2003 MERCEDES-BENZ E500
3 recalls — 143 complaints — 63 TSBs
24V874000 Nov 19, 2024
VISIBILITY:SUN/MOON ROOF ASSEMBLY
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.
Consequence
A detached sunroof panel can become a road hazard, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
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 reca... Read more
22V954000 Dec 23, 2022
VISIBILITY:SUN/MOON ROOF ASSEMBLY
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.
Consequence
A detached sunroof panel may become a road hazard, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
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, 2... Read more
19V918000 Dec 20, 2019
VISIBILITY:SUN/MOON ROOF ASSEMBLY
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/... Read more
Consequence
A detached glass panel can separate from the vehicle and become a road hazard, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
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.
Complaint Statistics
143 total complaints
6 crashes 8 injuries
Top Reported Components
| Component | Complaints |
|---|---|
| SERVICE BRAKES | 29 |
| FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM | 27 |
| FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE | 14 |
| SUSPENSION | 12 |
| SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC | 6 |
| AIR BAGS | 6 |
| SUSPENSION:FRONT | 6 |
| POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION | 5 |
| POWER TRAIN | 5 |
| UNKNOWN OR OTHER | 5 |
STRUCTURE:BODY
Jan 23, 2025
Incident date: Nov 15, 2024
2017 Ford F-350 with door latches that freeze. There are multiple symptoms which occur whenever the temperature drops below 32 degrees: (1) The door will not open when door handle pulled, (2) the door opens but latch sticks in the "open" position which does not allow door to latch closed, or (3) the... Read more
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
Apr 21, 2024
Incident date: Apr 2, 2024
Speed control/transmission goes out while driving which results in my speedometer dropping down to zero and my RPMs going up. I have to completely shut my vehicle iff and wait a moment to restart it. Sometimes it fixes it and sometimes it doesn’t. It happens quite often, not everyday but several... Read more
SERVICE BRAKES
Sep 7, 2022
Incident date: Sep 7, 2022
The contact owns a 2003 Mercedes-Benz E500. The contact stated that there was leakage coming from the driver’s and the passenger’s side sunroof. The contact stated that the vehicle was taken to a local dealer. The contact was informed that the only warranty would be for the module. The contact s... Read more
AIR BAGS
Jul 1, 2022
Incident date: Jun 30, 2022
The contact owns a 2003 Mercedes-Benz E500. The contact stated while driving 75 MPH, the air bags on the driver’s side of the vehicle inadvertently deployed without warning. After the air bags were deployed, a message showing an air bag malfunction was displayed on the instrument panel. The contac... Read more
1 injured
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
May 16, 2022
Incident date: May 6, 2022
I OWN A 2003 MERCEDES BENZ E500. MY WIFE WAS DRIVING THE CAR ABOUT 25 MPH .SHE PUT ON THE BRAKES AND A BRIGHT RED SIGNAL APPEARED ON THE SCREEN AND THE CAR BRAKES FAILED .TO AVOID AN ACCIDENT ,MY WIFE DROVE INTO AN UPHILL PARKING LOT WHERE THE CAR CAME TO A STOP WITHOUT THE CARS BRAKES HELP .AFTER W... Read more
SERVICE BRAKES
May 16, 2022
Incident date: May 6, 2022
I OWN A 2003 MERCEDES BENZ E500. MY WIFE WAS DRIVING THE CAR ABOUT 25 MPH .SHE PUT ON THE BRAKES AND A BRIGHT RED SIGNAL APPEARED ON THE SCREEN AND THE CAR BRAKES FAILED .TO AVOID AN ACCIDENT ,MY WIFE DROVE INTO AN UPHILL PARKING LOT WHERE THE CAR CAME TO A STOP WITHOUT THE CARS BRAKES HELP .AFTER W... Read more
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
May 3, 2022
Incident date: Apr 29, 2022
The contact owns a 2003 Mercedes-Benz E500. The contact stated while driving approximately 25 MPH, the brakes became inoperable. The brake warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the local dealer who diagnose the failure to be the Sensotronic Brake Control (SBC) electronic braking sy... Read more
