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2016 Mercedes-Benz E-Class problems, recalls and owner complaints
What the 2016 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
- 89owner complaints
- 6crash reports
- 1fire report
- 17%fail the UK MOT
89 complaints, against an average of 87 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 2016 Mercedes-Benz E-Class?
The components named most often in the 89 owner complaints. One complaint can name several, so the shares can add up to more than 100%.
What symptoms do 2016 Mercedes-Benz E-Class owners describe?
Found by reading the text of all 89 owner complaints. Tap a symptom for the answer, a real owner quote and any related recall.
Has the 2016 Mercedes-Benz E-Class been recalled?
NHTSA lists no safety recalls for the 2016 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 2016 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 DVSAIndividual bolts or chain links of the camshaft timing chain might wear
Risk: Individual bolts or chain links of the camshaft timing chain might wear in case of a long term operation under specific driving conditions.
Fix: Replace the camshaft timing chain on the affected vehicles
UK DVSAThe behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications
Risk: The behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications.
Fix: Update the software of the communication module for the emergency call system.
UK DVSAThe behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications
Risk: The behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications.
Fix: Update the software of the communication module for the emergency call system.
UK DVSAThe behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications
Risk: The behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications.
Fix: Update the software of the communication module for the emergency call system.
UK DVSAThe behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications
Risk: The behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications.
Fix: Update the software of the communication module for the emergency call system.
UK DVSAThe behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications
Risk: The behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications.
Fix: Update the software of the communication module for the emergency call system.
UK DVSAThe behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications
Risk: The behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications.
Fix: Update the software of the communication module for the emergency call system.
UK DVSAThe behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications
Risk: The behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications.
Fix: Update the software of the communication module for the emergency call system.
UK DVSAThe behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications
Risk: The behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications.
Fix: Update the software of the communication module for the emergency call system.
UK DVSAThe emergency call system might not meet specifications
Risk: The behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications.
Fix: Update the software of the communication module for the emergency call system.
UK DVSAThe behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications
Risk: The behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications.
Fix: Update the software of the communication module for the emergency call system.
UK DVSAThe behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications
Risk: The behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications.
Fix: Update the software of the communication module for the emergency call system.
UK DVSAThe emergency call system might not meet specifications
Risk: The behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications.
Fix: Update the software of the communication module for the emergency call system.
UK DVSAThe behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications
Risk: The behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications.
Fix: Update the software of the communication module for the emergency call system.
UK DVSAThe communication module may be deactivated
Risk: The communication module may be deactivated
Fix: Carry out a check of the configuration of the communication module on affected vehicles and if necessary activate the communication module.
UK DVSAThe seat belt warning function does not meet the specification
Risk: The seat belt warning function does not meet the specification
Fix: Activate the correct seat belt warning scenario in the instrument cluster
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 DVSAElectro-chemical processes may create conductive connections inside the electric busbarCHEMICAL PROCESSES MAY CREATE CONDUCTIVE CONNECTIONS INSIDE THE ELECTRIC BUSBAR
Risk: Electro-chemical processes might create conductive connections inside the electric busbar.
Fix: Modify the busbar and install a separate electric line on the affected vehicles.
UK DVSAThe spoiler on the rear door may have been mounted incorrectly
Risk: The spoiler on the rear door might not have been mounted according to specification.
Fix: Check the mounting of the rear door spoiler on the affected vehicles and rework it if necessary.
UK DVSASoftware update required to improve emissions
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. Check and replace NOx sensor if necessary.
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 DVSAA reset in the cpc control unit could occur whilst driving
Risk: The ECO Start-Stop function may be disabled and cause the vehicle to stall.
Fix: The affected vehicles are to be recalled and the software updated.
UK DVSAThe air conditioner housing may possibly not have been installed according to specification
Risk: The airbag control unit may be damaged.
Fix: Replace the air bag control unit on affected vehicles.
UK DVSAA lock nut may be cracked in the steering gear
Risk: A lock nut may be cracked in the steering gear.
Fix: The electric power steering is to be checked and if necessary replaced.
UK DVSAThe routing of the fuel feed hose might not meet specifications
Risk: Fuel hose might be incorrectly routed with a possibility of chaffing and leakage.
Fix: Check the routing of the fuel feed hose on affected vehicles and rework it if necessary.
UK DVSAFaulty routing of sensor hose in front bumper may impair the function of the active hood
Risk: The function of the active hood may be impaired.
Fix: Check the routing of the silicone hose for the active hood and correct if necessary.
