Used 2004 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Sedan Consumer Reviews
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Classic, Reliable, Iron-Horse, Highway Cruiser
Bought my 2004 E320 3.2 RWD Sedan 10 months ago in 2017 and it has performed everthing I expected, although driving it is as exciting as an evening at the Opera . But therein lies it's attraction. Not the fastest acceleration off the line but push the iron-horse 3.2 liter 6 while moving, and it gets going, and on the highway, this car shines. Even at 125,000 miles, this 15 year old car feels like it is 3-4 years old. I have the "leatherette" Mer-Tec interior seat material, which looks almost new. Good gas mileage for a a German mid sized luxury car. Stereo is above avg (this car has upgraded system), trunk is large, back seat and headroom good, and seats are very comfortable on long drives (but still give support. The only thing I had to repair mechanically was replacement of its engine control sensor when I purchased it used from a private seller (added new tires as well). Things that annoy are small - center cupholder is needlessly complicated in automatically rising up and unfolding. Was broken before I bought it, replaced in 2005 by two side by side stationary holders in center console. Headlights dated and not very bright compared to modern LED lamps. Driver door lock often doesn't fully lock/unlock when leaving or entering the car and using remote ("bouncing up and down twice)...commom issue - either pay several hundred dollars to get parts replaced at dealer, or wrap electrical tape around plastic lock trim piece - works until weather changes, and requires new thickness wrap depending on whether hot warm or cold...a 5 minute fix 2-4 times per year. Highly recommended if you want ta car that is great on the highway, will last 100s of thousands of miles if serviced on schedule, and has classic lines that never go out of style. If you want performance, get a BMW 5 series (Ive owned a 3, 5, and four 7 series from new - this car rides more like a 7 than a 5 series). Glad I purchased this car
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Faulty Electrical
The car has been in the service department to replace control unit for radio. Problem continued and another electrical part was the problem. Cost to repair is excessive. Also the remote door locks failed and a sensor for hood latch failed. Fun car to drive when it it not in repair shop.
- E320 SedanMSRP: $3,995192 mi away
- E55 AMG SedanMSRP: $9,000215 mi away
- E320 SedanMSRP: $2,995225 mi away
11years a slave !
bought @ 9k miles in 05 driven daily,great family wagon and stylish no major mech difficulty. 72k still as comfortable and sips the gas@22mpg 😎
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Great car
I love this car. Handles great, comfortable. This is my fourth car in same E series. Mileage is better than posted. I average about 21 in mostly city driving. On the highway, I get around 28. Surprises me, but duplicated over many trips and years of driving. Complaint: the air conditioning is not great. We live in Arizona where this matters 6 months of the year. Unit is very slow to cool down the car, is very noisy when full on, and is inadequate in rear seats.
Mercedes should be ashamed of their internal build quality
First, the engine, and ride have been great, but the internal comfort features on this $60K have been terrible. 4 front cup holders replaced @$80 each Keyless go doors dont' work and need repair and redesign Replaced thee rear DOOR latch on the right passenger side so my daughter could get out of the vehicle $685!. Rear sunscreen not functioning (MB are notorious for this problem, yet the still don't have a better design from Bosch). First and Last MB. I bought the car for my wife who always wanted one, but never again. Toyota's are much bettter built. As a person of German heritage, I am ashamed at this vehicle! Embarrassment to not stand behind these problems out of warranty
2004 E320 SPORT
There is nothing like a Mercedes-Benz. Here is the bottom line. Mercedes-Benz, like all cars, must be properly maintained inside and out for it to perform and be relied upon during its long life. These are highly advanced vehicles which deserve much respect, and that means no cutting corners when it comes to maintenance and repairs. Most people complaining about their Benz either obtained it from poor care or have not been providing the proper care . I will admit, it does take a financial commitment to make this happen, but so does the proper care for a Honda Civic if you wish to have it running like new at 120K miles. I am blessed to have my 04 E320 Sport and its simply a great car.
