Common Problems with the
1996–2002 Mercedes-Benz E-Class (W210)

We've identified 2 known issues that can affect the 1996–2002 Mercedes-Benz E-Class (W210). 1 of these are serious faults that could be expensive to repair.

Known Issues

Serious

Moderate

Minor

The 1996–2002 period has 1 more issue than the Mercedes-Benz E-Class (W210) average across all year periods.

All Known Issues

Severe Rust

SeriousBodywork & Rust

W210s are infamous for corrosion around arches, doors, spring perches and structural underbody areas.

Most affected: E 200, E 240, E 320 CDI

Estimated cost: £500–£2,500+Affects: 1995–2002Often appears around: Age-related rather than mileage-related

Typical symptoms

•Bubbling paint
•Crusty jacking points
•MOT corrosion advisories

What to inspect before you buy

✓Inspect front spring perches and rear arches
✓Check under door seals and boot lid edges
✓Look underneath for patched repairs

722.6 Conductor Plate Failure

ModerateGearbox & Transmission

Automatic gearbox electronics can fail and cause limp mode, harsh shifts or missing gear selection information.

Most affected: 722.6 automatic models

Estimated cost: £300–£700Affects: 1996–2002Often appears around: 80k-160k miles

Typical symptoms

•Stuck in one gear
•Harsh shifts when hot
•Gearbox warning or implausible gear reading

What to inspect before you buy

✓Drive until fully warm
✓Check for smooth up- and downshifts
✓Look for recent transmission electrical work

Buying Tips for the 1996 Mercedes-Benz E-Class (W210)

✓Inspect the spring perches, jacking points, arches and rear subframe area rather than trusting shiny paint.
✓Automatic cars should shift smoothly when hot because conductor-plate faults are not rare on ageing 722.6 gearboxes.
✓Check for damp in the boot and cabin because water ingress can create odd electrical faults.

1995 Mercedes-Benz E-Class (W210)