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 DVSAFront seat belt tensioners may not function
Risk: The front seatbelt pre-tensioner ignitors may not perform as expected. This could increase the risk of injury to the seat occupants. The lock function of the seatbelts is not impaired.
Fix: On affected vehicles replace seatbelts with quality assured units.
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 DVSASeatbelt pretensioner may not operate
Risk: Due to a deviation in the suppliers production process a specific squib batch may not comply with specifications In the event of an accident during which the left or right hand seat belt tensioner in the rear is activated with out squib ignition the belt may not fully restrain the occupant.
Fix: On affected vehicles replace the left and right hand rear seat belts with a correct version.
UK DVSASeatbelt pretensioner may not operate
Risk: Due to a deviation in the suppliers production process a specific squib batch may not comply with specifications In the event of an accident during which the left hand seat belt tensioner in the rear is activated the belt may not fully retrain the occupant.
Fix: On affected vehicles replace the left rear seat belt with a correct version.
UK DVSARight front seat belt pre-tensioner may not meet specification
Risk: The right front seat belt pretensioner may not conform to specification . This may adversely affect it's operation in the event of an accident.
Fix: Replace the pretensioner on affected vehicles.
UK DVSARear seat belt pre-tensioners may fail to restrain occupants as intended
Risk: The rear seatbelt pre-tensioner ignitors may not perform as expected. This could increase the risk of injury to the seat occupants. The lock functions of the rear seatbelts are not impaired.
Fix: Recall the 3400 vehicles that are likely to be affected and replace any potentially affected seatbelts with quality assured units.
UK DVSALeft front seat belt pre-tensioner may not meet specification
Risk: The propellant mix in certain seatbelt pre-tensioners ignitors may be incorrect. If the front seatbelt pre-tensioners are deployed the lock function of the pre-tensioners cannot be guaranteed.
Fix: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected and replace the front seatbelts that are likely to be affected.
UK DVSASteering power assist may deactivate
Risk: The connector on the electric power steering control unit may not be properly sealed against water entry. If water enters the control unit the power steering assistance can be lost. The steering assistance not working could increase the risk of collision.
Fix: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected and replace the plug housing of the electric power steering.
UK DVSAOil leak from turbocharger feed pipe.
Risk: Under certain conditions the oil feed pipe to the turbocharger may leak.Oil may contact hot components and there is a risk of fire.
Fix: On affected vehicles replace the oil feed line to the turbocharger.
UK DVSAStarting current limiter may overload
Risk: Where the car incurs severe engine damage resulting in the engine failing to turn over (engine seizure) and if the driver repeatedly attempts to start the engine despite the engine not cranking the very high electrical current could lead to overheating of the starting current limiter and the potential for a fire.
Fix: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected and install an additional fuse in the electrical line to the starter.
UK DVSAAirbag may not deploy correctly
Risk: The propellant mixing ratio in the igniters of the front passenger airbag assembly may not meet specification. If the airbag is required and activated it might not deploy or not completely deploy. This could increase the risk of injury to the occupants.
Fix: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected and replace the front passenger airbag assembly.
UK DVSAElectric power steering motor defective
Risk: Contacts inside the electric power steering motor may not have been correctly formed. Failure of these contacts would cause the loss of power steering assistance.If this happens a warning lamp will illuminate
Fix: Replace the electric power steering motor on affected vehicles.
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 DVSASteering column switch module may become inoperative
Risk: It has been identified that the lever used to select the drive range on the steering column switch module may become inoperative due to possible damage of a circuit board. In the event of this fault occurs then manual selection of the drive range (D R N P) would no longer be possible. The Auto-P function as well as the automatic parking brake will still be available as intended. During manoeuvring the vehicle may not change the drive range as intended by the driver when operating the selector lever during standstill. This could result in an increased risk of a collision/accident.
Fix: Recall all affected vehicles to replace the steering column switch module.
UK DVSAShort circuit may occur
Risk: The wiring to the front windscreen washers may not have been correctly routed. This may cause a short circuit and render the wipers in operative.
Fix: On affected vehicles check wiring and rework where necessary.
UK DVSAFront airbag may be deactivated
Risk: It has been identified that the front passenger seat occupancy weight sensing system control unit may have bee incorrectly installed during assembly. If the passenger seat is placed in the rear/lower position range then it can cause the pressure hose to become kinked which will reclassify the occupant as being a child seat. This will result in the front passenger airbag being deactivated and place the occupant at a higher risk of injury if the vehicle is involved in a frontal collision.
Fix: Recall all affected vehicles to inspect the pressure pipe. If found to be kinked then the dealer is to contact MB Technical Department to establish the rectification process.
