
Try as you might, the engine will not rev above 4000 rpm with the clutch pedal in. We attribute this, in part, to an engine-management system that will not allow for abusive standing starts. Indeed, the sprint to 60 mph for the 1.8-liter 2003 model is an unremarkable 8.1 seconds-more than a half-second slower than the 2002 model. The new 1.8-liter engine makes 189 horsepower at 5800 rpm and 192 pound-feet at 3500 rpm. The old 2.3-liter-still the base engine in the SLK hardtop roadster for 2003-makes 192 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 200 pound-feet of torque at 2500 rpm. It's down about a half-liter of displacement compared with the old engine, and it makes less peak horsepower and torque. On paper, this engine would seem to be a step backward for Mercedes. The W203 C Class was facelifted during 2004, where Mercedes took care of the majority of issues, so it may be worth spending that little extra for a facelift version.For the 2003 model of the C230, Mercedes has largely addressed our engine complaint with an all-new 1.8-liter, all-aluminum supercharged four-cylinder. If you were to buy a W203, ensure all electrics work as they should and check whether the SAM module has been replaced. Overall, the W203 does have issues like any other Mercedes however they are mainly due to electrics rather than mechanical issues. Engine May Revert To Limp Home Mode (DPF Related).Rear Seat Belts May Not Engage Correctly.
MERCEDES C230 KOMPRESSOR 2004 PROBLEMS FULL
Has your W203 not got xenon lights? You can use the H7 bulbs to produces a great xenon look and increase visibility on the roads with this full xenon headlight bulb kit. The W203 can be improved further, some great upgrades would come in the form of a rear reverse camera that be connected just above the bumper and be a cheaper option than going to the dealers.
Balancing Shaft – Common in C320’s before 2003 (M272) where the rotating shaft developed cracks. More Common in the C180 Kompressor models. Oil in Engine Wiring Loom – occurs where the cylinder head oil leaks past the solenoid and ends up in the loom to the ECU, which can cause further issues with MAF/02 Sensors. Front Suspension Bushes – the W203’s eat bushes regularly and you will be able to tell by a clunky front end whilst going over bumps. A new module can be purchased at the dealer for over £200+. Symptoms can include: fuel gauge not working, lights not working, constant fuses blowing, key fob issues, battery can’t hold power (constant drain), rear lights staying on, dashboard buttons non respondent and even more. SAM (Signal Acquisition Module) Module – A faulty SAM can be a huge electrical headache. Valeo Radiators – Symptoms are a droning/humming noise at approximately 1200 – 2500 rpm as well as a jolt when accelerating gently. Rust – Although not as bad as the predecessor, the W203’s can suffer bad rust which usually hits the rear arches first. Common W203 Reliability Faults and Problems Lower down the chain, you can pick up the smaller engine C Classes for less than £1000, which could be a great work horse for many years to come. You can pick up an AMG W203 in either a 5.5 or 3.2 Kompressor for as little as £5000 and £8000+ for a really good spec. Personally, im not a fan however the amount of car you get for your money is outstanding. The W203 C Class has always been a “marmite” type of Mercedes where you either love them or hate them. Aswell as the C55 AMG, there were also C32 AMG’s that has a supercharger coupled with the 3199cc engine which provided impressive performance. The engine sizes vary from the 1769cc petrol 4 cylinder to the rare 5439cc AMG versions. Here in the UK, the W203 is a very common sight amongst the taxis thanks to the frugal four cylinder engines providing great economy and decent performance. The W203 C Class Mercedes was produced between 20 and has approximately 46 different varieties depending in which country you live in.