HELP!! Many C280 Issues here
 

2000 C280. 73,000 MILES. hard shifting transmisson from 2nd to 3rd. Lack of power. The cabin filter makes a poping sound when the car is started with the ac off or when it starts to get going. The breaks also squeak like a mad man and the sterring makes a sound when it is cold out and when turned to the left.

Any input would be great.

I don't think those are related. What is the sound the steering makes? Is it a groaning sound? Have you inspected the cabin air filter? There could be a lot of leaves and stuff in there. Are the brakes original? I think people here recommend Textar. Some brands squeal more. You might have Pagid in there or something else. I don't know about the trans. Mine would do that under very specific conditions. So I just don't do that and it doesn't do that...

Check your part load adaptation values.

Put some OE pads on it.

Check your P/S fluid level and replace the reservoir if its level is OK.