RoadVitals

2020 Mercedes-Benz E 450

Recalls, owner-reported complaints, investigations and safety data

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.
8
Latest May 19, 2026
Safety recallsA safety recall is issued when a manufacturer or NHTSA determines that a vehicle has a safety-related defect or does not comply with a federal motor vehicle safety standard. Recall repairs are free. Whether a specific vehicle is covered depends on its VIN — a recall listed for a model year does not necessarily apply to every vehicle of that year.
7
Latest May 20, 2022
InvestigationsNHTSA opens an investigation to examine whether a safety defect may exist. An open investigation is not a determination that a defect exists, and many investigations close without a recall. Investigations can, however, lead to one.
0
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.
1
1 injuries, 0 deaths reported

Overview

Our database contains 8 NHTSA owner-reported complaints for the 2020 Mercedes-Benz E 450, most frequently naming the driver assistance, body & structure and engine categories. 7 safety recalls have been issued covering this model year; and 227 manufacturer communications are on file.

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

What owners report

Complaints grouped by the component NHTSA recorded

  • Driver assistance337.5%
  • Body & structure225.0%
  • Engine112.5%
  • Interior & seats112.5%
  • Tires & wheels112.5%

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

Safety recalls

7 campaigns cover this model year

Recalls apply to specific vehicles, not to every vehicle of a model year. Check your VIN with NHTSA or your manufacturer's dealer to confirm whether a recall affects your vehicle.

Check a VIN on NHTSA.gov

COMMUNICATION: AUTO CRASH NOTIFICATION; ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE

May 20, 2022
242,722 units potentially affected
The defect: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2017-2022 CLA-Class, GLA-Class, GLE-Class, GLS-Class, SLC-Class, A-Class, AMG GT-Class, C-Class, E-Class, S-Class, SL-Class, GLC-Class, CLS-Class, GLB-Class, and G-Class vehicles. Please refer to MBUSA's recall report for specific vehicle model details. An error in the communication module's SIM card software can cause a mobile network connection failure, disabling the emergency call (eCall) system.
The risk: A disabled eCall system would prevent a vehicle occupant from contacting the emergency services call center in an emergency, potentially delaying emergency responders and increasing the risk of injury.
The remedy: The communication module software will be updated through an Over-the-Air (OTA) update or by a dealer, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 8, 2022. Owner notification letters will be mailed in phases, on July 8, 2022, May 17, 2024, July 29, 2024, and September 27, 2024. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's numbers are for this recall is 2022060005 and 2023110006.
Mercedes-Benz USA, LLCManufacturer number See Recall ScheduleView on NHTSA.gov

BACK OVER PREVENTION:DISPLAY FUNCTION

Apr 8, 2022
126,443 units potentially affected
The defect: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2018-2021 CLA-Class, GLE/GLS-Class, A-Class, C-Class, E-Class, E-Class Coupe/Convertible, GLA/GLB-Class, GLC-Class, and CLS-Class vehicles. Please refer to MBUSA's recall report for specific vehicle model details. The rearview camera may not display the rearview image due to a software error. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
The risk: An inoperable rearview camera display reduces the driver's rear view, increasing the risk of a crash.
The remedy: Dealers will update the rearview camera software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 15, 2022. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2022060007.
Mercedes-Benz USA, LLCManufacturer number 2022060007View on NHTSA.gov

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:FUEL INJECTION SYSTEM:FUEL RAIL; FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:FUEL INJECTION SYSTEM:INJECTORS

Dec 13, 2021
139 units potentially affected
The defect: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2019 AMG G63, C300, E300, G550, AMG GT63, AMG GT53, 2019-2020 A220, GLA250, GLC300, 2016 C300, 2020 AMG A35, AMG C43, AMG C63, CLA250, E350, E450, GLB250, GLE450, GLS450, GLS580, S560, and SL550 vehicles equipped with a gasoline engine. During the manufacturing process, particles may have been trapped between the fuel rail and injectors, which can cause a fuel leak.
The risk: A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source, such as hot engine or exhaust components, can increase the risk of a fire.
The remedy: Dealers will replace the fuel rail and fuel injectors, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 22, 2022. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for the recall is 2022030003.
Mercedes-Benz USA, LLCManufacturer number 2022030003View on NHTSA.gov

