Top fixes

Top Mercedes-Benz E-Class fixes every owner should know

Cheap, practical fixes for the Mercedes-Benz E-Class faults you actually meet, with rough costs and what a garage will charge.

Updated 4th September 2026 DVSA data: Across 227,526 recorded MOT tests, 19.9% failed.

TL;DR

The Mercedes-Benz E-Class has several common faults that can be fixed affordably. Knowing these issues and their fixes can save you time and money. Common faults include electrical issues and air suspension failures, with DIY repairs costing around £20 for parts and garage labour typically ranging from £50 to £100 per hour.

Common faults include electrical issues and air suspension failures.

DIY fixes can save you money on minor repairs.

Garage labour typically costs between £50 and £100 per hour.

Parts for common repairs range from £20 to £200.

Some fixes may only be temporary patches.

Electrical Issues

The E-Class often experiences electrical faults, particularly with the central locking system and window regulators. These issues can usually be resolved by replacing faulty switches or fuses, which are relatively inexpensive. DIY repairs typically cost around £20 for parts, while garage repairs may incur a labour fee of £50 to £100.

Air Suspension Failures

Models from 2003 to 2016 may suffer from air suspension problems. The air struts can leak, leading to a bumpy ride. Replacing a strut can cost between £150 and £200 for parts. This repair is generally a garage job due to its complexity, with labour costs ranging from £100 to £200. Avoid temporary fixes like sealants, as they do not provide a long-term solution.

Oil Leaks

Oil leaks are a common concern, particularly in the 2010-2016 models. The oil filter housing and sump gaskets are often the culprits. You can replace these gaskets yourself for around £30 in parts. A garage will charge £80 to £150 for the same job, including labour. While DIY fixes can be effective, ensure you monitor for recurring leaks.

Brake Wear

Brake wear is another frequent issue, especially on earlier models. Brake pads and discs may need replacing every 20,000 to 30,000 miles. Parts for pads and discs can range from £50 to £200. This is a straightforward DIY job but can also be done by a garage for £100 to £200 in labour. Always opt for quality parts to ensure safety.

Transmission Problems

Transmission issues have been reported in some E-Class models, particularly the 7-speed automatic. Symptoms include rough shifting or slipping. A transmission fluid change can help, costing around £80 for parts and £100 to £150 for garage labour. If issues persist, a full transmission rebuild may be necessary, which can be expensive. Regular maintenance is key to preventing these problems.

Mercedes-Benz E-Class recall record

139 recalls have been issued for the Mercedes-Benz E-Class, between 2000 and 2026.

  1. Coolant pump control software

    R/2026/201

    Issued 23 June 2026

    Mercedes-Benz AG has determined that on certain GLE/GLS (167 platform) C-Class (205 platform) E-Class (213 platform) S-Class (223 platform) GLC (253 platform) and CLS (257 platform) vehicles with diesel engine the vacuum‑controlled coolant pump might exhibit a leakage between the vacuum system and the coolant circuit.

    Remedy:As a remedy Mercedes-Benz AG via its Mercedes-Benz service partners will update the software of the coolant pump and replace the electrical switch valve on the affected vehicles.

    Affects cars built May 2017 to May 2017

  2. SRPC2521 – Routing of transmission wiring harness

    R/2025/534

    Issued 19 January 2026

    Mercedes-Benz AG has determined that on certain E-Class AMG (214 platform) vehicles with 4-wheel-drive the routing of the transmission wiring harness might not meet specifications.

    Remedy:As a precautionary measure Mercedes-Benz AG via its Mercedes-Benz service partners will check the routing of the transmission wiring harness on the affected vehicles and rework it if necessary.

    Affects cars built Sept 2024 to Jan 2025

  3. SRPC2504 - Ground connection bolting

    R/2025/155

    Issued 8 May 2025

    Mercedes-Benz AG has determined that on certain E-Class (214 platform) and GLC (254 platform) vehicles the bolts of certain 12V- and 48V- ground connections might not have been fastened with the specified torque.

    Remedy:As a remedy Mercedes-Benz AG via its Mercedes-Benz service partners will check the bolting of the ground connections and perform according repairs if necessary.

    Affects cars built Feb 2024 to May 2024

  4. SRPC2421 – Welding of rear axle carrier

    R/2024/502

    Issued 23 December 2024

    Mercedes-Benz AG has determined that on certain E-Class 214 platform and GLC 254 platform vehicles the welding of consoles to the rear axle carrier might not meet specifications.

    Remedy:As a remedy a Mercedes-Benz service partner will replace the rear axle carrier of the affected vehicles.

    Affects cars built Aug 2024 to Sept 2024

135 older recalls not shown.

A recall applies to a build range, not to every car of this model. Check a registration to see whether one specific vehicle has an outstanding recall.

Mercedes-Benz E-Class MOT record

From 227,526 recorded MOT tests, 19.9% failed.

MOT pass and failure rates by year of first registration
RegisteredTestsFailedMedian mileage
20243092.3%24,643 mi
20222,7459.7%29,070 mi
20216,26210.8%40,853 mi
202010,24512.4%46,752 mi
201920,62712.8%57,208 mi
201820,55114.1%64,346 mi
201721,61614.4%79,008 mi
201619,82516.1%81,960 mi

Most common reasons for failure

  1. Tyre tread depth not in accordance with the requirements32.7%
  2. A suspension pin, bush or joint excessively worn20.9%
  3. Brake pipe damaged or excessively corroded18.3%
  4. A tyre seriously damaged18.1%
  5. a brake lining or pad worn below 1.5mm9.9%

Figures cover every Mercedes-Benz E-Class tested in the DVSA dataset, not this specific car. Check a registration for the actual history of one vehicle.

Mercedes-Benz E-Class official figures

Median across 24 variants on sale, diesel electric, electricity / diesel, electricity / petrol, petrol electric.

Combined economy
45.2 mpg
WLTP median across variants
CO2 emissions
153.5 g/km
Sets the first-year tax rate
Electric range
58.5 miles
Manufacturer WLTP figure

Official figures for new cars. Real economy varies with driving, load and conditions.

Frequently asked questions

What are common faults with the Mercedes-Benz E-Class?

Common faults include electrical issues, air suspension failures, and oil leaks.

Can I fix these issues myself?

Many issues can be DIY fixes, especially minor electrical problems and oil leaks.

Are these fixes temporary or permanent?

Some fixes are temporary patches; ensure you seek a proper repair for long-term issues.

Sources