Only one reason for not giving it 5 stars!
I bought my E500 used from the original owner 4 months ago. It had 168,000 at the time of purchase. I have put around 1000 miles on it in a few months. Not driving much due to COVID19. The positive things to mention about the car are as follows. (1) POWER- the 302hp M113 V8 is fantastic. I bought the car for the engine and it has delivered. Every review and youtube mechanic video speaks very highly on the topic of the M113 V8. My brother who owns an auto repair shop in Atlanta bought a 2004 SL500 with the same engine and he NEVER would buy a car with an engine that has a bad reputation. (2) Body Style- This car is elegant and beautiful. Meaning... pleasingly graceful and stylish in appearance. My Mercedes Benz came in Uridium Silver and I love the color. (3) Comfort- The interior is spacious and very well designed. It comes with an AUX cord receptor in the glove box to hook up any cell phone. Also a 5 disc cd changer is hidden in James Bond like fashion in the center console. Very cool. Now for the bad part. Really I have only one negative and its a negative that I actually enjoy. The Air Ride Suspension! The car feels a little heavy on the road so the air suspension offers a very relaxing ride. Only one problem. Its really expensive to repair. In the short time that I've owned the car I have had to repair the front left air strut and the left rear as well. The front left cost me $1200 and the left rear was $950. George at G&M Motors in Culver City CA did the work. He is one of the best in the USA let alone California so the price and work are on point. I'm extreemly pleased with the car when it is on the road. Here is the problem, when one of the front air struts go out on the car... your entire front end collapses leaving you unable to drive for the most part. You can go around a block slowly but you really can't drive much distance at all when the front end fails. The rear is alittle different. It will rise up and the car is drivable for a period of time but it definitely needs to be changed ASAP! The other thing that can go wrong is the pump, and if the pump goes you're out of business. So... at $1200 per side in the front, $950 per side in the rear, plus another $850 for a pump... you are looking at a $5150 dollar suspension on a $4000 dollar car. There's your problem right there. When a B service is $1100 and an A service (oil change) is $200 you are talking some SERIOUS coin. I don't have a wife or kids at 40 years old so my girlfriend is named Mercedes and she is expensive but she treats me fine. But if you are raising a family or money is tight be careful buying this car. Find out if this work is done before you buy it! It's serious business when it goes out. I do love my car so for me it's worth it. But its no joke.
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Back to BMW
How about 6 flat tires in 14 months!?! Have not had 6 flats in 30 years of driving. Low profile tires can't handle any kind of pothole. Major reliability problem. Also - quirkiness of accelration and braking makes driving experience less enjoyable. Strange buzzing and vibration from various motors also hurts the experience. Too many weird characteristics for a $60k+ dream car. I'm selling and buying a Bimmer.
Not worth the $$$$
Generally, it is an "OK" vehicle. Having said that, "OK" is not good enough for a MB vehicle. Based on the brand and the price, I am very disappointed in both my MBs. Our E-Class had to have a part in the heater replaced, which was several hundred dollars. That repair was shortly followed by the front suspension wearing out, which cost a couple thousand dollars. All these repairs were needed prior to 80,000 miles. I wouldn't expect these type of issues from "any" high end luxury vehicle, much less a Mercedes. The seats are extremely firm, liken to sitting on a cinder block. We also own a ML, which has spent most of it's life in the garage, costing us thousands of dollars.
E 500
This is my 3rd E Class. I bought this car used with 21000 miles. It now has 25000 miles and the tires are completely shot. Car is too heavy for tires. I would advise everybody to not upgrade with the Continentals installed at factory. Possibly go for Michelin Pilots. Car consisently drifts to the right. Radio, GPS sometimes freezes. Sometimes engine very noisy but cannot hear inside car.Tend to hit the cruise control stalk by mistake sometimes. Car ejects gas hose aggressively when full resulting in spillage, paint damage, etc. I chose to forgive all of these flaws because of the superb transmission and tremedous power. Handling in the sport mode is awesome for a car of this size. Get the extended warranty.
