Buying a used luxury car like a Mercedes-Benz can be an exciting prospect, offering prestige and performance at a potentially lower price point. However, it’s crucial to approach this decision with informed caution, especially considering the reputation of German cars for reliability and maintenance costs. Are Mercedes-Benz vehicles truly as unreliable as some stereotypes suggest, or are there dependable models that represent a smart purchase in 2024? Recent data and historical trends offer valuable insights.
Consumer Reports’ latest reliability study, evaluating 26 car brands based on 5-to-10-year-old models, provides a clear picture. Mercedes-Benz secured the 10th position, demonstrating reasonable reliability, although lagging behind top-ranked Japanese brands like Lexus and Toyota. Despite this mid-range ranking, certain Mercedes-Benz models have consistently shown better reliability within the brand’s lineup over the past decade. To help you navigate the used Mercedes-Benz market and find the best options, we’ve analyzed Consumer Reports data to rank the most reliable Mercedes-Benz models of the last 10 years. This guide focuses on helping you find the Best Mercedes Benz To Buy, prioritizing reliability and informed purchasing decisions.
To ensure accuracy and provide the most helpful information for your buying decision, the data presented here is based on Consumer Reports’ Reliability Verdict and supplemented by information from Mercedes-Benz and other reputable sources. The models are ranked in order of reliability, starting with the tenth most reliable and culminating in the top pick.
10. 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class
Reliability Verdict: 3/5
The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class marks the beginning of our list, representing a solid option within Mercedes’ mid-size SUV range. This fourth-generation GLE introduced new powertrain options, including a fuel-efficient turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four in the 350 models and a mild-hybrid turbocharged 3.0 inline-six in the 450 models. While the initial 2020 model year had typical first-year teething issues, the 2021 GLE significantly improved, earning a 3/5 reliability score, the highest within this generation.
450 4MATIC Performance Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine | 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six + 48V mild hybrid |
| Transmission | 9-speed automatic |
| Horsepower | 362 horsepower |
| Torque | 369 lb-ft |
| Driveline | AWD |
| 0-60 MPH | 5.7 seconds |
| Top Speed | 155 mph (limited) |
Pros:
- Most fuel-efficient engine choices in the GLE lineup.
- Comfortable and smooth ride quality.
- Availability of a high-performance AMG GLE 63 S model.
Cons:
- Driving dynamics are not the most engaging.
- Infotainment system can be complex and user-unfriendly.
- Potential for expensive repairs due to the intricate mild-hybrid system in the long run.
9. 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class
Reliability Verdict: 3/5
Next on our list is the first-generation Mercedes GLC crossover SUV. The GLC underwent a significant refresh in 2020, introducing Mercedes’ updated powertrain technology. The 2021 model year stands out as the most reliable within this refreshed first generation, achieving a 3/5 reliability verdict. This generation utilized a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four engine, a proven platform before the wider adoption of more complex mild-hybrid systems in later Mercedes models.
300 4MATIC Performance Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine | 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four |
| Transmission | 9-speed automatic |
| Horsepower | 255 horsepower |
| Torque | 273 lb-ft |
| Driveline | AWD |
| 0-60 MPH | 6.2 seconds |
| Top Speed | 149 mph |
Pros:
- Excellent ride comfort for a compact SUV.
- High-quality interior materials and design.
- Competent handling for its vehicle class.
Cons:
- Infotainment system can be challenging to use.
- Fuel economy could be better for its segment.
- Some drivers may desire more power from the base engine.
8. 2021 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
Reliability Verdict: 3/5
The 2021 Mercedes-Benz C-Class sedan is our first sedan entry, representing the final year of the fourth generation. A notable refresh occurred in 2019, updating powertrain options and incorporating the 48V mild-hybrid technology now common in modern Mercedes vehicles. Among the 2015-2021 C-Class model years, the 2021 version earned the highest reliability score of 3/5. For buyers considering this generation, models from 2019 onwards are generally recommended due to their improved reliability compared to pre-refresh versions.
C 300 4MATIC Performance Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine | 2.0-liter inline-four + 48V mild hybrid system |
| Transmission | 9-speed automatic |
| Horsepower | 255 horsepower |
| Torque | 270 lb-ft |
| Driveline | AWD |
| 0-60 MPH | 5.7 seconds |
| Top Speed | 155 mph (limited) |
Pros:
- Quiet and comfortable cabin, ideal for daily driving.
