The 2009 Mercedes-Benz C-Class is everything you want in a luxury compact. It’s comfortable, well built, sporty, and generous with the standard features. But, it’s only expected to last around 150,000 to 200,000 miles, and most used models will hit the market with 140,000 already on the odometer. That’s not much of a bargain at $6,500 to $15,500.
Is the 2009 Mercedes-Benz C-Class a Good Used Car?
- Overall Rating 7/10 – The only major issue with the car comes down to longevity.
- Interior, Comfort & Cargo 8/10 – Maybe the trunk could be a bit bigger, but this is one of the most comfortable compacts on the market.
- Reliability 6/10 – The C-Class isn’t unreliable, exactly, it’s just living on borrowed time every mile past 150,000.
- Safety 8/10 – Good IIHS ratings and adequate safety equipment make the C-Class a safer-than-average compact.
- Gas Mileage 7/10 – 17/25 isn’t terrible for a 228 horsepower V6 in all wheel drive, but the AMG is pitiful at just 12/19. You’re getting a whopping 451 horsepower out of the deal, but what are you doing that you need that kind of power, hauling double-wides?
- Value 6/10 – Ten years ago this would have been a great purchase today, it’s one of the most expensive lawn decorations on the market.
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Do Critics Say About the 2009 Mercedes-Benz C-Class?
Consumer Reports had high praise for the 2009 Mercedes-Benz C-Class where it came to braking, and that’s about where the praise ends. They didn’t like the lightweight steering or the rigid suspension, and ultimately concluded that the car came up short as a “sports” sedan.
Kelley Blue Book found the C-Class to be one of the more reasonably priced premium luxury cars, and they liked the car’s blend of functionality and class. But, they note that the Audi, Acura, and Infiniti all offer better cars at the same price, or better.
Edmunds found the C-Class a fair blend of sport and luxury, they liked the handling and found the ride smooth, and the entertainment packages generous. They note that the car’s six-cylinder engine is hardly a class leader, though, and some models are missing a manual transmission option, which feels like an oversight in a sports car.
What Common Problems Does the 2009 Mercedes-Benz C-Class Have?
The 2009 Mercedes-Benz C-Class has generated 646 complaints with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. This is a bit high for a vehicle from this model year. Electrical issues take up a third of these, with drivers reporting ignition switch failure as a leading issue.
Another third go to airbag issues, with drivers reporting the warning lights staying on, despite 6 airbag recalls between 2015 and 2018.
153 complaints have to do with steering wheel lock. The issue generally comes down to a module motor failure. This is usually related to the issue with the ignition failing to turn.
The 2009 Mercedes-Benz C-Class has been recalled 8 times in total, which is higher than average for a 2009 sedan.
How Long Will the 2009 Mercedes-Benz C-Class Last?
A 2009 Mercedes-Benz C-Class typically lasts between 150,000 and 200,000 miles. This is a little lower than average, but not so atypical for a premium luxury car. You might be able to pass a quarter million with excellent maintenance, but most drivers find the car to be too expensive to bother repairing at that point.
Repairpal estimate an annual maintenance cost of around $815. That sounds a bit high for a sedan, but it’s typical for a Mercedes. New ABS modules and fuel sensors are the most expensive common repairs, starting at $1,521 and $1,203 respectively.
No major repairs at 105,000, really good gas mileage for his age. Upholstery is excellent no problems. Will probably replace the windshield wipers soon.
No problems at all so far. It is very reliable. Has great gas mileage. Maintain everything is a bit on the higher end of the scale.
How Is the Technology?
Entertainment technology in the 2009 C-Class is generous. CD/MP3 players with 8 speakers come standard, and you get Bluetooth hands-free. Upgrades include DVD players, LOGIC7 surround sound, and even voice control.
Safety technology is good for the model year. Anti-lock brakes, electronic traction control, and stability control all come standard.
Is the 2009 Mercedes-Benz C-Class a Good Value?
The 2009 Mercedes-Benz C-Class is a lousy deal. There’s no nice way to put it. Sticker prices aren’t terrible, at the entry level at least. A C300 4MATIC typically sells for around $6,787, but a high-performance C63 AMG model will go for around $15,796, which is ridiculous for a 2009 sedan.
