Common Problems with the Mercedes E-Class

The Mercedes E-Class is a true classic in the world of luxury cars, known for its comfort, style and effortless performance. Since it first appeared in 1993, it’s been the go-to choice for drivers who want something that feels special every time they get behind the wheel.  

This guide examines known issues with the E-Class, providing owners and potential buyers with insights into specific faults and their average repair costs. 

What's wrong with the Mercedes E-Class?

Drivers are searching online for information about the following topics. 

Mercedes E-Class cabriolet problems 

As with any convertible car, the E-Class cabriolet can experience roof-related problems, such as hydraulic leaks, mechanism failures, electrical system faults and water ingress. However, these are relatively uncommon. The average price of a convertible roof repair on FixMyCar is £146.34. 

Mercedes E-Class estate problems

The rear self-levelling suspension fitted to many estate models can develop issues over time. Air springs and height sensors can wear or leak, leading to the rear of the car sitting low or the compressor running constantly. Power-tailgate faults are also fairly common, with worn struts or latch motors causing slow or jerky opening.

Mercedes E-Class AdBlue problems 

E-Class AdBlue problems often stem from the Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) system, which features advanced emissions control technology for diesel engines. Common issues include clogged injectors, low-quality fluid crystallisation and faulty sensors. The average price of a Mercedes AdBlue repair on FixMyCar is £159.84. 

Learn more about AdBlue. 

Recent recalls

Mercedes E-Class 2009-2016 (W212) problems

Drivers have encountered the following problems with the W212 E-Class. 

1. Fuel injector failure 

There were reports of fuel injector failure on some early models. Symptoms include engine misfires, lack of power, rough idling and black smoke from the exhaust. 

What repair is needed for fuel injector failure, and how much does it cost for a Mercedes E-Class? 

Affected models should have had the injectors replaced under warranty. The average price of a fuel injector replacement on FixMyCar is £185.35. 

2. Fast-wearing brakes 

The E-Class is a big, heavy car, so it tends to go through brake parts fairly quickly. 

What repair is needed for fast-wearing brakes, and how much does it cost for a Mercedes E-Class? 

For safety reasons, worn brake parts should be replaced well before they affect the car’s braking performance.   Average Mercedes brake repair prices:  

• Brake pads and discs: £308.24  

• Front and rear pads and discs: £666.60  

• Front brake callipers: £347.72  

• Rear brake callipers: £242.99 

3. Worn suspension 

It’s a similar story with the suspension of the E-Class. Because the car is heavy, parts tend to wear out quickly. 

Learn how to diagnose common suspension problems. 

What repair is needed for worn suspension, and how much does it cost for a Mercedes E-Class? 

The suspension parts that need to be replaced the most are the shocks/struts, bushes and ball joints.  

Average Mercedes suspension repair prices: 

• Front coil springs: £357.29 

• Rear coil springs: £274.12 

• Front shocks: £742.02 

• Rear shocks: £635.71 

• Front suspension bushes: £244.32  

• Rear suspension bushes: £110.89 

4. Parking sensor failure 

A few isolated incidents of parking sensor failure have been reported. 

What repair is needed for parking sensor failure, and how much does it cost for a Mercedes E-Class? 

Replacing a broken parking sensor on an E-Class costs £106.90 on average, according to our data. 

5. Water pump failure 

The water pump in some 212 models can fail, causing the engine to overheat, which can result in severe damage. You can usually tell when the water pump is on its way out – listen for whining or grinding noises from the engine. 

What repair is needed for water pump failure, and how much does it cost for a Mercedes E-Class? 

Replacing the water pump in an E-Class costs £304.38 on average. 

Mercedes E-Class 2016-2023 (W213) problems

The W213 has a strong reputation for reliability. 

1. Airmatic suspension faults 

Some E-Class models fitted with air suspension can experience problems with the Airmatic system, including air leaks, failure of the compressor and faulty valves. 

What repair is needed for Airmatic suspension faults, and how much does it cost for a Mercedes E-Class? 

The repair will depend on which part of the suspension system is broken. If you want an accurate quote, it’s best to book a diagnostic test to find out exactly what work needs to be done. The average price of an E-Class diagnostic on FixMyCar is £60.63. 

2. Software glitches 

Some E-Class owners have reported software glitches, resulting in the infotainment screen freezing, rebooting, or otherwise not behaving as expected.  

What repair is needed for software glitches, and how much does it cost for a Mercedes E-Class? 

These issues are often temporary. It may be possible to resolve glitches with a simple system reset. In some cases, a software update may be required. 

3. EPS failure 

The electronic power steering (EPS) can fail for a range of reasons, such as electrical faults, mechanical issues like worn teeth, low fluid, and water ingress. 

What repair is needed for EPS failure, and how much does it cost for a Mercedes E-Class? 

The cost will depend on what repair is needed. Replacing a leaking hose typically costs £100-£150, while a pump replacement can cost £700 or more. If you’re unsure what’s wrong with your steering system, the best thing to do is book a diagnostic test, which costs £60.63 on average for an E-Class. 

Mercedes E-Class 2023-present (W214) problems

It's too soon to say what common problems the latest generation of the E-Class experiences. We will update this section when more data becomes available.

Years to avoid

Based on reported fault patterns, these are the E-Class years and setups worth being more cautious about:

• 2006–2008 (late W211) – Cars from this period are more prone to corrosion, suspension wear and electrical issues as they age. High-mileage diesels can also show injector seal leaks, which are expensive to put right if left too long.

• 2009–2012 (early W212) – The earliest W212 cars can suffer from balance shaft timing wear on some V6 petrols, plus electrical gremlins affecting parking sensors and climate controls. Many examples have been sorted by now, but it’s vital to check service history and any engine repair evidence.

• 2016–2018 (early W213 diesels) – Some of the first W213 diesel models were affected by AdBlue tank/heater faults and NOx sensor failures, which can trigger warning lights or limp mode. Later software and updated components improved reliability.

Is the Mercedes E-Class reliable?

In the most recent What Car? Reliability Survey, the E-Class came in third place out of nine vehicles in the luxury car class – an impressive result. However, Mercedes as a brand didn’t fare so well, finishing in 24th place out of 30 manufacturers. 

What about the e200 engine?

An E 200 can be a reliable choice if you buy the right era and verify maintenance. For the lowest risk, look at 2019-onwards M264 cars with a full service history. If you're looking at an older model:

• M271 - Listen for cold-start chain rattle and confirm chain/sprocket/tensioner work

• M274 - Check service intervals, any timing-chain work and for oil migration at cam sensors. Also confirm any outstanding E-Class recalls/software updates have been done.

If you found this guide helpful, you might also like:

• Mercedes E-Class owners' guide

• Make/model ownership guides

• Car ownership 101: everything you need to know

• The ultimate guide to car maintenance