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE: AUTOMATIC EMERGENCY BRAKING
Nov 2, 2021
Incident date: Aug 3, 2020
I am in immediate need of a confirmation that Mercedes Benz USA or any dealership performed a Sensotronic Brake Control services on my 2003 E500 Mercedes Benz relative to Safety Recall #2005110001. Is MZBUSA required to report ALL vehicles that were serviced under this recall? Please , if service ... Read more
SUSPENSION
Jul 22, 2021
Incident date: Jul 5, 2021
The contact owns a 2003 Mercedes-Benz E500. The contact stated while driving 45 mph, the air bag suspension detached from the subframe which caused the shock to lean into the tire. The rear driver’s side wheel ceased turning. The contact stated that there was no warning light illuminated. The vehi... Read more
ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
Oct 1, 2020
Incident date: Aug 12, 2020
MZB ISSUED A 25-YEAR-WARRANTY/SAFETY RECALL EXTENSION ON MY 2003 E500 MZB CAR; #2005110001 -FOR THE SENSOTRONIC BRAKE SYSTEM. AROUND AUGUST 2020 I WAS DRIVING ON SURFACE STREET WHEN SUDDENLY THE DASHBOARD STARTED FLASHING RED WARNINGS AND THE SPEED IMMEDIATELY REDUCED AND TRANSMISSION WAS LOCKED IN... Read more
SERVICE BRAKES
Oct 1, 2020
Incident date: Aug 12, 2020
MZB ISSUED A 25-YEAR-WARRANTY/SAFETY RECALL EXTENSION ON MY 2003 E500 MZB CAR; #2005110001 -FOR THE SENSOTRONIC BRAKE SYSTEM. AROUND AUGUST 2020 I WAS DRIVING ON SURFACE STREET WHEN SUDDENLY THE DASHBOARD STARTED FLASHING RED WARNINGS AND THE SPEED IMMEDIATELY REDUCED AND TRANSMISSION WAS LOCKED IN... Read more
SERVICE BRAKES
Aug 20, 2020
Incident date: Aug 19, 2020
VEHICLE STARTED FLASHING A RED WARNING SIGN WHILE DRIVING AT WHICH POINT I LOST ALL BRAKES IT WAS ONLY RIGHT THAT I USED A RUNAWAY RAMP AT THE MOMENT OTHERWISE THE CAR WOULD HAVE NOT STOPPED. I TURNED OFF THE VEHICLE AND THEN UPON RESTARTING EVERYTHING BRAKE RELATED DISAPPEARED. ALSO THIS HAS HAPPEN... Read more
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
Jul 22, 2020
Incident date: Jul 20, 2020
WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS ON THE HIGHWAY THE CAR LOST POWER. PULLED OVER FOR VISUAL INSPECTION, NOTICED THE FUEL WAS LEAKING RAPIDLY. IMMEDIATELY SHUT OFF THE CAR. HAD VEHICLE TOWED TO LOCAL MERCEDES BENZ DEALERSHIP. DEALER VERIFIED THE TANK WAS LEAKING.
STEERING
Dec 6, 2019
Incident date: Dec 2, 2019
I WAS MAKING A RIGHT TURN ONTO A CITY STREET WHEN I HEARD A CLICK/ CRACK, THE INSTRUMENT PANEL LIT UP, AND THE STEERING WHEEL LOCKED. I WAS NOT ABLE TO STOP THE CAR IN TIME AND HIT A PARKED CAR. THE ENGINE DID NOT TURN OFF WHEN THIS HAPPENED. IT WASN'T A CASE OF THE POWER STEERING FAILING BECAUSE I ... Read more
Crash
1 injured
SUSPENSION
Mar 16, 2019
Incident date: Nov 3, 2018
AIR SUSPENSION LOWER CAUSED CAR STOPPED WHILE DRIVING. THIS AIR SUSPENSION HAS SERIOUS PROBLEM NEEDS RECALL DUE TO DEFECTIVE DESIGN. SPRINGS HAVE BEEN REPLACED SEVERAL TIMES WITH THE SAME PROBLEM. THIS PROBLEM WILL CAUSE ACCIDENTS WHILE DRIVING.
1 injured
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Oct 4, 2018
Incident date: Apr 21, 2018
SBC ABS HYDRAULIC UNIT FAILED NEEDED REPLACEMENT & SWITCH MB SAID THIS WAS NOT UNDER WARRANTY FOR MY YR VEHICLE. MERCEDES BENZ FINALLY TOOK OWNERSHIP OF THIS PROBLEM AND STATED IN DOCUMENT AUGUST 2018 THAT THEY ARE COVERING THE COST AND LABOR TO THIS PROBLEM FOR UP TO 25 YEARS IN MODEL YEAR. BUT Y... Read more
SERVICE BRAKES
Oct 4, 2018
Incident date: Apr 21, 2018
SBC ABS HYDRAULIC UNIT FAILED NEEDED REPLACEMENT & SWITCH MB SAID THIS WAS NOT UNDER WARRANTY FOR MY YR VEHICLE. MERCEDES BENZ FINALLY TOOK OWNERSHIP OF THIS PROBLEM AND STATED IN DOCUMENT AUGUST 2018 THAT THEY ARE COVERING THE COST AND LABOR TO THIS PROBLEM FOR UP TO 25 YEARS IN MODEL YEAR. BUT Y... Read more
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Jul 2, 2018
Incident date: Jul 13, 2009
THE SBC IS THE PROBLE , AND I BELICE RHAT IT IS / WAS ON RECALL, I WANT YOU TO FIX THE PROBLEM . THANKS