- Refreshed interior design is a significant improvement.
- Standard LED headlights on refreshed models enhance visibility.
Cons:
- Infotainment system and controls remain less intuitive than competitors.
- Long-term reliability and repair costs of the mild-hybrid system are still a concern.
7. 2014 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
Reliability Verdict: 3/5
Moving slightly older, the 2014 Mercedes-Benz C-Class from the third generation (2008-2014) also achieves a 3/5 reliability verdict. This generation was a top seller for Mercedes and represents a period when the C 300 still featured a robust 3.5-liter V-6 engine. The 2012 model year brought a welcome refresh with interior upgrades and powertrain updates. The 2014 model, being the final year of this generation, is considered the most reliable within this iteration.
2014 C 300 4MATIC Performance Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine | 3.5-liter V-6 |
| Transmission | 7-speed automatic |
| Horsepower | 248 horsepower |
| Torque | 251 lb-ft |
| Driveline | AWD |
| 0-60 MPH | 7.1 seconds |
| Top Speed | 130 mph (limited) |
Pros:
- Comfortable front seating for driver and passenger.
- Rare availability of a manual transmission in RWD C 300 models (pre-refresh).
- The C 63 AMG model from this generation is highly sought-after by enthusiasts.
Cons:
- Pre-refresh interior design can feel dated compared to newer models.
- Lower trim models might lack the performance expected from a luxury car.
- Pre-refresh styling may appear less modern.
6. 2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class
Reliability Verdict: 4/5
Before the GLC-Class, there was the Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class SUV. The 2013 model year, following a significant refresh, achieved an impressive 4/5 reliability verdict. The GLK 350’s 3.5-liter V-6 engine in the 2013 model is considered one of its most refined and reliable versions. Interestingly, the subsequent 2015 model year saw a drop in reliability scores, despite minimal changes, making the 2013 GLK a particularly good year to consider for reliability-conscious buyers.
350 4MATIC Performance Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine | 3.5-liter V-6 |
| Transmission | 7-speed automatic |
| Horsepower | 302 horsepower |
| Torque | 273 lb-ft |
| Driveline | AWD |
| 0-60 MPH | 5.8 seconds |
| Top Speed | 130 mph |
Pros:
- Refreshed models feature the best iteration of the smooth V-6 engine.
- Good fuel economy for its size and class.
- Improved interior quality in the refresh models.
Cons:
- Low-speed handling can feel somewhat cumbersome.
- Interior space might be less generous compared to some competitors.
- Infotainment system is basic and not very engaging.
5. 2014 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
Reliability Verdict: 4/5
The Mercedes-Benz M-Class, predecessor to the GLE-Class, also appears on our list with the 2014 model year earning a 4/5 reliability verdict. This third-generation SUV (pre-facelift, before the name change to GLE) offers a range of engine options. The 2014 model year stands out for its reliability, contrasting with the lower score of the 2015 model. The 3.5-liter V-6 in the ML 350 is known for its dependability, while the ML 500/550 with a twin-turbo V-8 provides significantly more power.
ML 500 Performance Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine | Twin-turbo 4.6-liter V-8 |
| Transmission | 7-speed automatic |
| Horsepower | 402 horsepower |
| Torque | 443 lb-ft |
| Driveline | AWD |
| 0-60 MPH | 5.3 seconds |
| Top Speed | 155 mph (limited) |
Pros:
- Wide variety of engine choices across different trim levels.
- Comfortable and quiet ride, suitable for long journeys.
- Unexpectedly capable off-road, though rarely utilized.
Cons:
- Driving dynamics can feel somewhat disconnected.
- Infotainment system is not user-friendly.
- Fuel economy is not a strong point, especially with larger engines.
4. 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class
Reliability Verdict: 4/5
Returning to the GLC-Class, the first model year of this generation, 2016, surprisingly achieved a 4/5 reliability verdict. First model years often serve as learning curves, but the 2016 GLC defied this trend, offering the highest reliability within its generation (2016-2022). This success is attributed to efficient powertrain options introduced across the GLC range compared to its predecessor, the GLK.
300 4MATIC Performance Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine | 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four |
| Transmission | 9-speed automatic |
| Horsepower | 242 horsepower |
| Torque | 273 lb-ft |
| Driveline | AWD |
| 0-60 MPH | 5.9 seconds |
| Top Speed | 130 mph |
Pros:
- Comfortable and quiet cabin, enhancing the luxury feel.
