Also just found out that left rear weld of subframe on our 2012 C300 4matic rotted through. Contacted M-B and was politely told there were no recalls or service bulletins on the problem. When my mechanic called to inquire about parts, the M-B service manager at the dealership acted like it was a common occurrence, not surprised at all. Was quoted a price a thousand more than your price at my local mechanic. Looks like M-B has a design problem that they are just living with (at the expense of their owners). Good luck at the dealer. If you find out anything other than "Sorry about that, but you're not covered." I'd love to know.

 

Yep, my mechanic called them to get the price for the part and immediately suggested taking the car to them, because MB parts person sounded like it is common. My concern now is I was told I should not be driving the car like that, but I guess I will have to, just to get to the dealership
Will let you know what they say.

 

You might want to have the car trucked over to the dealer (they might even give you the tow for free). My mechanic told me that every time you hit the brakes it stress the other attached parts (arms etc.) and you could end up with more parts to replace. In addition, it is scary to have your car veer left, have the back end come around right and dive on the front passenger side toward the road every time you try to stop.

 

Here is my update in case anyone is curious: I took my car to a dealer, they did a great diagnostic, confirmed I need a new sub frame, also noticed that because of the loose subframe, my brake liners are damaged and have to be replaces. They also showed me how some metal parts were hitting my gas tank and it is now damaged, but luckily no holes, so it will stay as is. My estimate was $12k, but that also includes front brakes which is unrelated. Subframe replacement itself is 1800 parts + 3800 labor. Brake liners another 3.5k.
I called MB USA, they were very friendly and apologetic, but after investigation told me that since there are no recalls, they can only offer me 15% discount though the dealership.
I ended up taking my car back to the local shop (dealer made me sign the paper that the car is not safe to drive and I accept it LOL) that I trust and they will do everything from the dealer's 12k estimate for 6k using oem parts (sub frame, brake liners, front brakes).
And I have a feeling that the recall can still happen in few years, so I will definitely be keeping my receipts.

 

Here is my update in case anyone is curious: I took my car to a dealer, they did a great diagnostic, confirmed I need a new sub frame, also noticed that because of the loose subframe, my brake liners are damaged and have to be replaces. They also showed me how some metal parts were hitting my gas tank and it is now damaged, but luckily no holes, so it will stay as is. My estimate was $12k, but that also includes front brakes which is unrelated. Subframe replacement itself is 1800 parts + 3800 labor. Brake liners another 3.5k.
I called MB USA, they were very friendly and apologetic, but after investigation told me that since there are no recalls, they can only offer me 15% discount though the dealership.
I ended up taking my car back to the local shop (dealer made me sign the paper that the car is not safe to drive and I accept it LOL) that I trust and they will do everything from the dealer's 12k estimate for 6k using oem parts (sub frame, brake liners, front brakes).
And I have a feeling that the recall can still happen in few years, so I will definitely be keeping my receipts.

In Europe there is a 30 year corrosion warrant, and I had my E class done for free, but many owners don’t! In the US its a 4 year/50k warrant! Its a very difficult job to replace the subframe! What has annoyed me is I was driving up the motorway at 70 the day before I found my subframe was rusted to hell! MB said it was the worst they had seen! I have written to the CEO MB RETAIL UK telling her there must be a public notification and or recall! No reply yet, but If not I will write again, and then take it further! It’s a VERY serious issue that MB has to confront!

 

about to get our W204 repaired after the subframe rotted through (from the inside) on the left rear. Apparently very common. Going to cost about $3K at a non dealership repair shop that is trustworthy. Parts hard to find, but they found one. MB dealership couldn't get the part for "some time". We are going with a used subframe, they found one in great condition. If the car wasn't MINT condition, we'd have given up...there should definitely be a recall on this as 1. its unsafe as hell, 2. it's a design flaw, 3. they knew about this and recalled previous subframes for same issue, 4. both my non dealership mech and the dealership mech both said they see this all the time. Saving receipts....

 

From what I heard we all need to call National Highway Traffic Safety Administration -NHTSA 1-888-327423 and file a complaint about the rust issue and the unsafe driving conditions as a result of the issues. I called already and they were able to provide information on what could potentially be the next step towards an investigation in the event that they receive a lot of customers complaints a recall may happen to cover the expenses.

 

My recent posting on here today about a recall regarding a dangerous braking problem is NOT it seems connect to the subframe corrosion problem, which is deemed NOT to be dangerous!! The mind boggles! This new recall will cost MB a few Bob, so god only knows what it will cost if the subframe problem is exposed! The truth must out at some stage!

