Mercedes-Benz E500 problems, recalls & best years
The deets on every E500 from 2003 to 2009: 460 owner complaints and 13 recalls across 7 model years.
The model years with the most owner complaints are 2004 (142), 2005 (140), 2003 (125). Best fuel economy: 18 mpg combined (2006).
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Problem areas across all years
Year by year
Want the full repair deets? Get the factory manual.
Recall and complaint data tells you what goes wrong. A service manual tells you how to fix it: torque specs, wiring diagrams, fluid capacities and step-by-step procedures for the Mercedes-Benz E500.
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Most $25–$78, one-timePro-shop repair procedures, wiring diagrams and TSBs for your exact car.
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FAQ
What is the worst year for the Mercedes-Benz E500?
The model years with the most owner complaints are 2004 (142), 2005 (140), 2003 (125).
How many recalls has the Mercedes-Benz E500 had?
Across 2003–2009, NHTSA lists 13 vehicle recall campaigns by model year (a campaign that covers several years counts once per year).