- High-quality interior materials and construction.
- Strong value proposition within its price range.
Cons:
- Infotainment system is still frustrating for some users.
- Rear seat space could be more generous for taller passengers.
- Fuel economy is adequate but not class-leading.
3. 2017 Mercedes-Benz E-Class
Reliability Verdict: 4/5
The Mercedes-Benz E-Class stands out as the most consistently reliable Mercedes model of the last decade. The fifth-generation E-Class boasts three different model years with a 4/5 reliability verdict, a unique achievement within the Mercedes lineup. Remarkably, the first model year of this generation, 2017, is among these top-rated years, despite significant changes from the previous generation. The fifth-generation E-Class offered a wide array of models and powertrains, from fuel-efficient four-cylinders to powerful V-8s.
E 300 Performance Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine | 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four |
| Transmission | 9-speed automatic |
| Horsepower | 242 horsepower |
| Torque | 273 lb-ft |
| Driveline | RWD |
| 0-60 MPH | 6.2 seconds |
| Top Speed | 155 mph (limited) |
Pros:
- Improved fuel efficiency across the engine range.
- Exquisite interior quality and design.
- Wide range of E-Class models to suit different budgets and needs.
Cons:
- Ride quality is slightly firmer compared to the previous generation.
- Infotainment and user controls still present usability challenges.
- Slightly less interior space than the previous generation E-Class.
2. 2019 Mercedes-Benz E-Class
Reliability Verdict: 4/5
Continuing the E-Class dominance, the 2019 Mercedes-Benz E-Class also earns a 4/5 reliability score. Within the diverse fifth-generation E-Class lineup, the turbocharged four-cylinder engines in the E 300 and 350 models are noted for their reliability. The twin-turbo V-6 in the E 450 was the last of its kind in the E-Class, replaced by a mild-hybrid inline-six in later models. The fifth-generation E-Class’s success is built upon Mercedes’ modern modular chassis platform (MRA), shared across many models discussed in this list.
E 450 4MATIC Performance Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine | 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V-6 |
| Transmission | 9-speed automatic |
| Horsepower | 362 horsepower |
| Torque | 369 lb-ft |
| Driveline | AWD |
| 0-60 MPH | 4.6 seconds |
| Top Speed | 155 mph (limited) |
Pros:
- Enhanced driving dynamics compared to its predecessor.
- Luxurious and well-appointed interior.
- Extensive range of E-Class variants to choose from.
Cons:
- Ride comfort is not as plush as the previous generation.
- Infotainment system and user interface still have room for improvement.
- The sheer complexity of the E-Class range might be overwhelming for some buyers.
1. 2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class
Reliability Verdict: 4/5
Finally, topping our list as the most reliable Mercedes-Benz model to buy is the 2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class. This model year represents a significant facelift for the fifth-generation E-Class, introduced in 2021. A key aspect of this update was a simplification of the powertrain options. The facelifted E 300 features the current standard mild-hybrid turbo-four setup, while the E 450 models utilize a mild-hybrid turbocharged inline-six. The 2022 E-Class represents a blend of modern technology, refined luxury, and proven reliability, making it the best Mercedes Benz to buy according to reliability data.
Performance Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine | 2.0-liter inline-four + 48V mild hybrid system |
| Transmission | 9-speed automatic |
| Horsepower | 255 horsepower |
| Torque | 270 lb-ft |
| Driveline | AWD |
| 0-60 MPH | 5.6 seconds |
| Top Speed | 130 mph (limited) |
Pros:
- Modernized and streamlined powertrain choices.
- Sumptuous interior ambiance and material quality.
- Continued availability of diverse E-Class models.
Cons:
- Marked the end of the iconic E 63 AMG with a twin-turbo V-8 engine.
- Mercedes’ infotainment system still lags behind in user-friendliness.
- Long-term durability and repair costs of mild-hybrid technology are still being evaluated.
Choosing the best Mercedes Benz to buy involves balancing your desires for luxury and performance with practical considerations like reliability and potential maintenance. This ranking, based on Consumer Reports data, highlights models that have demonstrated above-average reliability within the Mercedes-Benz brand. While no car is entirely without potential issues, these models represent your best bet for a dependable and enjoyable Mercedes-Benz ownership experience. When considering your purchase, remember to factor in your specific needs, budget, and preferences to find the Mercedes-Benz that is truly the best fit for you.
