2014 Mercedes-Benz E350 Body & structure Problems

While braking from highway speeds or any other speed, the vehicle becomes unstable and pulls to the left, making it difficult to maintain control. During hard braking, the vehicle does not track straight and requires steering correction to remain in its lane, creating a significant safety hazard. To diagnose the problem, the vehicle was inspected by an independent mechanic. An alignment was performed, and the suspension and braking systems were inspected. The mechanic determined that the rear subframe has severe rust and corrosion. The rusted rear subframe is available for inspection upon request. Despite the alignment and inspection of the suspension and brakes, the unsafe braking behavior remains. There were no warning lights or messages indicating this condition before it was discovered. The problem has been reproduced multiple times under similar braking conditions. This condition puts the driver, passengers, and other motorists at risk because the vehicle can become difficult to control during braking, particularly at highway speeds or during an emergency stop. Based on the mechanic's inspection, the severely corroded rear subframe is the source of concern and should be investigated as a safety-related defect. I have also contacted Mercedes-Benz USA regarding this safety issue and requested assistance, but I have not yet received a response.

NHTSA ID

11751828

Incident

Jul 1, 2026

Rear subframe rotted / corroded. Rear brake lines rotted and rear springs broken from corrosion . Mercedes refuses to address the issues under warranty except the subframe issue . Almost crashed on i-84 with child in vehicle due to rear control arm being rotted from subframe .

NHTSA ID

11751724

Incident

Jul 10, 2026

The contact owns a 2014 Mercedes-Benz E350. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, there was an abnormal fuel odor inside and outside of the vehicle. In addition, the contact stated that the vehicle was consuming an excessive amount of gasoline. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The contact stated that the failure persisted. Upon investigation, the contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 15V088000 (STRUCTURE). The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.

NHTSA ID

11673382

Incident

Jul 14, 2024

The contact owns a 2014 Mercedes-Benz E350. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer for routine maintenance, and it was determined that the entire rear sub frame was rusted. Additionally, all four brake lines were rusted. The contact stated that the warranty was extended on the frame rust. The dealer determined that there was no recall on the VIN. The manufacturer was contacted and confirmed there was no coverage for the repair on the vehicle. The failure mileage was approximately 92,000.

NHTSA ID

11659433

Incident

Apr 24, 2025

Mileage

92,000 mi

Rear subframe snapped under hard braking on the highway and caused my to veer into leftmost lane. It was terrifying and a severe hazard on the highway. Had vehicle towed to my house. I lifted and inspected my car and found the rear subframe was rusted and a crack straight through. The rear brake lines were also severely corroded and are very close to failing. Front brake lines have no corrosion. It seems that the rear subframe and rear brake lines have the same anti rust coating which are clearly not sufficient.

NHTSA ID

11609273

Incident

Aug 18, 2024

took car in for an oil change. Have been hearing some noises in the rear. Mechanic just called telling us the rear sub frame rusted out. We have had the car 6 years. It has never been in a flood. we live in new jersey, no where near the shore.

NHTSA ID

11603759

Incident

Jul 22, 2024

The contact owns a 2014 Mercedes-Benz E350. The contact stated that while the vehicle was at an independent mechanic for an oil change, the contact was informed that the rear driver's side control arm was severely corroded and had detached from the subframe. The contact was also informed that the failure caused premature tire wear on both rear tires. The vehicle was then towed to the dealer, where it was determined that the subframe and rear driver's side control arm needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not yet repaired and remained at the dealer. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 110,000.

NHTSA ID

11586561

Incident

Apr 25, 2024

Mileage

110,000 mi

On 11/24/23 Mercedes Benz had replaced my subframe which was part of a safety recall. When I arrived home after picking up my vehicle, there was a loud bang from under the vehicle. I immediately called the service department and told them about what happened and also complained that the steering wheel was cocked to the left and pulling in that direction. My service advisor John advised me to bring it back the next day which I did. They never told me what caused the loud bang, but they did say another front end alignment was done. The vehicle still continued to pull and the steering wheel was still off center. On [XXX] I took my car to Mr. Tire for a tire rotation because the car continued to sway and jolt when going over bumps. It also made a popping noise when making a sharp turn. Then on [XXX] as I was driving, the car pulled or slid to the left. In order to keep from crashing into another vehicle, I pulled the wheel right causing me to run over the medium and almost crashing into a building. I was extremely shook up and in disbelief. Has this type of thing ever happened to anyone else before after the subframe was replaced? INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ID

