1980 Mercedes Benz 300
Only 2 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 2 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 |
|---|---|
| 1980 | 2 |
| 1982 | 1 |
| 1983 | 6 |
| 1984 | 4 |
| 1985 | 5 |
| 1986 | 13 |
| 1987 | 29 |
| 1988 | 7 |
| 1989 | 5 |
| 1990 | 5 |
| 1991 | 19 |
| 1992 | 22 |
| 1993 | 39 |
| 1994 | 4 |
| 1995 | 16 |
| 1996 | 8 |
| 1997 | 5 |
| 1998 | 2 |
| 1999 | 6 |
| 2002 | 3 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
Only 2 complaints on file for this model year -- too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
1 of 2 total reports mentions: service brakes, hydraulic.
Show complaint excerpts
INTERMITTENTLY WHEN THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS APPLIED THE VEHICLE WOULD NOT STOP. WHEN THIS OCCURRED, EXCESSIVE FORCE HAD TO BE APPLIED TO THE BRAKE PEDAL TO STOP THE VEHICLE, WHICH RESULTS IN EXTENDED STOPPING DISTANCE.
NHTSA ODI report, 20040604
1 of 2 total reports mentions: power train.
Show complaint excerpts
PARKING PAWL ACTUATOR ROD FAILED DUE TO BEING DESIGNED WITH NYLON INSTEAD OF STEEL. (2ND VEHICLE FROM 486224) *SKD
NHTSA ODI report, 19950615
1 of 2 total reports mentions: engine and engine cooling.
Show complaint excerpts
GASKET REPLACED.
NHTSA ODI report, 19950615
SAFETY TIMELINE
No recalls on file for this model year.
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
1980 Mercedes Benz 300 — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for service brakes, hydraulic issues (1 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for power train issues (1 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for engine and engine cooling issues (1 reports on file for this year).
FAQ
Is the 1980 Mercedes Benz 300 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 1980 Mercedes Benz 300?
The most-reported component is service brakes, hydraulic:power assist:vacuum, accounting for 50% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 1980 Mercedes Benz 300 have?
No recalls are on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-07-11 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.