When buying a used Mercedes-Benz E-Class E300 2013 (207/212), the most frequently mentioned issue is oil leaks from the oil cooler/filter housing gaskets. Also, turbo/intake flap sticking is commonly reported.
Engine varies by trim; verify the engine code on the listing.
Listed from most frequently reported, each with its source.
On the OM642 engine in the W212 E-Class, recurring oil leaks can occur from the oil cooler/oil filter housing gaskets; this causes spots under the vehicle, smoke from the engine bay, and a burnt oil smell.
Engine Bay
The intake manifold of the OM642 engine uses swirl/tumble flaps and control systems; these can stick or break due to carbon deposits or brittle plastic parts.
Engine Bay
A frequently reported issue from E 300 CDI owners is soot and oil buildup in the EGR valve and exhaust gas recirculation pipe. This can lead to EGR valve failures, performance loss, inefficient DPF regenerations, and a smoky smell.
Exhaust Emissions
The piezo injectors in the 3.0 CDI are sensitive to fuel quality and are expensive to repair or replace if they fail.
Fuel System
On the 3.0 V6 CDI, the variable geometry system (VGT/VNT) of the turbocharger often sticks or loses effectiveness due to soot and dirt buildup, causing power loss, surging, and the check engine light to come on.
Turbo
Same trim, different year
We only publish claims we can verify. Cards come from Difetti fault records matched to this vehicle on brand, fuel, engine and generation.