Recent owner complaints

Reports submitted to NHTSA, shown in the owner's own words

Body & structure
Filed May 19, 2026

Rear glass window on convertible soft top is prematurely separating/delaminating from top assembly on 2020 Mercedes-Benz E350 convertible with under 8,000 miles. Glass is integrated into the convertible top and failure may lead to reduced rear visibility, possible glass detachment, water intrusion, and safety hazard while driving. This appears premature and inconsistent with expected vehicle life.

NHTSA ID
11738921
Incident
Jan 5, 2026
Driver assistance
Filed Oct 17, 2025

The contact owns a 2020 Mercedes-Benz E-450. The contact stated that while attempting to reverse, the rearview camera became inoperative. The contact stated that the rearview camera image was frozen. The contact also expressed concerns that the emblem located on the rear of the vehicle was intermittently blocking the rearview image. The dealer was contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 48,000.

NHTSA ID
11694082
Incident
Oct 17, 2025
Mileage
48,000 mi
Driver assistance
Filed Jan 14, 2025

The contact owns a 2020 Mercedes-Benz E450. The contact stated that while reversing, the rearview camera image failed to display. An image indicating that the rearview camera was inoperable was displayed on the infotainment system screen. The local dealer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that the manufacturer was in the process of issuing a related recall. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that the VIN was not under recall. The manufacturer transferred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline to report the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 34,000.

NHTSA ID
11635911
Incident
Dec 14, 2024
Mileage
34,000 mi
Driver assistance
Filed Jul 12, 2024

The contact owns a 2020 Mercedes-Benz E450. The contact stated that while shifted into reverse, the back over prevention camera displayed the rear view of the vehicle for approximately 10-seconds before going black. The back over prevention camera remained open despite failing to display an image of the rear of the vehicle. The vehicle had been taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed that the failure was related to NHTSA Campaign Numbers: 22V232000 (Back Over Prevention) however, the VIN was not included. The back over prevention camera was replaced. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 48,000.

NHTSA ID
11601554
Incident
Jul 12, 2024
Mileage
48,000 mi
Tires & wheels
Filed May 23, 2022

The side wall split on the outside of the tire and the tire deflated. I pulled to the side of the road. I have no spare because the tires are run flats. I tried to drive and within about 3 miles the tire shredded. The tread separated from the tire and made the car undriveable because the tire tread was hitting the wheel well. I was stranded with no spare. The rubber began melting and I was told by the tire shop fixing my car it fused to the rim. This tire was not made properly.

NHTSA ID
11465827
Incident
May 21, 2022
Engine
Filed Oct 24, 2021
Fire reported

On October 2, 2021, car caught fire in the engine compartment while car was turned off under carport of home. Car mileage was 18,000. The car was serviced by Mercedes of Marin and driven approximately 25 miles after the service when incident occurred. No warning lamps or messages appeared. Fire damage to carport and garage of house and fence and gate. Allstate, the insurance carrier is performing a fire inspection of the vehicle.

NHTSA ID
11437940
Incident
Oct 2, 2021
Interior & seats
Filed Jun 2, 2021

The contact owns a 2020 Mercedes-Benz E450. The contact stated while attempting to open and close the door, the door failed to remain open. Additionally, on several occasions, the door closed independently. The vehicle was repaired however, the failure persisted. The manufacturer was informed of the failure. The contact was awaiting a callback. The failure mileage was approximately 8,000.