11564988

Incident

Dec 29, 2023

Driving on a highway approximately 65 MPH. Had to break fairly hard due to unexpected traffic. When breaking, my car fishtailed and I thought I was going to hit the vehicle in front of me. I immediately took my car to my independent, Mercedes-certified repair shop. My mechanic informed me that it was a problem with the rear subframe. I then took it to Mercedes for an inspection. They confirmed that the rear subframe was rusted and needs immediate repair. I was told not to drive the vehicle as it is extremely unsafe. Mercedes is aware of this problem. There was a class action lawsuit filed in February of 2023. Mercedes supposedly informed owners of the potential problem, but I was never notified. I only became aware of this dangerous subframe problem as a result of this incident.

NHTSA ID

11563509

Incident

Dec 20, 2023

The subframe corroded causing an unsafe potentially hazardous condition. Also the brake line was were corroded causing imminent brake failure. The rear springs rusted from the corrosion subframe defect..Mercedes required 2800 dollars from me to remedy the problem

NHTSA ID

11557823

Incident

Nov 15, 2023

Car control was diminished and braking caused car to pull hard. Creaking noise from rear end. Removed rear wheel to find frame had perforation where rear wheel has linkage to frame.

NHTSA ID

11541127

Incident

Aug 25, 2023

The contact’s wife owns a 2014 Mercedes-Benz E-350. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the rear of the vehicle was swerving. The contact stated while the brake pedal was depressed, the rear of the vehicle shifted. No warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed that the rear subframe was rusted and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, but no assistance was provided. The contact was awaiting a response. The failure mileage was approximately 72,000.

NHTSA ID

11501098

Incident

Dec 10, 2022

Mileage

72,000 mi

Our mechanic reports a dime-sized rust hole in the rear subframe.

NHTSA ID

11494601

Incident

Nov 22, 2022

The rear sub-frame involving vehicle stability under braking and turning. A component that should remain attached to the vehicle has broken off due to corrosion. My vehicle is not that old that a key structural component of the car should break at the weld/attachment point. I have video of this defect. But its greater than 10MB and will not let me upload it is there an email I can send it to ?

NHTSA ID

11490604

Incident

Oct 7, 2022

2014 E350 with 41,000 miles. Rusted subframe and was informed that it represented unsafe and risky driving conditions. Reported this to manufacturer as, apparently, it is a very common problem with certain Mercedes classes. No recall and very expensive fix ($4500)! Not my idea of a safe and reliable car, as Mercedes likes to advertise. Consumers should not be responsible for manufacturing defects/ poor quality of materials used ..... and should definitely not be exposed to unsafe conditions when operating their vehicle!

NHTSA ID

11488610

Incident

Aug 23, 2022

The contact owns a 2014 Mercedes-Benz E350. The contact had taken the vehicle to an independent mechanic and was informed that the subframe was rusted. A dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer had been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 97,000.

NHTSA ID

11487676

Incident

Sep 30, 2022

Mileage

97,000 mi

Mercedes Benz E350 2014 - Panoramic Sunroof rattling and squeaking noise/sound: This issue has been reported by many online, and it is a well known problem with E350. It starts with a little bit of squeak and metallic rattle noise here and there, and then after a year or so it is almost happening all the time as you drive the car. Dealer states that Sunroof Frame bolts have to be retorqued and loose bolts which rattle around have to be put back on. Estimated cost $712. If not a safety risk causing Pano sunroof to eventually fly off, it should definitely be a recall as many E350 owners have reported the same issue, and it is a manufacturer defect.