SERVICE BRAKES
Jul 2, 2018
Incident date: Jul 13, 2009
THE SBC IS THE PROBLE , AND I BELICE RHAT IT IS / WAS ON RECALL, I WANT YOU TO FIX THE PROBLEM . THANKS
SUSPENSION
Dec 15, 2017
Incident date: Jun 1, 2017
AIR SUSPENSION - THE ENTIRE VEHICLE HAS FALLEN ALMOST TO THE GROUND DUE TO DEFECTIVE AIR SUSPENSION(FRONT AND REAR). THIS STARTED WITHIN A YEAR AFTER I PURCHASED THE VEHICLE FROM A MERCEDEZ BENZ DEALERSHIP BUT DID NOT REALIZE HOW SERIOUS THE PROBLEM WAS UNTIL THE LAST COUPLE OF YEARS. AS OF TODAY,... Read more
SERVICE BRAKES
Aug 14, 2017
Incident date: Feb 1, 2017
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 MERCEDES-BENZ E500. WHILE DRIVING, THE RED BRAKE WARNING INDICATOR ILLUMINATED AND A "DECREASE BRAKING" MESSAGE APPEARED. WHEN ATTEMPTING TO APPLY THE BRAKES, THE BRAKE PEDAL TRAVELED TO THE FLOORBOARD. THE CONTACT PULLED OVER AND TURNED OFF THE VEHICLE. APPROXIMATELY FIV... Read more
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Jul 11, 2017
Incident date: May 28, 2017
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 MERCEDES-BENZ E500. WHILE DRIVING, THE BRAKES FAILED AND THE DRIVER WAS UNABLE TO IMMEDIATELY STOP THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE DEALER (MERCEDES-BENZ OF NORTH HOUSTON LOCATED IN HOUSTON, TEXAS) WHO INDICATED THAT THE HYDRAULIC SBC BRAKE PUMP WAS FAULTY AND NE... Read more
SERVICE BRAKES
Jul 11, 2017
Incident date: May 28, 2017
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 MERCEDES-BENZ E500. WHILE DRIVING, THE BRAKES FAILED AND THE DRIVER WAS UNABLE TO IMMEDIATELY STOP THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE DEALER (MERCEDES-BENZ OF NORTH HOUSTON LOCATED IN HOUSTON, TEXAS) WHO INDICATED THAT THE HYDRAULIC SBC BRAKE PUMP WAS FAULTY AND NE... Read more
SERVICE BRAKES
May 8, 2017
Incident date: Mar 11, 2017
WHILE DRIVING DOWN STREET BRAKES ENGAGED ON THEIR OWN. PULLED CAR OVER DUE TO WARNING LIGHT FOR BRAKE MALFUNCTION AS CAR DOWN SHIFTED ITSELF. TRIED TO DRIVE CAR ONCE STOPPED AND BRAKES WERE STILL ENGAGED NOT ALLOWING CAR TO OPERATE. CAR WAS TOWED TO DEALERSHIP. THEY SAID THE SBC HYDRAULIC PUMP WAS D... Read more
SUSPENSION
May 3, 2017
Incident date: Sep 28, 2016
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 MERCEDES-BENZ E500. WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED, THE "STOP DRIVING" AND "VEHICLE DRIVING LOW" WARNING MESSAGES DISPLAYED. WHILE SITTING IN THE VEHICLE, THE CONTACT NOTICED THAT THE FRONT DRIVER SIDE SEEMED LOW. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A DEALER WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THA... Read more
SERVICE BRAKES
Mar 7, 2017
Incident date: Oct 1, 2016
I RECENTLY FOUND OUT THAT THE CARS BUILT BETWEEN 2003 & 2006 WERE BUILT WITH THE SENSORMATIC BRAKE CONTROL UNIT OR SBC. MERCEDES DISCOVERED THAT THIS BRAKE SYSTEM HAD A LIFESPAN BASED ON THE NUMBER OF TIMES THE BRAKES WERE PRESSED SO THEY EXTENDED THE WARRANTY ON THIS UNIT TO TEN YEARS. FROM WHAT I ... Read more
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
Dec 22, 2016
Incident date: Dec 22, 2016
STRONG FUEL ODOR COMING FROM VEHICLE WHEN TANK FULL. DOESN'T HAPPEN IF TANK IS 3/4 FULL OR LESS. ANY RECALLS? WILL DEALERSHIP FIX PROBLEM?
SUSPENSION
Nov 10, 2016
Incident date: Sep 22, 2016
DRIVING A CAR IN VEHICLE WENT DOWN SAYING IS TOO LOW
SERVICE BRAKES
Oct 26, 2016
Incident date: Oct 25, 2016
I WAS DRIVING AND WHEN I TRIED TO BRAKE. THE BRAKES WENT ALL THE WAY TO THE FLOOR. RED LIGHT LET UP IN THE MIDDLE OF THE DASH IT SAID THAT BRAKE MALFUNCTION. SBC SYSTEM FAILURE. HAD TO GLADE TO A STOP AND HAVE THE CAR TOWED. *TR
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
Oct 14, 2016
Incident date: Oct 3, 2016
STRONG FUEL SMELL FROM DRIVER SIDE REAR SEAT. THE SMELL SPREAD TO THE CABIN AND THE WHOLE GARAGE. THIS HAPPENS WHEN THE FUEL TANK IS FULL. THE SMELL WILL LESSEN AFTER THE TANK IS ABOUT HALF FULL.
SUSPENSION
Oct 12, 2016
Incident date: Oct 9, 2016
WHILE DRIVING, THE WARNING LIGHT CAR TO LOW. STOP DRIVING.