NHTSA ID
11419360
Incident
Oct 12, 2020
Mileage
8,000 mi
Body & structure
Filed Dec 30, 2020
1 injury reported

THE DOOR HINGES ARE DEFECTIVE. WHEN THE DOOR IS OPENED, IT CLOSES TOO QUICKLY. THE DETENTS DO NOT WORK. THEY DO NOT HOLD THE DOOR AJAR. THIS IS A LONG, HEAVY DOOR AND WHEN IT SLAMS SHUT ON YOUR LEG, ANKLE OR FOOT IT REALLY HURTS! THE ONLY WAY TO GET OUT OF THE VEHICLE SAFELY IS TO PUT YOUR FOOT AGAINST THE DOOR TO HOLD IT OPEN WHILE YOU EXIT. I BROUGHT THIS PROBLEM TO THE ATTENTION OF MB, WHO AGREED TO REPLACE THE HINGES ON THE DRIVER'S DOOR. ONCE THIS WAS DONE, THE DOOR WORKED FINE... FOR A MONTH. AND THEN IT SUFFERED THE SAME PROBLEM OF SLAMMING SHUT OR NOT STAYING OPEN. MB SUBSEQUENTLY REPLACED THE HINGE ON THE PASSENGER DOOR, WHICH IS HARDLY USED, SO I HAVE NO DATA FOR THAT. I HAVE WRITTEN TO MB ON SOCIAL MEDIA AND RECEIVED A RESPONSE THAT THEY WOULD "LOOK INTO IT." THIS IS A DANGEROUS CONDITION. IT MAKES ENTERING AND EXITING THE CAR PAINFUL AND STRESSFUL. MB NEEDS TO RE-ENGINEER THIS HINGE SO THAT IT WORKS AS IT IS SUPPOSED TO AND DOESN'T INJURE PEOPLE. LAST MONTH A FRIEND ARRIVED IN THE COUPE VERSION OF THIS CAR. AS HIS WIFE GOT OUT OF THE CAR, THE DOOR SLAMMED SHUT ON HER ANKLE. I TOLD HER TO CALL MB. THIS IS A SERIOUS PROBLEM WHICH COULD RESULT IN DEBILITATING INJURY. IT NEEDS TO BE CORRECTED.

NHTSA ID
11385595
Incident
May 29, 2020
Mileage
400 mi

Manufacturer communications

A bulletin sent by a manufacturer to its dealers. Not a recall, and repairs are not necessarily free.

EW - DMTL

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

This NCU replaces the prior NCU issued on May 15, 2025, and contains additional MY 2023 and MY 2024 vehicles which are highlighted below. In our continuing efforts to ensure the proper performance of Mercedes-Benz products and to enhance the satisfaction of our customers, Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (“MBUSA”) is extending the warranty coverage on the Diagnostic Module for Tank Leakage detection (DMTL) in certain Model Year (“MY”) vehicles listed below from the original New Vehicle Limited Warranty of 4 years/50,000 miles to 10 years/120,000 miles (vehicles certified as LEV II) and 15 years/150,000 miles (vehicles certified as LEV III), whichever occurs first, for the following condition: •Under certain circumstances, the DMTL may trigger erroneous Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) entries that may result in the illumination of the Check Engine Malfunction Indicator Lamp (‘MIL’).

