instrument cluster display and no engine start. Dealers charge €1,200-2,000 for replacement. Repair services offer motor rebuilds for €400-600. ESL emulator solutions (which disable the locking function) cost €300-400 but compromise vehicle security. Many owners report failures around 100,000-130,000 km. This is a when-not-if failure on W204 models.
Camshaft adjuster solenoid oil leak€300 - €3,000
Solenoid seals leak oil into wiring harness, contaminating ECU and causing misfires · more· less
The camshaft adjuster solenoids leak oil which "wicks" into the wiring harness and can contaminate the ECU, causing check engine lights, misfires, and starting issues. DIY parts cost around €275 (sensors, o-rings, isolation sleeves). Professional repair runs €500-800. If ECU and harness replacement is needed, dealers quote up to €3,000. Mercedes extended warranty on camshaft adjuster to 10 years/120,000 miles for some models. Post-2012 M271 EVO engines have redesigned adjuster and solenoid that should eliminate this problem. Early detection and cleaning can avoid expensive ECU replacement.
7G-Tronic valve body & conductor plate failure€800 - €3,500
Electronic conductor plate fails causing harsh shifting, slipping, and limp mode · more· less
The 7G-Tronic (722.9) automatic transmission's conductor plate (integrated TCM) is a known weakness, especially on 2007-2011 models. Symptoms include harsh shifting, delayed engagement, slipping between gears, and stuck in limp mode. The conductor plate costs around €1,000 and requires programming. Dealer repairs run €2,000-3,500 including labor. Specialist rebuild services offer repairs for €800-1,200. Early intervention at first warning signs is crucial to prevent damage to other transmission components. The 7G is less reliable than the older 5G automatic. Problems typically appear between 50,000-100,000 km.
Carbon buildup on intake valves (CGI direct injection)€500 - €1,200
Direct injection causes carbon deposits causing rough idle, misfires, reduced power · more· less
CGI (direct injection) engines don't wash intake valves with fuel like port injection engines, allowing carbon buildup. Symptoms include rough idle, reduced fuel efficiency, hesitation during acceleration, and misfires. Walnut blasting cleaning should be performed every 40,000-60,000 miles. Independent shops charge €500-800, dealers €800-1,200. Using premium fuel and occasional fuel system cleaners helps reduce deposits. This is preventive maintenance, not a defect, but necessary for CGI engines. Neglecting this service leads to increasingly poor performance.
Plastic actuator arm breaks from carbon buildup stress, usually 80,000-100,000 km · more· less
The intake manifold's plastic pivot lever where it meets the actuator arm commonly fails between 80,000-100,000 km due to carbon buildup creating excessive resistance. Dealers quote €1,200-1,800 for full manifold replacement. Metal repair kits available on eBay for €15-30 plus new manifold gasket (€5), making DIY repair very affordable. Independent shops charge €200-400 for repair. OEM plastic parts exhibit the same failure mode, so metal upgrade kits are recommended. Common P2004 code. Swirl flaps can stick from PCV system gunk accumulation.
Power steering pump leak & failure€200 - €1,400
Pump shaft seal fails causing fluid leaks and steering noise · more· less
Power steering fluid leaks are common on W204, often from failed pump shaft front seal or reservoir O-ring. Symptoms include fluid stains under vehicle, low fluid warnings, gurgling noises while turning. If caught early, seal kit repairs cost €15-150. Full pump replacement: rebuilt pump €300-400, new pump €600-1,000, plus €200-400 labor. Dealers charge €1,000-1,400 total. Running pump dry damages it beyond repair. Inspect reservoir O-ring before replacing pump - it's often the actual leak source and much cheaper to fix.
Salt-affected pre-2012 models can develop serious subframe rust, especially northern climates · more· less
Pre-facelift (pre-2012) W204s, particularly in northern/coastal climates, can develop rear subframe corrosion at control arm attachment points. Mercedes addressed many cases via recalls or goodwill repairs for cars with full dealer service history. Also check power steering pipes, brake lines, and floor pans for corrosion. Despite having undertray protection, underside salt accumulation is the primary cause. Regular winter underbody washing is crucial prevention. Subframe replacement costs €1,500-2,500 at independent shops. Post-2012 models have better rust protection.
Reliable when maintained, but several expensive failure points
The W204 C200 CGI can be dependable with proper maintenance, but timing chain, ESL, and transmission issues represent significant financial risks. Post-2012 facelift models with the M271 EVO engine are more reliable. Full Mercedes service history and evidence of timing chain/camshaft adjuster work dramatically reduce risk. Budget owners should set aside €1,000+/year for unexpected repairs.
Pre-Purchase Inspection Checklist
General checks
Service history
Complete Mercedes dealer or authorized specialist records essential. Verify oil changes every 10,000 km maximum (5,000-7,000 km is better for M271 engine).
Tires
Check tread depth, age (date codes), uneven wear patterns. Front tires wear faster.
Cold start
Must start engine completely cold. Listen carefully for timing chain rattle in first 30 seconds.
Body condition
Check for rust on rear subframe, power steering lines, brake lines, door bottoms, and license plate area.
Test drive
Minimum 20 minutes including varied speeds. Test steering lock/unlock when parking (ESL check).
Specific for this vehicle
Cold start timing chain rattle
Critical check. Start engine completely cold and listen for rattle in first 30 seconds. Any rattle lasting more than 2-3 seconds indicates timing chain issues requiring immediate repair.
Electronic steering lock operation
Test multiple times. Steering should unlock smoothly when starting. Hesitation or unusual instrument cluster messages indicate failing ESL motor.
Camshaft adjuster solenoid oil leaks
Inspect engine for oil around camshaft area. Check service history for solenoid replacement. Oil-soaked wiring harness indicates ongoing leak.
7G-Tronic transmission behavior
Drive for 20+ minutes until transmission is hot. Feel for harsh shifts, hesitation, clunking, or slipping between gears. Any warning lights are red flags.
Verify timing chain replacement if high mileage
Ask if timing chain and camshaft adjuster have been replaced. If car has 80,000+ km and no replacement record, budget €1,500-3,500 for this work.
Check for P2004 intake manifold code
Request diagnostic scan. P2004 code indicates tumble flap actuator issues. Repair is straightforward but necessary.
Inspect rear subframe for corrosion (pre-2012)
Get the car on a lift. Carefully inspect rear subframe, especially control arm mounting points, for rust or previous repair work.
Power steering fluid level and condition
Check reservoir. Low level or dirty fluid indicates leaks or poor maintenance. Listen for pump noise when turning at low speed.
Recalls and Technical Service Bulletins
Crankshaft position sensor failure - OM642 diesel (2006-2007)Verify completed
Steering effort increase (June 2009 - Feb 2010 production)Verify completed
Fuel filter leak - C320/C350 CDI (Nov 2009 - July 2011)Verify completed if diesel
Contact Mercedes-Benz with the VIN to verify all recalls completed. Some owners received goodwill repairs for rear subframe corrosion if full dealer service history present.
Warranty Status
Factory warranty (2 years)Expired on all W204s
Camshaft adjuster extended warranty10 years/120,000 miles (certain models)
Rust perforation warranty30 years (check eligibility)
All W204 C200 CGI models are outside original factory warranty. Extended warranties available through third parties. Mercedes may honor goodwill claims for known issues on well-maintained vehicles with full dealer service history.
This report is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. Estimates may be inaccurate. Always have a qualified specialist inspect the vehicle before purchase. We accept no liability for decisions made based on this information.