SERVICE BRAKES
Sep 2, 2016
Incident date: Aug 30, 2016
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 MERCEDES-BENZ E500. WHILE DRIVING 55-60 MPH, THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS DEPRESSED, BUT FAILED TO RESPOND. THE CONTACT WAS ABLE TO SLOW THE VEHICLE TO A STOP USING THE EMERGENCY BRAKE. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC. THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE BRAKE SENSO... Read more
SERVICE BRAKES
Aug 3, 2016
Incident date: Aug 3, 2016
BRAKE LIGHTS KEEP COMING ON SO I HAD THE BRAKES REPLACED. BRAKE LIGHTS STILL COMING ON, COULD NOT STOP WHILE IN TRAFFIC WITH BREAK PEDAL TO THE FLOOR. WENT TO THE MERCEDES BENZ DEALERSHIP I WAS TOLD MY SENSOTRONIC BRAKE CONTROL NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. I AM NOW HEARING THAT THERE WAS A RECALL ON THE S... Read more
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Jan 29, 2016
Incident date: Jan 25, 2016
"TAKATA RECALL" EACH YEAR IT FAILS THE EMMISSION TEST THE FAILED CODE IS PO456. I HAD AN EVAP SYSTEM TEST RAN THEY SAID IT WAS A PROBLEM WITH THE PURGE VALVE, EVAL HOSE, AND THE FILLER NECK. (LEAKS). IN MY OWN WORDS, THE ENGINE COMES ON AND OFF, THE COMPUTER IS INDICATING THAT THE TRUCK IS OPEN W... Read more
ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
Jan 29, 2016
Incident date: Jan 25, 2016
"TAKATA RECALL" EACH YEAR IT FAILS THE EMMISSION TEST THE FAILED CODE IS PO456. I HAD AN EVAP SYSTEM TEST RAN THEY SAID IT WAS A PROBLEM WITH THE PURGE VALVE, EVAL HOSE, AND THE FILLER NECK. (LEAKS). IN MY OWN WORDS, THE ENGINE COMES ON AND OFF, THE COMPUTER IS INDICATING THAT THE TRUCK IS OPEN W... Read more
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
Jan 29, 2016
Incident date: Jan 25, 2016
"TAKATA RECALL" EACH YEAR IT FAILS THE EMMISSION TEST THE FAILED CODE IS PO456. I HAD AN EVAP SYSTEM TEST RAN THEY SAID IT WAS A PROBLEM WITH THE PURGE VALVE, EVAL HOSE, AND THE FILLER NECK. (LEAKS). IN MY OWN WORDS, THE ENGINE COMES ON AND OFF, THE COMPUTER IS INDICATING THAT THE TRUCK IS OPEN W... Read more
AIR BAGS
Dec 28, 2015
Incident date: Oct 5, 2015
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 MERCEDES BENZ E500. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT APPROXIMATELY 25 MPH, THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS APPLIED BUT DID NOT RESPOND. THE CONTACT APPLIED EXTREME FORCE TO THE BRAKE PEDAL, THE VEHICLE SPUN AROUND AND CRASHED INTO A TREE. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED WHIPLASH AND PA... Read more
Crash
2 injured
SERVICE BRAKES
Dec 28, 2015
Incident date: Oct 5, 2015
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 MERCEDES BENZ E500. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT APPROXIMATELY 25 MPH, THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS APPLIED BUT DID NOT RESPOND. THE CONTACT APPLIED EXTREME FORCE TO THE BRAKE PEDAL, THE VEHICLE SPUN AROUND AND CRASHED INTO A TREE. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED WHIPLASH AND PA... Read more
Crash
2 injured
SUSPENSION
Dec 19, 2015
Incident date: Dec 19, 2015
MY CAR HAS DROPPED DOWN VERY LOW ON TOP OF MY TIRES WHEN I STARTED MY CAR UP ON THE DASH WAS A RED WARNING LIGHT SAYING STOP CAR IS TOO LOW. MY CAR DROVE FINE THE DAY BEFORE THE NEXT MORNING WHILE SITTING UNDER MY CARPORT IT WAS VERY LOW.
ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
Dec 7, 2015
Incident date: Apr 10, 2009
I PURCHASED THE MERCEDES BENZ E500 2003 ABOUT FIVE YEARS AGO. I NOTICED ABOUT 21/2 YEAR THAT THE BRAKE LIGHTS KEPT COMING ON EVEN AFTER HAVING THE BRAKES REPLACED. THE BRAKING SYSTEM LIGHT COMES ON AND MESSAGE STATES PLEASE STOP YOUR, THE BRAKING SYSTEM IS DEFECTIVE. THIS HAPPEN SEVERAL TIMES I WAS... Read more
Crash
SERVICE BRAKES
Dec 7, 2015
Incident date: Apr 10, 2009
I PURCHASED THE MERCEDES BENZ E500 2003 ABOUT FIVE YEARS AGO. I NOTICED ABOUT 21/2 YEAR THAT THE BRAKE LIGHTS KEPT COMING ON EVEN AFTER HAVING THE BRAKES REPLACED. THE BRAKING SYSTEM LIGHT COMES ON AND MESSAGE STATES PLEASE STOP YOUR, THE BRAKING SYSTEM IS DEFECTIVE. THIS HAPPEN SEVERAL TIMES I WAS... Read more
Crash
ENGINE
Dec 3, 2015
Incident date: Oct 1, 2015
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 MERCEDES BENZ E500. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE GEAR SHIFTER FAILED TO SHIFT OUT OF GEAR. THE CONTACT MENTIONED THAT THE VEHICLE REQUIRED TO BE RESTARTED IN ORDER FOR THE GEAR SHIFTER TO FUNCTION. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT ME... Read more
POWER TRAIN
Dec 3, 2015
Incident date: Oct 1, 2015
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 MERCEDES BENZ E500. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE GEAR SHIFTER FAILED TO SHIFT OUT OF GEAR. THE CONTACT MENTIONED THAT THE VEHICLE REQUIRED TO BE RESTARTED IN ORDER FOR THE GEAR SHIFTER TO FUNCTION. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT ME... Read more
SUSPENSION
Nov 30, 2015
Incident date: Nov 24, 2015
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 MERCEDES BENZ E500. WHILE DRIVING AT 30 MPH, THE STOP CAR WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED AND THE FRONT SUSPENSION FAILED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE DEALER TO BE INSPECTED. THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT BOTH FRONT AIRMATIC SUSPENSIONS NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS N... Read more