LI46.10-P-078012

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM; STEERING

Complaint Hand detection system – malfunction / vehicles with code 266 Fault message in instrument cluster: "Active Emergency Stop Assist not available" "Active Lane Keeping Assist not available" "Active steering assist not available" Cause Possible causes: Hand detection mat, hand detection control unit, contacts, and electrical feed line. Remedy In the event of a customer complaint and fault code in IDC control unit: U186B29 in IDC223 or fault code U0429E0, U042941, U042929, U042902, U0429E1 in IDC213 or fault code in HOSWD control unit: B1E7614 Check: Please do not replace the HOSWD control unit. Please flash the new SW and perform the SCN coding for the HOSWD control unit (N179/1) (available from July 2026). The software can be flashed onto all HOSWD213 with HW number A0009011522 and all HOSWD223 with HW number A0009011422. Please also flash the SW for the IDC control unit (N62/4), if possible (only applies to HOSWD223). Erase fault memory Remedy: Turn on the ignition or start the engine without touching the steering wheel. If, after 10 seconds without touching the steering wheel, one of the three fault messages appears on the instrument cluster: Check the contacts and feed lines in the steering wheel by means of a visual inspection for damage, crimp connections, loose connections, etc. (example in picture 2 and 3). If there is visible damage -> replace the steering wheel electronics or the feed lines. If there is not any visible damage -> replace the steering wheel rim. If a yellow message does not appear on the instrument cluster within 10 seconds: Grasp the steering wheel fully with both hands, including the chrome molding at the 6 o'clock position (see picture 1). If the fault is triggered by grasping the steering wheel rim or pressing the clip at the 6 o'clock position, check the contacts and feed lines in the steering wheel by means of a visual inspection for damage, kinked connections, loose connections, etc. (example in picture 2 and 3). Check the ground connections (screw connections and cables to the steering wheel rim); if necessary, retighten the screws/bolts and check for corrosion (picture 4). If there is visible damage -> replace the steering wheel electronics or the feed lines. If there is not any visible damage: Replace the steering wheel rim. Please do not replace the HOSWD control unit. A TIPS case should be created if fault profile is unclear. In the event of a customer complaint and a further fault code in HOSWD: B1E7713: Check the ground connections (screw connections and cables to the steering wheel rim); if necessary, retighten the screws/bolts and check for corrosion (picture 4). B1F1F04: Check the control unit of the hand detection system; if necessary, replace this with the control unit from a donor vehicle (make sure that the hardware part numbers are identical).

LI35.30-P-058566

POWER TRAIN

Single throttle lift-off clunking noise from the side shaft when moving off (audible at the outboard end). The noise is heard once in each instance when changing direction of travel. Note: Sound file in attachment Cause If the complaint is eliminated by experimentally loosening the outboard collar nut (by 1 turn), the problem is due to cracking of the microweld between the wheel bearing inner race and the joint housing of the side shaft. Note: The collar nut must always be replaced after being loosened. See also LI33.20-P-078406 Remedy Coat contact surface of side shaft with wheel bearing with Molykote paint. To do this, proceed as follows: 1. Remove side shafts 2. Clean contact surface A (see image file in attachment "Outer joint housing before") before coating with Molykote, using "spirit" (free of dust and grease) 3. Coat contact surface A (see image file in attachment "Outer joint housing after") with Molykote and leave to dry for "one hour" in removed condition 4. Reinstall side shafts Note: Before using the antifriction coating (Molykote), stir it or shake it thoroughly for (at least 1 minute).

LI33.20-P-078406

SUSPENSION

Complaint Creaking noise, in irregular sequence when driving slowly in combination with slight steering movements and/or Creaking/crackling noises from the area of the wheel bearing on the front axle when cornering/ maneuvering. Sound file attached for comparison. MUST match noise for proper diagnosis. NOTE: Steering functionality is not affected. Cause Contact area between wheel bearing and steering knuckle. See also: LI35.30-P-058566 (Throttle Lift-Off Noise - Rear) LI33.30-P-056665 (Throttle Lift-Off Noise - Front) LI40.10-P-059248 (Wheel cracking noise when cornering) Remedy 1. Perform Operation A and evaluate by testing vehicle. 2. If noise is still present after re-testing: • If 192/232 chassis, verify FIN is in the listed range below in "Operation B" and perform. • If not 192/232 chassis or vehicle is a 192/232 not in the listed FIN range, additional verifications of where the noise is coming from are needed. Use multiple channel NVH method to narrow down location. Verify the LI's listed above were completed or if there are other similar noises associated with the chassis (Example: 192/232 also has under panel noises and an associated LI). Operation A: 1. Clean contact surfaces of wheel bearing and steering knuckle with brake cleaner as seen in the attached pictures. NOTE: The front area of the wheel bearing and the seals must not come into contact with the cleaner, otherwise, the sealing rings will be damaged. 2. Clean threads of wheel bearing mounting. 3. Thinly coat contact surfaces of wheel bearing, steering knuckle, and axle mating face with Molykote (annular joint grease). See the attached steering knuckle and wheel hub pictures for reference. NOTE: Axle mating face greasing is also covered in LI35.30-P-058566 and LI33.30-P-056665. Operation B (Only applies to 192 and 232 in listed FIN range): Only affects vehicles up to FIN end number: • Model series 192: xxx xxx xx 002 876 • Model series 232: xxx xxx xx 022 312 1. Replace steering knuckle. 2. Wheel bearings do not need to be replaced.

