Used Mercedes E-Class Coupé 2017-2023 reliability
Category: Coupé
The Mercedes E-Class Coupé may not be the sharpest to drive in its class, but it is supremely quiet and comfortable.
What should I look for in a used Mercedes E-Class coupe?
When viewing a used car, always follow our used car buying checklist.
It's worth inspecting the Mercedes E-Class Coupé’s sleek bodywork carefully for any scuffs, dents or poorly repaired damage, particularly around the front and rear bumpers. Many examples will have spent plenty of time in urban environments, and the car’s narrow rear window and thick pillars can make parking more challenging than you might expect. The large alloy wheels are also especially prone to kerb damage, so check each one closely for scrapes or cracks.
Inside, pay close attention to the condition of the interior. The E-Class Coupé has a high-quality interior, but heavily worn seat bolsters, scratched trim or rattling dashboard panels can suggest a hard life or high mileage. Make sure all electrical equipment works properly, too, including the infotainment display, reversing camera, heated seats and electric seat controls, as repairs to Mercedes’ electronic systems can be expensive.
It’s also important to check that the car has been serviced regularly and on schedule. A full Mercedes or specialist service history is a major plus, particularly on diesel models, where neglected maintenance can lead to costly issues with emissions equipment. During the test drive, listen for suspension knocks over rough roads and ensure the automatic gearbox shifts smoothly without hesitation. If the car is fitted with optional air suspension, confirm it raises and lowers evenly and doesn’t sit unevenly after being parked.
What are the most common problems with a used Mercedes E-Class coupe?
At the time of writing, the E-Class Coupé has six recalls listed. To check whether a car has been affected, you can contact your local Mercedes dealer. You will not need to pay for anything involving the recall.
Reason for recall
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 vehicle control.
How the manufacturer will repair: Recall all affected vehicles and replace electric power assisted steering.
Number of affected vehicles: 14
Date of recall: 20/02/2017
Reason for recall
The front right seat belt pretensioner may not conform to specification. This may adversely affect its operation in the event of an accident.
How the manufacturer will repair: Replace the pretensioner on affected vehicles.
Number of affected vehicles: 135
Date of recall: 26/10/2017
Reason for recall
The front seatbelt pretensioner 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.
How the manufacturer will repair: On affected vehicles, replace seatbelts with quality assured units.
Number of affected vehicles: 296
Date of recall: 06/02/2018
Reason for recall
The seat belt warning function does not meet the specification.
How the manufacturer will repair: Activate the correct seat belt warning scenario in the instrument cluster.
Number of affected vehicles: 45
Date of recall: 06/10/2020
Reason for recall
The behaviour of the emergency call system might not meet specifications.
How the manufacturer will repair: Update the software of the communication module for the emergency call system.
Number of affected vehicles: 108,971
Date of recall: 13/05/2021
Reason for recall
The software of the headlamps might not meet specifications.
How the manufacturer will repair: Replace the affected headlamp control units on the vehicles.
Number of affected vehicles: 3
Date of recall: 13/05/2022
Is a used Mercedes E-Class coupe reliable?
The latest What Car? Reliability Survey didn't include the E-Class Coupé, but its saloon and estate counterparts did feature in the executive car section. They both did very well, finishing in fourth place out of 23 rivals, with a score of 97.3%.
As a brand, Mercedes didn't do as well, finishing in joint 22nd place with Audi out of 30 manufacturers. That places it above Jaguar and Volkswagen, but below BMW, Lexus and Porsche.
