I have a 2000 C280 with 78k miles on it. Over the past winter the car's handling started feeling strange. Last week a piece of spring from the front right coil fell onto the driveway. It appears the spring developed a corrosion pit and caused a weak spot in the coil. I would like to keep this car for a long time. I'm thinking I should replace all 4 springs and shocks.

1) I don't want a super stiff suspension ordrastic lowering. What brand of springs and shocks should I buy?
2) Who has the best prices?
3) Is there anything else I should replace while I'm in there?
4) Any other advise?

Thanks in advance....dave h

 

Your car's chasis is a W202.

202's are known for this problem. The bottom ring of the coil spring breaks after 5 yrs if the car is in MidWest.

It makes woosh-woosh sound when you make a hard turn or go over a bump. Also, when you accelerate aggressively from a compete stop, you can hear the spring expanding.

Unlike normal(think Camry or Accord) cars, your car has separate springs and shocks. A kind of good.

OEM shocks are Billstein and can be bought locally at AutoZone or AdvanceAuto for $90 a pop. On the web, I had ordered from TireRack.com for $80 a piece and I am very happy.

Coil springs are a different story. No one but Benz dealer carries them. Last time I asked for a quote, they asked $120. So I left the broken spring alone. But I turned it in away that it closed the gap where the old broke-away piece used to be. No more wooshing sound anymore either. The car might be lowered 5mm, but that makes no noticeable difference.

Don't forget to do the alignment at a reputable shop after you replace the shocks nd or springs.

 

In June of 2009, I bought used 2000 c280. First week one (Left Rear) cracked, or perhaps I did not notice that it was already broken. Replaced. 2 weeks later another one (Right Front). Two Months later Left Front went. Suspected some kind of conspiracy.3 springs in 3 months! The last one that should have gone keeps working fine. The following 14 months no problem whatsoever. If spring goes You may not even notice it.
Knowingly driving without it, especially fast on a curvy and slippery road may add some unwanted excitement...