SERVICE BRAKES
Nov 11, 2015
Incident date: Nov 2, 2015
DIVING MY 2003 E500 THE RED LIGHT CAME ON AND IT SAID REDUCE BREAKING DISTANCE. IT FELT LIKE THE HYDRAULIC BRAKES WERE ENGAGED. I HAD THE SAME PROBLEM WITH MY 2002 E350 WHICH WAS ON THE RECALL. LIST BUT THE 2003 E500 IS NOT ON THE RECALL HAVING THE SAME PROBLEM AS THE 2002 E350
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
Oct 21, 2015
Incident date: Oct 1, 2015
MY CAR HAS A STRONG AND OVERWHELMING SMELL OF GAS INSIDE THE CAR WHEN I DRIVE. THIS HAS BEEN HAPPENING FOR 2 WEEKS NOW WHENEVER I DRIVE WITH THE WINDOWS UP. I AM FORCED TO DRIVE WITH THE WINDOWS DOWN IN ORDER TO BREATH.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
Oct 13, 2015
Incident date: Sep 4, 2015
SHORTLY AFTER FILLING THE FUEL TANK, I SMELL GAS FUMES TOWARDS THE BACK OF THE CAR BEHIND DRIVE SIDE OUTSIDE. THERE IS NO FUEL LEAKS THAT DROP ON THE CAR AND ALSO THERE IS NOT FUEL LEAKS UNDER THE HOOD OF THE ENGINE NEITHER.
POWER TRAIN
Sep 25, 2015
Incident date: Sep 23, 2015
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 MERCEDES BENZ E500. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT 40 MPH, THE VEHICLE DOWNSHIFTED AND THE BRAKES FAILED. THE VEHICLE SHUT OFF AND WAS ABLE TO BE RESTARTED. AFTER THE VEHICLE WAS RESTARTED, THE BRAKE WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR RE... Read more
SERVICE BRAKES
Sep 25, 2015
Incident date: Sep 23, 2015
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 MERCEDES BENZ E500. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT 40 MPH, THE VEHICLE DOWNSHIFTED AND THE BRAKES FAILED. THE VEHICLE SHUT OFF AND WAS ABLE TO BE RESTARTED. AFTER THE VEHICLE WAS RESTARTED, THE BRAKE WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR RE... Read more
SERVICE BRAKES
Aug 27, 2015
Incident date: Aug 7, 2015
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 MERCEDES BENZ E500. WHILE DRIVING AT 4 MPH, THE ABS WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS DEPRESSED, BUT FAILED TO RESPOND AND THE EMERGENCY BRAKE WAS ENGAGED IN ORDER TO STOP THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS RESTARTED AND THE BAD WARNING LIGHT UNILLUMINATED. THE FAI... Read more
Showing 50 of 143 complaints.
EPA Fuel Economy — 2003 MERCEDES-BENZ E500
| Trim / Engine | City MPG | Highway MPG | Combined MPG | Fuel Type | Annual Fuel Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5.0L 8-cyl, Automatic 5-spd (Rear-Wheel Drive) | 15.0 | 21.0 | 17.0 | Premium | $4,800 |
CO2 Emissions: -1.0 g/mile (Midsize Cars)
Source: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Actual fuel economy may vary based on driving conditions.
Technical Service Bulletins — 2003 MERCEDES-BENZ E500
63 manufacturer communications from 51 unique bulletins. TSBs describe known problems and recommended fixes from the manufacturer.
Most Affected Components
| Component | Bulletins |
|---|---|
| 220000 SEATS | 6 |
| 110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM | 4 |
| 100000 POWER TRAIN | 3 |
| 010000 STEERING | 2 |
| 021230 SUSPENSION:FRONT:SPRINGS:AIR SUSPENSION SYSTEM | 2 |
| 020000 SUSPENSION | 2 |
| 090000 FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER | 2 |
| 140000 AIR BAGS | 2 |
LI91.18-P-077075
Dec 4, 2023
220000 SEATS
Crease formation on genuine leather seat covers in vehicles with low mileage ??A?A? Objects left on the seats for extended periods of time (pressure marks). ??A?A? Objects wedged between the seat backrest and seat cushion (e.g. seat bel
LI54.65-P-072065
Dec 9, 2020
110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Unmotivated Reaction from Park Assist - model series 213 facelift / 238 facelift with option code 235 (active par- king assist) and option code 501 (surround view system)
LI42.47-P-067502
Dec 9, 2020
030000 SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
If the customer brakes sharply from a speed of > 30mph, without ABS intervention, there is a single cracking noise from the area of the ESP hydraulic unit
LI42.47-P-067502
Dec 9, 2020
251000 ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL:AUTOMATIC (ASC)
If the customer brakes sharply from a speed of > 30mph, without ABS intervention, there is a single cracking noise from the area of the ESP hydraulic unit
LI27.50-P-071658
Sep 30, 2020
100000 POWER TRAIN
Harsh engagement when changing gear range from P to D or R
LI27.50-P-049281
Sep 22, 2020
103300 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:GEAR POSITION INDICATION (PRNDL)
Harsh engagement when changing gear range from P to D
LI32.22-P-071495
Jul 20, 2020
110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
AIRMATIC Fault Message "Max 80 km/ h (50 mph) " In Instrument Cluster
LI91 45-P-066075
Jul 23, 2018
150000 SEAT BELTS
Seat belt extender toothed rack sluggish or makes noises
LI54 30-P-068430
Jul 19, 2018
251000 ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL:AUTOMATIC (ASC)
Display of suspension setting in head unit implausible
LI54 30-P-068430
Jul 19, 2018
020000 SUSPENSION
Display of suspension setting in head unit implausible
LI72 20-P-068322
Jul 2, 2018
162600 STRUCTURE:BODY:HATCHBACK/LIFTGATE
Liftgate intermittently does not open fully
LI05 20-P-067123
Oct 9, 2017
060000 ENGINE (PWS)
Oil in engine wiring harness
LI8210P0647661
Aug 26, 2016
121000 EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
Headlamps fogged.