LI33.20-P-078406

SUSPENSION

Complaint Creaking noise, in irregular sequence when driving slowly in combination with slight steering movements and/or Creaking/crackling noises from the area of the wheel bearing on the front axle when cornering/ maneuvering. Sound file attached for comparison. MUST match noise for proper diagnosis. NOTE: Steering functionality is not affected. Cause Contact area between wheel bearing and steering knuckle. See also: LI35.30-P-058566 (Throttle Lift-Off Noise - Rear) LI33.30-P-056665 (Throttle Lift-Off Noise - Front) LI40.10-P-059248 (Wheel cracking noise when cornering) Remedy 1. Perform Operation A and evaluate by testing vehicle. 2. If noise is still present after re-testing: • If 192/232 chassis, verify FIN is in the listed range below in "Operation B" and perform. • If not 192/232 chassis or vehicle is a 192/232 not in the listed FIN range, additional verifications of where the noise is coming from are needed. Use multiple channel NVH method to narrow down location. Verify the LI's listed above were completed or if there are other similar noises associated with the chassis (Example: 192/232 also has under panel noises and an associated LI). Operation A: 1. Clean contact surfaces of wheel bearing and steering knuckle with brake cleaner (see areas marked blue in pictures "2.jpg" and "3.jpg"). NOTE: The front area of the wheel bearing and the seals must not come into contact with the cleaner, otherwise, the sealing rings will be damaged. 2. Clean threads of wheel bearing mounting. 3. Thinly coat contact surfaces of wheel bearing, steering knuckle, and axle mating face with Molykote (annular joint grease) (see areas marked blue in pictures "2.jpg" and "3.jpg"). NOTE: Axle mating face greasing is also covered in LI35.30-P-058566 and LI33.30-P-056665. Operation B (Only applies to 192 and 232 in listed FIN range): Only affects vehicles up to FIN end number: • Model series 192: xxx xxx xx 002 876 • Model series 232: xxx xxx xx 022 312 1. Replace steering knuckle. 2. Wheel bearings do not need to be replaced.

PSL-NCU Return Parts 6/19

ENGINE; VISIBILITY/WIPER

Dear Mercedes-Benz USA Dealers, The part numbers listed in the chart below should no longer be installed, and any existing stock must be returned to your facing PDC. The deadline for all dealer returns is no later than Thursday, July 9, 2026. After July 9th, returns of these parts will no longer be accepted. These parts should be returned via ZSR Special Return, using item category SCM Authorized Part Return. Please include a copy of this NCU as your authorization to return these parts. This procedure will not affect your return allowance. All returned parts will be replaced in accordance with the chart provided below.

Manufacturers file copies of the bulletins they send to dealers with NHTSA. These often describe diagnostic or repair procedures for a known condition. They are not recalls: repairs described in a bulletin are usually only free if the vehicle is still under warranty or the manufacturer has extended coverage.

Compare model years

Complaint and recall counts across every year of this model

Mercedes-Benz E 450 by model year
YearComplaintsRecallsInvestigationsIssue Index
2024240
2023174048.2
2022115043.7
20217140
2020Viewing870
20191712061.0
2006010

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. Older model years have had longer for reports to accumulate.