Used Mercedes-Benz E-Class Estate 2002 - 2006 reliability
Category: Estate car
The Mercedes E-Class Estate is an upmarket, comfortable estate car that's also very practical
What should I look for in a used Mercedes E-Class estate?
The E-Class signals Mercedes' determination to rid itself of the reputation that 'it doesn't make 'em like it used to'. The cabin is solidly screwed together and should be rattle-free.
There are few reported mechanical faults so far, but the E320 CDI can very occasionally suffer starting problems. Instead, owners generally suffer from small and niggling - but wide-ranging - electrical glitches.
Often, they are faults with the software, with the automatic gearbox being a particular case in point. So, if you're consdering a car with an automatic gearbox, ensure that it shifts smoothly.
Also, check that the engine has a constant idle and picks up power willingly. If not, the ECU (the engine's electronic brain) may need attention.
Such gremlins should be covered under Mercedes' three-year unlimited-mileage warranty, and many cars will have had them ironed out. Either way, a full service history is absolutely vital - and ensure that the very precautionary brake-related recall checks have been carried out.