NHTSA ID

11421607

Incident

Jun 21, 2021

TRUNK HAS OPENED 6 - 8 TIMES ON ITS OWN. IN JUST OVER 5,000 MILES OF OWNERSHIP AND TWO DOCUMENTED ATTEMPTS TO REPAIR THE PROBLEM PERSISTS. THE TRUNK OPENS ON ITS OWN IN NEARLY ANY COMBINATION OF; IN MOTION, STOPPED, IN GEAR, OUT OF GEAR, MODERATE SPEED (40-50 MPH), LOW SPEED (A CRAWL) COOL TEMPS., WARM TEMPS., TOP UP, TOP DOWN. I HAVE EVEN TRIED, WHILE THE CAR IS IN MOTION, TO DELIBERATELY OPEN THE TRUNK WITH THE KEY FOB AND WITH THE DOOR MOUNTED RELEASE. IT DID NOT OPEN WHEN I TRIED TO REPLICATE AN UNINTENTIONAL OPENING. MOST RECENT INCIDENT, 10/24/2020- WHILE IN MY GARAGE, TEMPERATURE COOL ~ 65 DEGREES, KEY IN IGNITION ENGINE AND RUNNING FOR ABOUT 1-2 MINUTES, BOTH CAR DOORS CLOSED, PUTTING ON SEAT BELT, EMERGENCY BRAKE STILL ON, STILL IN PARK, HEARD THE TRUNK POP OPEN. CONFIRMED THE OPEN TRUNK IN THE REAR-VIEW MIRROR. THE EIGHT + MONTHS BETWEEN THIS OCCURRENCE AND THE LAST ATTEMPT TO REPAIR IS MISLEADING AS THE CAR'S BEEN DRIVEN LESS THAN 500 MILES BETWEEN THE LAST REPAIR AND WHEN THE TRUNK OPENED ON ITS OWN THIS TIME.

NHTSA ID

11366193

Incident

Oct 24, 2020

Mileage

35,000 mi

I WAS DRIVING THE CAR DOWN 880 UNTIL I SUDDENLY HEARD A CRACKLINGS NOISE COMING FROM THE BACK OF MY CAR. I HAD JUST GOTTEN THE CAR SERVICED A WEEK BEFORE SO THIS WAS VERY UNPLEASANT AND SURPRISING. I ENDED UP TURNING BACK AND PARKING MY CAR AT HOME. THE NEXT DAY WHILE DRIVING TO THE DEALER I STILL HEARD THE NOISE AND THERE WAS A WEIRD BURNING SMELL. THE NOISE CONTINUED EVEN AFTER SHUTTING OFF THE CAR. I WENT TO THE DEALER AND THEY DIAGNOSED THAT THE RIGHT PASSENGER SPEAKER HAD MELTED AND THEY ALSO CHANGED MY AMP. IN MY DEALER NOTES, IT STATES THAT THERE HAVE BEEN MULTIPLE OCCURRENCES YET IT SEEMS LIKE THERE IS NO RECALL. *TR

NHTSA ID

11331863

Incident

Jun 26, 2020

Mileage

67,000 mi

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2014 MERCEDES-BENZ E350. WHILE DRIVING 20 MPH, SMOKE WAS DETECTED COMING FROM THE SPEAKER LOCATED ON THE REAR PASSENGER DOOR. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO ATLANTA CLASSIC CARS (1705 BOGGS RD NW, DULUTH, GA 30096, (770) 279-3600) AND THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE SPEAKER BURST. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 81,000.

NHTSA ID

11257974

Incident

Sep 4, 2019

Mileage

81,000 mi

THIS VEHICLE IS. A 2014 MERCEDES BENZ E350 CABRIOLET ON THIS VECHILE THERE IS A LATCH ON FRONT SEATS THAT IF PULLED FORWARD WILL MAKE WAY TO ENTER REAR SEATS BEING THAT IDLY IS A TWO DOOR CAR THIS IS THE SAME LAY OUT FOR ACCESSING BACK SEATS FOR THE COUPE MODEL THE LATCH THAT MUST BE PULLED IS SOME KIND OF PLASTIC COVERED IN SOME KIND OF METAL. DECORATIVE MATERIAL THIS METAL HAS PEELED OF WITH NO CAUSE HE EDGES OF THIS METAL THAT IS DEFECTIVE ON THESE CARS IS EXTREMELY SHARP WE HAVE SEVERELY CUT ARE HANDS WITH OUT REALIZING THESE DEFECT WAS THERE I WAS INFORMED THAT OTHER CARS ALSO HAVE THESE PROBLEM IT IS A MAJOR SAFETY RISK BECAUSE IT IS A PART OF THE VEHICLE YOU MUST PHYSICALLY GRAB WITH YOUR HANDS TO HAVE BACK SEAT ACCESS THIS PATCH IS VERY DANGEROUSE PLEASE BE CARFULL IT CAN APPEAR OUT OF NO WHERE LIKE IT HAPPENED TO US EVERY THING WAS OK THEN THE METAL COATING JUST BECAME DEFECTIVE AND PEELING OF ON ITS OWN PS I HAVE BEEN TOLD FROM SERVICE ADVISORS THEY HAVE SEEN THIS BEFORE AND OTHER PEOPLE HAVE BEEN INJURED THE BROWN STUFF ON THE LATCH IS BANDAIDS WE PLACED THERE SO OUR CHILDREN DON'T GET INJURED FROM THE METAL