Benz in Trouble
The E class, although elegant, beautifull and world class, has been very disappointing. Reliability, simply stinks! Performance is unpredictible and truck like at times. This is the E5004matic, with the adjustable/adaptive suspension that is at the sport II mode is worse than my replaced Acura MDX 2004. Comfort is subjective, however, the level of noise inside the car is a Ford F150 on a train crossing. The Hydro nonsense brakes are the worst I've had on a car, unpredictible, you simply do not have a clue everytime you want to stop how much pressure you should be applying. The car sticker is 70grand+. That is the problem?! for that much cash EVERY car in its class is a better one?
Excellent second car
Have owned it for10 years, just a great solid quality car!
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The "Water Buffalo" Just Keeps Going Effortlessly
We've nicknamed our E320 the "Water Buffalo" simply because it's the work horse. She is as reliable as any car I've owned (and I've owned a lot!), just gets you to your destination effortlessly and smoothly, pretty comfy ride, handles well, and is all round a good solid car. Even in Los Angeles where everybody drives fancy cars, the valet still parks our E320 in the front. It just looks like an elegant and classy car.
Platinum Blue Beauty
I attended an investment seminar held on the dealership's showroom floor with no intention of changing cars. It was love at first sight. Upon returning 2 days later, it was being delivered as I drove up. Had one trucked in for me. I have gotten many compliments on its appearance, and the ownership experience thus far has been positive. It has power far in excess of ordinary driving demands, but that reserve is there in case of an emergency. The service department has been very helpful when called upon. Had to replace a strut early on, and the Pirelli's (all 4) feathered around the tread edges creating road noise. Rotated right-left hoping that reversing the rotation will smooth out the feathering
Very satisfied
This car envelops you with luxury like very few cars can. The interior looks hand-made, and the controls have a pleasing action and response. I was turned off when I first saw some posts regarding reliability problems with this model, but after checking the first owner's service records I didn't see anything to worry about. Since then I've only had one major issue (air-ride failure) which was covered under warranty. This car has so many unique and complex features, it's bound to spend some time in the shop. That shouldn't stop you from experiencing E-Class ownership.
Bad electrical system
Great car fun to drive. Lots of electrical problems, can't remember how many times I have had the radio repaired or replaced, still not fixed. Don't waste your money on this one.
Electrical nightmare
Car has been and electrical and mechanical nightmare. Dealer had car for almost 2 months trying to fix charging problem. Software upgrades and failures galore. The dealer has been fine, but the overall quaility is terrible. I have owned Mercedes for over 20 years, and this thing is a lemon.
Worst vehicle
After owning Lexus and BMW I was excited when MB offered the E500 4- matic. This vehicle has been nothing but a disappointment. The transmission is not smooth and overrevs. At times there is a delay when starting to accelerate that is unpredictable and dangerous. The braking system is noisy and very hard to adapt to in order to come to a smooth stop. The a/c system is a joke. When it starts to run on hot day it revs so loud people outside the vehicle stare thinking something is wrong. I have had this car back to the dealer numerous times and I am always told that is just the way the car is! I would never recommend this vehicle.
Like a rock.
Second buy of E320 series. This one the best, Love dealership and have been careful to adhere to maintenance schedule. Drive long distances and car is quiet and powerful. Ride is stable and responsive. Small electrical problems, radio ect but not a bother. No major repairs, highly recommend. Car is safe in my opinion. I have an extended warranty issued direct by Mercedes and it does provide comfort that if the day comes for some serious trouble that it will be taken care of, at no cost.
Everything I expected from a Mercedes
In the process of choosing a luxury sport sedan, I went to all the usual suspects, but each had its downfall.(Lexus LS430 = bland styling, BMW 5series was too sporty, Infiniti M35 had a cheap detailing)So I was left with two possiblities, the new Acura RL, coming in '05, or the redesigned E320. I choose the E320. Its interior was of an unmatched style and quality. The exterior has the right amount of sport and luxury. And that three-pointed star sealed the deal. So far, I have not have one single problem, and hopefully it will say that way. The dealership treated me as though I was a prince when it was sent in for service. The power is more than adequate, and it is all I wanted.
