2005 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Review
Price Estimate: $590 - $956
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Average price: $7,936
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Mercedes-Benz E-Class model years
Edmunds' Expert Review
by the Edmunds Experts
Pros
- Sleek and dignified design inside and out, pleasing blend of ride and handling, sophisticated safety features, all-wheel drive available on both sedans and wagons.
Cons
- More expensive than competitors, confusing control layout, electronically controlled brakes lack progressive feel.
What’s new
Diesel fans, rejoice! After years of waiting, a Mercedes-Benz diesel is once again available in the States, as the E320 CDI joins the lineup. For now, this model is only 45-state certified, meaning that it's unavailable in California, Maine, Massachusetts, New York or Vermont. Beginning in March 2005, the base E320 becomes the E350 with the addition of a 3.5-liter V6 with 51 more horsepower. At the same time, a sport package will be added, which features upgraded suspension tuning and wheels, as well as steering wheel-mounted shift buttons. Complimentary scheduled maintenance program has been dropped for 2005.
Edmunds says
Although it costs more than its peers, a combination of excellent driving dynamics, numerous safety and luxury features and high style make the E-Class one of our favorites.
For sale near Ashburn, VA
45 listings
- 124,006 miles
- No accidents, 1 owner, personal use only
- 15 City / 23 Hwy MPG
- MZ Auto (38 mi away)
- Leather Seats
- Power Driver Seat
- Multi-Zone Climate C...
- Auto Climate Control
- Alarm
Close
Located in Winchester, VA
2005 Mercedes-Benz E-Class E500 - $6,900: Step into luxury with this 2005 Mercedes-Benz E500! Finished in a stunning blue exterior with a complementar...
AutoCheck Vehicle History Summary
Accident Free Vehicle: Yes
Personal Use Only: Yes
History Provider: AutoCheck
Title Details: Clean Title
Salvage Vehicle: No
Frame Damage: No
Theft History: No
Lemon Status: No
Free History Report: No
Features and Specs:
18 Combined MPG (15 City/23 Highway)
Listing Information:
VIN: WDBUF70J65A688894
Stock: S10310
Certified Pre-Owned: No
Listed since: 01-28-2026- 95,750 miles
- 1 accident, 2 owners, personal use only
- 18 City / 26 Hwy MPG
- Kingdom Autohaus (93 mi away)
- Leather Seats
- Power Driver Seat
- Multi-Zone Climate C...
- Auto Climate Control
- Alarm
Close
Located in Landisville, PA
Freshly serviced. One owner, no smoke or pets. Very clean inside and out. Super reliable, simple and low maintenance. A safe and comfortable ride. Lot...
AutoCheck Vehicle History Summary
Accident Free Vehicle: No
Personal Use Only: Yes
History Provider: AutoCheck
Title Details: Clean Title
Salvage Vehicle: No
Frame Damage: No
Theft History: No
Lemon Status: No
Free History Report: No
Features and Specs:
20 Combined MPG (18 City/26 Highway)
Listing Information:
VIN: WDBUF65J45A679470
Stock: 679470
Certified Pre-Owned: No
Listed since: 07-01-2024
Owners' Opinions
What Owners Like
The 2005 Mercedes-Benz E-Class is celebrated by owners for its enduring performance and distinctive blend of luxury and power. Enthusiasts revel in the car's diesel variant for its remarkable fuel efficiency, often reaching around 37 mpg on highway drives, while still delivering impressive torque and acceleration that stand out among competitors. The solid construction and classic Mercedes design give the vehicle a timeless appeal, with many owners noting the car’s ability to maintain its aesthetic charm over the years. Inside, the E-Class offers a cabin experience that combines comfort and functionality, making long drives and daily commutes equally enjoyable. Owners frequently mention the sense of safety and confidence the car inspires, crediting its stable handling and sturdy build for the peace of mind it provides. Moreover, the E-Class is often praised for its manageable running costs, particularly when maintained by skilled independent mechanics, which makes it a rewarding choice for those willing to invest in proper upkeep. Lastly, the E-Class is widely appreciated for its versatility, seamlessly transitioning from a comfortable commuter to a spirited highway cruiser with ease.
