just bought a "new" C230 just out of warranty, went through and did all the needed fss maintenance items, and when i was doing this i noted that right above the exhaust manifold the hood pad was begining to melt, i decided to replace it with a new one. much to my surprise the new one had a nice heat shield in the melted area, so it is definately something mercedes is aware, so if you have this model with the 271 kompressor engine that is still under warranty and the pad is melted take it to MB and see if they will get you s new one, or if yours is not under warranty order a new one.

hood pad- 203-682-12-26
clips 001-988-03-25 X19

there are two smaller clips at the bottom that the parts guy didn't know about, when i get the number i will post it then

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1967 250 S
1967 280SE
1968 250S
1971 280 SE
1973 220
1974 280 S
1975 450 SEL
1976 220 D
1979 300SD
1983 300 SD
1985 230 TE euro
1986 280SL
1986 500 SEL euro
1986 190E 2.3
1990 300 SE
2003 C230 K
2004 C230 K
1987 560SEL
1987 300SDL now in canada
2005 C230
1998 C43 AMG Sold to DON
1993 190E 2.6
300TD Former daily driver Totaled
current:
R320 CDI
Ram 2500 Cummins