Reporting
Apr 4, 2016
355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL
Enclosed for your information and pursuant to part 579.5, please find our latest Service and Warranty Bulletins for March, 2016
LI07.08-P-060993
Mar 25, 2015
060000 ENGINE (PWS)
Engine diagnosis warning lamp lights up in instrument cluster, fault code U145400: "Implausible data were received from the ethanol sensor"
LI82.70-P-060004
Oct 14, 2014
353000 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL
iPhone mobile phone: Various complaints after software update to iOS8
LI27.00-P-051451
Jul 14, 2014
103000 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
Shift quality complaints on TRANSMISSION 722.9 (7G-TRONIC and 7G-TRONIC PLUS)
LI91.10-P-059386
Jul 12, 2014
220000 SEATS
Dynamic seat control is not functioning correctly and/or air cushions do not inflate fully.
LI91.10-P-048497
Jul 12, 2014
160000 STRUCTURE
Noise complaints when load on backrest frame changes. Affects the driver and front passenger seats. Also perform the remedial action if you are performing work on: - backrest frame - backrest cover or - guide rail of head restraint. I
LI91.29-P-050932
Jul 10, 2014
220000 SEATS
The controls on the partially electric seat adjustment switch stick or are loose or broken.
LI27.55-P-058976
Jul 10, 2014
100000 POWER TRAIN
Possible minor leakage at described components or oil transfer from assembly plant.
LI91.10-P-059373
Jul 10, 2014
220000 SEATS
Possible complaints: 1. Memory function of electric seat fore/aft adjustment not functioning. 2. Seat fore/aft adjustment with easy entry/exit feature not functioning. 3. Head restraint presetting not functioning. 4. Seat fore/aft adjus
LI91.10-P-048498
Jul 9, 2014
220000 SEATS
Noises from area of seat adjuster or cushion frame.
LI91.10-P-048500
Jul 9, 2014
140000 AIR BAGS
Rubbing noises arise between the covering and cover of the sidebag
LI91.10-P-048501
Jul 9, 2014
220000 SEATS
Rubbing noises at the point at which the covering rubs against the cover. Only occurs on vehicles with the sport package .
LI68.05-P-059193
Jun 20, 2014
353100 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:ANTI-THEFT DEVICES
SENTEX gate operator with Clik Card Remote not compatible with Homelink
LI65.00-P-059054
May 19, 2014
160000 STRUCTURE
AIRCAP functions excessively
LI05.10-P-058758
Mar 19, 2014
060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
Noise: A rattling noise may be heard from the area of the chain drive for approx. 2-5 seconds after engine start. And/or: Fault code entries in engine control unit: SIM271DE20: P001177 The position of the intake camshaft (cylinder bank
LI82.85-P-058582
Mar 3, 2014
350000 EQUIPMENT
Apple products (iPhone or iPod) are not charged via the serial USB interface of the COMAND Online control unit (A40/3) in the stowage compartment of the center console.
LI27.00-P-056643
Feb 19, 2014
100000 POWER TRAIN
During disengagement from D to N and/or from R to N some slight jolting could be experienced.
LI46.10-P-057961
Feb 18, 2014
010000 STEERING
Surface damage on steering wheel trim
C1A140101
Feb 11, 2014
353000 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL
This Customer 1 Action has been initiated because certain mbrace subscribers were recently contacted by mbrace informing them that they need to have an i-button call performed to ensure their mbrace device has registered with the Verizon
GI88.40-P-057430
Feb 3, 2014
350000 EQUIPMENT
Message in instrument cluster "DISTRONIC PLUSCurrently Unavailable - See Owner's Manual"
LI8270P055572
Aug 5, 2013
118000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE
Mobile phone cotacts are not transferred completely.
