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2017 Mercedes-Benz E 300 Problems

Owner-reported complaints filed with NHTSA, grouped by component

Data refreshed

Owner complaintsComplaints are reports submitted to NHTSA by owners and drivers. NHTSA does not verify most reports before publishing them, and a complaint does not establish that a defect exists. Volume is influenced by how many of a vehicle were sold, how long it has been on the road, and how much attention an issue has received.
131
Latest Aug 4, 2026
Components namedHow many of our component categories appear on at least one report for this model year. One report can name several.
15
Crash or fire reportedComplaints whose submitter recorded that a crash or a fire occurred. These are the reporter's own answers on the NHTSA form, not verified findings.
4

What this page shows

Everything below is an owner-reported complaint submitted to NHTSA about the 2017 Mercedes-Benz E 300, grouped by the component NHTSA recorded on the report. These are not confirmed defects, and they are not recalls. NHTSA does not verify most reports before publishing them, and a category with more reports in it is not evidence that a part is defective.

Complaints are reports submitted by owners and drivers to NHTSA. They are not verified and do not establish that a defect exists.

Reports by component

Ranked by how many owner reports name each component category

Percentages are of component mentions. A single complaint can name more than one component, so these do not sum to the total complaint count.

Each component in detail

What the reports in each category say, in the owners' own words

Engine

Reports naming the engine itself — including stalling, misfires, oil consumption, cooling and internal engine components.

39
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

My vehicle has about 68k miles, while driving on freeway all of sudden the car engine started to shake and check engine light came on dashboard. This engine shaking would stop when vehicle was being driven at high speed. Upon returning home I checked the DTC codes and had P300, P301 engine misfire codes. My mechanic suggested to have spark plugs and Ignition coil#1 to be changed. I bought new plugs from dealer for the replacement. When my mechanic completed this repair bit noticed vehicle still had misfire. He conducted compression test and found only 20PSI pressure is cylinder 1 and suggested a tear-down or engine replacement. I talked to another shop and described the issue and was informed that this is a common issue in Mercedes E300 to develop misfire in either cylinder 1 or 2. I found similar issues described by many owners on various forums online as well. Currently Mercedes has no recall for this issue.

NHTSA ID 11754872 · filed Aug 4, 2026

Code P052E after oil changed. seems to happen often judging my forums.

NHTSA ID 11734140 · filed Apr 27, 2026
All 39 reports naming engine

Fuel system

Reports naming fuel storage or delivery — tanks, pumps, lines, injectors and fuel leaks.

25
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

Code P052E after oil changed. seems to happen often judging my forums.

NHTSA ID 11734140 · filed Apr 27, 2026

I own a 2017 mercedes benz e-class. I'm starting to smell gasoline in the cabin and also outside of my vehicle. I tried entering my VIN number to see if any recalls. There is something listed for the smell of gas. Can someone help me regarding this matter.

NHTSA ID 11725111 · filed Mar 17, 2026
All 25 reports naming fuel system

Electrical

Reports naming the electrical system — wiring, battery, charging, control modules, infotainment and electrical accessories.

23
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

Sunroof glass shattered water got in the car

NHTSA ID 11737905 · filed May 14, 2026

My car is not accelerating when I shift into drive or reverse. It says “reversing not possile-service required” error. Out the blue. There is a known recall on these model cars but Mercedes benz is saying its vin specific and mine is not covered even though I am experiencing the exact same issue. Recall date- 2017-02-07 Recall no. 17V078000

NHTSA ID 11732941 · filed Apr 22, 2026
All 23 reports naming electrical

Powertrain (other)

Powertrain reports that are not specifically the engine or transmission — driveshafts, axles, transfer cases and differentials.

15
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

There is a recall on my year model 2017 Mercedes E3 hundred 4matic for the steering column shift module, but I’m being told that my specific vin was not included, but it is having the exact issues as the recall while driving the shift lever will not leave drive to go into reverse. It will only go to park. It refuses shift commands. If I shut the engine off and turn it back on sometimes it will allow me to go into other gears again.

NHTSA ID 11735276 · filed May 2, 2026

The contact owns a 2017 Mercedes-Benz E300. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle failed to accelerate as intended while depressing the accelerator pedal. The message "Reverse not Possible - Service Required" was displayed. The contact pulled over to the side of the road and turned off the vehicle. The contact waited for approximately five to ten minutes, and the vehicle restarted. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed that the electronic shift lever had failed. The vehicle was repaired. The contact picked up the vehicle from the dealer, and two days later, the same message was displayed. The contact stated that on a separate occasion, while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle failed to accelerate as intended while depressing the accelerator pedal, and the vehicle stalled. The message "Reverse not Possible - Service Required” was displayed. The vehicle was coasted to the side of the road, and the contact waited before restarting the vehicle. The vehicle was taken back to the dealer, where it was diagnosed that the Transmission Control Module (TCM) had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle remained at the dealer unrepaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 144,000.

