Problem Lookup › Mercedes-Benz › E-Class › 2012
Car problem report
2012 Mercedes-Benz E-Class problems, recalls and owner complaints
What the 2012 Mercedes-Benz E-Class has been recalled for, how often it fails the UK MOT and what owners report, from official government data. Updated October 25, 2026.
- 0safety recalls
- 235owner complaints
- 7crash reports
- 1fire report
- 28%fail the UK MOT
235 complaints, against an average of 76 for the other 14 Mercedes-Benz E-Class model years.
Every Mercedes-Benz E-Class model year with its number of owner complaints. Pick a year to compare.
What goes wrong with the 2012 Mercedes-Benz E-Class?
The components named most often in the 235 owner complaints. One complaint can name several, so the shares can add up to more than 100%.
What symptoms do 2012 Mercedes-Benz E-Class owners describe?
Found by reading the text of all 235 owner complaints. Tap a symptom for the answer, a real owner quote and any related recall.
Has the 2012 Mercedes-Benz E-Class been recalled?
NHTSA lists no safety recalls for the 2012 Mercedes-Benz E-Class as of October 25, 2026. Recalls can be issued at any time, so check your VIN before you rely on this.
Is the 2012 Mercedes-Benz E-Class recalled in the UK or Europe?
Recalls issued by the UK's DVSA and through the EU's Safety Gate system that cover this model and build period. European models can differ from U.S. ones, and "years estimated" means the recall gave no build dates, so confirm your own car with your registration or VIN.
UK DVSAOn affected vehicles the aluminium bolts of the steering gear could corrode and break due to the intrusion of moisture.
Risk: On affected vehicles the aluminium bolts of the steering gear could corrode and break due to the intrusion of moisture.
Fix: Replace the steering gear mounting bolts on the affected vehicles with steel bolts. Should the bolts break or already be broken change the steering gear.
UK DVSATakata airbag might not deploy as specified
Risk: Certain climatic conditions may cause a chemical change to the airbag propellants over time.
Fix: Replace the driver and passenger airbags.
UK DVSATakata airbag might not deploy as specified
Risk: Certain climatic conditions may cause a chemical change to the airbag propellants over time.
Fix: Replace the driver and passenger airbags.
UK DVSAThe driver's air bag may have a chemical change to its propellant over time
Risk: The driver's airbag may have a chemical change to its propellant over time.
Fix: Replace the driver's airbag.
UK DVSAThe driver's air bag may have a chemical change to its propellant over time
Risk: The driver's airbag may have a chemical change to its propellant over time.
Fix: Replace the driver's airbag
UK DVSAEngine control unit software to be updated
Risk: Improve the vehicle emissions via software updates.
Fix: Update the relevant control unit's software and if necessary replace the NOx sensors.
UK DVSACertain specific calibrations of functions must be changed in the engine management
Risk: Certain specific calibrations of functions must be changed in the engine management of the vehicles
Fix: Update the diesel engine control unit software
UK DVSATo achieve an improvement in the emissions via software updates
Risk: Improve the vehicle emissions via software updates.
Fix: Update the diesel engine control unit software and add a supplementary booklet for the operator's manual
UK DVSAElectrical wiring in steering assembly may be insufficiently grounded
Risk: The steering column clock spring may break. This will cause warning messages to illuminate in the instrument cluster but in extreme instances it may cause the driver's airbag to deploy
Fix: .Affected vehicles will be recalled to be checked to ensure there is sufficient grounding of the steering components.
UK DVSAElectrical wiring in steering assembly may be insufficiently grounded
Risk: The steering column clock spring may break. This will cause warning messages to illuminate in the instrument cluster but in extreme instances it may cause the driver's airbag to deploy.
Fix: Affected vehicles will be recalled to establish sufficient grounding of the steering components.
UK DVSAFaulty control unit may cause vehicle to perform outside specification
Risk: Where a control unit coding was updated in a workshop between 3 December 2016 and 5 December 2016 the coding may not correspond to the specification and may trigger unplanned action in the vehicle. The safety and emissions systems may not react as design intent.
Fix: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected and update the software in the corresponding control units.
UK DVSAFire may occur
Risk: A seal between bonnet and engine compartment may when the bonnet is opened temporarily stick to the bonnet. If this happens the seal may detach form its fixing and can fall into the gap between engine and partition wall. It is then possible the seal can make contact with the exhaust and under certain conditions catch fire.