Not a lot to complain about
This car is comfortable as you would expect from a sedan but it also has a sporty feel. I highly recommend to the Distronics option. The three ashtrays are a waste of space which could have been put to better use for decent cupholders. The phone system is also a waste since it requires you to use their overpriced phone. The transmission is flawless.
Mercedes E 500 4matic
The car is perfect. The car just goes once you put your foot on the gas. The GPS is amazing. The directions it gives you are way better than BMW's GPS system. Other features I like are distronic, it's really helpful on a long drive.I also like the push button starter altough you could get mixed-up when changing the gears. Also the solar panels are great for hot days because when you leave the car outside for a long time the solar panel would use it's energy to keep the car cool.
Looks good but stays in the shop
After 3 years of owning a C320 I decided to upgrade to a E500. My C320 visited the workshop more than any of my cars but I thought the new models might be better. Well within 24-hours of delivery the car was on a tow truck. The alternater had died within the 1st 100 miles of the car's life. The fact that the factory and dealer tests did not find the bad alternater scared the hell out of me. What can I expect from this car?
Never Buy Another One
Mercedes has lost its quality of years past. I purchased my E500 and for two years had nothing but problems with it. After 60,000 miles and $10,000 in repairs I traded it in for a Lexus.
Never again!
What a nightmare! It's just so much fun to drive a 6 year old Mercedes with only 52,000 miles that doesn't have an operational radio. There is a widely known issue with the radio with these vehicle (go ahead and Google 2004 e500 radio problems) yet no one at MB cares! The dealers won't go to battle for you even though they acknowledge it's a widely known issue. MB Customer Care? Well aren't they the most pompous and arrogant individuals on the planet. Go buy something else, there are far better luxury automobiles out there.
Beware, SBC brakes, a nightmare you don't need !
This car was the embodiment of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde. Be very, very careful before you purchase, these cars can be a dream or a nightmare. The SBC braking system looks good on paper, feels good when it's working, but when it breaks you better balance your checkbook !
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Dream car
I always wAnted a benz. It was my dream car. Fabulous unique color. Love. She has taken care of me.
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great car, poorly built
love the ride, handling, features, styling, etc. this is my first european sedan-- friends warned me about quality problems but i bought it anyway because i really liked the overall vehicle ride and impression. however, its been recalled twice and the rocker arms need to be replaced. all this at 20,000 mi. mb needs to get its act together on build quality! if i were not now gunshy about quality/reliability, i d have almost nothing but good things to say. only complaints about performance and design are power/acceleration and the cupholders-- agree with other reviewers they are a little hokey.
2004 E320 SPORT
I left a review here in March of 2008 when I first bought my Mercedes-Benz. All I have to say is after two years and 28,000 miles I have NOT been left on the side of the road, not even close. All I do is follow the maintenance schedule (the car's computer tells U exactly when to take her in for her maintenance) and put high octane petrol - that's it. By the way, I would take it only to a dealer with CERTIFIED technicians. Also, have a low deductible on your auto insurance. I had a "fender-bender" which cost $11,000 to repair. I know, it's crazy, right? You gotta love MB.
don't buy this piece of junk
having spent over $60,000 I expected more.....car came in with incorrect color. The car's performance is great - and fun to drive. BUT, the reliability is not worth it! It's been back to the dealer countless time for electrical problems (phone/audio/locks). Wanted navigation at time of purchase - was not available. Dealer said I could add later - turned out to be a lie. Dealer is pathetic and arrogant. About to turn in for a competitor's car - unlikely to buy another MB. (this was my second). Don't waste your money on this car - better choices out there today.