NHTSA ID 11714019 · filed Jan 28, 2026
All 15 reports naming powertrain (other)

Steering

Reports naming the steering system — racks, columns, power-steering assist and steering linkage.

12
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

I’m having issues with my control module not going forward or backwards at times and there was a recall on models of this vehicle for that exact reason NHTSA ID: 17V078000 Issued: Feb 2, 17. Dealership is telling me it’s not open. I’m scared for my safety when my car doesn’t shift in the correct gear. This started in 2021 or 2022 and I’m not getting resolution. When getting my bumper repaired I noticed that this was on the recall list a few years ago. I’ll submit the papers I received form Park Place.

NHTSA ID 11730864 · filed Apr 13, 2026

The contact owns a 2017 Mercedes-Benz E300. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the vehicle intermittently lost power steering functionality. The contact stated that the failure occurred increasingly while turning. The vehicle was taken to several independent mechanics and to the dealer, but no DTC was retrieved. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 17V714000 (Steering); however, the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 80,000.

NHTSA ID 11700877 · filed Nov 21, 2025
All 12 reports naming steering

Driver assistance

Reports naming forward-collision avoidance, lane keeping, back-over prevention, cruise control and related electronic driver-assistance systems.

11
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

There is a recall on my year model 2017 Mercedes E3 hundred 4matic for the steering column shift module, but I’m being told that my specific vin was not included, but it is having the exact issues as the recall while driving the shift lever will not leave drive to go into reverse. It will only go to park. It refuses shift commands. If I shut the engine off and turn it back on sometimes it will allow me to go into other gears again.

NHTSA ID 11735276 · filed May 2, 2026

The automatic breaking assist is malfunctioning most of the time it just gives me a warning on the dash that it is limited a few times it has bumped the brakes briefly like it was sensing something in front of the car the perimeter sensors are malfunctioning as well like it’s sensing something all around the car very close then those sensors completely shut off and don’t work again until the car is shut off and started again

NHTSA ID 11647557 · filed Mar 11, 2025
All 11 reports naming driver assistance

Body & structure

Reports naming the vehicle structure, frame, body panels, doors, hood and trim.

10
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

The sunroof is leaking when it rains on the front upper left side by the driver. My safety is act risk because of the water coming in the car distracting me from driving and not sure if the water is damaging the electrical system in my car.

NHTSA ID 11481084 · filed Aug 24, 2022

The door will not stay open on hills and makes a loud clicking noise

NHTSA ID 11467065 · filed Jun 1, 2022
All 10 reports naming body & structure

Brakes

Reports naming service brakes, the antilock braking system, brake hoses, master cylinders or the parking brake.

8
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

2017 Mercedes Benz E300 38k miles Parking brake malfunction. Replaced rear two Electric parking brake module /actuator. Still have the same problem. Mercedes Benz are claiming it to be ABS module.

NHTSA ID 11483838 · filed Sep 10, 2022

The contact owned a 2017 Mercedes-Benz E300W. The contact stated while driving approximately 35 MPH he was side swiped on the drivers side door by another vehicle causing his vehicle to jump the curb. The contact stated he had a brake malfunction and had to depress the brake pedal to the floorboard. The contact had to steer the vehicle into a fence in order to come to a stop. The contact stated no warning light was illuminated. The police were called and filed a police report. The contact had the vehicle towed to a collision center. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The contact's insurance company declared the vehicle a total loss. The contact suffered injuries to his back, both knees and his head from hitting the steering wheel, but did not seek medical attention until later. The airbags did not deploy. The manufacturer had been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 21,000.

NHTSA ID 11455566 · filed Mar 7, 2022
All 8 reports naming brakes

Airbags

Reports naming the air-bag system — deployment behaviour, inflators, sensors and warning lights.

6
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

The Air bag light just came on when I turned the car on I had it checked by a mechanic and by an electrician. The code is B000113 The Squib For The Driver Airbag (Stage 1) Has A Malfunction. There Is An Open Circuit. They checked the clock spring it’s plugged in and even tried using a new air bag but they believe the clock spring is broken.

