1. What is P0015 in Mercedes C-Class?

P0015 is an OBD-II Diagnostic Trouble Code defined as Intake Camshaft Position System Performance/Stuck Advanced (Bank 1). For the Mercedes C-Class—one of the best-selling luxury sedans globally—this code targets the variable valve timing (VVT) system, which adjusts intake camshaft timing to optimize power and fuel efficiency in the 2.0T M274 (2015-2018) and M264 (2019-2024) engines.

The C-Class’s Engine Control Unit (ECU) uses camshaft position sensors to monitor timing alignment. P0015 triggers when the ECU detects the intake camshaft is "stuck advanced" (timing 5+ degrees beyond the target) or the VVT system fails to adjust timing. This is widespread in 2016-2020 C-Class models, addressed in Mercedes Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) 20-072 for faulty VVT solenoids and low engine oil pressure.

2. Common Causes in 2015-2024 C-Class Models

P0015 in C-Class models ties to VVT system design and oil maintenance—here are MA200 V6-diagnosed cases:

• Faulty VVT Solenoid (2018 C300 2.0T M274): A C300 owner with 75,000 miles noticed reduced acceleration. MA200 V6’s VVT Timing Test showed intake camshaft stuck at +7 degrees (target: 0-2 degrees). The VVT solenoid’s internal valve failed—replacing with OEM #A2741500160 restored timing control.
• Low Engine Oil Pressure (2019 C300 2.0T M264): A C300 owner’s P0015 appeared after missing an oil change. MA200 V6’s Oil Pressure Monitoring showed 22 psi at idle (normal: 30-45 psi). Dirty oil clogged the VVT oil passages—an oil change with Mercedes 5W-40 full synthetic (#0009892503) and filter (#0001802009) resolved pressure issues.
• Camshaft Position Sensor Failure (2017 C43 AMG 3.0T M276): A C43 owner’s P0015 paired with rough idle. MA200 V6’s Sensor Signal Test showed erratic readings from the intake cam sensor. The sensor’s wiring was damaged by heat—replacing with OEM #A0001532728 fixed signal consistency.
• VVT Oil Control Valve Clog (2021 C300 2.0T M264): A C300 owner’s P0015 was intermittent. MA200 V6’s Oil Passage Test found 40% flow restriction in the VVT oil line. Carbon deposits from short trips clogged the valve—cleaning with Mercedes VVT cleaner (#0009896802) restored flow.

3. Key Symptoms in Mercedes C-Class

P0015 symptoms in C-Class models focus on VVT system misalignment—watch for these signs, especially during acceleration:

4. C-Class Engines/Trims Prone to P0015

Mercedes service data highlights these 2015-2024 C-Class configurations with highest P0015 rates:

5. Diagnostic Steps with ICARZONE MA200 V6

Diagnose P0015 in your C-Class accurately with MA200 V6’s Mercedes-specific tools—follow these steps:

Case Example: A 2018 C300 2.0T failed Step 2 (8 degrees advanced) and Step 3 (24 psi oil pressure). MA200 V6’s Component Location guided VVT solenoid access. Replacing the solenoid and changing the oil fixed P0015—verified by a test drive (acceleration restored, timing at +1 degree).

6. Fixes for C-Class's P0015

Resolve P0015 in your C-Class with these MA200 V6-verified fixes:

1. Replace VVT Solenoid (2016-2018 C300)

1. Confirm solenoid failure via MA200 V6’s VVT Timing Test.
2. Locate VVT solenoid (C-Class: front of cylinder head, Bank 1—remove engine cover first).
3. Disconnect battery and solenoid electrical connector (press tab to release).
4. Remove solenoid with a 10mm socket (use penetrating oil for rusted bolts).
5. Install OEM solenoid with new O-ring (prevents oil leaks):
   • M274 engine (2015-2018): #A2741500160
   • M264 engine (2019-2024): #A2641500260
6. Torque to 89 in-lbs, reconnect battery, and reset VVT adaptation with MA200 V6’s ECU Adaptation function.

2. Fix Low Engine Oil Pressure (All Models)

1. Check oil level with the C-Class’s COMAND system (or dipstick, if equipped)—add oil if low (Mercedes 5W-40, #0009892503).
2. Replace oil filter with OEM #0001802009 (use a filter wrench to remove old filter).
3. Drain old oil (warm engine first for faster flow) and refill with 6.9 quarts (M274) or 7.4 quarts (M264) of 5W-40 full synthetic.
4. Start engine and let idle for 5 minutes—verify oil pressure with MA200 V6 (should reach 30-45 psi).
5. If pressure remains low: Inspect VVT oil passages for clogs (use Mercedes oil passage cleaner, #0009896802).

3. Replace Camshaft Position Sensor (C43 AMG)

1. Confirm sensor failure via MA200 V6’s Signal Test.
2. Locate intake cam sensor (C43 AMG: top of cylinder head, Bank 1—near the VVT solenoid).
3. Disconnect battery and sensor connector (use a small flathead to release the clip).
4. Remove sensor with a 8mm socket and install OEM replacement (#A0001532728).
5. Torque to 53 in-lbs, reconnect battery, and clear codes with MA200 V6.

7. Repair Costs & Maintenance Tips

C-Class P0015 repair costs vary by cause—use this table to budget:

Maintenance Tips for C-Class Owners

• 2016–2018 C300 (M274): Replace VVT solenoid every 80,000 miles (preventive, per TSB 20-072).
• All models: Change engine oil every 7,500 miles (use only Mercedes-approved 5W-40 full synthetic, #0009892503).
• C43 AMG owners: Inspect camshaft position sensors every 60,000 miles—replace if wiring shows heat damage.
• Add Mercedes VVT system cleaner (#0009896802) every 30,000 miles to prevent oil passage clogs.
• Take monthly highway drives (30+ miles) to heat the engine—thins oil for proper VVT system lubrication.
• Use MA200 V6’s VVT Health Check quarterly to catch timing misalignment early.

8. Preventive Maintenance for Mercedes C-Class

Avoid P0015 in your C-Class with these Mercedes-recommended steps:

• VVT System Care:
  • Use only OEM VVT solenoids and sensors—aftermarket parts lack Mercedes’ precision calibration (fail 3x faster).
  • For M274 engines: Install a VVT oil filter screen (#A2741800001) to catch debris before it clogs passages.
  • Inspect VVT solenoid wiring every oil change—secure loose connections with dielectric grease.
• Oil System Maintenance:
  • Check oil level monthly (via COMAND system) — low oil is the #1 cause of P0015 in C-Class.
  • Replace oil filter with OEM #0001802009—aftermarket filters don’t maintain consistent pressure.
  • Avoid extended oil change intervals (over 10,000 miles)—dirty oil damages VVT components.
• Engine Health:
  • Let the engine warm to 150°F before accelerating hard—cold oil can’t actuate VVT properly.
  • Use Top Tier detergent gasoline (e.g., Shell V-Power) to reduce carbon buildup in VVT passages.
  • For 2022+ C300e Hybrids: Follow TSB 22-041 and update ECU software annually to prevent calibration glitches.
• Driving Habits:
  • Limit short trips (less than 10 miles) — incomplete warm-ups leave condensation in the VVT system.
  • Use "Sport Mode" occasionally—higher RPM helps circulate oil and clear minor VVT passage deposits.
  • Avoid idling for more than 3 minutes—extended idle reduces oil pressure to the VVT system.

9. C-Class-Specific FAQs