1990-1995 Mercedes-Benz 300/E-Class: Reliability
Updated: 11/23/08
1995 Mercedes-Benz 300/E-Class
View the Photo Gallery
View the Photo Gallery
1990-1995 Mercedes-Benz 300/E-Class
- Price Range: $1,100 - $11,300
Reviews & Ratings
Pricing
Explore
Specifications & Safety
Related to Mercedes-Benz E-Class
Related Reviews
View Another Vehicle
Our reliability study for this generation Mercedes-Benz E-Class includes details on average repair costs, manufacturer recalls, and everything you need to know to gauge the long-term reliability of this generation Mercedes-Benz E-Class .
Trouble Spots
Consumer Guide's® Auto Editors have scoured repair bulletins and questioned mechanics to search
for commonly occurring problems for a particular vehicle. In some cases we also give possible manufacturer-suggested
solutions. In many instances these trouble spots are Technical Service Bulletins posted by the manufacturer,
however, we have our own expert looking at additional vehicle problems.
Automatic transmission:
Harsh and erratic shifts are often due to a damaged dust cover on the vacuum modulator for the transmission. (1990-94)
Automatic transmission:
The transmission may delay shifting into Drive or Reverse, and may be corrected by installing reformulated Mercedes-Benz transmission fluid. (1990)
Brakes:
Brake squeal at low speeds (under 10 mph) may activate the antilock brake system. (1990-93)
Clutch:
Sticking clutch pedal on 300 SL could be due to fluid boiling in the slave cylinder. (1992)
Convertible top:
The locking tabs for the convertible top tend to wear and should be checked every 15,000 miles. (1990)
Exhaust system:
Possible exhaust leak at the oxygen sensor caused by damaged catalytic converter. (1990-91 diesel)
Hard starting:
Hard starting, misfires, and poor drivability could be due to insulation flaking off of underhood wiring harness. (1990-95)
Oil leak:
Oil enters the air filter. There are revised valve covers with improved oil separators available for the 3.0-liter engine. (1990)
Rough idle:
Stretched timing chain may cause noisy engine, rough running, hard starting, power loss, and oil loss. (1992-94)
Consumer Guide® Estimated Repair Costs
This table lists costs of likely repairs for comparison with other vehicles. The
dollar amount includes the cost of the part(s) and labor (based on $50 per hour) for the
typical repair without extras or add-ons. Like the pricing information, replacement
costs can vary widely depending on region. Expect charges at a new-car dealership
to be slightly higher.
| Item Name | Repair Cost |
| A/C Compressor | $925 |
| Alternator | $440 |
| Automatic Transmission or Transaxle | $1,060 |
| Brakes | $190 |
| Exhaust System | $870 |
| Radiator | $400 |
| Shocks and/or Struts | $1,440 |
| Timing Chain or Belt | $645 |
| Universal Joints | $685 |
Advertisement
Car Buying Resources
Search
Local Listings
Vehicle
History Report
FREE CARFAX Record Check
Looking at a used car, check for costly hidden problems before
you buy.