LI82.10-P-054588
Jun 27, 2013
120000 EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Xenon burner inoperative or flickers
LI91-40-P-047183
Apr 5, 2012
151300 SEAT BELTS:FRONT:RETRACTOR
MERCEDES: SEAT BELTS, EMERGENCY TENSIONING RETRACTORS. MODEL SERIES 204 (WITH CODES 299 AND 800), 207, 212. SEAT BELT CAN ONLY BE PULLED OUT WITH GREAT EFFORT. AT THE SAME TIME A NOISE CAN BE HEARD FROM THE REVERSIBLE REEL TENSIONER GEA
LI32-22-P-051722
Nov 14, 2011
021230 SUSPENSION:FRONT:SPRINGS:AIR SUSPENSION SYSTEM
MERCEDES: AIRMATIC MALFUNCTION. LEAKING AIRMATIC SYSTEM AND NOT A FAULTY COMPRESSOR. *KB
LI-58-40
Dec 16, 2009
110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
XENTRY (MERCEDES): ENGINE WARNING LAMP IS CURRENTLY ON OR WAS ON AND A DELAY FAULT OF THE CAMSHAFT ADJUST TO CURRENT OR STORED IN THE ENGINE CONTROL UNIT. MODELS 171, 203, 209, 211, 219, 221, 216, 230, 164, 251, AND 403. NO MODEL YEARS LI
LI-58-40
Dec 16, 2009
061000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
XENTRY (MERCEDES): ENGINE WARNING LAMP IS CURRENTLY ON OR WAS ON AND A DELAY FAULT OF THE CAMSHAFT ADJUST TO CURRENT OR STORED IN THE ENGINE CONTROL UNIT. MODELS 171, 203, 209, 211, 219, 221, 216, 230, 164, 251, AND 403. NO MODEL YEARS LI
TB-P-047927
Sep 17, 2009
021231 SUSPENSION:FRONT:SPRINGS:AIR SUSPENSION:LINES AND FITTINGS
MERCEDES: FOLLOWING FAULT CODES ARE ENTERED IN THE CONTROL UNIT AND DISPLAYED-FC5320 DRAIN VALVE:OPEN CIRCUIT OR INSUFFICIENT VALVE CURRENT IN MODELS SERIES 211, 219; FC5260 DRAIN VALVE OPEN CIRCUIT OR INSUFFICIENT VALVE CURRENT IN MODEL 2
TB-P-047927
Sep 17, 2009
021230 SUSPENSION:FRONT:SPRINGS:AIR SUSPENSION SYSTEM
MERCEDES: FOLLOWING FAULT CODES ARE ENTERED IN THE CONTROL UNIT AND DISPLAYED-FC5320 DRAIN VALVE:OPEN CIRCUIT OR INSUFFICIENT VALVE CURRENT IN MODELS SERIES 211, 219; FC5260 DRAIN VALVE OPEN CIRCUIT OR INSUFFICIENT VALVE CURRENT IN MODEL 2
LI46-40-P-047549
Aug 13, 2009
106000 POWER TRAIN:AXLE ASSEMBLY
MERCEDES: CRACKING/CREAKING NOISES FROM FRONT AXLE WHEN VEHICLE IS SUBJECT TO TORSION OR WHEN STEERING WHEEL IS TURNED. THIS IS MAINLY HEARD WHEN THE VEHICLE IS STATIONARY OR WHEN THE VEHICLE IS MOVING SLOWLY. RELATIVE MOVEMENT BETWEEN TH
PB-72-20-31D
Jun 4, 2009
162510 STRUCTURE:BODY:TAILGATE:HINGE AND ATTACHMENTS
MERCEDES BENZ: TAILGATE DOES NOT OPEN FULLY IN COLD WEATHER. THE TAILGATE NOT OPENING FULLY IN COLD WEATHER, DO NOT REPLACE THE STRUTS. *PE
PB-72-20-31D
Jun 4, 2009
162500 STRUCTURE:BODY:TAILGATE
MERCEDES BENZ: TAILGATE DOES NOT OPEN FULLY IN COLD WEATHER. THE TAILGATE NOT OPENING FULLY IN COLD WEATHER, DO NOT REPLACE THE STRUTS. *PE
SB-32-22-78
May 6, 2009
114000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING
MERCEDES: AIR MATIC VISIT WORKSHOP DISPLAYED WITHIN INSTRUMENT CLUSTER. MODELS 164, 211, 219, 221 AND 251. INCLUDED 4MATIC, AMG (COMPRESSOR) AMG, BLUETEC AND WAGON. MODEL YEARS UNKNOWN. *PE UPDATED 9/18/09.
SB-32-22-78
May 6, 2009
110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
MERCEDES: AIR MATIC VISIT WORKSHOP DISPLAYED WITHIN INSTRUMENT CLUSTER. MODELS 164, 211, 219, 221 AND 251. INCLUDED 4MATIC, AMG (COMPRESSOR) AMG, BLUETEC AND WAGON. MODEL YEARS UNKNOWN. *PE UPDATED 9/18/09.
