2003 Mercedes Benz 500
Only 11 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 11 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.
- Complaints
- 11
- Recalls
- 0
- Investigations
- 0
- Top problem
- —
Too few to rank
None on file
None on file
Not enough data
Complaints per year
2003: 11 complaints
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 1984 | 1 |
| 1985 | 1 |
| 1986 | 0 |
| 1987 | 0 |
| 1988 | 0 |
| 1990 | 1 |
| 1991 | 0 |
| 1992 | 15 |
| 1993 | 22 |
| 1994 | 6 |
| 1995 | 8 |
| 1996 | 6 |
| 1997 | 8 |
| 1998 | 2 |
| 1999 | 7 |
| 2000 | 9 |
| 2003 | 11 |
Known problem areas
Only 11 complaints on file for this model year — too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
Suspension
3 of 11 total reports mention: suspension, most commonly citing air suspension system and lower ball joint.
Show complaint excerpts
While driving the lower ball joints on the passenger side snapped in half, causing a collision. Consumer complained to the dealer that the front end felt loose while driving. Vehicle was taken to the dealership three times.
NHTSA ODI report, 2004-09-30
Was going down road and front strut bottomed out because of air bellow failure in air leveling system .many people have had same problem!
NHTSA ODI report, 2014-04-03
Consumer complained about an air suspension pump problem. This defect caused the vehicle to drop down, cutting all four tires. Consumer took the vehicle to the dealer. However, they were not providing much information.
NHTSA ODI report, 2004-02-26
Fuel system, gasoline
3 of 11 total reports mention: fuel system, gasoline, most commonly citing tank assembly and fuel pump.
Show complaint excerpts
In June 2012 the car did not pass inspection and we were told we needed a new gas cap. We got a gas cap and it passed inspection. Since then we have had a strong fuel smell when the gas tank is filled completely.
NHTSA ODI report, 2014-05-31
Serious fuel tank leak resulting from possible design/manufacturer defect or damage in shipping requiring replacement of tank. Mercedes will not allow my investigator to inspect tank.…
NHTSA ODI report, 2002-10-16
Tires
1 of 11 total reports mentions: tires.
Service brakes
1 of 11 total reports mentions: service brakes, most commonly citing hydraulic.
Seat belts
1 of 11 total reports mentions: seat belts.
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
2003 Mercedes Benz 500 — pre-purchase inspection
Inspect
- Suspension: 3 reports on file for this year.
- Fuel system, gasoline: 3 reports on file for this year.
- Tires: 1 report on file for this year.
FAQ
- Is the 2003 Mercedes Benz 500 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 2003 Mercedes Benz 500?
- The most-reported component is suspension, accounting for 27% of complaints on file.
- How many recalls does the 2003 Mercedes Benz 500 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.