1997 Mercedes Benz E300
Only 8 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 8 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.
- Complaints
- 8
- Recalls
- 0
- Investigations
- 1
- Top problem
- —
Too few to rank
None on file
Opened by NHTSA
Not enough data
Complaints per year
1997: 8 complaints
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 1995 | 6 |
| 1996 | 1 |
| 1997 | 8 |
| 1998 | 9 |
| 1999 | 13 |
| 2001 | 2 |
| 2002 | 1 |
| 2009 | 2 |
Known problem areas
Only 8 complaints on file for this model year — too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
Engine and engine cooling
3 of 8 total reports mention: engine and engine cooling, most commonly citing gasoline and diesel.
Show complaint excerpts
Problems with Mercedes-Benz E300 diesel.*mr the consumer has had ongoing problems with the engine hesitating and stalling while driving and has spent approx $3800.00 in repairs for defective vehicle.
NHTSA ODI report, 2004-07-28
Also filed under Power train
Service brakes
2 of 8 total reports mention: service brakes, most commonly citing hydraulic.
Power train
2 of 8 total reports mention: power train, most commonly citing control module (tcm/pcm/tecm) and automatic transmission.
Show complaint excerpts
While driving on highway, gears shifted back and forth between two gears; acceleration at 25-50 MPH. Took vehicle to dealer.
NHTSA ODI report, 2001-12-12
Also filed under Fuel system, gasoline
Electrical system
2 of 8 total reports mention: electrical system, most commonly citing 12v/24v/48v battery.
Show complaint excerpts
The wire harness is brittle and the insulation is disintegrating, resulting in shorts and electrical failures. The headlights stopped working unexpectedly.
NHTSA ODI report, 2016-06-26
While starting vehicle battery under rear passenger seat had exploded. Dealer/manufacturer were notified and were unwilling to assist. *ak consumer states in spite of various attempts, a foul smell still remains.
NHTSA ODI report, 2001-11-14
Suspension
1 of 8 total reports mentions: suspension, most commonly citing front.
Show complaint excerpts
Dt*: the contact stated while driving 35MPH a loud bang was heard coming from underneath the vehicle.
NHTSA ODI report, 2006-05-04
Safety timeline
No recalls on file for this model year.
0 recalls · 1 investigation · oldest first
To check one car, enter its VIN on the NHTSA recall page. Check a VIN →
-
I
2007-04-19Preliminary evaluationClosed 2007-08-09 Front suspension coil spring ejection
Buy-smart checklist
1997 Mercedes Benz E300 — pre-purchase inspection
Inspect
- Engine and engine cooling: 3 reports on file for this year.
- Service brakes: 2 reports on file for this year.
- Power train: 2 reports on file for this year.
FAQ
- Is the 1997 Mercedes Benz E300 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 E300?
- The most-reported component is engine and engine cooling, accounting for 38% of complaints on file.
- How many recalls does the 1997 Mercedes Benz E300 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.