470036
May 1, 2009
090000 FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER
MERCEDES: THE FUEL LEVEL INDICATED IN THE INSTRUMENT CLUSTER DOES NOT MATCH THE ACTUAL FILL LEVEL. THIS MAY BE CAUSED BY A FAULT IN THE FUEL LEVEL SENSOR FUNCTION CHAIN: HYDRAULIC AND ELECTRICAL LINES AND THEIR CONNECTIONS, REAR SAM OR IN
470036
May 1, 2009
091200 FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER:STORAGE:FUEL GAUGE SYSTEM
MERCEDES: THE FUEL LEVEL INDICATED IN THE INSTRUMENT CLUSTER DOES NOT MATCH THE ACTUAL FILL LEVEL. THIS MAY BE CAUSED BY A FAULT IN THE FUEL LEVEL SENSOR FUNCTION CHAIN: HYDRAULIC AND ELECTRICAL LINES AND THEIR CONNECTIONS, REAR SAM OR IN
PB-91-60-66B
Jan 9, 2009
142000 AIR BAGS:SIDE/WINDOW
MERCEDES: SRS INDICATOR LAMP ON. THE SRS LIGHT IS ILLUMINATED AND DIAGNOSTIC FAULT CODE(S) B9223 AND/OR B9243 ARE STORED IN THE SRS ECU. THE RESISTANCE OF THE IGNITION SQUIB CIRCUIT FOR THE SIDEBAG MAY BE TOO HIGH. MODEL 211. ALL MODEL
PB-91-60-66B
Jan 9, 2009
140000 AIR BAGS
MERCEDES: SRS INDICATOR LAMP ON. THE SRS LIGHT IS ILLUMINATED AND DIAGNOSTIC FAULT CODE(S) B9223 AND/OR B9243 ARE STORED IN THE SRS ECU. THE RESISTANCE OF THE IGNITION SQUIB CIRCUIT FOR THE SIDEBAG MAY BE TOO HIGH. MODEL 211. ALL MODEL
PB-42-46-102
Dec 19, 2008
040000 SERVICE BRAKES, AIR
MERCEDES: VEHICLE FAILS STAR DIAGNOSIS TEST; INSPECT BRAKE SYSTEM FOR AIR." MODELS 230, 219, AND 211. MODEL YEARS 2003-2009. *PE
PB-42-46-102
Dec 19, 2008
030000 SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
MERCEDES: VEHICLE FAILS STAR DIAGNOSIS TEST; INSPECT BRAKE SYSTEM FOR AIR." MODELS 230, 219, AND 211. MODEL YEARS 2003-2009. *PE
462046
Dec 4, 2008
014200 STEERING:RACK AND PINION:RACK
PLAY IN THE RACK AND PINION STEERING SYSTEM. MODELS 203, 209, 210, 211, 215, 220, 230. MERCEDES BENZ. *KB UPDATED 5/13/09. *PE
462046
Dec 4, 2008
014000 STEERING:RACK AND PINION
PLAY IN THE RACK AND PINION STEERING SYSTEM. MODELS 203, 209, 210, 211, 215, 220, 230. MERCEDES BENZ. *KB UPDATED 5/13/09. *PE
8210196
Jun 4, 2008
122000 EXTERIOR LIGHTING:FOG LIGHTS
REVISED REPAIR PROCEDURE AND ADDITIONAL APPLICABLE MODELS. MODEL 170, 202, 208 AND 210 MODELS. FRONT FOG LAMP(S) INOPERATIVE. MERCEDES-BENZ. *TT MODEL YEARS: 1994-2004. UPDATED 09/09/08. *PE
2008020001
Mar 1, 2008
090000 FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER
MERCEDES BENZ SERVICE CAMPAIGN: SEE DOCUMENT SEARCH BUTTON FOR OWNER LETTER. CHECK FUEL FILTER MODULE ASSEMBLY AND REPAIR OR REPLACE IF NECESSARY. MODELS 211 AND 219 AMG. MODEL YEARS 2003-2006. CSC WAS RECEIVED. *PE
PB 63-20-15
Feb 22, 2008
161000 STRUCTURE:FRAME AND MEMBERS
WATER ENTRY AT A-PILLAR ON MODEL 211.026, 065, 070, 076, 082, 083, 265, 282, 283 (E320 CDI; E320; E500;E55AMG; E320 4MATIC; E500 4MATIC; E320 WAGON; 320 4MATIC). UNKNOWN YEARS. *PE
461018A
Feb 22, 2008
011000 STEERING: STEERING WHEEL/HANDLE BAR
STEERING WHEEL HEATER NOT OPERATING CORRECTLY OR INOPERATIVE AT COLD TEMPERATURES. MERCEDES BENZ MODEL 211. MODEL YEAR UNKNOWN. *TT MODEL 211 (E SERIES). UPDATE 8/8/2008. *PE
461018A
Feb 22, 2008
010000 STEERING
STEERING WHEEL HEATER NOT OPERATING CORRECTLY OR INOPERATIVE AT COLD TEMPERATURES. MERCEDES BENZ MODEL 211. MODEL YEAR UNKNOWN. *TT MODEL 211 (E SERIES). UPDATE 8/8/2008. *PE
PB 63-20-15
Feb 22, 2008
162900 STRUCTURE:BODY:ROOF AND PILLARS
WATER ENTRY AT A-PILLAR ON MODEL 211.026, 065, 070, 076, 082, 083, 265, 282, 283 (E320 CDI; E320; E500;E55AMG; E320 4MATIC; E500 4MATIC; E320 WAGON; 320 4MATIC). UNKNOWN YEARS. *PE
2007010002
Jan 1, 2007
200000 WHEELS
REMOVE FRONT WHEEL HOUSING WATER DRAIN NOZZLES IF PRESENT AND CLEAR WATER DRAIN PASSAGES. *KB
2005060008
Jun 1, 2006
061000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
PROGRAMMING BATTERY CONTROL MODULE. *KB
322232
Aug 16, 2005
020000 SUSPENSION
KNOCKING / RUMBLING NOISE FROM FRONT LEFT OF VEHICLE. TOI INCLUDE MODEL 219 2003-2006. *TT
MERCEDES-BENZ E500 — All Years Overview
Complete safety history for the MERCEDES-BENZ E500 across all model years (2003–2006).
13
Total Recalls
545
Total Complaints
0
Investigations
13
Reported Crashes
1
Reported Fires
0
Reported Deaths