Executive excellence with serious used-market value
The benchmark executive saloon and estate, blending refined cruising ability, a sumptuous interior and strong badge cachet. Depreciation is steep, making 3-5 year old examples exceptional value compared to new prices.
We track 5 known issues across the Mercedes-Benz E Class range, with 4 classified as significant. Knowing which variants and configurations to approach with caution can save you from expensive surprises after purchase.
Found a Mercedes-Benz E Class? Enter the reg to see which of our 5 known issues apply to that exact car, plus full MOT history and mileage checks.
W210 (1995–2003) — Petrol options included the 2.2 Petrol, 2.3 Petrol, 2.8 Petrol, with 2.1 CDI on the diesel side. We track 4 known issues on this generation, with 3 classified as significant. The most significant concern is Excessive steering play (£200–£400 to address).
W211 (2002–2009) — Petrol options included the E320, E280/E300, with E220 CDI, E320 CDI on the diesel side. We track 4 known issues on this generation, with 3 classified as significant. The most significant concern is Transmission shaft flexible coupling failure (£250–£400 to address).
W212 (2009–2016) — Petrol options included the E200, E300, with E220 CDI on the diesel side. We track 4 known issues on this generation, with 3 classified as significant. The most significant concern is Transmission shaft flexible coupling failure (£250–£400 to address).
The flexible coupling (flex disc or giubo) connects the transmission output to the propshaft on rear-wheel-drive E-Class models. This rubber and steel component deteriorates due to heat cycles and torque stress, causing vibration and eventual complete failure. Mercedes E-Class models show MOT failure rates 188.7 times higher than the fleet average for this specific defect, with failures documented across all mileage ranges from 20,000 miles upward. The coupling is a safety-critical component - complete failure results in loss of drive and potential propshaft damage.
Complete coupling failure results in immediate loss of drive and potential damage to the propshaft universal joints or transmission output shaft. The propshaft may drop and cause dangerous handling or underfloor damage. Repair requires replacement of the complete flex disc assembly and inspection of adjacent driveline components.
Listen for clunking or vibration from underneath when pulling away or changing direction. Check for play in the driveshafts by rocking the car in gear with the handbrake on. Worn CV boots are a telltale sign — look for grease splatter around the inner wheel arch.
W210 generation E-Class models develop excessive free play in the steering system, typically due to worn track rod ends or steering damper failure. MOT data shows failure rates 134.9 times higher than the fleet average, concentrated in higher-mileage examples. The issue affects driving precision and can progress to dangerous levels where steering input does not translate to wheel movement, particularly problematic at motorway speeds.
Excessive steering play creates unpredictable handling and requires constant driver correction. In severe cases, steering response becomes dangerously delayed, particularly hazardous during emergency manoeuvres or at high speeds. Complete track rod end failure can result in loss of steering control on the affected side.
During the test drive, check the steering for excessive play, vibration or pulling to one side. Listen for groaning or whining when turning the wheel at low speed. Power steering fluid level and condition should be checked on hydraulic systems.
E-Class models show wheel bearing failure rates 55.2 times higher than the fleet average, with over 69,000 documented MOT failures. The issue affects both front and rear bearings across all generations, with some failures occurring as early as 20,000 miles. Mercedes uses sealed hub bearings that cannot be repacked with grease, requiring complete hub assembly replacement when they fail. Early failure may be linked to the heavier weight of E-Class models and their performance-oriented suspension geometry.
Worn wheel bearings cause noise, vibration, and reduced fuel economy. Severe wear can lead to wheel wobble and eventual bearing collapse, which would cause loss of the wheel and potentially catastrophic accident. Early replacement prevents more expensive damage to the hub assembly and brake components.
Listen for knocking, clunking or rattling over bumps during the test drive. Inspect the underside for corroded or cracked suspension components. Check the MOT history for suspension-related advisories, which often predict future failures.
Flexible brake hoses on E-Class models deteriorate at rates 26.8 times higher than the fleet average, with over 11,000 documented MOT failures. The rubber brake hoses connecting the rigid brake lines to the calipers are subject to heat cycles from the braking system and movement stress from suspension travel. Age-related deterioration causes internal rubber lining to break down, potentially blocking brake fluid flow or causing external leaks.
Deteriorated brake hoses can fail suddenly causing complete brake loss on the affected corner, or gradual deterioration causing reduced braking efficiency. Internal rubber breakdown can block brake fluid flow leading to brake fade or pedal loss. External leaks cause environmental contamination and progressive brake system failure.
Check brake disc condition for lipping or scoring. Test braking at moderate speed for pulling to one side or vibration through the steering wheel. Review MOT advisories for brake-related items.
Mercedes E-Class models across all generations show significantly higher rates of suspension bush and joint wear compared to the fleet average. MOT failure rates are 56.2 times higher than typical, with over 61,000 documented failures. The multi-link rear suspension design uses numerous rubber bushes that deteriorate with age and mileage, causing handling degradation and MOT failures. Front lower arm bushes and rear subframe bushes are particular problem areas.
Worn suspension bushes degrade handling precision and ride quality. They affect wheel alignment leading to irregular tyre wear. While not immediately dangerous, severely worn bushes can allow excessive suspension movement affecting braking stability and cornering control.
Listen for knocking, clunking or rattling over bumps during the test drive. Inspect the underside for corroded or cracked suspension components. Check the MOT history for suspension-related advisories, which often predict future failures.
For the full breakdown of all 5 tracked issues with repair costs, see the Mercedes-Benz E Class common problems page.
Routine servicing (oil and filter change every 15k miles) typically costs £80–£150 at an independent garage.
The bigger-ticket items to budget for include transmission fluid (automatic) (£200–£350).
See the full Mercedes-Benz E Class service schedule for every interval and cost breakdown.
The Mercedes-Benz E Class is a solid choice on the used market, though not without its quirks. The issues we track are well-understood and largely avoidable if you know what to look for. A thorough inspection and complete service history go a long way. 2019-2022 W213 models offer the best blend of modern technology and settled reliability. Post-2020 facelifted cars gain MBUX infotainment and improved driver assists.
Before committing, check the car's full MOT history, verify the service record is complete, and if possible arrange a specialist inspection. Enter any registration into our free report to see the complete picture.
Get Car Wise maintains a database of known mechanical issues for every popular car on UK roads, tracking the faults that owners, specialists and DVSA data reveal.
When you run a report on a specific Mercedes-Benz E Class, we cross-reference the exact variant, engine and age against our database of 5 known issues. Combined with full MOT history analysis, mileage verification and DVLA data, you get a complete picture before viewing.
Enter the registration for MOT history, mileage verification, known faults for that exact variant, and a Get Car Wise Score.
This guide was compiled from independent expert reviews, DVSA MOT data, specialist workshops and our own database of 5 known Mercedes-Benz E Class issues. We are not affiliated with any source listed.