Common Issues
The 2005 Mercedes-Benz E-Class has encountered some notable pain points that have been shared by owners. Electrical and brake system issues are frequent concerns, with owners mentioning problems such as recurring warning lights and the SBC brake system exhibiting malfunctions. Some drivers have reported costly repairs and significant downtime, particularly when dealing with complex electronic integrations that require dealer attention. Fuel system failures, particularly in diesel models, have been a repeated hassle, with components such as fuel injectors needing multiple replacements. Transmission performance is another area where drivers have experienced troubles, as unexpected failures can occur, sometimes resulting in a complete transmission replacement. Additionally, the cost and difficulty of finding reliable service due to the car's sophisticated engineering have been hurdles for some owners. These challenges can lead to a mix of frustration and additional expense, particularly if the owner does not have access to a qualified mechanic familiar with Mercedes vehicles.
Final Takeaways from Everyday Drivers
The 2005 Mercedes-Benz E-Class leaves an impression of being both a thrill to drive and a dependable companion when maintained diligently. Owners often find satisfaction in the car's responsive handling and powerful acceleration, which offer an engaging driving experience even after years of use. Many appreciate the E-Class for its fuel efficiency, particularly the diesel models, which offer long-distance drivers notable savings at the pump. It's a vehicle that seamlessly combines comfort and sophistication, providing luxury features that enhance its enduring appeal. The robust build quality and classic aesthetics ensure the car remains attractive, even as it ages. While some have faced challenges with electronic glitches and maintenance costs, the consensus is that finding reliable, experienced mechanics can mitigate these issues. Overall, for those who value performance and style, the E-Class continues to deliver a gratifying experience.
Cost to Drive
Monthly estimates based on costs in Virginia
$284/mo for E-Class E320
E-Class E320
vs
$221/mo
Avg. Midsize Car
Reliability
The 2005 Mercedes-Benz E-Class has a 4 years / 50,000 miles basic warranty and 6 recalls. Below you’ll find our owner reviews.
Recalls
6 recalls foundChecking if a car has a recall is simple. Just type the car's VIN number into the NHTSA website (https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls). If there's an unrepaired recall, you'll see it there.
If a recall shows up, just call your local car dealer. They'll know about the recall and will work with the car maker to fix it for free (if the recall happened within 10 years of the car being first sold).
- Recall Number:
- 24V874000
- Manufacturer Recall Number:
- 2024120001
- Manufactured from:
- 2000-05-18 to 2010-07-19
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 33456
- Defect Description:
- Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2001-2011 C-Class, CLK, E-Class, and CLS vehicles. Please see the recall report for a complete list of models and model years. The glass sunroof panel may not be properly secured and can detach.
- Defect Consequence:
- A detached sunroof panel can become a road hazard, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Corrective Action:
- Dealers will inspect and replace the sunroof panel as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 10, 2025. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. This recall is an expansion of previous NHTSA recall number 22V-954. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2024120001/2/3.
- Recall Number:
- 22V954000
- Manufacturer Recall Number:
- 2023010004
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 131653
- Defect Description:
- Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2001-2011 C-Class, CLK, E-Class, and CLS vehicles. Please refer to MBUSA's recall report for specific vehicle model details. The glass sunroof panel may not be properly secured and may detach.
- Defect Consequence:
- A detached sunroof panel may become a road hazard, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Corrective Action:
- Dealers will inspect and replace the sunroof panel as necessary free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed February 3, 2023. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. This recall expands NHTSA recall number 19V-918. MBUSA's numbers for this recall are 2023010004, 2023010005, and 2023010006.
- Recall Number:
- 19V918000
- Manufacturer Recall Number:
- 2020040011
- Manufactured from:
- 2006-01-16 to 2006-08-21
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 747928
- Defect Description:
- Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC. (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2001-2011 vehicles. The bonding between the glass panel and the sliding roof frame may deteriorate, possibly resulting in the glass panel detaching from the vehicle. For a full list of the affected models visit: https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/rcl/2019/RMISC-19V918-4126.pdf
- Defect Consequence:
- A detached glass panel can separate from the vehicle and become a road hazard, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Corrective Action:
- MBUSA will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the glass panel bonding and replace the sliding roof, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began July 10, 2020. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2020040011.
