Dealing with 2023 Mercedes C-300 Problems: Texas Lemon Law Comes to the Rescue

DEAR SUZANNE

By Suzanne Henderson
LETTER 189 – From Tommy K. from Houston, Texas

Dear Suzanne,

You’d think that modern cars packed with advanced technology and shiny features would make driving stress-free. Well, that’s not the case for me. It’s been one issue after another with my 2023 Mercedes C-300, suffering from jerky downshifts and mysterious power losses. It’s become a puzzle of electrical problems that even new parts can’t seem to solve.

This is why I’ve had no choice but to cry out about my leased vehicle issues; maybe there’s a solution I’m unaware of. This is my story.

The Transmission That Won’t Behave

One of the first issues I noticed was with the transmission. At random moments, the car jerks and lurches like it’s having a fit. Specifically, this happened during downshifts from second to first gear, usually around 15-17 mph. It also didn’t matter what mode I was driving in (auto or manual); the problem would still arise, making driving unpredictable and unsafe.

Even more concerning was its behavior after I parked or stopped the car for more than 30 seconds. When I lightly touched the gas pedal, the car would jerk forward, almost as if the drivetrain had temporarily lost power. It felt like a fundamental miscommunication between the car’s computer and transmission.

The crazy thing was that through all of this, the mileage was barely 1,000 miles. At that point, I brought up these issues with the service center, but they dismissed my concerns. I tried again at 2,000 miles, where they performed a transmission fluid drain and ran diagnostics. After doing that, they said, “That’s just how it is.” Really? That’s not exactly what you want to hear about your luxury vehicle.

Squeaky Suspension

Around 2,800 miles, I heard a faint squeak from the rear suspension. It wasn’t all that loud, but it was there. I took the car again to the dealership, and after a month-long wait for parts, they replaced the driver’s side shock and shock mount. You’d think that would resolve the problem, but it didn’t.

A thousand miles later, the squeak returned from both sides of the rear suspension. What followed was a frustrating game of dealer ping-pong. The first dealer claimed they couldn’t hear it. Frustrated, I took it to a second dealer, who kept my car for three days to drive it less than a mile on the smoothest road they could find. Of course, they didn’t hear anything. Thanks to my tracking system, I caught them in this poor diagnostic attempt.

In one final act of desperation, I took the vehicle to a specialty shop, and they confirmed the squeak. While they couldn’t work on it due to warranty restrictions, they offered to document the issue in writing. It was a small victory in my battle, although I’m still dealing with the squeak (it’s been over 6 months).

I don’t know what else to say to get the dealer’s attention to fix this.

The Snapping Subframe Bolts

One day, while driving, I heard a sharp snapping sound coming from the front of the vehicle. At first, I thought I was hearing things, but then I discovered it only happened every time I moved from a stop. After weeks of back-and-forth with the Mercedes dealership, they finally found the issue: the subframe bolts were the wrong size. They were too long, which caused them to bottom out and leave the subframe loose.

How something like this happens to a car worth that much is beyond me. It was a safety issue, plain and simple, but even then, I had to push the service manager to take it seriously.

Electrical Troubles and My Dead Mercedes

If all that wasn’t bad enough, one day, my C300 decided it just wouldn’t start. Out of nowhere, the car had zero power, and the following ensued:

• The dashboard lights began flickering.
• None of the electrical systems inside the vehicle worked, including the windows.
• There was constant clicking from all the fuse panels.
• The starter remained completely silent; not even a click.
• The battery seemed run down, and the protection relay was constantly hot, even if I left the car untouched for 24 hours.

I reported to the dealership, and they tried everything they could think of. They checked the battery and alternator and inspected all cables and wires for erosion. At some point, they replaced the battery and multiple relays, changed ignition fuses, and even checked the Body Control Module. Yet, despite all these efforts, the problem persisted.

Recent Safety Concerns with the Airbags

Recently, my parents visited and decided to take my Mercedes on a drive. Not long after they drove off, my dad called to inform me that the airbag warning light was blinking. Because they had been involved in an automobile accident some time ago, they weren’t enthusiastic about continuing to drive. The thought of driving an unsafe car was terrifying; it was all I could do to calm them down.

I told my dad to find somewhere to park, ordered an Uber ride for them, and called the dealer to go pick up my car. Since this incident, I’ve waited over three weeks for the dealer to investigate and determine the issue.

What Are My Lemon Law Options?

I’m at a complete loss here. You can see that I’ve tried everything to make sure these issues get fixed, all without success. At this point, I’m seriously considering looking into the Texas Lemon Law. Does the Texas Lemon Law apply in my situation? What are my options as a customer? What is the process for filing a claim? Are there any specific remedies available? I’ve heard that I might need a lawyer; why is that necessary? Are there any repercussions for the manufacturer?