NHTSA ID

11001831

Incident

Jun 21, 2017

MY CAR HAS AN ELECTRONIC TRUNK CLOSURE. WITH THIS FEATURE, WHEN SOMEONE KICKS THEIR FOOT UNDER THE REAR BUMPER OF THE CAR, THE TRUNK LID OPENS OR CLOSES AUTOMATICALLY, ASSUMING HE OR SHE HAS THE CAR FOB IN HIS OR HER POSSESSION. MY WIFE HAS HAD THE TRUNK LID CLOSE ON HER HEAD ON TWO OCCASIONS WHILE TAKING ITEMS OUR OF THE TRUNK. SHE INADVERTENTLY ENGAGED THE AUTOMATIC CLOSURE WHILE LEANING INTO THE TRUNK. THE FIRST TIME, THE TRUNK LID HIT THE BACK OF HER HEAD, THE SECOND TIME IT HIT HER FOREHEAD. IN EACH CASE FOR SEVERAL DAYS FOLLOWING THE ACCIDENT, SHE HAD HEADACHES AND SWELLING AT THE POINT OF CONTACT WITH A BLACK AND BLUE MARK ON HER FOREHEAD THE SECOND TIME. SHE TOOK MEDICATION TO RELIEVE THE HEADACHES AND APPLIED ICE PACKS TO REDUCE THE SWELLING OF HER HEAD. WHILE MY WIFE IS OK NOW, SHE COULD HAVE BEEN MORE SERIOUSLY HURT BY THIS POORLY DESIGNED CAR FEATURE. THIS REPRESENTS A SAFETY HAZARD IN THE AUTOMOBILE. *TR

NHTSA ID

10692765

Incident

Feb 8, 2015

Mileage

7,500 mi

IN OCTOBER OF 2013 I LEASED A 2014 MERCEDES E350. THE VEHICLE HAD BEEN PARKED OVERNIGHT AT MY HOME ON 12/25/13 AND UPON ENTERING THE VEHICLE ON 12/26/13, I NOTICED A LARGE CRACK EXTENDING APPROXIMATELY 15 INCHES FROM THE BOTTOM OF THE DRIVER'S SIDE WINDSHIELD WIPER AND UP TO THE CENTER PORTION OF THE WINDSHIELD. WHEN I PARKED THE VEHICLE AT MY HOME ON 12/25/13 THIS LARGE 15 INCH CRACK DID NOT EXIST. I TOOK THE VEHICLE TO THE MERCEDES DEALERSHIP ON 12/27/13 AND WAS TOLD THE HUGE CRACK IN THE WINDSHIELD WAS CAUSED BY A SMALL IMPACT, ABOUT THE DIAMETER OF A PENCIL POINT JUST BELOW THE WINDSHIELD WIPER. THE EXTREMELY SMALL PENCIL POINT DIAMETER IMPACT CAUSED THE WINDSHIELD TO DEVELOP THE CRACK OVERNIGHT WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED AT MY HOME, SINCE THE LARGE CRACK DIDN'T EXIST WHEN I LAST EXITED MY VEHICLE AT MY HOME ON 12/25/13. I BELIEVE THAT IF SUCH A SMALL PENCIL POINT SIZED IMPACT AS ALLEGED BY THE DEALER, COULD CAUSE SUCH A LARGE CRACK TO DEVELOP OVERNIGHT WHILE MY VEHICLE WAS PARKED AT MY HOME, THE WINDSHIELD ITSELF IS DEFECTIVE AND THE WEAKNESS OF THE E350 WINDSHIELD POSES A SERIOUS SAFETY HAZARD. *TR

NHTSA ID

10557845

Incident

Dec 26, 2013

Mileage

1,147 mi

MY HUSBAND AND I JUST PURCHASED A 2014 MERCEDES E 350 CONVERTIBLE AND THE FIRST TIME I PLACED A STANDARD SIZE WATER BOTTLE IN THE CUP HOLDER IT FELL UNDER THE PEDALS ON THE FIRST TURN. THE CUP HOLDER ARE NOT SAFE TO USE FOR ANY CUPS OR BOTTLES. *TR

NHTSA ID

10551134

Incident

Sep 9, 2013

Mileage

15 mi