NHTSA Complaint #11706568 — 2019 MERCEDES-BENZ C 300

This vehicle was brought to an authorized Mercedes-Benz dealership for regularly scheduled maintenance. Shortly after this service, the vehicle began experiencing significant issues including difficulty accelerating, engine hesitation while driving, and noticeable shaking at idle. This car has never overheated. The vehicle was returned to the dealership for inspection. The dealership diagnosed a cracked cylinder head and advised that the repair requires replacement of the cylinder head at an estimated cost of approximately $11,000. The failed component is available for inspection and the vehicle is currently at the dealership. The vehicle has approximately 46,000 miles, has been regularly maintained, garaged, and driven under normal conditions. These symptoms created engine performance issues that could result in loss of power or inability to accelerate while driving, creating a potential safety risk, especially in traffic or at highway speeds. I regularly transport my young grandchild in this vehicle. The possibility of sudden engine failure, loss of power, or breakdown while driving raises significant safety concerns for myself and any passengers, particularly a young child. The failure has been confirmed by an authorized Mercedes-Benz service center. During my own research, I discovered there have been recalls involving similar engines for the same model year, as well as multiple owner complaints reporting similar engine or cylinder head failures on this vehicle. I contacted Mercedes-Benz customer care on December 17, 2025, after receiving the dealership diagnosis, and was advised that I would receive a response within 72 hours. As of today, I have not received any response. I attempted to call customer care again, but the phone system would not accept a voicemail and no representative answered. My case number with Mercedes-Benz is 19653254. No prior abuse, misuse, or abnormal driving conditions occurred. The vehicle was properly maintained.