2004 Mercedes Benz E320
This year had more than double the complaints of this model's typical year.
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.
COMPLAINTS PER YEAR
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 1994 | 11 |
| 1995 | 96 |
| 1996 | 45 |
| 1997 | 63 |
| 1998 | 37 |
| 1999 | 83 |
| 2000 | 44 |
| 2001 | 38 |
| 2002 | 23 |
| 2003 | 214 |
| 2004 | 203 |
| 2005 | 231 |
| 2006 | 41 |
| 2007 | 17 |
| 2008 | 10 |
| 2009 | 8 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
39% of complaints: fuel/propulsion system — 79 distinct reports on file.
Show complaint excerpts
AFTER FILLED UP THE CAR WITH GAS. STRONG GAS ODOR AND GAS LEAKING FROM DRIVERS SIDE REAR OF CAR. WHILE DRIVING AND WHILE PARKED IN THE GARAGE EXTREMELY UNSAFE!!!
NHTSA ODI report, 20180415
THER IS A STRONG GAS SMELL INSIDE CAR WHEN THE TANK IS OVER 3/4 FULL. DANGEROUS FIRE HARZARD. THINK THAT IT IS A RECALL ISSUE.
NHTSA ODI report, 20180331
20% of complaints: service brakes — 41 distinct reports on file.
CRASHShow complaint excerpts
THIS WAS ONE OF 4 ACCIDENTS OR FENDER BENDERS I'VE BEEN IN IN THE LAST 14 MONTHS DUE TO BRAKE MALFUNCTION.
NHTSA ODI report, 20150730
SBC BRAKE LIGHT CAME ON CAR WOULD NOT ENGAGE GOT IT TOWED THE REPAIR COST $1600.00 TO REPAIR. I CALL MBZ THEY SAID NO HELP FOR ME.
NHTSA ODI report, 20180118
17% of complaints: fuel system, gasoline — 34 distinct reports on file.
6% of complaints: electrical system — 13 distinct reports on file.
INJURYShow complaint excerpts
The glue around front windshield has deteriorated and has caused major damage to my interior lights, electrical essemblys , interior damage to seats , dash board and flooring.
NHTSA ODI report, 20240107
3% of complaints: service brakes, hydraulic — 6 distinct reports on file.
SAFETY TIMELINE
Fuel Leakage From The Fuel Tank
Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC. (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2001-2011 vehicles. The bonding between the glass panel and the sliding roof frame may deteriorate, possibly resulting in the glass panel detaching from the vehicle.
Remedy: MBUSA will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the glass panel bonding and replace the sliding roof, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began July 10, 2020. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372.
Campaign 19V918000 — check if this car was fixed
Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2001-2011 C-Class, CLK, E-Class, and CLS vehicles. Please see the recall report for a complete list of models and model years. The glass sunroof panel may not be properly secured and can detach.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace the sunroof panel as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 10, 2025. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372.
Campaign 24V874000 — check if this car was fixed
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
2004 Mercedes Benz E320 — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for fuel/propulsion system issues (79 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for service brakes issues (41 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for fuel system, gasoline issues (34 reports on file for this year).
- Verify recall 19V918000 (visibility) has been completed.
- Verify recall 24V874000 (visibility) has been completed.
OTHER YEARS OF THIS MODEL
BEST YEARS
WORST YEARS
FAQ
Is the 2004 Mercedes Benz E320 reliable?
Based on NHTSA complaint volume compared to this model's typical year, the 2004 Mercedes Benz E320 is rated "significantly worse".
What are the most common problems with the 2004 Mercedes Benz E320?
The most-reported component is fuel/propulsion system, accounting for 39% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 2004 Mercedes Benz E320 have?
2 recalls on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-07-11 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.