The Mercedes-Benz C-Class is an affordable luxury sedan known for its sporty and good handling characteristics. The third generation (W204) produced from 2007-2014 is no different and came in a plethora of configurations ranging from a fuel-efficient 1.8-liter turbo four-cylinder, a blistering 507-horsepower AMG, and 4MATIC all-wheel-drive models. Regarded as one of the most reliable vehicles in its class, it is easy to see how the W204 C-class was a bestseller. As dependable as they are, and even when performing all factory-scheduled maintenance, it is inevitable that items like brakes and struts will eventually need to be replaced.
How Often Should the Struts Be Replaced?
The front struts are tasked with absorbing road imperfections and ensuring that the tires stay planted on the ground. This is an important safety feature, as better traction means more responsive steering and a shorter braking distance. However, years of driving take their toll on the struts, and the internal components can fail or develop leaks. While their useful life is affected by driving habits and road conditions, they usually need to be replaced between 50,000 and 100,000 miles.
How Can I Tell if They Are Bad?
There are a few ways you can tell if your struts are due for replacement, such as:
- The vehicle rides softer or seems bouncier than normal. Additionally, it leans heavily when turning or driving around a curve.
- The front end dips down excessively when braking, or it takes longer to stop.
- One corner sits lower than the other.
These are all serious safety concerns, and if your Mercedes is experiencing any of the above, schedule an appointment today so our certified mechanics can inspect your vehicle’s suspension system.
Are Mercedes Struts Expensive?
As with most things related to Mercedes, factory struts are expensive. While it depends on the model and options, an original equipment (OE) strut will cost anywhere from $250 for a lower-end rear-wheel drive C250 to $800 if equipped with the vehicle dynamics package. Likewise, struts should always be replaced in pairs, and when including labor costs, the total bill will probably run between $800 to $2,000. For many owners, that is probably more than they would like to spend on a 10-plus-year-old vehicle.
Should I Have My Vehicle Serviced at the Dealership?
When your Mercedes needs to be serviced, the dealership is often the first place that comes to mind. That is understandable, as their technicians are factory-trained and install genuine OE parts, but it comes at a premium. However, replacing struts is a fairly standard procedure that does not require dealership expertise, and we have done this hundred of times on all types of vehicles, including Mercedes.
Are There Alternatives to Expensive OE Struts?
Yes, there are some excellent options, and we recommend Arnott strut and coil spring assemblies. They are custom tuned to match your vehicle’s original handling, comfort, and ride characteristics. These direct-fit units fit in place of the factory struts and require no cutting or modifications. Schedule an appointment today, and we can discuss the best option for restoring the factory ride on your Mercedes C-Class.