 

Yes I saw news breaking about a MB brake recall, but it's not the subframe corrosion issue. Hard to believe this premature frame rot isn't a more serious condition on the recall radar, it's clearly a hidden danger.

 

I have a 2013 C300 4Matic that has 79,000 miles on it, is garage kept, and well maintained. Two days ago I had a flat tire and when I took it to my local mechanic to repair/replace, he told me the subframe was broken and the car could not be driven! He is now trying to find the parts to fix it and I am sure this will cost a pretty penny. Mercedes needs to deal with this issue and I would definitely be interested in participating in a class action lawsuit!

 

Please call National Highway Traffic Safety Administration -NHTSA 1-888-327423 and file a complaint about the rust issue and the unsafe driving conditions as a result of the issues.

 

we should go for civil law suit as other model of Mercedez same problem and there is a civil law suit open on that. this is a major and life threating problem they should repair or buy back, it seems they are waiting for some thing big happen.

 

I agree - how do we do this? - I was driving my car locally over the past few days and noticed a pretty load knocking noise and shudder when it brakes from the driver's rear side. I took it to our local mechanics who was horrified to report that the sub frame was broken and completely rotten out too. I first called my dealership in Greenwich, CT to be told that there is no recall. My husband looked at the websites in Canada and Europe where it a recall there. I called MB head office and I have to bring it to their dealership to ascertain the problem - a waste of time because I know what it is. But, in order to 'escalate' the issue, that is what needs to be done. I just called the local dealership here and they are 3-4 weeks out with appointments. I can't be without a car for that long so I am going to have the local mechanic fix it, keep me receipts and try to claim it back from MB USA. Has anyone else tried to claim $$ back?

 

Yesterday I was just told by my MB dealership that my 2012 C300 has the same rust issue with the rear suspension-rear subframe. I was told that it would cost $5000 to replace, plus alignment. I was also told that there are none in the US and the part has to come from Germany!!!!! Holy Crap! What 84 year old has $5000 under their mattress? I am over a barrel and don't know what to do - trade it or fix it? Any suggestions?

 

I have a 2011 C300 4Matic and I just found out this week I have the same problem with the subframe. The dealership is telling me that both rear brake lines need replacement along with the subframe. They say the part has to come from Germany and it could be months to the tune of $3500. They blamed the problem on the weather here in Virginia. Yes we do get snow storms and drive on salted roads but i haven't heard of other cars rusting out over a little salt. The car won't pass inspection so basically it's useless now and dangerous. I think a class action lawsuit needs to be looked into.

 

A MB tach said it is common…

 

I have same thing happened on my 2012 c300 today… located in Boston Massachusetts. My local shop told me he will send out emails to get a used part, clearly new part is not available or costing a big bucks. Need suggestions as well. Trade? Fix?

I think it is a gimmick- was told that there are no parts in the US - have to be purchased from Germany and they only have several. We need to go after Mercedes to get a recall as so many of them are happening!! *I can't afford to trade (I have only two payments for pay off, but was told that it would go to auction, because it isn't worth much??? for a trade in. We need to fight for a recall since it is happening in so many of the C300 models. I really think we are being told a story that isn't true!

 

Someone I know looked online and they found several hundred of the parts in the USA. What's up with that?

 

Where are you finding these replacement subframes? Been waiting now for over 4 weeks and still none in sight.

 

We should have a class lawsuit for this. I have the same problem. What a shame for MB!

 

I am for a class lawsuit. This should not be the customers responsibility. MB knew it was happening when the first case was reported!! I WILL NOT GIVE MY DEALERSHIP $5000 to have this problem fixed. They are just gauging the customer. Mercedes owners will start searching for other mechanics/garages to repair this problem, at a much lower cost!!!! I will be taking my 2012 C300 to a mechanic who is truthful, honest and trustworthy for all of my A and B services from now on. MB has ripped me off for far more dollars than they deserve. They used to replace your windshield washe4r fluid free of charge - NO MORE! We gotta pay for it. They will soon start charging to wash your car after it is serviced!! You are losing customers my friends. Wise up and take care of the hand that pays your salary.