- Recall Number:
- 08V303000
- Manufacturer Recall Number:
- 2008 07000
- Manufactured from:
- 2002-11-01 to 2007-10-31
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 404
- Defect Description:
- MERCEDES-BENZ IS RECALLING MY 2006-2008 M-CLASS, R-CLASS, MY 2005-2009 SLK-CLASS, MY 2005-2008 C-CLASS, MY 2003-2004 AND 2006-2008 CLK-CLASS, MY 2003-2008 E-CLASS, MY 2004 AND 2008 CL-CLASS, MY 2008 CLS-CLASS, MY 2004 AND 2007-2008 S-CLASS, MY 2003 G-CLASS, AND MY 2003-2004, 2006 AND 2009 SL-CLASS VEHICLES. A SOFTWARE CALIBRATION NUMBER (SCN) CODING RECEIVED ON THE AFFECTED VEHICLES DURING A RECENT WORKSHOP VISIT WAS INCORRECT. DEPENDING ON THE MODEL YEAR AND MODEL AFFECTED, THE RESULTS OF AN INCORRECT SCN CODING CAN AFFECT A NUMBER OF VEHICLE SAFETY AND EMISSION FUNCTIONS INCLUDING THE FOLLOWING TYPES OF FUNCTIONS: (1) THE FUEL GAUGE READINGS MAY BE INCORRECT; (2) A STUCK FUEL-LEVEL SENSOR MAY NOT BE DISPLAYED IN THE INSTRUMENT CLUSTER; (3) THE OBD SYSTEM MAY CAUSE THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT TO ILLUMINATE INCORRECTLY; AND, (4) THE SPEEDOMETER MAY BE OUT OF TOLERANCE.
- Defect Consequence:
- IN THE EVENT OF A VEHICLE CRASH, THE ELECTRICAL FUEL PUMP MAY NOT RECEIVE A CRASH SIGNAL THAT IS REQUIRED FOR THE FUEL PUMP TO DISCONNECT AND PREVENT FUTURE FUEL DELIVERY AS DESIGNED.
- Corrective Action:
- DEALERS WILL RECODE THE SCN FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON AUGUST 30, 2008. OWNERS MAY CONTACT MERCEDES-BENZ AT 1-800-367-6372.
- Recall Number:
- 05V133000
- Manufacturer Recall Number:
- 2005070007
- Manufactured from:
- 2001-08-01 to 2005-03-31
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 204000
- Defect Description:
- ON CERTAIN VEHICLES, THE SENSOTRONIC BRAKE CONTROL (SBC) SYSTEM MAY PREMATURELY SHIFT TO THE HYDRAULIC BACK-UP FUNCTION MODE, DUE TO DETERIORATION OF THE WIRING HARNESS CONNECTION, OR DUE TO PREMATURE FAILURE OF THE HYDRAULIC PUMP.
- Defect Consequence:
- IN THE HYDRAULIC BACK-UP MODE, THE DRIVER HAS BRAKING POWER SUFFICIENT TO STOP THE VEHICLE, ALTHOUGH GREATER BRAKE PEDAL PRESSURE IS REQUIRED AND THE BRAKE PEDAL TRAVEL WILL BE NOTICEABLY LONGER.
- Corrective Action:
- DEALERS WILL INSTALL A BRACKET AND REPLACEMENT GROUND WIRE TO THE SBC PUMP UNIT ON ALL VEHICLES FREE OF CHARGE. ADDITIONALLY DEALERS WILL INSPECT AND REPLACE THE SBC PUMP UNIT IN SL VEHICLES PRODUCED DURING A LIMITED PRODUCTION PERIOD. THE RECALL BEGAN ON AUGUST 8, 2005. OWNERS MAY CONTACT MERCEDES-BENZ AT 1-800-367-6372.
- Recall Number:
- 04V296000
- Manufacturer Recall Number:
- 2004050014
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 143387
- Defect Description:
- ON CERTAIN VEHICLES, THE ELECTRONIC MONITORING SYSTEM OF THE SENSOTRONIC BRAKE CONTROL (SBC) IS DESIGNED TO MONITOR THE PRESSURE GRADIENT WITHIN THE HIGH PRESSURE LINE OF THE BRAKE SYSTEM. IF AN UNACCEPTABLE PRESSURE GRADIENT IS DETECTED, THE SYSTEM WILL SWITCH, AS IT IS DESIGNED TO DO, INTO THE HYDRAULIC FUNCTION MODE.
- Defect Consequence:
- IF VEHICLES ARE NOT ROUTINELY SERVICED AND HAVE EXTREMELY HIGH MILEAGE COMBINED WITH A HIGH NUMBER OF BRAKE ACTUATIONS, OR A HIGH BRAKE ACTUATION FREQUENCY, THE PUMP MOTOR OF THE SBC MAY RUN OUT OF PERMISSIBLE TOLERANCES, THEREBY TRIGGERING THE HYDRAULIC FUNCTION MODE.
- Corrective Action:
- DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE SBC HYDRAULIC UNIT, REPLACING IT IF NECESSARY. THE RECALL BEGAN ON OCTOBER 21M 2004. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT MERCEDES-BENZ AT 1-800-367-6372.
