2008 Mercedes C-Class Review: A Dependable Year For The Redesigned Luxury Car

Alex Showalter
Jul 19, 2022

The 2008 Mercedes C-Class can last around 200,000 miles with some electrical and steering issues. At $7,343 to $23,500, it’s a good deal for an entry-level luxury sedan.

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likeFilled The Good
The build quality is excellent, the infotainment system is easy to use and the cabin is extremely quiet.
dislikeFilled The Bad
Rear seat legroom is cramped, the new engines have high maintenance costs and some interior materials wear down.

Is the 2008 Mercedes C-Class a Good Used Car?

  • Yes, 2008 is a good year for the C-Class. Owner reviews mention the refined driving experience, dependable engine choices, and exterior styling.
  • Interior materials are better than other entry-level luxury cars with very high quality leather and wood. The infotainment system is also more advanced than  its rivals.
  • Reliability ratings are above average, models from 2008-2014 are good with a surge in complaints for 2015.
  • Performance is average from the base V6, but the optional V8 offers excellent power.
  • The C-Class is relatively safe for a compact car, getting 4 out of 5 stars in government crash tests.
  • Fuel economy is good at up to 21 MPG combined.

Positive Owner Reviews

accountCircle Lindsey O
It has hail damage all over it
Gas is expensive. Buying parts can be very costly. Overall it is very reliable. I feel safe driving in all weather conditions.
accountCircle Kimberly B
No car will be on the road broken down with their brand.
My 2008 mercedes-benz has many benefits as from the tinted windows and sunroof to the comfortable heated seats to the premium sound. The sunroof is unbelievably useful. Especially when driving down the freeway. Then on cold mornings, often every morning, the seats heat up to keep you comfortable. As well as the premium speakers with an in-dash video monitor. This brand is very trustworthy to ensure your comfort with the roadside assistance guarantee the mercedes-benz offers to ensure that no one in their vehicles will be rendered helpless.
accountCircle Bobby M
They will run forever if properly maintained, like scheduled oil change and tune ups.
German engineering is great, The car is fun to drive and very safe. Plus the styling is second to none
accountCircle Sara M
The car is such a nice ride. The seats are comfy and elegant.
No problems! The maintenance is often but it is easy to understand and use. Their services are nice, expensive, but you get what you pay for. The chairs are comfy and the seats have seat warmers. The steering wheel is comfortable. There are barely any blind spots in the car.
accountCircle Nancy R
That it is a very safe car and a very comfortable car and a very smooth ride.
I like my vehicle because it is loaded with every possible extra. It rides very well. It is very comfortable. The only thing I do not like about it is that it is very expensive to fix. Next.
accountCircle Andrea W
Mercedes Benz c300 review.
I haven't had any issues with the vehicle, tomorrow will mark 10 years I have had it. Just remember when parking it is lower in the front otherwise you'll scrape the front bumper, I did this on day 2. It is great on gas, rides smoothly even after 10 years. It only needs service once a year if you keep up on its service you should not have any problems.
accountCircle Heidi D
Mercedes-Benz combines luxury with performance.
I absolutely love my Mercedes-Benz. Other than normal maintenance (oil change, new tires, tire rotations), I have never had to get repairs. I love all the features like auto windshield wipers, mirror adjustments, and headrests. It drives very smoothly and accelerates fast!
accountCircle Pam P
Has sleek design lines sporty model.
Drives well. Comfortable seating no smart phone access. Tight steering handles road well. Hard to fix high maintenance fees. Does not drive well on snow and ice.