It’s not the sticker prices that make the 2009 C-Class a poor choice of automobile, though. The models quoted here hit the Blue Book with over 140,000 miles on the odometer. If the car is only expected to make it to 150,000 miles, you’ll barely make the trip home before it’s time to scrap it.
What are the Different Models of the 2009 Mercedes-Benz C-Class?
The 2009 C-Class is offered in a range of models named for their engines, from the 300 to the 350 to the 63 AMG. But, they all come in one of two trim levels, being Sport or Luxury.
With the base Sport model you’re getting:
- 8-way power adjust driver seat
- Leather wrapped steering wheel with mounted controls for audio and cruisecontrol
- Dual zone automatic air conditioning
- Remote keyless entry
- Automatic sunroof
- CD/MP3 player with 8 speakers and Bluetooth hands-free
- Anti-lock brakes and traction and stability control
The Luxury trim package adds:
- Heated front seats
- Cloth and leather seating
- Rain-sensing windshield wipers
What Engines Come In the 2009 Mercedes-Benz C-Class?
- 300 models are named for the 3.0L V6 engine under the hood, delivering 228 horsepower and 221 lb.-ft. of torque at an average fuel economy of 17/25 miles to the gallon, city/highway. This is paired to a 7-speed automatic transmission in all wheel drive.
- In the 350 you’ll find a 3.5L V6 delivering 268 horsepower and 258 lb.-ft. of torque. This is paired to a 7-speed automatic in rear wheel drive and it averages 17/25 miles to the gallon.
- The 63 AMG is named for the 6.3L AMG engine delivering an incredible 451 horsepower and 443 lb.-ft. of torque at 12/19 miles to the gallon. This is paired to a 7-speed automatic in rear wheel drive. The AMG can hit zero to sixty in just 4.4 seconds.
What Colors Does the 2009 Mercedes-Benz C-Class Come In?
How Comfortable Is the 2009 Mercedes-Benz C-Class?
They don’t call it a Mercedes for nothin’. The C-Class is simply one of the most comfortable cars in its league, stretching 55 inches across and offering decent head and leg room. The suspension rides smooth enough for most drivers’ tastes, and the interior trim is first-class from top to bottom.
How Much Storage Space Does the 2009 Mercedes-Benz C-Class Have?
The 2009 C-Class offers 12 cubic feet of storage space, which isn’t huge, but it’s big enough for a luxury sedan. This should pack four medium suitcases without issue, or enough cargo for a weekend getaway.
What Are the Differences Between Years?
2009 was the third model year in the 3rd Generation for the Mercedes-Benz C-Class. The 3rd Gen would run from 2007 to 2015.
2007: The 3rd Generation was relaunched as a sedan exclusive, featuring standard adjustable steering columns.
2008: Body shells were upgraded in 2008, making for a more durable car.
2009: New airbags were the biggest change for 2009.
2010: Tire pressure monitors are now standard.
2011: Auto-dimming mirrors and 10-way power adjust driver seats were added for 2011.
How Does the 2009 Mercedes-Benz C-Class Compare to the Competition?
The 2009 Lexus ES is pretty much the better car in every way that counts, but most importantly, longevity. The Lexus is more expensive at the entry level, with typical listing prices at just over $9,000, but if you insist on buying a luxury car that’s almost old enough to vote, the ES will outlast the C-Class by a good 100,000 miles.
If you want a car that rides smooth and is built to last, but at a reasonable price, a Volvo S60 starts at under $6,000, and it’s one of the safest and most reliable compact cars ever built. It’s kind of boring to look at, but at least it runs. You might not be able to say that of a 2009 C-Class a week after you’ve bought it.
A brand new Mercedes is a lot of fun. A used Mercedes, especially one that’s already been on the road for more than a decade, is a breakdown waiting to happen.
Do Owners Recommend the 2009 Mercedes-Benz C-Class?
Yes, I love it! Good gas Mileage,, handles really well. Will buy another, c 300, but it is in really good shape at 105,000 so I do not know when that will be. No major repairs, just routines.
Yes this is a very good vehicle and dependable. Great service, drives smooth, great look to the car, up to date with technology.