Faults:

Rough idle, fragile visor mirror covers, noises from behind instrument cluster, squeaky brakes.

General Comments:

Had to get myself another Mercedes after various stints with a BMW 323i first, then a Suzuki Swift and last a Toyota Harrier. I needed to downsize from my Harrier to something more economical, while still giving me the comfort, refinement and reliability I seek.

My first Merc was a slow C180 W202 model, which really put me off. After reading the good reviews that the C180K receives in Mercedes Enthusiast and What Car magazines, I decided to consider it among other options such as C240 and C270 CDI.

After a slow but fun period of looking at different cars, I finally bought a black 2003 example with a very modest 35k km on its odometer. Apparently it had only been used as a wife's runabout to do grocery shoppings etc. It had a full MB service history and in an absolutely standard condition.. even the Continental tyres were the ones that came with the car when new.

My 'new' C180K is really different from the old C180; the engine doesn't leave me wishing for a bigger engine and it pleases me even more when filling up at the gas station. Very efficient, in my opinion, for an entry-level exec car. It averages 10-11 ltr / 100 km, which is really good for Jakarta traffic.

Ride and acceleration are very smooth, as expected from a Mercedes Benz automobile.

Downsides are: not as roomy as the old W202; fragile visor mirror covers (both left & right sides' plastic hinges broke after parking on a very hot day), squeaky brakes (probably due for a change) and funny noises / vibrations from behind the instrument cluster at certain (low) rpm range. Can't trace the source of the last problem.

Overall, I'm pleased with the car and looking forward to put many happy kilometers in it for the next few years. My next car would be the new C200K W204 *fingers crossed*

Faults:

When the car was purchased:

1. Mirror adjuster wouldn't work (faulty switch replaced)

2. Faulty headlight switch (crunchy rotation; pulling mechanism for fog lights would not stay pulled) - replaced

3. Minor oil leakage from engine - gasket replaced

4. Worn ball joints, tie-rod - all replaced

5. Engine cable harness diagnosed as faulty - replaced

6. Worn under body joints & parts - replaced, replaced and replaced.

General Comments:

I had always been fond of German cars before I bought my first one, which is the C180 I'm commenting here.

So far my choice has been a very wise one indeed, because she's proved herself as one durable, reliable, easy-to-maintain and comfortable ride. That is, after a big overhaul was done to sort all problems simultaneously.

Regardless of its age, it still gets the proper respect at certain places. And it holds its value well in the used-car market. Styling is still fresh after all these years; I've put 18" wheels and lowered springs which improved looks and handling significantly.

Handling and braking are slightly below BMW's standards, but they are still far superior too many others.

Acceleration is poor though. Fuel consumption is between 7-10 km per liter, which is acceptable considering Jakarta's traffic. Another complaint would be the lack of rear headrest, which apparently occurs only on early Classic models.

Spare parts are readily available at aftermarket shops and are not expensive at all.

In short, I'm glad I purchased a Mercedes and will always try to do so.

Faults:

Fracture Engine Sump Shield.

Faulty Transmission (Heavy Downshift at high speed)

Knock from front suspension.

Unreliable Key less Entry System.

Leaky Power Steering.

General Comments:

This car is pleasant to drive.

It is quite quick and have a distinct burble sound - good.

Handles fine, not as good as 3 series, but has much better comfort.

Rides superb at high speed.

A good car, easy to drive and perfect for city while prove herself to be capable for long distance.