IsItAGoodCar
Reliability Guide

Common Problems with the
2020–2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class (W213)

We've identified 3 known issues that can affect the 2020–2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class (W213). 1 of these are serious faults that could be expensive to repair.

3
Known Issues
1
Serious
1
Moderate
1
Minor

The 2020–2021 period has 2 more issues than the Mercedes-Benz E-Class (W213) average across all year periods.

All Known Issues

Airmatic Leaks and Compressor Wear

SeriousSuspension & Chassis

Air-suspension cars can still sag or throw warnings once the bags or compressor start to leak.

Most affected: Models with Airmatic

Estimated cost: £900–£2,200Affects: 2016–2024Often appears around: 50k-120k miles

Typical symptoms

  • •Car sits low after standing
  • •Suspension malfunction warning
  • •Noisy compressor

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Check the car stands level overnight
  • ✓Inspect for recent Airmatic repairs
  • ✓Listen for compressor activity after start-up

NOx Sensor / AdBlue Faults

ModerateExhaust & Emissions

Diesel W213s commonly suffer emissions-system warnings that can lead to limp mode or no-restart countdowns.

Most affected: E 220 d, E 300 d, E 350 d

Estimated cost: £400–£1,000Affects: 2016–2024Often appears around: 30k-100k miles

Typical symptoms

  • •Engine light
  • •AdBlue warning
  • •Reduced power

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Check for recent NOx-sensor invoices
  • ✓Drive until fully warm
  • ✓Confirm the warning does not return after restart

Widescreen Cockpit / Infotainment Glitches

MinorElectrics & Electronics

Digital dash and infotainment systems can freeze, reboot or lose menu functions, especially on early cars.

Most affected: Premium, Premium Plus, AMG Line

Estimated cost: £0–£900Affects: 2016–2021Often appears around: Age-related rather than mileage-related

Typical symptoms

  • •Blank screen
  • •Rebooting display
  • •Bluetooth or navigation faults

What to inspect before you buy

  • ✓Test navigation, phone and cameras together
  • ✓Check software-update history
  • ✓Watch for slow or patchy screen start-up

Buying Tips for the 2020 Mercedes-Benz E-Class (W213)

  • ✓Test the widescreen digital cockpit and COMAND/MBUX system extensively; screen delamination or random reboots require expensive replacements.
  • ✓On diesel models, check the AdBlue system thoroughly; failed NOx sensors or a failing AdBlue pump will trigger a 'no start in X miles' countdown.
  • ✓Inspect the Air Body Control suspension (if fitted); ensure it raises evenly and doesn't sag overnight, as replacement struts are exceptionally costly.
  • ✓Check the 9G-Tronic gearbox for smooth downshifts; jerky shifts when coming to a stop may require a software update or a valve body replacement.
  • ✓Examine the large alloy wheels for cracks or severe kerbing, as the low-profile run-flat tyres transfer harsh impacts directly to the rim.
  • ✓Verify the operation of the ambient interior lighting; individual LED strips can fail or display incorrect colours, and they are difficult to replace.
2019 Mercedes-Benz E-Class (W213)2022–2023 Mercedes-Benz E-Class (W213)

Browse 2020–2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class (W213) in our Directory

View MOT history, registration data, and reliability scores for 2020–2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class (W213) vehicles.

View 2020–2021 Directory

Other Mercedes-Benz E-Class (W213) Year Periods

20162017–201820192020–20212022–20232024

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