Thank you in advance for any suggestions.

Tommy K. from Houston, Texas

Experiencing 2023 Mercedes C-300 Woes? Here’s How Texas Lemon Law Can Assist

Dear Tommy,

Your story paints a troubling picture of how supposedly high-end vehicles sometimes fail to deliver their promises. I understand how overwhelming it must be to invest so much in a luxurious car only to discover it’s far from luxury. From your account, you’ve endured more than your fair share of headaches, but don’t worry; the Texas Lemon Law comes in clutch. It is the best way to get back at the manufacturer and bring them to book for selling you a defective car. Let’s break this law down.

Does the Texas Lemon Law apply in my situation?

Yes, Tommy, the Texas Lemon Law is designed to protect consumers like you who purchase or lease new vehicles that develop substantial defects covered by the manufacturer’s warranty. Given the numerous unresolved issues with your Mercedes C-300, it seems your vehicle might qualify under the Lemon Law.

What are my options as a customer?

Under the Texas Lemon Law, you have several options:

1. Vehicle Replacement: The manufacturer may be required to replace your defective vehicle with a new one that is comparable in terms of make, model, and features.
2. Vehicle Repurchase: The manufacturer may be required to repurchase your defective vehicle. This typically involves a refund of the purchase price, including the down payment, monthly payments, and any remaining loan balance. The refund may also cover related costs, such as registration fees, taxes, and any incidental expenses incurred due to the defect.
3. Repair Costs Reimbursement: The manufacturer may be required to reimburse you for any repair costs and expenses incurred while attempting to fix the defect.
4. Incidental and Consequential Damages: You may be entitled to compensation for incidental and consequential damages resulting from the defect, such as towing and rental car expenses.
5. Attorney Fees: If you prevail in your claim, the manufacturer may be required to pay your attorney fees and court costs.

What is the process for filing a claim?

To file a Lemon Law claim in Texas, follow these steps:

1. Notify the Manufacturer: Before taking any legal action, notify the manufacturer of the defect in writing and allow them an opportunity to repair it. This notification should be done within the warranty term.
2. Document Everything: Maintain detailed records of all repair attempts, communications, and any other relevant information. This documentation will be crucial when filing your claim.
3. File a Complaint with the TxDMV: If the defect persists after a reasonable number of repair attempts, you can file a Lemon Law complaint with the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (TxDMV). The complaint should include details of the defect, repair attempts, and supporting documentation.
4. TxDMV Review and Mediation: The TxDMV will review your complaint to verify your eligibility for the Lemon Law process. They may offer mediation as an attempt to resolve the issue without going to a hearing.
5. Administrative Hearing: If mediation does not resolve the issue, the case will be referred to the Office of Administrative Hearings (OAH). A hearing will be scheduled where both you and the manufacturer can present your case. The hearing is conducted by an administrative law judge.
6. Decision and Remedies: If the judge determines that your vehicle is a lemon, the manufacturer may be required to repurchase or replace the vehicle or provide other compensation.

Why is it necessary to have a lawyer?

Having a lawyer can be very helpful in navigating the Lemon Law process. A lawyer experienced in Lemon Law cases can provide guidance, help gather evidence, and represent you during the complaint and hearing process. They can also ensure that you receive the full compensation you are entitled to and handle any appeals if your claim is denied.

Tommy, the Texas Lemon Law is on your side, and with a qualified attorney, you’re well-positioned to resolve this matter. It’s time for the manufacturer to take full responsibility. Wishing you smoother roads ahead.

Suzanne

End Your 2023 Mercedes C-300 Lemon Car Woes Today!

Dear reader, are your vehicle problems ruining your life? Confused about what legal route to take? We’re here to help! Find information about Texas’ lemon law protections here, fill out the form on this page, or give us a call at (833) 743-1990 to discuss your situation with someone who understands how frustrating it can be to have a lemon car, and what to do about it.

DEAR SUZANNE is a weekly column written by Suzanne Henderson and published in LemonLawyers.ORG. If you have a defective lemon vehicle and have questions about Texas Lemon Lawyer or how to file a claim, please write to [email protected]. While not guaranteed, we will try to feature your letter in this column to provide you the answers you need, as well as enlighten other consumers who may have lemon problems similar to yours.

Disclaimer: Suzanne Henderson is not a lawyer and the points discussed here are intended for general information and reference purposes only and not to be construed as legal advice. Please consult a Texas Lemon Law Attorney to get proper legal advice about your lemon law claim.

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Featured Images:

• 2023 Mercedes C-300 ©Damian B Oh (CC BY-SA 4.0)