2016 Mercedes-Benz E300

The 2016 Mercedes-Benz E300 is a luxury sedan known for its comfortable ride, elegant interior, and advanced technology features. The E300 is powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 engine producing 241 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque. Other engine options for the 2016 E-Class include a 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 in the E400 and a 3.5-liter V6 in the E350. All models come standard with a 7-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise the E300 for its smooth ride, quiet cabin, and fuel efficiency. Common complaints include the complexity of the infotainment system and the cost of maintenance and repairs.

Engine

2.0L Turbocharged Inline-4 (E300)

• Oil Leaks from Timing Chain Cover
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks from the timing chain cover gasket, leading to oil spots under the vehicle and a burning oil smell.
  • Solution: Replacement of the timing chain cover gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1,200+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Camshaft Adjuster Solenoid Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light, rough idling, reduced engine performance.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty camshaft adjuster solenoid.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

7-Speed Automatic (7G-Tronic)

• Torque Converter Shudder
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibration during low-speed acceleration, especially between 20-40 mph.
  • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter or a transmission flush.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $3,000+ (torque converter replacement) , $300-500 (transmission flush)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifting, slipping between gears, or failure to shift altogether.
  • Solution: Replacement or rebuild of the valve body.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,200 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Leaks (if equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sagging on one or more corners, especially overnight. Compressor running excessively or failing. “Car Too Low” warning message.
  • Solution: Replacement of the leaking air spring(s) or air strut(s). Replacement of the air suspension compressor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+ per air spring/strut. $600 - $1,500+ for the compressor.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Lower Control Arm Bushing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises from the front suspension, especially when going over bumps. Uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replacement of the lower control arms.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+ per side.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle battery draining overnight or after a short period of inactivity. Difficulty starting the engine.
  • Solution: Diagnosis and repair of the parasitic drain. Common culprits include faulty door lock actuators, seat modules, or infotainment systems.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $1,000+ depending on the source of the drain.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Malfunctioning COMAND System
  • Description/Symptoms: Infotainment system freezing, glitching, or failing to respond to inputs. Navigation errors. Bluetooth connectivity issues.
  • Solution: Software update, replacement of the COMAND unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof failing to open or close properly, getting stuck, or making excessive noise.
  • Solution: Lubrication of the sunroof tracks, replacement of the sunroof motor or regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Seat Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Seat not moving in one or more directions. Grinding noises when attempting to adjust the seat.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty seat motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per motor.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2016 Mercedes-Benz E300 can experience a range of issues, from minor electrical glitches to more significant engine and transmission problems. While some issues, like torque converter shudder, are more common, others, like air suspension leaks (if equipped), can be expensive to repair. The overall severity of the issues ranges from inconvenient to potentially impacting vehicle reliability. Repair costs can vary significantly depending on the specific problem and the repair shop. Before purchasing a used 2016 E300, it is recommended to have a pre-purchase inspection performed by a qualified mechanic to identify any potential problems.