Negative Owner Reviews

accountCircle Julie L
It's super expensive to upkeep oil changes are double .. You got to use expensive gas always.
Not very impressed with the inside. I love how it drives.
accountCircle Kimberly B
Be mindful of what you are getting
Runs smoothly, good on gas, repairs are expensive, electrical problems frequently, must go to a dealership for maintenance, difficult to find over service providers. Handles well in traffic and on highway. Electrical problems occur frequently and will disable the entire system. Love the reminders for service.
accountCircle Gabrielle B
Beautiful vs Pretty penny
I love the aesthetic of this vehicle it looks great and is what I consider luxury. It is a comfortable ride and looks sleek too. The only downside to this vehicle is the expense to fix ANYTHING that is wrong with it. For example: I have had my AC go out, I have needed to purchase new sensors for essential operational signifiers, I have needed to purchase new lights, etc. Even the oil change is quite pricey. It also is difficult to find a mechanic who will work on a foreign vehicle. If you are looking for something that looks great rides great but don't mind dropping a pretty penny whenever it need maintenance, this is the perfect car for you!!
accountCircle Paul S
It's a solidly built mercedes benz. Parts are expensive. I don't recommend it for new drivers.
It's solid, but kind of dated. Too small. It's d***y. My wife crashed it a few times already.
accountCircle Erik P
It's a good car no problems
It's a really good car. It's a family car so everyone fits. It's a v-8 the thing I don't like because it spends so much gas. It's a automatic car and stick shift car to. Even though it's a wild it's a good car I don't have any problems besides the gas.

What Do Critics Say About the Mercedes C-Class?

  • Consumer Reports says the C-Class is quick and refined, with above average owner satisfaction scores.
  • Edmunds gives the C-Class a 4.8/5 liking the luxurious interior, but dislike that the cabin is a bit small.
  • Kelley Blue Book users rate the C-Class 4.7/5 and enjoy the performance of the C63 model, but don’t like the high ownership costs.

What Common Problems Does the 2008 Mercedes C-Class Have?

The most common complaints on the 2008 Mercedes C-Class include failures to start, broken steering lock mechanisms, and damaged seat covers.

Failure to start is a frequent issue showing up at around 100,000 miles. The ignition switch is the source of the problem, and costs roughly $800 to replace depending on local labor rates.

Broken steering lock mechanisms are another problem which shows up at around 90,000 miles. The steering system lock wears out and breaks over time, and costs about $1,300 to change out for a new one.

Split and damaged seat covers are another complaint from owners at roughly 55,000 miles. The leather wears out quickly with use, and costs roughly $1,000 to replace per seat.

There are 9 recalls, with the most serious being for incorrect software being installed which can lead to a loss of power while driving.

How Long Will the 2008 Mercedes C-Class Last?

A properly maintained 2008 Mercedes C-Class should be able to last around 200,000 miles, which is about 100,000 miles less than top-rated competitors like the Lexus IS. Regular annual maintenance costs are extremely high at $781 per year, according to Repair Pal.

accountCircle Nakia J

This car is very reliable, it has not had any problems, all I had to do was get an oil change and buy some new tires, but it has always ran smooth.

accountCircle Valerie H

I guess that the car may be reliable, yet it may frequently have problems and may need frequent servicing.

How Much Is the 2008 Mercedes C-Class Worth?

Blue book values range from $7,343 to $23,500, making it around $1,500 more than rivals like the BMW 3 Series and Audi A4. When new, the price range was $31,600 to $53,800. Depreciation is worse than other compact cars, losing about 15% of its current value per year.

What are the Different Models of the Mercedes C-Class?

There are four models of the C-Class available. The vehicle was just redesigned for the 2008 model year with an updated infotainment system in 2012. Interior materials are excellent with higher quality leather and wood than many other affordable luxury cars.