Warranty
4 years / 50,000 miles Basic Warranty- Basic Warranty
- 4 years / 50,000 miles
- Drivetrain Warranty
- 4 years / 50,000 miles
- Rust Warranty
- 4 years / 50,000 miles
- Roadside assistance Warranty
- unlimited years / unlimited miles
Mercedes-Benz E-Class Reviews
Owner Reviews
5(84%)
4(9%)
3(6%)
2(1%)
1(0%)
Most Helpful Owner Reviews
Trending topics
Best car I have ever owned!
5 out of 5 starscdrhoek, 03/03/2012
2005 Mercedes-Benz E-Class E320 Rwd CDI 4dr Sedan (3.2L 6cyl Turbodiesel 5A)
Totally trouble free.
This car has been as reliable as my Honda (no small feat!).
36MPG on the highway at 70 mph.
Quiet, passengers have no idea it is a diesel.
Performance is better than the gasoline version of the same car.
This is the last year with the straight 6 mercedes diesel, as bullet-proof a motor as Mercedes has ever made.
I would never consider buying another Mercedes that … wasn't a diesel.
Most Fun to Drive (Still is.)
5 out of 5 starsccelpjack, 09/21/2015
2005 Mercedes-Benz E-Class E320 Rwd CDI 4dr Sedan (3.2L 6cyl Turbodiesel 5A)
The 2005 E320 CDI is the most fun to drive car that I've ever owned in my short 70 years. This car was made to be driven and driven hard! I've owned four Mercedes vehicles-1 gas and 3 diesels and the 2005 E320 CDI is the fastest and nearly has the most torque of the three. I absolutely love to drive this car. It literally is as solid as a rock. It tracks down the highway like an … arrow and when I pass a semi at highway speeds (or a little more) it doesn't waver one single millimeter. I sometimes take it out on the Interstate and drive it just for the fun of it. I LOVE THIS CAR!
Car Performance
3.75 out of 5 starsJim Smith, 03/21/2007
2005 Mercedes-Benz E-Class E320 Rwd CDI 4dr Sedan (3.2L 6cyl Turbodiesel 5A)
Car when running correctly was wonderful, but had it in 11 times for major problems, 0 rings replaced twice, two fuel line leaks, transmission went out, and on and on. Lots of keyless go problems. Mercedes would not extend warranty for me. Dealership was very good in handling these problems, but Mercedes would not stand behind product
Still fast and a headturner after 4 yrs.
5 out of 5 starsErnest C, 11/17/2008
2005 Mercedes-Benz E-Class E500 Rwd 4dr Sedan (5.0L 8cyl 7A)
After leasing my 2005 E500, I decided to keep it. And I don't regret it. I love this car! It's black with chrome wheels and gets a lot of attention. I have not had any major problems. Other than the scheduled maintenance, I took it in for an AC glitch. I love the luxury equipments that came standard. From the GPS and satellite to the pulsating seats and xenon headlamps. And this bad boy … gets excellent gas mileage. I averaged 29.6 mpg on the highway last month, on a trip to San Francisco. City epa averages around 18- 20 mpg. I'll be keeping this till the next E Class comes out.
2005 E-Class Features & Specs
Sedan
E320
| MSRP (New) Excludes Destination Fee | $48,500 |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | Gas |
| Combined MPG | 20 MPG |
| Cost to Drive | $284/month |
| Seating | 5 seats |
| Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place | 15.9 cu.ft. |
| Drivetrain | rear wheel drive |
| Warranty | 4 years / 50,000 miles |
Safety
Key safety features on the E-Class include:
- Alarm
- Stability Control
NHTSA Overall Rating
The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.
- Frontal Barrier Crash RatingOverallNot RatedDriver4 / 5Passenger4 / 5
- Side Crash RatingOverallNot Rated
- Side Barrier RatingOverallNot RatedDriver5 / 5Passenger5 / 5
- Combined Side Barrier & Pole RatingsFront SeatNot RatedBack SeatNot Rated
- RolloverRollover5 / 5Dynamic Test ResultNo TipRisk Of RolloverNot Rated
IIHS Rating
The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.
- Small Overlap Front Driver-Side TestNot Tested
- Small Overlap Front Passenger-Side TestNot Tested
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – OriginalGood
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Side Impact Test – OriginalNot Tested
- Side Impact Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Roof Strength TestNot Tested
- Rear Crash Protection / Head RestraintAcceptable
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