Fix: On affected vehicles install additional clips to retain the seal.
UK DVSAFuel may leakYears estimated
Risk: The flange of the fuel filter may leak due to a non-compliance in the supplier's production process. Should this occur a fuel odour may arise or fuel escape.
Fix: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected to replace the fuel filter.
UK DVSAEngine may cut out
Risk: Cracks in the charge air hose may possibly occur. This may subsequently lead to the engine switching to limp-home mode. In rare individual cases the engine shutting off cannot be ruled out.
Fix: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected to replace the charge air hose.
UK DVSAAirbag may not deploy correctly
Risk: During production monitoring Daimler AG became aware that in isolated cases on the E-Class coupe the air of the right windowbag may be able to escape more quickly than intended in the event that this is activated in an accident. In the event of a collision and in extreme cases the strict internal safety requirements of Daimler AG may not be adhered to.
Fix: Replace the right windowbag as a precautionary measure.
UK DVSAFuel may leak
Risk: Fuel leaks in the plug area of the drain opening may occur at the fuel filter with integrated fuel heaters. Fuel can escape and is noticeable to the customer due to a corresponding diesel odour. The diesel can reach the road and as a result friction between the tyres and road surface may be decreased.
Fix: Check filter and replace as necessary.
EU Safety GateThe three aluminium screws of the steering box may corrode due to exposure to spray water and aggressive road-grit (salt) used for melting…The three aluminium screws of the steering box may corrode due to exposure to spray water and aggressive road-grit (salt) used for melting ice. Advanced corrosion could weaken the screws, leading to potential breakage during manoeuvring or parking. If all fixing screws fail, the power-assisted steering could detach, resulting in a loss of power steering and an increased risk of an accident.
Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Manufacturer; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: Unknown
EU Safety GateThe aluminium bolts of the steering box may break.This can lead to detachment of the steering box from the power block, creating a risk of an accident.
Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Manufacturer; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: Unknown
EU Safety GateFaulty configurations of the control units (traction systems, signal recording triggering modules, engine control units and headlights)…Faulty configurations of the control units (traction systems, signal recording triggering modules, engine control units and headlights) could cause one or more control units to malfunction, which could increase the risk of an accident. The exhaust emissions exceed the legal limits, posing a risk to the environment.
Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Manufacturer; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: Unknown
EU Safety GateThe driver and passenger airbags of the company Takata in vehicles with ammonium nitrate gas generators without drying agents could, under…The driver and passenger airbags of the company Takata in vehicles with ammonium nitrate gas generators without drying agents could, under certain climate conditions, lead over time to a chemical change in the fuel.In the event of an accident triggering the release of the driver or passenger airbag, this change could cause the gas generators to burst. If a gas generator ruptures, the airbag would then have no restraining function and loose parts from the gas generator could reach the vehicle interior. This would increase the risk of injury for passengers.
Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Manufacturer; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: Unknown
EU Safety GateThe steering column is not sufficiently earthed.As a result, in the event of an electrostatic discharge, the driver's airbag may be triggered when not required. This could cause an accident.
Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Manufacturer; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: Unknown
EU Safety GateFollowing the update of the control unit coding, the coding parameters of the control unit could be defective.This could give rise to various unplanned reactions in the vehicle: the wrong airbag could be triggered in the event of an accident, the airbag control unit may not recognise the belt buckle status, the engine control unit could be coded with a false maximum speed or various assistance systems may not function.
Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Manufacturer; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: Unknown
EU Safety GateThe power-assisted steering control units may have been fitted with defectively welded contacts.As a result, a permanent electrical connection between the contacts cannot be guaranteed, which could lead to loss of support to the power-assisted steering and thus an increased risk of accidents.
Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Manufacturer; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: Unknown
EU Safety GateThe engine compartment seal of the partition plate could come loose.Under certain circumstances, this could lead to contact between the seal and hot components and the risk of a fire.
Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Other; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: Unknown
EU Safety GateAir in the right window airbag can leak faster than intended so, in the event of a crash, the persons travelling in the vehicle may not be…Air in the right window airbag can leak faster than intended so, in the event of a crash, the persons travelling in the vehicle may not be sufficiently protected.
Measures: Type of economic operator taking notified measure(s): Other; Category of measure(s): Recall of the product from end users; Date of entry into force: Unknown
How often does the 2012 Mercedes-Benz E-Class fail its MOT?
