1992 Mercedes Benz 300 Series
Only 13 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 13 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.
COMPLAINTS PER YEAR
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 1988 | 1 |
| 1990 | 2 |
| 1991 | 4 |
| 1992 | 13 |
| 1993 | 21 |
| 1995 | 12 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
Only 13 complaints on file for this model year -- too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
9 of 13 total reports mention: electrical system, most commonly citing wiring and front underhood.
FIREShow complaint excerpts
ELECTRICAL WIRING HARNESS OF THE 1992 W140 MERCEDES BENZ 300SD SHORTED OUT AND CAUSE A FIRE INSIDE MY VEHICLE. I SHUT OF THE POWER SOURCE AND NOW MY CAR IS WORTHLESS SINCE THE WIRING IS BAD. *TR
NHTSA ODI report, 20090225
I BOUGHT THE CAR USED.... I NOW KNOW WHY THE MAN WAS SO EAGER TO SELL AT SUCH A REASONABLE PRICE. CAR CONTINUES TO STALL ON ME, AFTER LETTING IT SIT AND COOL FOR APPROX. 20+ MINS IT WILL USUALLY START.
NHTSA ODI report, 20071115
4 of 13 total reports mention: engine and engine cooling, most commonly citing emission control and belts and associated pulleys.
1 of 13 total reports mentions: tires.
Show complaint excerpts
WE DEPARTED FROM HOME AND DROVE AT THE LOCAL SPEED OF 45-55 MPH FOR APPROXIMATELY 4 MILES AND PROCEEDED TO ENTER THE FREEWAY. WE DROVE ON THE FREEWAY FOR APPROXIMATELY 10 MILES AT 65 MPH WHEN THE REAR PASSENGER SIDE TIRE SUDDENLY EXPLODED.
NHTSA ODI report, 20120729
1 of 13 total reports mentions: structure, most commonly citing body.
CRASH INJURYShow complaint excerpts
I WAS GOING WEST ON VINEYARD AND 10TH ST, A CAR TRAVELING (65MPH) SOUTH ON 10TH ST HIT THE PASSENGER SIDE DOOR PUSHING THE CAR INTO A POLE DAMAGING THE LEFT FRONT END. *TR
NHTSA ODI report, 20120803
Also filed under ENGINE
1 of 13 total reports mentions: power train, most commonly citing transfer case (4-wheel drive).
Show complaint excerpts
I OWN A 1992 300TE 4MATIC MERCEDES BENZ. THE 4MATIC SYSTEM IS NOT WORKING, DEALER STATES THE TRASFER CASE NEEDS TO BE REPLACE PART #124280390188 AT A COST OF $2047.50 PART ONLY.
NHTSA ODI report, 20030205
SAFETY TIMELINE
No recalls on file for this model year.
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
1992 Mercedes Benz 300 Series — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for electrical system issues (9 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for engine and engine cooling issues (4 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for tires issues (1 reports on file for this year).
FAQ
Is the 1992 Mercedes Benz 300 Series 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 1992 Mercedes Benz 300 Series?
The most-reported component is electrical system, accounting for 69% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 1992 Mercedes Benz 300 Series have?
No recalls are on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-09-16 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.