2002 Mercedes-Benz E320

The 2002 Mercedes-Benz E320 is a popular luxury sedan known for its comfortable ride, elegant styling, and refined driving experience. The E320 came standard with a 3.2-liter V6 engine producing 221 horsepower and 232 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission. While the E320 is generally considered a reliable vehicle, owners have reported experiencing a number of common issues as the car ages. People often praise the E320 for its comfortable seats, smooth ride, and overall build quality. Common complaints include the cost of maintenance and repairs, as well as some electrical gremlins that can plague older Mercedes models.

Engine

3.2L V6 (M112)

• Oil Leaks from Valve Cover Gaskets
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaking onto the exhaust manifolds, producing a burning smell. Visible oil residue on the engine block around the valve covers. Low engine oil levels.
  • Solution: Replacing the valve cover gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found
• Crankshaft Position Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine stalling, difficulty starting, check engine light illumination.
  • Solution: Replacing the crankshaft position sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found
• Mass Air Flow (MAF) Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Poor engine performance, rough idling, decreased fuel economy, check engine light illumination.
  • Solution: Replacing the MAF sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic (722.6)

• Transmission Conductor Plate Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Erratic shifting, failure to shift, transmission stuck in limp mode.
  • Solution: Replacing the transmission conductor plate and potentially the valve body.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Transmission Fluid Leaks from Electrical Connector
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission fluid leaking from the electrical connector, potentially wicking up the wiring harness and causing issues with the TCU (Transmission Control Unit).
  • Solution: Replacing the electrical connector seal and cleaning the wiring harness. Replacing the TCU if damaged.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300 (seal replacement), $500+ (TCU replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Control Arm Bushing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the front suspension, particularly over bumps. Steering instability.
  • Solution: Replacing the front control arm bushings or the entire control arm.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ (depending on whether bushings or entire arm is replaced)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Air Suspension Issues (if equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sagging, compressor failure, “Visit Workshop” message on the dashboard, uneven ride height.
  • Solution: Replacing the air struts, air compressor, or air lines.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+ (per corner or component)
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Instrument Cluster Pixel Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Pixels missing or faded on the instrument cluster display, making it difficult to read information.
  • Solution: Replacing or repairing the instrument cluster.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Central Locking System Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Doors failing to lock or unlock with the remote or key, inconsistent operation of the central locking system.
  • Solution: Replacing the door lock actuators or the PSE (Pneumatic System Equipment) pump.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ (per door or component)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Window Regulator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Windows failing to go up or down, slow or jerky window movement.
  • Solution: Replacing the window regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust (Especially around wheel wells, door bottoms, and trunk lid)
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible rust bubbling or perforation on the body panels.
  • Solution: Rust repair by cutting out and welding in new metal, or using body filler.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $2000+ (depending on severity and location)
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof failing to open or close properly, getting stuck, or making grinding noises.
  • Solution: Repairing or replacing the sunroof motor, tracks, or cables.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2002 Mercedes-Benz E320, while a comfortable and stylish sedan, is prone to a number of common issues due to its age. Engine and transmission problems such as oil leaks and conductor plate failure can be costly to repair. Suspension issues, especially related to air suspension, can also lead to significant expenses. Electrical issues like instrument cluster pixel failure and central locking malfunctions are also common. Rust can be a concern, particularly in areas with harsh winters. The severity and cost of these issues can vary widely, but potential buyers should be aware of these potential problems and factor them into their purchasing decision. While some repairs are relatively inexpensive, others can quickly add up, making pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic highly recommended.