UK DVSALoss of power steering supportYears estimated
Risk: It has been identified that the pins within the electric power assisted steering control unit may not have been contact welded correctly. This can result in an open circuit which will lead to a loss of power steering assistance and possible loss of control of the vehicle.
Fix: Recall all affected vehicles and replace electric power assisted steering.
UK DVSARisk of fire
Risk: On certain 6 and 8 cylinder engine vehicles a faulty rear engine compartment panel/bulkhead may have been installed. It is therefore possible that the panel/bulkhead may contact the left exhaust catalytic converter due to insufficient clearance. If the catalytic converter is subjected to high temperatures due to heavy driving conditions i.e. full throttle or towing then there is a risk of the rear engine compartment panel igniting and a vehicle fire ensuing.
Fix: Recall all affected vehicles to inspect the clearance between the rear engine compartment panel/bulkhead and the exhaust catalytic converter. If the clearance is insufficient then the rear engine compartment panel/bulkhead will be replaced.
UK DVSAVehicle may cut out
Risk: The rear bench seat frame may impede the wiring harness connecting the fuel supply pump. This could affect fuel supply and the engine may cut out.
Fix: On affected vehicles check condition of the wiring harness repair if necessary and reroute.
UK DVSAEngine may lose power
Risk: The subject vehicle could unexpectedly lose drive and coast to a halt with no motive power due to a software issue in the powertrain control unit. In certain circumstances it is possible that the risk of collision is heightened.
Fix: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected and update the software of the power train control unit.
UK DVSARisk of fire
Risk: The high pressure fuel lines have not been manufactured to the correct specification which over time can lead to crack formation and fuel leaking. Fuel escaping in the presence of an ignition source could lead to fire.
Fix: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected and replace the high pressure fuel lines.
UK DVSAEngine hood may not behave as intended in a collision
Risk: The reset mechanism for the dynamic bonnet (for pedestrian protection) might not have been fitted during manufacture. In the event of a head on collision where the dynamic bonnet is triggered the bonnet may not behave as designed thereby putting the vehicle occupants at higher risk of injury.
Fix: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected and check if the bonnet reset mechanism is fitted. Where the reset mechanism is missing fit a reset mechanism.
UK DVSAEngine may fail
Risk: The camshaft could break and damage the engine due to it not being manufactured to the correct specification. If the condition occurs it will lead to a sudden loss of drive thereby increasing the risk of a collision.
Fix: Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected and replace the exhaust camshaft.
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 seal for the special plug-in contact of the gearbox designed to protect against contact with moisture and splashing water is…The seal for the special plug-in contact of the gearbox designed to protect against contact with moisture and splashing water is improperly installed. Thus splashed water can enter the socket contact when driving in wet conditions and can lead to a short circuit, increasing the risk of a fire.
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 GateA trapped particle may damage the sealing between the fuel rail and fuel injector, which could cause fuel to leak into the engine…A trapped particle may damage the sealing between the fuel rail and fuel injector, which could cause fuel to leak into the engine compartment. Consequently, leaking fuel may come into contact with hot parts of the engine, increasing the risk of fire.
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 GateMoisture can penetrate into the busbar, giving rise to conductive contacts between the individual lines inside it.The resulting current flows could overheat the plastic material of the busbar, increasing the risk of fire.
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 rear spoiler might not have been attached in accordance with requirements.As a result, the rear spoiler could become completely detached from the vehicle at high speeds, posing a risk to the following traffic.
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 GateIn vehicles with rear-wheel drive, a lock nut in the steering gear may be cracked.Consequently, when the steering is placed under high forces it could break, which would block the steering gear and increase the risk of 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 GateThere may be cracks in a securing nut in the steering gear of rear-wheel-drive vehicles.The nut could consequently break if the steering system is subject to a very high lateral force, which could result in rotating parts in the steering gear affecting the casing and thereby blocking the steering system.
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 operation of the active bonnet may be faulty because of a wrong positioning of the sensor hose in the front bumper.In the event of a collision with a pedestrian, the pedestrian would not be detected and the active bonnet would not be triggered. This could increase the potential risk of injury for the pedestrian.
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 GateThe starter current limiter may be overloaded and overheat.As a consequence, the surrounding components could ignite, leading to a fire.
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: 01/09/2017
EU Safety GateThe mixing ratio of the propellant for the seat-belt pre-tensioner igniters may be incorrect.In an accident in which the rear seat-belt pre-tensioners were activated, the igniters might not ignite as intended and the pre-tensioners would not provide the restraint performance required.