Why they failed: the share of failed tests with at least one fault in each area (a test can fail on several). Cars first registered in 2012, tested in Great Britain in 2023; first registration is usually, but not always, the model year. Source: DVSA anonymised MOT tests and results, Open Government Licence v3.0.
What do 2012 Mercedes-Benz E-Class owners report?
12 of the 235 complaints, the most recent for the most-reported components, as the owners wrote them. NHTSA removes names and VINs; long reports are trimmed. CarHooq has not verified individual claims.
The vehicle was parked when the steering wheel locked , and the headrest. The electrical for my headlight driver side low beam gave me a warning lamp message.
The contact owns a 2012 Mercedes-Benz E350. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, there was an abnormal odor coming from the inside of the vehicle. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed with a fuel leak. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact researched and was made aware of NHTSA Campaign Number: 12V557000 (Fuel System, Gasoline); however, the VIN was not included in the recall. A dealer was contacted; however, the vehicle was not yet diagnosed by the dealer. The manufacturer was notified of the…
Brake failure due to leaking brake fluid after dealership conducted rear sub frame extended warranty coverage replacement and recent brake fluid services and after two (2) multi point inspections including video and reported “no items failed” and “no items cautioned.” Vehicle was released to me both times Vehicle was inspected and is available for further inspections. My safety was jeopardized due to brake system failure while traveling at high speed on public highway. The problem was confirmed by two (2) dealerships. “ Please see below for recommended repairs on your 2012 E350, VIN - [XXX]…
The contact owns a 2012 Mercedes- Benz E350. The contact stated while operating the vehicle the odor of fuel was present coming from the vehicle. Upon inspection it was discovered that the fuel had leaked from the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer who diagnosed that the fuel pump had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not yet repaired. Also, the contact indicated that the front driver seat heat element had overheated and cause melting to the seat cushion. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer who diagnosed that the front driver seat needed to be replaced…
The failed component is a fuel pump, and it is available for inspection upon request. My safety and the safety of others was put at risk due to the following: 1) Sudden engine stalling 2) Dangerous power loss while accelerating 3) Potential fire risks; a damaged fuel pump assembley can cause fuel leaks and overheating due to insufficient fuel supply can increase the risk of explosion or fire. 4) Gas fumes from a fuel leak are highly harmful and dangerous. They are toxic to inhale causing dizziness, headaches, nausea or respitory issues.
The brake lines on my car rusted out from the brake booster all of way to the rear calipers. This is the third time it’s happened to me as I’ve owned multiple E classes. If Mercedes-Benz covers the subframe, why is the brake lines which are located right above said subframe not covered?
Brake line is thoroughly corroded, went to a repair shop, when they brought it back down, the Subframe collapsed. Mercedes has a 20 yr warranty on the subframe so they will cover that but want another $3K to fix the brake line that was obviously tied to the same mfr issue that the sub frame was in regards to rusting. Dealer won't take any responsibility for anything but the subframe.
The contact owned a 2012 Mercedes-Benz E350. The contact stated that while attempting to shift to drive(D), the gear shifter detached from the steering column. No warning light was illuminated. Neither a dealer nor an independent mechanic was contacted. The vehicle was not taken to a dealer or independent mechanic to be diagnosed. The vehicle was not repaired. The vehicle was towed to the residence by AAA. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 420,000.
Air bag notice on monitor, Passenger front seat locked in forward position up to the dashboard..
