Like so many German cars of this era, reported E-Class problems tended to be of the frustrating and hard-to-diagnose electronic variety-- thanks in part to dozens of advanced computers, modules and sensors. Before setting off for a road test, shoppers are advised to spend some time checking for proper operation of everything in the cabin that runs on electricity-- including the stereo, navigation system, power accessories, communications system and all digital display screens. If the vehicle is fitted with parking radar, be sure it works, too. Ditto the air conditioner and climate control system.
Check all interior and exterior lights. If the E-Class you’re considering has a burnt-out headlamp, be sure to have it changed as part of your agreement to purchase. The xenon projector lamps provide brilliant illumination, but are relatively expensive to replace.
Be sure there are no ‘check engine’ lights or other system warnings present which indicate that service is needed. Note that a display screen may output a more specific message indicating that a certain component or part needs attention if something is wrong.
Various online sources, including owner forums, identify fairly common problems with the air conditioner, brake system electronics, climate control blower motor, and suspension. Of course, none of these parts, nor the associated replacement labor, will be inexpensive.
On a road test, the main area of concern will likely be the vehicle’s suspension. Listen for clunking, grinding or other unwelcomed metal-on-metal sounds as the vehicle hits bumps in the road at various speeds and angles. Most troublesome suspension noise indicates a worn out part like a bushing or ball joint-- and both are part of normal maintenance.
Incidentally, the auto-leveling air suspension is probably a good option to avoid. Though it’s mainly free of serious-looking issues in the context of the E-Class, this type of suspension tends to turn into a money pit when it eventually wears out and needs fixing.
Test the brakes too-- using various amounts of stopping force and ensuring the vehicle comes to rest quickly and in a straight line. Any pulsating felt through the pedal as moderate stopping power is applied typically indicates that a brake job is in the vehicle’s future.
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| 2005 Mercedes-Benz E 55 AMG (Photo: John Leblanc/Auto123.com) |
Check all interior and exterior lights. If the E-Class you’re considering has a burnt-out headlamp, be sure to have it changed as part of your agreement to purchase. The xenon projector lamps provide brilliant illumination, but are relatively expensive to replace.
Be sure there are no ‘check engine’ lights or other system warnings present which indicate that service is needed. Note that a display screen may output a more specific message indicating that a certain component or part needs attention if something is wrong.
Various online sources, including owner forums, identify fairly common problems with the air conditioner, brake system electronics, climate control blower motor, and suspension. Of course, none of these parts, nor the associated replacement labor, will be inexpensive.
On a road test, the main area of concern will likely be the vehicle’s suspension. Listen for clunking, grinding or other unwelcomed metal-on-metal sounds as the vehicle hits bumps in the road at various speeds and angles. Most troublesome suspension noise indicates a worn out part like a bushing or ball joint-- and both are part of normal maintenance.
Incidentally, the auto-leveling air suspension is probably a good option to avoid. Though it’s mainly free of serious-looking issues in the context of the E-Class, this type of suspension tends to turn into a money pit when it eventually wears out and needs fixing.
Test the brakes too-- using various amounts of stopping force and ensuring the vehicle comes to rest quickly and in a straight line. Any pulsating felt through the pedal as moderate stopping power is applied typically indicates that a brake job is in the vehicle’s future.
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| 2009 Mercedes-Benz E350 (Photo: Mercedes-Benz) |