C300 Sport is the entry-level model with:

  • 17-Inch Alloy Wheels
  • MB-Tex Cloth Seating
  • Dual Zone Climate Control
  • 8-Speaker AM/FM/CD Stereo With Bluetooth Connectivity

C300 Luxury is a step up adding features such as:

  • Unique 17-Inch Alloy Wheels
  • Chrome Exterior Trim
  • Upgraded Front Seats
  • Improved Interior Trim

C350 Sport is next in the lineup and adds:

  • 17-Inch AMG Style Sport Wheels
  • Heated Front Seats
  • Black Bird’s Eye Maple Trim
  • Optional Leather Seating

C63 AMG is the flagship performance model and has:

  • 18-Inch AMG 5-Spoke Wheels
  • Leather Seating
  • Sport Suspension
  • AMG Sport Exhaust
  • Upgraded Brakes
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3.0L Sport
228 HP 21-21 MPG
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3.0L Luxury
228 HP 21-21 MPG
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3.5L Sport
268 HP 21-21 MPG
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6.3L AMG
451 HP 16-16 MPG
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What Engines Come In the Mercedes C-Class?

  • The base engine is an average 3.0L V6 which makes 228 horsepower and gets up to 21 MPG combined.
  • An available upgrade is the more powerful 3.5L V6 making 268 horsepower and getting up to 20 MPG combined.
  • The flagship engine is the very powerful 6.2L V8 which makes 451 horsepower and gets up to 15 MPG combined. Performance is great, taking only 4.3 seconds to go from 0-60 MPH.

What Colors Does the Mercedes C-Class Come In?

How Big Is the Mercedes C-Class?

The 2008 Mercedes C-Class is a compact luxury sedan, similar in size to rivals including the Volvo S40 and Audi A4. Passenger room is great in the front seats, but the backseats are a bit cramped for taller passengers with limited legroom.

Cargo space is lower than some rivals with only 12.4 cubic feet of room in the trunk, which is enough for 2-3 suitcases.

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How Does the Mercedes C-Class Compare to the Competition?

The BMW 3 Series is a popular competitor costing about $1,500 less. The steering feel is tighter in the 3 Series, but the C-Class has a higher quality interior for the price. We recommend the C-Class for the 2008 model year since there are fewer mechanical complaints.

The Lexus IS is another compact luxury car in the same price range. Reliability ratings and ownership costs are better on the Lexus, but the C-Class offers more luxury and performance. We recommend the Lexus IS for a used car since they last longer, but both are good choices.

Ranks #8 Luxury Small Cars by Owners

1
car
2008 Volvo V50
5
2
car
2008 INFINITI G37
4.7
8
Tie
car
2008 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
4.41

Do Owners Recommend the Mercedes C-Class?

accountCircle Nakia J

Yes it is, even though it is 11 years old it runs and looks like a newer year car. It has not given any problems at all.

accountCircle Danielle P

The 2008 Mercedes-Benz C-Class is a standard vehicle to me; I am indifferent for it, yet it frequently must be serviced.

