Mercedes-Benz is synonymous with opulence. The German automaker is known for its impeccably designed luxury vehicles, with some even costing upward of $1 million. However, the brand has recently faced an unfortunate issue with one model. It’s a serious problem too. Not only does it cause occupants discomfort, but it also poses a safety hazard.

Let’s take a deeper look at what has driven some owners to sue. 

The Mercedes-Benz C300 has a smelly problem

When you step into a luxury vehicle, you expect the quintessential new-car smell. You want a clean scent mixed with leather and luxury. However, according to CarComplaints.com, some Mercedes-Benz C300 models have a defect causing fuel leaks and odors. Upon entering their vehicles, some owners are greeted with a whiff of fuel, a smell that can make anyone feel sick. 

According to CarComplaints, the C300’s problems occur due to fuel leaking into the engine compartment from fuel line connectors to the fuel pump. The leak causes an overwhelming smell of gas that overshadows any positives the vehicle may provide its owners.

Owners are not happy with their Mercedes-Benz C300 fuel leaks

The fuel leak has prompted a class-action lawsuit regarding the affected Mercedes-Benz C300 models. It blames the problem on defective fuel hoses and potentially faulty manufacturing used to affix clamps needed at the connection sites or even improper materials. The suit also alleges the luxury automaker has been unable to fix the issue. 

According to Sauder Schelkopf, one of the law firms representing the plaintiffs, this problem is present in 2015 through at least 2019 model years. Additionally, Mercedes has been reluctant to fix the problem under its general warranty. Owners claim they are being told the problem is due to normal wear-and-tear, so they must pay out-of-pocket. These repairs are not only costly but also necessary to enjoy the vehicle. 

What can owners do?

Paying out-of-pocket to fix the issue could cost hundreds of dollars or more. This can be especially frustrating if you know the problem didn’t result from lack of care and should certainly be covered under warranty. Plus, when you pay for a luxury vehicle, you expect the purchase price to give you a level of comfort. Your vehicle should be dependable and enjoyable to use.

So, if you’re a current or former owner or lessee who experienced this problem with your 2015-2019 C300, contact either of the law firms representing the plaintiffs. Webb, Klase & Lemond LLC’s phone number is 770-444-9325, and Sauder Schelkopf’s number is 610-200-0581.

You can view the full lawsuit — Rosen, et al., vs. Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC, et al. — on ClassAction.org,

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz C300 at a glance

Despite previous model years’ issues, the 2021 C300 is an appealing car. According to Mercedes-Benz, the C300 starts at $41,600. This five-seater comes in four-door sedan and two-door coupe body styles and with eight exterior paint choices.

Its 2.0-liter inline-four turbo engine can produce 255 hp and 273 lb-ft of torque. Acceleration from 0 to 60 is a relatively quick 5.7 seconds, Mercedes claims. It gets an estimated 23 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz C300 also offers a decent amount of cargo space for a smaller car. And its athletic elegance delivers luxury as well as power. So, yes, it’s a handsome vehicle. Let’s hope the fuel-leak issue doesn’t spill over to this model year.