1990 Mercedes Benz 420
Only 3 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 3 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 |
|---|---|
| 1984 | 0 |
| 1985 | 0 |
| 1986 | 6 |
| 1987 | 3 |
| 1988 | 1 |
| 1989 | 2 |
| 1990 | 3 |
| 1991 | 4 |
| 1994 | 16 |
| 1995 | 15 |
| 1996 | 1 |
| 1997 | 22 |
| 1999 | 5 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
Only 3 complaints on file for this model year -- too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
2 of 3 total reports mention: equipment.
Show complaint excerpts
ON OCT. 20, 2005, I ASKED MERCEDES BENZ OF USA AND MERCEDES BENZ OF EUGENE(OR), TO SHOW/TELL ME SPECIFICALLY WHERE THE TETHER ANCHORS ARE IN MY 1990 420 SEL MERCEDES. ALSO,ON OCT.
NHTSA ODI report, 20051031
THE OWNER'S MANUAL FOR MY 1990 420 SEL, ON PAGE 46, STATES:"THIS VEHICLE IS EQUIPPED WITH TETHER ANCHORAGES FOR USE WITH CHILD RESTRAINTS THAT HAVE A TOP TETHER STRAP.
NHTSA ODI report, 20051021
1 of 3 total reports mentions: child seat.
Show complaint excerpts
NO TETHER ANCHORAGES ARE PRESENT ON THIS VEHICLE AND NO TETHER ANCHORAGES HAVE EVER BEEN PRESENT ON THIS VEHICLE.
NHTSA ODI report, 20051109
SAFETY TIMELINE
BOLTS USED FOR THE BRAKE STRUT SUPPORT DO NOT MEET SPECIFICATIONS AND MAY BREAK.
Remedy: REPLACE HEX NUT BOLTS WITH BOLTS THAT MEET SPECIFICATIONS.
Campaign 90V033000 — check if this car was fixed
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
1990 Mercedes Benz 420 — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for equipment issues (2 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for child seat issues (1 reports on file for this year).
- Verify recall 90V033000 (service brakes, hydraulic) has been completed.
FAQ
Is the 1990 Mercedes Benz 420 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 1990 Mercedes Benz 420?
The most-reported component is equipment, accounting for 67% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 1990 Mercedes Benz 420 have?
1 recall on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-07-11 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.