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 bonding between the top and the lower part of the roof-mounted taxi sign may not be adequate.As a consequence, the top of the taxi sign may become detached from the lower part with a risk of accidents for other road users.
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 mixture ratio of the fuel in the inflators of the front-passenger knee, pelvic and side curtain airbags may not be correct.In the event of an accident requiring the deployment of the airbags, this could lead to the airbags not inflating properly.
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 propellant mixing ratio in certain seat-belt pre-tensioner igniters may be incorrect.As a result, in the event of an accident where the front seat-belt pre-tensioners are activated, the pre-tensioners would not provide the restraint performance required if the igniter did not ignite as intended. This could put the occupants at a greater risk of injury.
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 front passenger occupant detection control unit may have been incorrectly installed and could misclassify a passenger as a child seat.That would cause the front passenger airbag to be deactivated in the event of an accident and would thereby increase the risk of injury for the passenger.
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 wiring harness of the front windscreen wiper motor may have been positioned near the windscreen wiper rod linkage.This could lead to damage to the wiring harness which might cause a short circuit and failure of the windscreen wiper motor. A non-functioning windscreen wiper might cause reduced visibility for the driver.
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 left catalytic converter may be too close to the rear engine compartment panel.Under certain operating conditions, this could lead to the engine compartment panel catching fire.
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 GateCracks may form in the high-pressure fuel pipes leading to a fuel leak and a vehicle fire.
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 GateOwing to the error in the assembly, the reverse assistance of the active engine bonnet could be missing.In the case of a frontal crash releasing the active engine bonnet, it cannot be ruled out that the engine bonnet would be pushed into the windscreen and place the passengers in danger.
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
How often does the 2016 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 2016, 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 2016 Mercedes-Benz E-Class owners report?
12 of the 89 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 rear subframe is defective and subject to premature corrosion and failure of parts that connect to the rear suspension. Due to the fracturing of the joints connecting to the suspension, my car was at risk of going out of control when needing to brake at higher speeds. The way the suspension component broke also risked damage to the gas tank if the car was driven over a large bump or pot hole. The problem was diagnosed by an independent repair service. The corrosion is not visible to an owner. It does not impact any body panels - only structural parts visible when the vehicle is on a lift…
Passenger seat capacity sensor fault. Will not activate passenger side air bag. Checked with obd scanner
The contact owns a 2016 Mercedes-Benz E350. The contact stated that water was leaking inside the vehicle through the seal around the windshield. The contact stated that upon manually pushing the windshield, the windshield was movable. Additionally, the contact stated that there was a windy sound coming through the windshield while driving. The vehicle was taken to Dunaway Glass Repair Company, where the windshield was being replaced. The vehicle was being repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that the VIN was not under recall. The manufacturer referred…
The contact owns a 2016 Mercedes-Benz E400. The contact stated that upon starting the vehicle, there was a knocking sound coming from the vehicle. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The automatic brake and Adaptive Cruise Control warning lights were illuminated. The emergency braking system engaged independently. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic who determined that there was oil leaking from the gasket and was dripping onto the engine. The contact called the local dealer, who confirmed that there was no recall under the VIN. The vehicle was not diagnosed or…
Mercedes Benz has a recall on several models including E-Class (E 200, E 220, E 280, E 350) experiencing timing chain problems. The timing chain is an important component of the engine, as it helps to coordinate the timing of the engine’s various parts. I am currently having the same issue, but my model is an (E400) which has not been included in the recall. It appears that my timing chain failing, which is causing a number of problems with the engine, including reduced performance and fuel efficiency, and if MB does not recall this model, I am facing complete engine failure.
Q1: Yes, it is available for inspection upon request. The instrument cluster showed some messages* randomly appearing/beeping on and off but there were other issues present: • Acceleration not possible in drive • At one point transmission would not shift from gear 3 • *Speedometer would go up and down randomly until it eventually stayed at 0 physically and digitally as I was going 55-60 MPH • *Check Engine light ON • *Red ‘Brake’ light ON • *ABS failed • *Distance sensors failed • *Stability control failed • *Electronic braking system failed • *Power steering failed • *Cruise control failed •…
I was driving my husband's 2016 E350 at 45 mph when the car accelerated. I attempted to control the speed by braking but the brake did not respond well. The steering wheel was also loose. The car sped up and turned left to the opposite side of the road, crossed the two lanes and hit the fence followed by a tree. The car was totaled, and the tree broke down at its branches. I survived the crush with two fractures on my back and on my left thumb.
