1997 Mercedes Benz 420
Only 22 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 22 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.
- Complaints
- 22
- Recalls
- 0
- Investigations
- 0
- Top problem
- —
Too few to rank
None on file
None on file
Not enough data
Complaints per year
1997: 22 complaints
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 22 complaints on file for this model year — too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
Suspension
11 of 22 total reports mention: suspension, most commonly citing coil springs and front.
Show complaint excerpts
Weld broke and dislodged the springs..
NHTSA ODI report, 2013-10-04
While driving 65 MPH, the consumer noticed the steering wheel vibrating hard. The consumer looked under vehicle and noticed the frame well was broken. Please provide further details. *jb metal on frame well was replaced due to fatigue.
NHTSA ODI report, 2004-07-01
Also filed under Structure
Power train
3 of 22 total reports mention: power train, most commonly citing automatic transmission.
Show complaint excerpts
Tl* the contact owns a 1997 Mercedes Benz E420. The contact stated that while driving 40 MPH, he heard a loud pop near the front passenger side of the vehicle.
NHTSA ODI report, 2012-06-14
Automatic transmission failed.
NHTSA ODI report, 1997-09-18
Seat belts
2 of 22 total reports mention: seat belts, most commonly citing retractor and anchorage.
Show complaint excerpts
Was making a left turn when isuzu trooper passenger front hit passenger side front wheel of mercedes and passenger door with driver side front. During impact, front seat belt on driver's side failed to restrain driver.
NHTSA ODI report, 2001-01-17
Fuel system, gasoline
2 of 22 total reports mention: fuel system, gasoline, most commonly citing tank assembly and hoses, lines/piping, and fittings.
Visibility
1 of 22 total reports mentions: visibility, most commonly citing windshield wiper/washer.
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 420 — pre-purchase inspection
Inspect
- Suspension: 11 reports on file for this year.
- Power train: 3 reports on file for this year.
- Seat belts: 2 reports on file for this year.
FAQ
- Is the 1997 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 1997 Mercedes Benz 420?
- The most-reported component is suspension, accounting for 50% of complaints on file.
- How many recalls does the 1997 Mercedes Benz 420 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.