Owner Reviews

messageEdit Write a Review
accountCircle Kelly B on March 24, 2021
Mercedes Benz year twenty double zero eight.
This car has a little bit of everything, heated seats, heat and air condition in the back seat, Pandora roof, apple hookups, leather seats. Gas mileage is good, and we have found a mechanic who works on them for much cheaper than dealership. Sometimes people are scared off because of cost of upkeep. Don't be.
accountCircle Leigh P on March 16, 2021
I feel cool when I drive this thing and it is incredibly reliable.
The gas mileage is garbage. I do not know what I was thinking about when taking on this car. I have to pay twice as much to fill it up as my last car. But other than that, it is pretty reliable and I have few maintenance issues. I guess it helps to have a parent that knows about cars.
accountCircle Nicole M on March 4, 2021
The screen that pops up to control the a/v component does not always work.
There was a recall for the passenger airbag, but because sbs warning light wason, they wouldn't fix the recall unless it is fixed. The diagnostic cost is over $100 to find out the problem, plus the cost to fix it. . Performance, reliability and comfort are good.
accountCircle Stephanie S on February 9, 2021
Love it best car and beautiful. Timeless
Great car. Good performance. Nova major problems. That's it comfortable seating and good trunk space. It's my favorite car I have ever owned. Roomy and spacious. Comfortable for 5 passengers. All wheel drive is great in rain and snow. It's never let ,me down.
accountCircle Bobby M on February 7, 2021
They will run forever if properly maintained, like scheduled oil change and tune ups.
German engineering is great, The car is fun to drive and very safe. Plus the styling is second to none
accountCircle Diane V on December 13, 2020
Great car overall. Sporty and safe.
The 2008 c300 4matic has been good to me for 10 years now. It is important to be sure you follow the recommended service alerts. I also recommend finding a experienced, trusted mechanic. It is quite expensive to have your mechanic services performed at. Mercedes Benz dealership. And it is not always necessary to have to use a Mercedes Benz dealership mechanic. One issue I did have with Mercedes Benz was an airbag recall. I received notice of the airbag recall, and it literally took one year for Mercedes Benz to get the parts to the dealership to be able to fix the problem. However, once Mercedes Benz fixed the airbag problem that prompted the recall, they gave me a $500 credit towards any other work needed. As I mentioned, I have the Mercedes Benz c300 4matic. I bought the vehicle in Connecticut. The car was a pleasure to drive, however, the car is very low to the ground which made it different to drive during snow storms. The 4matic was amazing in ensuring I was safe on snow covered ground, but there were times when I could not drive the car if the snow was too high due to the low clearance.
accountCircle Julie M on December 10, 2020
It's very reliable, gets really good gas mileage, and I would recommend it.
My car is a little bit older so it mainly is getting to the point where a lot of issues it has now is things that come with age. The issues other than that would be the following: the side mirror sensors are going out and make a pretty loud noise when retracting and the radio glitches every once in a while. Besides that, it's been a very reliable car and I definitely would buy a newer Mercedes in the future.
accountCircle Yos O on November 5, 2020
Great Car. Excellent, reliable, strong engine. Fun to drive. Be careful, the AMG Sport package tires will cost you when it's time to replace them.
The car is excellent. No major problems. Runs smooth, extremely safe, and fun. My 1 and only complaint is that the 2008 did not come with memory seats. It's amazing that a Mercedes would not come with something so basic as memory seats. But outside of that complete oversight, the car really has been one of the best I have owned (Acura, Audi, BMW).
accountCircle Mary G on September 26, 2020
Car handles well and I feel safe in my escape.
Like my vehicle because the ride is smooth. Dislike that tires are two different sizes. The front tires are smaller in front.
accountCircle JOHN HACKER III on September 15, 2020
IM NOW A FAN OF MERCEDES-BENZ
I HAVE TOO SAY,IVE NEVER BEEN A MERCEDES BENZ FAN,but after buying a used 08 c-300 with 156,00 miles for 5,000 dollars. I.LOVE IT!!! .....NO CHECK ENGINE LIGHTS,RIDES BITCHIN,SO SMOOTH,I HONESTLY THINK MY WHOLE WORLD WILL IMPROVE JUST BY OWNING THIS CAR. I LIKE mY NEW CAR a whole bunch, jchiii
accountCircle Mirna H on August 19, 2020
Mercedes Benz calilove mirna
Excellent car would recommend it to anyone very smooth pace and drive will repurchase it again next year
accountCircle Claudia G on July 9, 2020
The cost of the car and it is repairs.