E320
This was the best buying experience I've had in 45 years. The dealership was a pleasure to work with and made every effort to work with me. We traded in a 2002 BMW 525 because of the poor dealership and a lot of little annoying and missing features. The Mercedes E320 gave us all these little things we were disappointed about on the BMW at no extra charge. The Mercedes has an outstanding ride and handles as well as the BMW. We were also very disappointed in the new 2004 BMW 525 design. In conslusion, the E320 was a little higher priced, but, we didn't have to add anything. So, in the final analyis, it was not any higher priced. You get what you pay for.
Mercedes-benz E-500 !
It's perfect ! Two thumbs up ! I'll always trust in Mercedes-Benz,especially in E-class.
Beautiful but Fragile
I have owned several Mercedes during my life time and I can telll you this has been my worst experience with MB. Three blown tires, broken A arms, broken subframe, bransmission issues and not to mentioned expensive parts and repair costs. This vehicle was made to be driven on air not on realistic day to day roads. I will not recommend this vehicle. Very beautiful but fragile!
Starting to rethink this purchase
I've had the car for 6 months, purchased 2nd hand without a warranty. Air system is already giving problems to the tune of $2300. That is the cost of one strut and one air compressor. While licking my wounds from this event, I may purchase an extended warranty and keep the car for my wife's sake or get rid of it and get a 5 series BMW, what I should have bought in the first place. I'm just an average Joe with a love for German cars but who can afford repairs like this? No matter who you are.
Beware of Mercedes Warranty
I bought a new (2004) E320 Sedan with Appearance and Luxury packages. It's very stylish but has been in the shop way too often. The air conditioning (horrible smell) which Mercedes was reluctant to correct first time stunk. Mercedes - simply flushing the system does not work - it needs to be replaced. Worse was to follow - the Mercedes Dealership damaged my computer during yet another visit to the shop (brakes recall) and it was replaced with a used part. Yes, a USED PART on a new car. I called Mercedes USA and was referred me to my new car warranty which gives them the option to do just that - replace parts with used or reconditioned ones. How cheap can you get Mercedes?
Love this car!
We picked up our car in Germany and had a ball driving it on the autobaun. We did the Mercedes-Benz Black Forest trip which was excellent! Ride is great, trunk space is spacious, everyone loves the interior halo lights. Minor complaint is the light interior, that was the only choice at the time. All in all we get a lot of compliments on this car. Our previous car was a Jaguar XJ8 and it received a lot of compliments on looks, but this car gets a broader scope of compliments!
Is this a LEMON?
After saving $63,000 and waiting 3 months for delivery, I'm not happy at all. At delivery, both seat backs was loose, AC auto makes loud noise in operation, engine noise is excessive, at low cruising car bucks and launches when accelerating, sun roof electronics are not functioning as designed, there is a shuttering sound coming from the out side of car at speeds over 60. All this and I only had the car 6 weeks! What happened to Quality insurance and delivery inspections. Im taking this car back to dealer calming I got a LEMON!!!!!
A Mind of its Own
Was very excited for the new E320 to become available. That was the last excitement I experienced.First,imagine driving at around 10mph and having the transmission start fluctuating between 1st and 2nd gear causing the car to buck..service dept says that is normal ..second,imagine trying to simply accelerate slowly fwd after backing out of a parking space and there is delayed response and then the engine almost stalling....Service dept says this is normal..very disappointed with the entire Mercedes experience.Please get Volvo to bring back my S-70 "box" that I so loved for 8years+ (2cars). Mercedes and my E320 have " A Mind of its Own" !
7th MBZ and 4th E Class
Purchased the 2003 E Class 4,000 miles ago. Came from a 2000 BMW 528i and 2002 Audi A4. The E is certainly NOT a BMW, but does not purport to be. It is quiet, very comfortable (a little too slushy, but not objectionable) and has all the necessary toys. So far, other than a very small rattle in the overhead lighting array, it is absolutely silent. Getting 27 MPG on the road to Palm Springs. The Audi was noisy and very rough riding (sport package with regular non-low profile tires). That's why I dumped the Audi after 9 months. It was a pleasure getting back to a truly luxurious and quiet automobile. Build quality is getting better and so are the interior materials.
