2012 Mercedes-Benz E300

The 2012 Mercedes-Benz E300 BlueTEC Hybrid is a diesel-electric hybrid vehicle that offers a blend of fuel efficiency and luxury. Its 2.1-liter inline-4 turbodiesel engine, coupled with an electric motor, produces a combined 201 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. Other engine options for the 2012 E-Class include gasoline V6 and V8 engines. While owners appreciate the E300’s fuel economy and comfortable ride, some common complaints revolve around its hybrid-specific components and overall reliability.

Engine

2.1L Turbodiesel Hybrid (OM651)

• High Pressure Fuel Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficult starting, long cranking times, engine misfires, loss of power, fuel leaks.
  • Solution: Replacement of the high pressure fuel pump. Thorough cleaning of the fuel system is recommended to remove any debris that may have caused the failure.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• EGR Valve Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light, rough idling, reduced engine power, black smoke from the exhaust.
  • Solution: Replacement of the EGR valve.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Hybrid Battery Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Reduced fuel economy, decreased electric assist, warning lights related to the hybrid system, inability to start the engine.
  • Solution: Replacement of the hybrid battery pack.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $6,000 - $10,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Auxiliary Battery Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Error messages on the dashboard related to the auxiliary battery, problems with the start/stop system, electrical malfunctions.
  • Solution: Replacement of the auxiliary battery.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found
• Glow Plug Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Hard starting in cold weather, check engine light, rough idling, excessive smoke from the exhaust.
  • Solution: Replacement of faulty glow plugs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Issues (if equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sagging on one or more corners, air compressor constantly running, suspension malfunction warning lights.
  • Solution: Replacement of leaking air struts, repair or replacement of the air compressor, replacement of the air suspension control module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+ per strut; $500 - $1,000+ for the compressor
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof not opening or closing properly, unusual noises during operation, water leaks.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the sunroof motor, guides, or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• COMAND System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Freezing, slow response, screen issues, failure of navigation or audio functions.
  • Solution: Software updates, replacement of the COMAND unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 2012 Mercedes-Benz E300 BlueTEC Hybrid, while offering fuel efficiency and luxury, can present owners with some significant issues, primarily revolving around the hybrid system’s components, electrical gremlins, and potential air suspension problems. Hybrid battery replacement can be a very expensive repair. Diesel engine issues, such as fuel pump failures, can also be costly. While some issues are relatively inexpensive to fix, others can lead to thousands of dollars in repairs.