There are no problems with my car but the repairs can be quite expensive. Ald the staff is really nice and there i'd great service.
accountCircle Ellen R on June 7, 2020
It has a good safety rating.
It costs too much to maintain. It is comfortable, nice looking. Not great on mileage. It is a safe car.
accountCircle Sara M on May 19, 2020
The car is such a nice ride. The seats are comfy and elegant.
No problems! The maintenance is often but it is easy to understand and use. Their services are nice, expensive, but you get what you pay for. The chairs are comfy and the seats have seat warmers. The steering wheel is comfortable. There are barely any blind spots in the car.
accountCircle Andrea W on May 16, 2020
Mercedes Benz c300 review.
I haven't had any issues with the vehicle, tomorrow will mark 10 years I have had it. Just remember when parking it is lower in the front otherwise you'll scrape the front bumper, I did this on day 2. It is great on gas, rides smoothly even after 10 years. It only needs service once a year if you keep up on its service you should not have any problems.
accountCircle Alice S on May 5, 2020
It still rides like new after 10 years and has had very few maintenance issues other than routine items.
This car has been wonderful. It rides well and is easy to handle. It is now 10 years old, still rides like new and I have had very few repairs other than typical maintenance. Other than when my battery died, I have never had a breakdown. Mercedes sent someone within one-half hour to recharge the battery.
accountCircle Erik P on April 3, 2020
It's a good car no problems
It's a really good car. It's a family car so everyone fits. It's a v-8 the thing I don't like because it spends so much gas. It's a automatic car and stick shift car to. Even though it's a wild it's a good car I don't have any problems besides the gas.
accountCircle Julie L on March 4, 2020
It's super expensive to upkeep oil changes are double .. You got to use expensive gas always.
Not very impressed with the inside. I love how it drives.
accountCircle Erik B on February 1, 2020
Good on gas, 8 speed transmission.
Mercedes, the best or nothing.. Comfort, luxury, looks, power.. I have always driven Mercedes and I love it..
accountCircle Pam P on January 8, 2020
Has sleek design lines sporty model.
Drives well. Comfortable seating no smart phone access. Tight steering handles road well. Hard to fix high maintenance fees. Does not drive well on snow and ice.
accountCircle Shamil J on December 15, 2019
It has two different drive options, standard/custom. Hands free options available.
Very comfortable to drive, it has good handling, very reliable. It's just a bit high on service but you don't have to go to the dealer for repair, there is various auto shops available, have automated windows, service indicator when due. Heat and cold seats. Bluetooth available.
accountCircle Paul S on October 8, 2019
It's a solidly built mercedes benz. Parts are expensive. I don't recommend it for new drivers.
It's solid, but kind of dated. Too small. It's d***y. My wife crashed it a few times already.
accountCircle Kimberly B on September 27, 2019
Be mindful of what you are getting
Runs smoothly, good on gas, repairs are expensive, electrical problems frequently, must go to a dealership for maintenance, difficult to find over service providers. Handles well in traffic and on highway. Electrical problems occur frequently and will disable the entire system. Love the reminders for service.
accountCircle Margaret O on August 26, 2019
Reliable comfortable car to drive anywhere.
I have no problem with this car. I am feeling safe driving this car. This car requires low maintenance quality of this car is better than others. This is the fifth Mercedes that I own. I have excellent mechanic that work on my car. Performance and reliability are excellent. Car is very comfortable to drive short or long trips. I never had any problem with this car.
accountCircle Elizabeth A on July 4, 2019
The one most important thing other should know about my car is that it's so comfortable to drive
It is so comfortable and easy to drive and it's been a reliable vehicle because I commute every day. The maintenance costs are a little higher than normal.
accountCircle Zoe S on July 1, 2019
The car is great besides the back window because it is hard to see behind you
Due to the fact my car is 11 years old it needs many repairs. Besides this I love this car. The comfort is extraordinary and the speed and the wheel turns very well. The music is a problem though. Although the radio volume goes up very loud when you play your phone through the aux the music quality and sounds becomes not as loud and clear. As someone who loves to listen to their own music when driving this is a problem for me. But the car is very safe and I love it
accountCircle Roger M on June 17, 2019
It needs good maintenance so it will last for long time.