 

I am the proud owner of two of these death traps both subframes have failed (rusted rotted out), repairs were quoted to me MB $3.300 for repairs for my 2009 C300 4matic luxury...No telling what they will quote me for my 2012 C-300 4matic sport. I wrote a letter to Germany's MB safety division telling them what they already know; don't be fooled they know what they engineered. Very sad I almost killed myself on the road when hitting the brakes.. CLASS ACTION LAWSUIT---ALLL IN !!!!!!!!!! my goose is cooked now thanks MB Inc.

 

Need evidence for your lawsuit? I will testify!!! Really disgusted with MB. They used to be "high end" cars. NO LONGER

 

My 2012 C300 has the rot hole left rear subframe too. This is totally unacceptable. MB needs to step up. My car is in great shape otherwise with 115k miles but this design defect renders it almost worthless. While I’ll do my part to complain to MB, I have a question. How many years do C models have this defect? Do the GLCs also have it?

 

As far as I know only the 2012 C300 are having this issue. It was known beforehand by my dealership but they neglected to let me know until I took it in for inspection. I found out about it by going to this site. MB needs to make this right or no one is going to buy MC once they know this - and to charge $5000 to repair it. They are out of their mind!! I found a local mechanic who can repair it for half that amount. I was told that the replacement part was not available in the US and it would have to come from Germany (and they only had 2!!!) What a crock! My grandson found it in the US and it is due to be delivered Aug. 1. LIES, LIES, LIES

 

File at NHTSA this will force a recall

 

Hi Folks, no sign of a recall in the UK, but we have had success an getting subframes replaced FOC by Mercedes Benz. I have only been involved in the C & E-Class models for a couple of months, (I have been involved in the R171 subframe issue for about 16 months and we have had over 150 subframes replaced FOC over that period, around the world) with the C & E-Class we have had 8 subframes inspected as part of Safety Checks and all 8 have been replaced FOC, the latest of these was a 2014 C-Class. If you have any questions please contact me at: dave@castellni.co.uk I will see what I can do to help - Dave Evans

 

My grandson found one by searching on his phone. I'm not sure where it came from. It took 2 weeks to get it.

 

We have put together information sheets, initially for SLK R171 owners in the UK, over the last 16 months, this has enabled owners to claim for replacement subframes from MB. In the UK and Europe, we have had over 150, R171 subframes replaced FOC (Free of Charge) as, according to a number of MB Forum worldwide, the corrosion issue was caused by, issues with the manufacturing processes, either poor quality steel and/or a lack of rust protection inside the subframe, as the subframes corrode from the inside - out. Over the last couple of months we have started working with owners of C & E-Class Models. In that time we've been contacted by about 30, C & E-Class owners and we have had 8 subframes inspected by MB Dealerships in the UK and Europe, and all 8 subframes have been replaced FOC. I am working directly with a number of owners in the USA at the moment, but, there are issues in the US with both dealerships and MBUSA, in that they will not accept responsibility for the rear subframe issues. I am working hard with owners in the USA to try and change this. In the UK and Europe, we just use what we identify as, the Initial Information Sheet and Draft Email, to send to the UK Customer Service and then book the vehicles in for a Safety Check and Rear Subframe Inspection with an MB Dealership (In the UK, we have two lists; 1) Good Dealership List and 2) Dealerships to Avoid List) so owners can find Good Dealerships who are helpful. In the US it isn't quite so simple, I have to send a lot of information, including, articles published by and about MB in Europe and in the UK, an article I had published in the Sundial Magazine in October/November 2021 highlighting the subframe issue on the R171's, the Clubs Monthly reports on subframe issues, a Supplementary Service Document about rear subframes that was issued by MB in 2018, that informs Dealerships to inspect rear subframes because of the rear subframe corrosion issues, also other information etc. We do have a number of members in the USA that are using some of our information to approach NHTSA about the subframe issue. On a cautionary note. In our Owners Club, we have had 24 subframes on R171 Models, that have collapsed whilst being driven and we have had 4, C & E-Class subframes that have collapsed the newest of these was built in 2014. I hope that this information is helpful, if you would like more information, contact me by email: dave@castellni.co.uk regards, Dave Evans

 

Thanks, this is very helpful!

 

No Problem, I have sent the information sheets over to an owner in the USA this afternoon, if you want a copy of the information sheets (USA & Canada version), just email me (give me your BenzWorld name too) so that I know that it is you I am dealing with, for my data sheets (this data is covered by Data Protection Regulations in the UK) and never shared with anyone else, it is just for my records and to track what I have sent out to owners. If you have any questions or need any help or advice contact me, I am here to help Dave.

