1997 Mercedes-Benz E320
Introduction: The 1997 Mercedes-Benz E320 is a mid-size luxury sedan powered by a 3.2L V6 engine. It is offered with two transmission options: a 5-speed automatic transmission and a 5-speed manual transmission. The E320 received praise for its refined ride and handling, as well as its comfortable interior. However, it has been plagued by several common issues that can affect its reliability and performance.
Engine -3.2L V6 -Intake Manifold Crack: Cracks in the intake manifold can cause a loss of power, poor fuel economy, and a rough idle. Solution: Replacement of the intake manifold. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $2000+ -Crankshaft Position Sensor Failure: Failure of the crankshaft position sensor can cause the engine to stall or fail to start. Solution: Replacement of the crankshaft position sensor. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $300 -Oil Leaking from Valve Cover Gasket: A leaking valve cover gasket can cause oil to leak onto the engine, which can lead to smoking and engine damage. Solution: Replacement of the valve cover gasket. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
Transmission -5-Speed Automatic Transmission -Shift Solenoid Failure: Failure of the shift solenoid can cause the transmission to slip, shift harshly, or fail to shift gears. Solution: Replacement of the shift solenoid. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+ -Torque Converter Failure: Failure of the torque converter can cause the transmission to overheat, slip, or fail to engage. Solution: Replacement of the torque converter. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $2500+ -5-Speed Manual Transmission -No Issues Found
Suspension -Front Suspension: -Lower Control Arm Bushing Failure: Failure of the lower control arm bushings can cause the suspension to become loose and unstable, leading to poor handling and tire wear. Solution: Replacement of the lower control arm bushings. Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600+ -Rear Suspension: -Rear Shock Absorber Failure: Failure of the rear shock absorbers can cause the rear of the vehicle to bounce excessively and reduce overall stability. Solution: Replacement of the rear shock absorbers. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
Electrical -Battery Drain: A battery drain can be caused by a variety of electrical components, such as a faulty alternator, starter, or parasitic draw. Solution: Diagnosis and repair of the underlying issue. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+ -Headlight Switch Failure: Failure of the headlight switch can cause the headlights to flicker or fail to turn on. Solution: Replacement of the headlight switch. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ -Power Window Failure: Failure of the power window motors or switches can cause the power windows to become inoperable. Solution: Replacement of the failed components. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
Exterior -Sunroof Leaks: A leaky sunroof can allow water to enter the vehicle’s interior, causing damage to the upholstery and electronics. Solution: Diagnosis and repair of the sunroof drain system. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ -Door Lock Actuator Failure: Failure of the door lock actuators can prevent the doors from locking or unlocking. Solution: Replacement of the failed actuators. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ -Antenna Mast Failure: The antenna mast can become loose or broken, affecting radio reception. Solution: Replacement of the antenna mast. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
Interior -Radio Display Failure: Digital display on the radio unit may fail and become blank or garbled.Solution: Replacement of the radio unit.Estimated Cost to Fix: $300-$600+ -Climate Control Malfunction: Failure of the climate control system can cause the heating and cooling system to malfunction. Solution: Diagnosis and repair of the failed components. Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+ -Power Seat Motor Failure: Failure of the power seat motors can prevent the seats from adjusting. Solution: Replacement of the failed motors. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
Summary: The 1997 Mercedes-Benz E320 is a comfortable and well-equipped luxury sedan. However, it suffers from several common issues that can affect its reliability and performance. The most severe of these issues include intake manifold cracks, transmission failures, and electrical problems, with estimated repair costs ranging from hundreds to thousands of dollars. While the E320 offers a refined driving experience, potential buyers should be aware of these issues and factor in the cost of potential repairs before making a purchase.