I have a 2012 E350 with less than 95000 miles and I see these vehicles were recalled in the past for their fuel tank manufacturer malfunction but my VIN number was not included. This car went numerous times to the mechanics and the fuel components fixed but it still leak gas and smells even when I do not drive the car. I spent over $15000 on this matter. This is now becoming a safety issue for me and my neighbors. I don't know what to do. Here is what happened. All began February 2023, I towed the car to an approved MB mechanics who said fixed the car. 9 month later, I brought the car back for…
Recall exists related to a potential issue with the high-pressure fuel pump, which could lead to engine stalling and increase crash risk. My 2012 Mercedes E350 stops the engine in the middle of the road couple of times and for some reason, its stops or shut off the engine completely. The last time I was pulling out on the main road and stop right there. I made a big traffic, and I was scared because I cannot start the car. The guy stops and help me to push out of the road, but we cannot push the vehicle unless someone is inside the car. If I go out, it will automatically go on "park" and…
The contact owns a 2012 Mercedes-Benz E350. The contact stated that the front driver's side and passenger's side air bags warning lights were illuminated. Additionally, the contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the headrest deployed inadvertently. No further information was provided. The message "Pre-safe Inoperable - Check Owner's Manual" was displayed. The vehicle was taken to the dealer but was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and informed the contact of an unknown passenger's side air bag recall repair that was previously performed on…
Mercedes-Benz guides on CarHooq
- Mercedes Regenerative Braking - How It WorksGuide · 11 min read
- Mercedes Brake Dust Problem - How to Remove Brake Dust from the Inside Wheel and Between Wheel NutsGuide · 13 min read
- Mercedes Sprinter Cabin Air Filter ReplacementGuide · 14 min read
- A Detailed Guide on Mercedes BlueTec CoolantGuide · 11 min read
2012 Mercedes-Benz E-Class: questions owners ask
Is the 2012 Mercedes-Benz E-Class reliable?
NHTSA data alone cannot rate reliability, but it shows what owners reported. Owners filed 235 complaints with NHTSA about the 2012 Mercedes-Benz E-Class; the most common categories were air bags (92, 39.1%), fuel/propulsion system (28, 11.9%), electrical system (23, 9.8%). There are no safety recalls listed for this model year. 7 complaints mention a crash, 1 mentions a fire, 6 injuries were reported.
What are the most common problems with the 2012 Mercedes-Benz E-Class?
Across 235 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the categories mentioned most often are air bags (39.1% of complaints), fuel/propulsion system (11.9% of complaints), electrical system (9.8% of complaints), service brakes (8.9% of complaints), engine (8.5% of complaints). One complaint can name several components.
Does the 2012 Mercedes-Benz E-Class have any recalls?
As of October 2026, NHTSA lists no safety recalls for the 2012 Mercedes-Benz E-Class. Recalls can be issued at any time, so check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Does the 2012 Mercedes-Benz E-Class have rust or paint problems?
30 of the 235 owner complaints NHTSA has on file for the 2012 Mercedes-Benz E-Class (12.8%) describe rust, corrosion or peeling paint. One owner wrote: "The brake lines on my car rusted out from the brake booster all of way to the rear calipers. This is the third time it’s happened to me as I’ve owned multiple E classes." (NHTSA complaint 11725790, March 2026). If it happens to your car, check your VIN for open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls and report the problem to NHTSA; complaints are what trigger investigations.
Why does my 2012 Mercedes-Benz E-Class smell of fuel or gas?
26 of the 235 owner complaints NHTSA has on file for the 2012 Mercedes-Benz E-Class (11.1%) describe a fuel or gasoline smell, or a fuel leak. One owner wrote: "The failed component is a fuel pump, and it is available for inspection upon request. My safety and the safety of others was put at risk due to the following: 1) Sudden engine stalling 2) Dangerous power loss while accelerating 3) Potential fire risks; a…" (NHTSA complaint 11735613, May 2026). If it happens to your car, check your VIN for open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls and report the problem to NHTSA; complaints are what trigger investigations.
Why is the check engine light on in my 2012 Mercedes-Benz E-Class?
10 of the 235 owner complaints NHTSA has on file for the 2012 Mercedes-Benz E-Class (4.3%) describe the check engine light coming on. One owner wrote: "Totally puzzled.. Intermittent misfire from.exhaust. not a very loud backfire sound. Sounds like a fart or gurgle from exhaust only when I start the car sometimes." (NHTSA complaint 11450497, February 2022). If it happens to your car, check your VIN for open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls and report the problem to NHTSA; complaints are what trigger investigations.
Check your own E-Class
Counts are a starting point, not a verdict: popular models collect more complaints because more of them are on the road, and NHTSA does not verify individual reports. To see whether a recall is still open on your car, enter your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls (U.S.) or your registration at check-vehicle-recalls.service.gov.uk (UK). Had a safety problem? Report it to NHTSA; complaints are what trigger investigations and recalls.
Data: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation recall and complaint databases (public domain), DVSA anonymised MOT results (Open Government Licence v3.0), DVSA vehicle recalls (Open Government Licence v3.0), EU Safety Gate alerts (© European Union), retrieved October 25, 2026. Model year 2012 only; combines NHTSA's entries for E-CLASS and E-CLASS CABRIOLET.