NHTSA ID 11687067 · filed Sep 13, 2025

A warning saying Front Right Malfunction Service Required. I took my vehicle to a mercedes dealership to have my vehicle inspected. I was told that the Airbag seat cushion/weight sensing control unit all needed to be repaired/fixed. I have an extended warranty but this was not covered. I was told my Airbag might not be deployed if I was involved in an accident and someone was in my front passenger seat. "No one should ride in the front passenger seat until this situation is taken care of." I feel strongly that this should have been covered, plus it should've been a recall on this. It's a real safety issue!!! This need to be on the recall list for all mercedes or other vehicles with this particular issue.

NHTSA ID 11649279 · filed Mar 19, 2025

Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.

Exterior lighting

Reports naming headlights, tail lights, turn signals and other exterior lighting.

5
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

The instrument panel that displays the digital speed, warning lights, etc. went black suddenly when turning on the car. It came back on suddenly while driving on the highway but after the car was turned off and restarted, the instrument panel has remained black. This is a huge safety issue as there is no warning light indicators, merging lanes does not signal if another car is present, among many other concerns. The vehicle has been inspected by mechanic. There was no warning indicators that instrument panel would go black suddenly. It happened in February 2025.

NHTSA ID 11648086 · filed Mar 13, 2025

The car lurches forward upon accelerating. Other times the car lags when accelerating after slowing for a dip or speed bump. This has caused me to almost be hit from behind on multiple occasions. My car has been in the shop multiple times since I bought it.

NHTSA ID 11524269 · filed May 29, 2023

Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.

Other / unspecified

Reports whose component NHTSA recorded as unknown, or that do not map to one of the categories above.

3
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

I am writing to formally lodge a complaint regarding serious and repeated issues with my 2017 Mercedes-Benz E300, purchased and serviced exclusively by authorized Mercedes-Benz dealerships. 1. Repeated OEM Run-Flat Tire Failures Within the past two years, I have been forced to replace nine OEM run-flat tires, including:    •   3 replacements at Mercedes-Benz of Tysons Corner, VA    •   2 replacements at Goodyear Tires, Cattlemen Rd., Sarasota, FL    •   4 additional replacements at certified service centers These failures occur under normal driving conditions, often without visible punctures or road hazards, and at safe speeds. Each tire replacement costs approximately $550, plus towing, diagnostic fees, and rental car costs. The financial and safety burdens are substantial, and this level of tire failure is not normal for any vehicle—particularly a low-mileage, luxury sedan. 2. Electrical/Dashboard Recording Malfunction My dashboard service history fails to record service visits, even when performed at Mercedes-Benz dealerships. This is deeply concerning as it compromises vehicle resale value, warranty tracking, and transparency of maintenance records. Despite multiple visits and attempts by service centers, the issue persists without resolution. 3. Financial Impact and Brand Reputation The total cost of repeated tire replacements and unresolved electrical issues has reached several thousand dollars, despite my vehicle having relatively low mileage and receiving all recommended service at authorized dealers. This experience is completely inconsistent with the quality and reliability promised by the Mercedes-Benz brand. I am requesting the following:    •   Full investigation into the defect rate of OEM run-flat tires on the 2017 E-Class models    •   Immediate inspection and repair of the dashboard/electrical recording issue at no cost to me    •   Reimbursement for tire-related costs and associated expenses incurred due to repeated failures.

NHTSA ID 11680306 · filed Aug 13, 2025

MY 2017 MERCEDES BENZ E300 CAR SEEMS TO HAVE SEVERE TIRE RIM BREAKING ISSUE. SO FAR I HAVE HAD TO REPLACE 2 RIM'S ON THIS CAR AND 3 TIRES. I USE THIS CAR FOR COMMUTE TO WORK AND DRIVE ON HIGHWAYS IN CT WHICH ARE IN PRETTY GOOD CONDITION. SO THIS CAR IS NOT GOING OVER ON POTHOLES OR LIKE. HENCE I AM VERY WORRIED ABOUT THE SAFETY OF THE RIMS ON THIS CAR. THE STAFF AT THE DEALERSHIP REPORTED THAT THEY HAVE SEEN OTHER CARS OF THE SAME MODEL COME FOR RIM REPLACEMENTS MUCH MORE FREQUENTLY THAN OTHER MODELS. I HAVE CALLED MERCEDES AND COMPLAINED ABOUT THIS AND HAVE RECEIVED NO RESPONSE.

NHTSA ID 11155639 · filed Dec 3, 2018

Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.

Visibility

Reports naming windshields, glass, wipers, defrosters and mirrors.

3
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

The entire driver instrument panel screen went blank, after going blank and coming back on a few times while driving. This is EXTREMELY dangerous. Now, the driver cannot see the speed, odo, fuel gauge, indicators or anything at all. I hope you please investigate and initiate a campaign and get this resolved from Mercedes.