 

Hi Dave,
I'm not sure what "BenzWorld" is, but my name is Joan Gordon. I am 84 years old, so my "old" brain doesn't always comprehend computer language like it should. I would appreciate anything you can share to help me solve this issue with MB. Have a great day. (I am a retired United Methodist Pastor too).

 

Please complete and file a report at
https://www.nhtsa.gov

Call and email them everyday. I will bug the crp out of thesepeople until they pay for this repair

 

I filled out the report & submitted around 8/10/22. Have not heard anything back!

 

No I have not heard anything back from the NHTSA. Its a government agency so I don't ecpect to. I'm hoping if enough peoplefile a complaint it wi trigger a re-call.Mean while my car is a brick and has been for over 6 weeks. Completely unusable. My mechanic said he has no idea when the parts will be available and neither does Mercedes. I will go ahead with the repair (if and when it happens) and keep all the receipts (keep all reciepts). Once the repair is complete I will start looking for a law firm to file a suit. Until that happens I will continue to email and send letters to MBUSA until they fix this issue. Everybody should do the same.

 

I have a 2013 C300 Sport 4MATIC with roughly 90k miles. Car is in great condition, a well maintained vehicle that has been regularly serviced (receipts in hand). Just sent it into my local mechanic for oil change, air filter change, and to check out the rear noise that started a month ago. As you can guess - Rear Subframe is rotted, hitting the gas tank on bumps/pot holes. Parts are on back order WITH NO TIME FRAME. Not only is it crazy that the US does not offer free repair / recall on this issue - Mercedes Benz is leaving people hanging due to the back orders. Curious if Canada / other countries also have this back order issue regardless of recall status. If not, MBUSA should most definitely be responsible to all its US customers whether its improving inventory or a straight up reimbursement for repairs.

Can anyone provide insight on how long back orders are currently taking ? No one can give me a time frame. Any insight to help me figure out how long I will be carless for is greatly appreciated.

Is there a way to order a replacement frame / parts from Europe ???

 

I have a 2013 C300 Sport 4MATIC with roughly 90k miles. Car is in great condition, a well maintained vehicle that has been regularly serviced (receipts in hand). Just sent it into my local mechanic for oil change, air filter change, and to check out the rear noise that started a month ago. As you can guess - Rear Subframe is rotted, hitting the gas tank on bumps/pot holes. Parts are on back order WITH NO TIME FRAME. Not only is it crazy that the US does not offer free repair / recall on this issue - Mercedes Benz is leaving people hanging due to the back orders. Curious if Canada / other countries also have this back order issue regardless of recall status. If not, MBUSA should most definitely be responsible to all its US customers whether its improving inventory or a straight up reimbursement for repairs.

Can anyone provide insight on how long back orders are currently taking ? No one can give me a time frame. Any insight to help me figure out how long I will be carless for is greatly appreciated.

Is there a way to order a replacement frame / parts from Europe ???

I was told about 6 weeks to get the replacement part. Mine became undrivable on 8/09 & they said the part, which was ordered out of Germany (I was told), should be here around 9/17. We'll see. In the mean time, I purchased an American made vehicle. Started having trouble with it although it is still drivable at this point. Time frame for the differential parts approx. 2 months!!! No loaner cars offered.

 

Thanks for the information - I found someone that claims they sell them (at a lower price than MB) : Eurosubframes

I just do not know if they are legit, he says they have sold multiple ones to US customers and they come within a week or two.

I also emailed MBUSA with a complaint, asking for a specified timeframe and a loaner car. Highly doubt I willl get a response.

 

Thanks for the information - I found someone that claims they sell them (at a lower price than MB) : Eurosubframes

I just do not know if they are legit, he says they have sold multiple ones to US customers and they come within a week or two.

I also emailed MBUSA with a complaint, asking for a specified timeframe and a loaner car. Highly doubt I willl get a response.

I would be careful buy a part thatis not OEM. Any chance of getting MBUSA to py for the repair will be shot if you replace it with a non OEM part

 

I, too have been struck with the rotting subframe. 2013 C300 Sport, been taking great care of it. They want to charge $5000 to replace the whole thing. I filed a complaint with the NHTSA and I am on hold trying to speak with MBUSA to get them to potentially pay for this.

 

Impossible to get through on phone to MBUSA, anyone have any tips on reaching a person from them to talk?

 

I've filed a complaint with the NHTSA and received a response with a case number. Additionally, if you call MB USA at (800) 367-6372 they will also assign a case number.