The 1996 Benz E320, a member of the W210 E-Class generation, is often praised for its luxurious features and elegant design. For many owners, like the one sharing their experience, the initial allure of the ’96 benz e320 is undeniable. However, long-term ownership can reveal some drawbacks, particularly concerning durability and the frequency of repairs. This review delves into the real-world experiences of a ’96 benz e320 owner, highlighting both the joys and frustrations of maintaining this classic vehicle.
Despite expressing love for their ’96 benz e320, the owner’s account details a series of recurring issues that potential buyers and current owners should be aware of. With only 63,000 miles, and consistent dealer servicing as per schedule, the vehicle has faced a surprising number of significant malfunctions.
One prevalent problem area is the window regulators. This owner experienced multiple window regulator failures, a common complaint among owners of this era of Mercedes-Benz vehicles. Initially, they incurred out-of-pocket expenses for repairs, eventually leveraging the dealership warranty for subsequent failures. The recurring nature of this issue points to a potential design or component weakness in the ’96 benz e320.
Another significant concern highlighted is the air conditioning system. The A/C failed at 56,000 miles, and again at 62,000 miles, resulting in substantial repair costs. The owner mentions a previous misdiagnosis by the dealer, suggesting that A/C issues in the ’96 benz e320 can be complex to pinpoint and resolve. This repeated A/C failure within a relatively short mileage span is a worrying sign for potential long-term reliability.
Engine problems also surfaced, with a head gasket failure at 48,000 miles. While the owner successfully negotiated warranty coverage for this major repair, it underscores the potential for significant engine-related expenses even with regular maintenance on a ’96 benz e320.
Electrical gremlins are another recurring theme. The owner reports complete failure of all door locks and issues with the auto-infrared locking system. Furthermore, the driver’s side door lock malfunctioned, forcing them to rely on the trunk lock for vehicle access. These widespread door lock problems indicate a potential weakness in the electrical or mechanical components of the ’96 benz e320’s locking system. A broken turn indicator dimmer stalk, with a high repair estimate, further adds to the list of electrical and interior component failures.
Cosmetic durability is also questioned. The Black Opal paint, while initially beautiful, suffered from severe deterioration on the roof rails, roof, and trunk deck, exhibiting fading and orange peel despite regular waxing. Cracked dashboard vinyl, despite a previous warranty replacement, reappeared, suggesting inherent material weaknesses in the interior trim of the ’96 benz e320.
Currently, the owner faces a list of pending repairs, including the auxiliary cooling fan controller, mass airflow indicator, another window regulator, a new radio (due to a lost security code and malfunctioning buttons), and the auto door lock and driver’s door lock. The dealer quoted a substantial $2,800 for repairs excluding items already marked for DIY.
In conclusion, while the ’96 benz e320 offers the appeal of a classic Mercedes-Benz, this owner’s experience serves as a cautionary tale regarding potential reliability issues. Despite meticulous servicing, the vehicle has encountered a range of mechanical, electrical, and cosmetic problems at relatively low mileage. Potential buyers of a ’96 benz e320 should be prepared for potential maintenance costs and thoroughly inspect these common problem areas before purchase. For current owners, proactive maintenance and awareness of these issues are crucial for managing the long-term ownership experience of their ’96 benz e320.
