This page covers 6 recalls, 34 owner complaints and EPA fuel economy for the 2016 Mercedes-Benz E400.
23 mpg combined
10.2 L/100km
Subcompact Cars
Fuel economy data from fueleconomy.gov (EPA / U.S. Dept. of Energy). Annual cost based on 15,000 mi/yr at 55% city driving and current fuel prices. MPG is U.S. gallons; L/100km converted. Ranges reflect the 2 tested variants for this model year.
The dominant pattern in 2016 Mercedes-Benz E400 complaints centers heavily on the airbag and restraint system, which accounts for the large majority of reports filed. Owners frequently describe airbag-related concerns, making it by far the most-reported system for this model year. Steering complaints come in second, with several owners reporting that a power steering malfunction warning appears at startup, accompanied by a complete loss of power steering assist, a failure some describe as recurring even after a software update at the dealer. Engine complaints are less common but include reports of head gasket failure with an illuminated check engine light and a vibration sensation while driving, as well as isolated mentions of engine knocking on startup alongside multiple warning lights activating simultaneously, including the automatic braking and adaptive cruise control systems.
34
Total Complaints
1
Crash-Related
By System
The 2016 Mercedes-Benz E400 has 6 recalls, the most serious involving the Takata passenger airbag inflator, which can rupture and send metal fragments into the cabin, risking serious injury or death.
A separate airbag concern applies to coupe models where an incorrect front passenger airbag may have been installed during a prior repair, meaning it may not deploy properly in a crash. On the steering side, two recalls address loss of electric power steering assist: one where a control unit connection fails, and one where water enters the power steering control unit and shuts down the assist. In both cases, the steering becomes significantly heavier and harder to control. There is also an engine recall affecting vehicles built during a narrow window in April 2015, where a rubber seal can fall onto hot engine or exhaust components and cause a fire. Finally, a software fault in the emergency call system can report the wrong vehicle location during an emergency, which may delay responders.
At a glance
What can fail
The front passenger air bag may be incorrect, possibly installed during a prior repair, and may not function properly in a crash.
What the fix does
Dealers will replace the front passenger air bag at no cost to you.
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Complaints are owner-reported and reflect individual experiences, not confirmed defects. They are distinct from recalls. Data sourced from the national vehicle safety complaint database. See trending complaints →
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
A software error causes the eCall emergency system's date and time to be incorrect, which may result in an inaccurate vehicle location being sent during an emergency call.
What the fix does
Mercedes-Benz will send a remote software update to your vehicle. Dealers will verify the update worked or install a new communication module software at no cost.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The passenger front air bag inflator may explode due to propellant breaking down after prolonged exposure to high humidity, heat, and temperature changes.
What the fix does
Dealers will replace the passenger front air bag module at no cost.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The electric power steering connector may not be properly sealed, allowing water to enter the control unit.
What the fix does
Dealers will replace the connector and inspect the electric power steering rack, replacing it if needed.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The electric power steering control unit may have defective solder connections that could cause the power steering system to stop working while you're driving.
What the fix does
Dealers will replace the electric power steering control unit at no cost to you.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The steel cable securing the rubber seal around the engine compartment may be damaged. The loose seal can stick to the hood when opened, then fall into the engine bay when closed.
What the fix does
Dealers will replace the rubber seal in the engine compartment at no cost to you.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