The performance and reliability of a Mercedes-Benz is amazing. I love the feel of the car when driving. The only issue is the expensive cost of repairs for the car, but everything else is great.
accountCircle Heidi D on April 25, 2019
Mercedes-Benz combines luxury with performance.
I absolutely love my Mercedes-Benz. Other than normal maintenance (oil change, new tires, tire rotations), I have never had to get repairs. I love all the features like auto windshield wipers, mirror adjustments, and headrests. It drives very smoothly and accelerates fast!
accountCircle Chr G on March 15, 2019
It's a solid car and drives well.
I love that it feels solid and safe. It drives well. I do wish the technology was updated.
accountCircle Miriam K on March 10, 2019
Mercedes features and feel
Computer screen says problems exist when they don't. The seats are comfortable. The drive is smooth and the cruise control works well. The stereo however is pretty quiet. My full volume seems like it's only medium volume especially when using the aux cord.
accountCircle Lindsey O on March 5, 2019
It has hail damage all over it
Gas is expensive. Buying parts can be very costly. Overall it is very reliable. I feel safe driving in all weather conditions.
accountCircle Kimberly B on January 24, 2019
No car will be on the road broken down with their brand.
My 2008 mercedes-benz has many benefits as from the tinted windows and sunroof to the comfortable heated seats to the premium sound. The sunroof is unbelievably useful. Especially when driving down the freeway. Then on cold mornings, often every morning, the seats heat up to keep you comfortable. As well as the premium speakers with an in-dash video monitor. This brand is very trustworthy to ensure your comfort with the roadside assistance guarantee the mercedes-benz offers to ensure that no one in their vehicles will be rendered helpless.
accountCircle Kye W on January 9, 2019
The ride is very smooth, like when you go over a bump it does not jostle you.
It is my parent's own car and I think it is pretty good. I do not have any complaints except for the size but that only has to do with personal preference.
accountCircle Gabrielle B on January 5, 2019
Beautiful vs Pretty penny
I love the aesthetic of this vehicle it looks great and is what I consider luxury. It is a comfortable ride and looks sleek too. The only downside to this vehicle is the expense to fix ANYTHING that is wrong with it. For example: I have had my AC go out, I have needed to purchase new sensors for essential operational signifiers, I have needed to purchase new lights, etc. Even the oil change is quite pricey. It also is difficult to find a mechanic who will work on a foreign vehicle. If you are looking for something that looks great rides great but don't mind dropping a pretty penny whenever it need maintenance, this is the perfect car for you!!
accountCircle Nancy R on December 22, 2018
That it is a very safe car and a very comfortable car and a very smooth ride.
I like my vehicle because it is loaded with every possible extra. It rides very well. It is very comfortable. The only thing I do not like about it is that it is very expensive to fix. Next.
accountCircle loretta L on November 26, 2018
Body style: this vehicle is sleek with very nice champagne color.
This vehicle is very reliable, cozy and gets excellent gas mileage in the city and on the road. Very rarely have I had any mechanical problems with my vehicle. I would own another vehicle like this one if I ever have the opportunity to purchase another mercedes-benz. I use to this car for long distance travel without any problems.
accountCircle J E on October 28, 2018
It is a very good reliable car just the right size for me.
It is a luxury car so I only fill it up with 93 which is more expensive and since the car is a v6 I have to fill it up twice a week I did have some issues with it but it was only because the previous owner did not take care of it.
avatar Alex Showalter
Alex is an automotive enthusiast with over 15 years of experience in the used car market. He brings a wealth of knowledge to Vehicle History as our Staff Writer and has written hundreds of used car reviews helping buyers make informed purchasing decisions. He is a member of the Automotive Press Association, and keeps up-to-date on the latest changes in the industry. Over the years, he has driven hundreds of cars, working on many of them. His mechanical experience evolved from modifying off-road trucks as a teen to focusing on automotive electrical systems as he got older. He now specializes in reviewing used cars as an automotive journalist. Some of his favorite brands are Toyota and BMW. The Toyota Land Cruiser is one of his favorite vehicles of all time since they’re built to last forever and can go anywhere. One of his current cars is a Lexus LX570, built on the same platform as the 200-series Land Cruiser, but it’s a better value in the used market.