NHTSA ID 11544443 · filed Sep 14, 2023

THE DRIVERS EXTERIOR LEFT SIDE REARVIEW MIRROR IS OVERLY TOO LARGE AND IS MOUNTED APPROXIMATELY 2" TO 2.5" TOO HIGH . COMBINED WITH THE CO-LOCATED BODY ROOF SUPPORT BEAM BEING VERY LARGE THE DRIVER IS THEREFORE GREATLY IMPACTED BY THE COMBINED REDUCTION IN VISABILITY IN THAT ARC OF VISION WHILE TURNING LEFT. I'VE LEASED IN SUCCESSION 11 M/B SEDANS AND HAVE NEVER BEEN FACED WITH THIS PROBLEM. I'M 5'8", ATHLETIC, WELL AWARE OF ERGONOMICS, I'M A PE - SAFETY ENGINEER AND REALLY ANNOYED AND CONCERNED WITH THIS BIG BLIND SPOT AREA. I'VE FOUND THAT FOR THE FIRST TIME IN MY DRIVING LIFE I'VE HAD TO BE VERY CAREFUL WHEN TURNING LEFT PARTICULARLY IN VERY CONGESTED TRAFFIC SITUATIONS DUE TO THE LARGE REDUCTION IN VISIBILITY IN THAT AREA. PROBLEM STARTS IMMEDIATELY FROM A PARKED OR STOPPED SITUATION, LIKE AT A TRAFFIC LIGHT TO THEN INITIALLY START MOVING PARTICULARLY WHEN IMPLEMENTING A LEFT HAND TURN. VEHICLE LEASED ON 07/31/2017. PROBLEM HAS BEEN CONSTANT SINCE THEN.

NHTSA ID 11113521 · filed Jul 25, 2018

Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.

Transmission

Reports naming the automatic or manual transmission, including shifting behaviour, shudder, slipping and transmission control modules.

2
reports

From owner reports, verbatim

The contact owns a 2017 Mercedes-Benz E300. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the accelerator pedal was depressed; however, the vehicle failed to accelerate as intended. The contact stated that the gear shifter failed to shift into the drive as intended. In addition, the contact stated that when the gear shifter was shifted into drive after several attempts, the gear shifter shifted to drive three instead of drive one. No warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed with a transmission control module and a shift-level module failure. The contact was informed that the transmission control module and shift level module needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. In addition, the contact stated that when the failure had started, the transmission slipped, and the gear shifter independently shifted into neutral. The contact stated that the failure persisted. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The contact was advised to contact the NHTSA Hotline to report the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 43,000.

NHTSA ID 11646680 · filed Mar 6, 2025

The contact owns a 2017 Mercedes-Benz E300. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the accelerator pedal was depressed; however, the vehicle failed to accelerate as intended. The contact stated that the check engine warning light illuminated. Additionally, the contact stated that when the gear shifter was shifted into reverse, there was an abnormally loud sound coming from the transmission. The contact turned off and restarted the vehicle and the vehicle had self-corrected the issue. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed with solenoid failure in the valve body. The contact was informed that the solenoid needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and a case was filed. The contact was advised to contact the NHTSA Hotline to report the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 85,000.

NHTSA ID 11603992 · filed Jul 23, 2024

Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.

Seat belts

Reports naming seat belts, buckles, retractors and pretensioners.

1
report

From owner reports, verbatim

Pulling in the parking spot , looking to my right not noticing light pole on the left , car sensor bumped the pole in the perfect spot to deploy all of the drivers airbags . No warning of front collision , no breaks emergency were activated , seatbelt did not tighten threw me against the wheel : suffered , lacerations , broken forearm requiring surgery . Slight scratch on the bumper not even a dent in the front bumper

NHTSA ID 11562287 · filed Dec 28, 2023

Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.

Tires & wheels

Reports naming tires, wheels, hubs, or the tire-pressure monitoring system.

1
report

From owner reports, verbatim

2017 MERCEDES BENZ E300. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARD TO MANUFACTURING ISSUES THAT REQUIRE TIRE REPLACEMENT BUT THE NECESSARY TIRE HAS BEEN DISCONTINUED. * AS *JS *JS

NHTSA ID 11206674 · filed May 8, 2019

Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.

Higher-selling and older vehicles accumulate more reports. Counts are not failure rates and are not directly comparable between vehicles that sold in very different numbers.

Elsewhere on this vehicle

Data sources

Data on this page last refreshed .