1998 Mercedes-Benz E320

Introduction

The 1998 Mercedes-Benz E320 is a luxury sedan that offers a combination of performance, comfort, and sophistication. It is powered by a 3.2-liter V6 engine that produces 221 horsepower and 232 lb-ft of torque. The E320 comes standard with a 5-speed automatic transmission. Other engine and transmission options include a 4.3-liter V8 with a 5-speed automatic transmission and a 2.9-liter inline-6 with a 5-speed manual transmission.

Drivers appreciate the E320’s spacious interior, smooth ride, and responsive handling. However, some common issues have been reported with various parts of the vehicle.

Engine

• 3.2-liter V6

  • Intake manifold gasket failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, overheating, rough idle, loss of power
    • Solution: Replace intake manifold gasket
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Vacuum leak
    • Description/Symptoms: Rough idle, poor engine performance, illuminated check engine light
    • Solution: Inspect and replace faulty vacuum hoses or components
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Crankshaft position sensor failure
    • Description/Symptoms: No start, intermittent engine stalling, rough idle
    • Solution: Replace crankshaft position sensor
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
    • Recalls: None Found

• 4.3-liter V8

  • Timing chain tensioner failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Engine rattling, ticking or knocking noises, reduced engine power
    • Solution: Replace timing chain tensioner
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Intake manifold runner flap failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Reduced engine power, rough idle, illuminated check engine light
    • Solution: Replace intake manifold runner flaps
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

• 2.9-liter inline-6

  • Head gasket failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, overheating, rough idle, loss of power
    • Solution: Replace head gasket
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Valve cover gasket leak
    • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks, engine compartment smoke, rough idle
    • Solution: Replace valve cover gaskets
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

• 5-speed Automatic

  • Torque converter failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Slipping transmission, shuddering during acceleration, no forward or reverse gears
    • Solution: Replace torque converter
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Transmission control unit (TCU) failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Erratic shifting, no gear engagement, illuminated check engine light
    • Solution: Replace TCU
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

• 5-speed Manual

  • Clutch failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, slipping clutch, burnt clutch smell
    • Solution: Replace clutch
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Synchro failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Grinding noises when shifting gears, difficulty shifting into certain gears
    • Solution: Replace synchro
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front suspension strut failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Noisy suspension, uneven tire wear, reduced handling
  • Solution: Replace suspension struts
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+ per strut
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear suspension spring failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Sagging or uneven rear end, reduced handling
  • Solution: Replace rear suspension springs
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+ per spring
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery dies prematurely, difficulty starting the vehicle
  • Solution: Inspect and replace faulty electrical components (alternator, voltage regulator, etc.)
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Alternator failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Dim or flickering headlights, electrical system malfunctions, battery won’t charge
  • Solution: Replace alternator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Window regulator failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows not working, window stuck in open or closed position
  • Solution: Replace window regulator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+ per window
  • Recalls: None Found
• Door lock actuator failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Doors not locking or unlocking, door locks not responding to remote key
  • Solution: Replace door lock actuator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per door
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Climate control panel failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Climate controls not working, temperature not adjusting, air conditioning not blowing
  • Solution: Replace climate control panel
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Seat heater failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Seat heaters not working, uneven heating, burnt seat cover
  • Solution: Repair or replace heating element
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per seat
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 1998 Mercedes-Benz E320 is a well-rounded luxury sedan that offers a comfortable and refined driving experience. However, it is not without its issues. Common problems include engine intake manifold gasket failure, transmission torque converter failure, suspension strut failure, electrical battery drain, and interior climate control panel failure. The severity and cost of these issues can vary depending on the specific problem and the condition of the vehicle. It is important to consider these potential issues when purchasing or maintaining a 1998 Mercedes-Benz E320.