1997 Mercedes Benz 280
Only 5 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict.
This verdict reflects complaint volume compared to this model's typical year. Recalls and safety issues below apply regardless of the verdict — always check them.
Only 5 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.
- Complaints
- 5
- Recalls
- 0
- Investigations
- 0
- Top problem
- —
Too few to rank
None on file
None on file
Not enough data
Complaints per year
1997: 5 complaints
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 1984 | 0 |
| 1985 | 0 |
| 1986 | 0 |
| 1987 | 0 |
| 1988 | 0 |
| 1994 | 18 |
| 1995 | 47 |
| 1996 | 13 |
| 1997 | 5 |
| 1998 | 3 |
| 1999 | 3 |
| 2000 | 6 |
Known problem areas
Only 5 complaints on file for this model year — too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
Power train
2 of 5 total reports mention: power train, most commonly citing gear position indication (prndl) and automatic transmission.
Show complaint excerpts
While in reverse position, the vehicle took off in reverse about 20 MPH, causing $3200 damages on the vehicle.
NHTSA ODI report, 1997-09-03
Also filed under Vehicle speed control
Transmission failed.
NHTSA ODI report, 1999-04-29
Visibility
1 of 5 total reports mentions: visibility, most commonly citing windshield wiper/washer.
Vehicle speed control
1 of 5 total reports mentions: vehicle speed control.
Steering
1 of 5 total reports mentions: steering, most commonly citing linkages.
Child seat
1 of 5 total reports mentions: child seat.
Safety timeline
No recalls on file for this model year.
0 recalls · 0 investigations · oldest first
To check one car, enter its VIN on the NHTSA recall page. Check a VIN →
Buy-smart checklist
1997 Mercedes Benz 280 — pre-purchase inspection
Inspect
- Power train: 2 reports on file for this year.
- Visibility: 1 report on file for this year.
- Vehicle speed control: 1 report on file for this year.
FAQ
- Is the 1997 Mercedes Benz 280 reliable?
- There isn't enough NHTSA complaint data on file yet to give this model year a verdict.
- What are the most common problems with the 1997 Mercedes Benz 280?
- The most-reported component is power train, accounting for 40% of complaints on file.
- How many recalls does the 1997 Mercedes Benz 280 have?
- No recalls are on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-10-31 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.