1990 Mercedes-Benz 300CE

Introduction:

The 1990 Mercedes-Benz 300CE is a stylish and luxurious grand tourer. It features a 3.0-liter inline-six engine producing 177 horsepower and 188 lb-ft of torque. The 300CE is available with either a 4-speed automatic or 5-speed manual transmission. It is praised for its smooth ride, comfortable interior, and timeless design. However, it is also known for some common issues.

Engine

3.0L Inline-Six

• Head Gasket Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, overheating, rough idle
  • Solution: Replace head gasket and bolts
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Leaks:
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil drips under the vehicle, low oil levels
  • Solution: Replace leaking gasket or seal
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Vacuum Leaks:
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idle, poor acceleration, decreased fuel economy
  • Solution: Replace leaking vacuum hose or component
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic

• Harsh Shifts:
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission shifts abruptly or jerks
  • Solution: Flush transmission fluid, rebuild or replace transmission
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

5-Speed Manual

• Difficult to Shift:
  • Description/Symptoms: Gears are hard to engage or won’t stay in place
  • Solution: Replace worn or damaged clutch, transmission mounts, or shift linkage
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Rear Shock Absorber Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough ride, bouncing, uneven tire wear
  • Solution: Replace rear shock absorbers
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Lower Control Arm Bushings:
  • Description/Symptoms: Squeaking or clunking noises when turning or braking, uneven tire wear
  • Solution: Replace lower control arm bushings
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Window Switch Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Windows stop working or operate intermittently
  • Solution: Replace window switches
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found
• SRS Airbag Module Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: SRS airbag light illuminates, airbags may not deploy in an accident
  • Solution: Replace SRS airbag module
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: 1990 Mercedes-Benz 300CE SRS Airbag Module Recall (NHTSA Campaign Number 00E004000)

Exterior

• Sunroof Drains Clogged:
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof leaks water into the interior
  • Solution: Clean or unclog sunroof drains
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Instrument Cluster Pixel Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Pixels on the instrument cluster are burned out or faded
  • Solution: Replace instrument cluster
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 1990 Mercedes-Benz 300CE has some common issues that can range from minor to major in severity. Engine gasket failures and electrical problems tend to be the most costly to fix. While the 300CE is a classic car, it is important to be aware of these issues before purchasing one to avoid unexpected expenses.