This page covers 3 recalls and EPA fuel economy for the 2016 Mercedes-Benz E550.
21 mpg combined
11.2 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.
The 2016 Mercedes-Benz E550 has 3 recalls, the most serious involving the airbags: the driver airbag can deploy without warning, and the passenger airbag inflator can rupture and send metal fragments into the cabin, either of which can cause serious injury or death.
Both airbag concerns carry significant risk. An unexpected driver airbag deployment can startle or injure the driver and cause a crash with no collision having occurred. The passenger-side inflator issue is a Takata-type defect where the inflator housing can burst, scattering sharp metal shards toward anyone seated in the front passenger seat. The third recall involves the vehicle's emergency call system, which uses a software fault that can cause the system to report an incorrect date and time, leading to an inaccurate location being sent to emergency responders after a crash. That mismatch could delay help from reaching the vehicle.
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.
We may earn a commission for purchases made through these links.
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 driver's airbag may deploy unexpectedly if the steering components lack proper grounding and the airbag clockspring is broken, allowing electrostatic discharge to trigger deployment.
What the fix does
Dealers will add grounding to the steering components to prevent electrostatic discharge from triggering the airbag.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