E 320 sedan
A wonderful auto in most ways, well built and great on the road. Better gas mileage than expected.
Tire Problems
This is a fine vehicle, overall, a joy to drive and comfortable. But the tires that came with it, Continental ContiTouring Contacts are clearly substandard for this vehicle. With only 7000 miles the rear tires were nearly ready for replacement. The front tires might have lasted another 4 to 5 thou. I replaced them with Bridgestone Potenza G008 tires and notice no difference in ride quality or noise. No satisfaction whatever from MB of North America, kind of a "take it and stuff it" attitude.
Great Mid-Range Benz
Sold my S500 after 2 years because I wanted something a little smaller and sportier. This car is quick, agile and a blast to drive. The 7 speed auto is good, but shifts a little strange from standstill or slow start. Handling is very tight and interior is quiet - nice insulation. Stereo isn't as good as the "S" and the ride is not as cushy - but both are well within accepable ranges. Only problem on delivery was car needed slight alignment. If you're thinking of an "E", you simply can't go wrong with the 500.
Fulfilled Expectations
I purchased a 2004 E500 4matic last June. it was built for me to my specs. I did not get the nav system and other electronic bells and whistles, but ordered nearly everything else including the Sport and the Winter Package. I had an 84 4Matic which was fraught with trouble. Transfer cases going every 6000 miles. Mercedes was terrific about dealing with this even after warranty, but it sent me to Audi as my next car. Convinced that the new E Class and the four wheel systems had been revisited, I ordered one. Performance, handling, comfort, all the things that matter are superb. The car is mechanically flawless so far. Incredible in Colorado's snowy and high altitude driving conditions.
E500
Excellant quality and workmanship
better than 03
I had an 03 and it had many problems. I decided to get the 04 so I could get gps and this car is solid. Everything works well, and the car has a good amount of power.
Great Drive
After having a 2000 S500 and BMWs since 1975, this car is the pick of the litter. Much more of a drivers car than the S500, it is a kick to drive. The car is a bit smaller inside than the previous car, but certainly comfortable and plush as expected. ..Downsizing maybe, but a lot more fun!
one of the worlds greatest sedans
a really beautiful car, awesome power, if ur going for the e500 at least. 302hp and 330 lbs per torgue at your toes and finger tips. great comfort up front, not as much in the back, but still more then enough space.
the worst car i ever had
From the second week i bought this car. I have nothing but problems. I usually keep my cars for 5 years. I CAN"T wait to get rid of this car. It drives like a pick up truck the rear view mirror fell down. The breaks clunk. What can i say except that the list can keep going,,,I am not happy at all
E500 - 5 yrs later - I'd buy another
Bought the car new 5 years ago and now have 40k miles. Two minor problems fixed under warranty. What is amazing is the combination of performance, comfort and fuel economy. Highway is an easy 27mpg at 75 to 80 mph and yes, its the 500. Around town is 18mpg. So why the gas guzzler tax? Very comfortable and still looks virtually new. Main annoyance is noise from a pump for the brake system. Aside from that, quiet and dependable. Radio and in-dash CD player work and sound great, although the layout of the radio is a bit quirky at first.
Very Solid Stiff Ride
After having a 2002 C 240, I decided to upgrade to the 04 E320. I am rarely ever in the shop. With the C Class I was there Twice a week and finally had the car bought back under the lemon law. The E320 is a stiff Sold Ride with not enough power. The Styling is Very Classy but Plain. Its a nice looking car, but only when real clean and in nice colors. Gas Mileage is excellent and Naviagtion is a Life Saver. Handles excellent. I think I would have been 100% Satisfied if I got the E- 500. If I had the power, I could not say anything bad. I will be upgrading to the E500 in 16 Months. I woudl recommend this car to anyone looking for the finest 4 Door Sedan Made.