The contact owns a 2016 Mercedes-Benz E400. The contact stated upon starting the vehicle, a message indicating a power steering malfunction was displayed and the vehicle lost power steering functionality. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, where an unknown software update was completed. The failure ceased but reoccurred a year and a half later. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed that the power steering assist assembly needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 17V241000 (Steering); however, the VIN…
I was driving on North Shepherd Drive in Houston, TX, at a speed of approximately 35 MPH. While I was lightly braking to slow down for an upcoming intersection where I wished to turn, the car flashed 2 error lights--Frontal Collision Avoidance System Inoperable, and Traction Control System Inoperable. At that moment, the car began to accelerate out of my control. It began to accelerate at a pace comparable to a full-throttle acceleration. At that moment, I turned off the vehicle and coasted to the side of the road. After a moment, I turned the car back on, electrical components responded as…
Someone ran a stop sign traveling at at least 30 mph and hit my car twice; once in the front, once in the rear. I hit my face on the steering wheel, was knocked unconscious, and received a concussion. The airbags never deployed.
The contact owns a 2016 Mercedes-Benz E350. The contact stated while shifting between the lower gears, the vehicle would shift roughly resulting in the vehicle jerking while driving. The contact stated no warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer where it was diagnosed with needing the transmission replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was informed of the failure and informed the contact that the VIN was not under recall. The contact was transferred to the NHTSA for assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 107,000.
MY 2016 MERCEDES E-350, WHICH I BOUGHT 2 YEARS AGO AS A CPO VEHICLE FROM A MERCEDES DEALER HAS A PROBLEM WITH THE E-PARKING BRAKE SYSTEM. I BROUGHT IT TO THE DEALER IN MARCH TO HAVE THIS REPAIRED, AND WAS TOLD THE ENTIRE PARKING BRAKE CABLE AND OTHER PARTS NEEDED REPLACEMENT. I ASSUMED THIS WAS A COVERED REPAIR, ESPECIALLY WITH THE EXTENDED WARRANTY GIVEN ON CERTIFIED VEHICLES, AND THE FACT THE CAR IS FAIRLY NEW AND HAS LESS THAN 50,000 MILES. HOWEVER THE DEALER SAID IT IS NOT COVERED BY MERCEDES AND WOULD COST ME OVER $2500 TO REPAIR. I CONTACTED MERCEDES SUPPORT DIRECTLY, BUT THEY WOULD NOT…
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2016 Mercedes-Benz E-Class: questions owners ask
Is the 2016 Mercedes-Benz E-Class reliable?
NHTSA data alone cannot rate reliability, but it shows what owners reported. Owners filed 89 complaints with NHTSA about the 2016 Mercedes-Benz E-Class; the most common categories were air bags (30, 33.7%), electrical system (10, 11.2%), steering (9, 10.1%). There are no safety recalls listed for this model year. 6 complaints mention a crash, 1 mentions a fire, 4 injuries were reported.
What are the most common problems with the 2016 Mercedes-Benz E-Class?
Across 89 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the categories mentioned most often are air bags (33.7% of complaints), electrical system (11.2% of complaints), steering (10.1% of complaints), structure (9% of complaints), engine (7.9% of complaints). One complaint can name several components.
Does the 2016 Mercedes-Benz E-Class have any recalls?
As of October 2026, NHTSA lists no safety recalls for the 2016 Mercedes-Benz E-Class. Recalls can be issued at any time, so check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Why is the airbag light on in my 2016 Mercedes-Benz E-Class?
4 of the 89 owner complaints NHTSA has on file for the 2016 Mercedes-Benz E-Class (4.5%) describe airbag warning lights or airbag faults. One owner wrote: "Tl* the contact owns a 2016 mercedes-benz e350w. contact stated that while driving at 70 mph, the driver side airbag warning light illuminated." (NHTSA complaint 11311093, February 2020). 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.
Does the 2016 Mercedes-Benz E-Class have rust or paint problems?
4 of the 89 owner complaints NHTSA has on file for the 2016 Mercedes-Benz E-Class (4.5%) describe rust, corrosion or peeling paint. One owner wrote: "The rear subframe is defective and subject to premature corrosion and failure of parts that connect to the rear suspension." (NHTSA complaint 11750938, July 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 2016 Mercedes-Benz E-Class?
3 of the 89 owner complaints NHTSA has on file for the 2016 Mercedes-Benz E-Class (3.4%) describe the check engine light coming on. One owner wrote: "Q1: Yes, it is available for inspection upon request. The instrument cluster showed some messages* randomly appearing/beeping on and off but there were other issues present: • Acceleration not possible in drive • At one point transmission would not shift from…" (NHTSA complaint 11619351, October 2024). 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 2016 only.