The Mercedes E-Class W212 is one of the most successful cars of the German manufacturer recently. As you can see Mercedes returns to good shape after many years!
Used Mercedes E-Class W212 model history
The fourth generation of the Mercedes E-Class (counting the most reliable model W124 ) made its debut in 2009 at the Geneva motor show. The car was designed by Thomas Stopka.
In the summer, the sedan – W212 was joined by the elegant Coupé – C207, in the fall the roomy station wagon – S212 (the luggage compartment capacity is 695–1950 l), and in the winter, the A207 convertible was also offered.
The open version is equipped with a special panel above the windshield, thanks to which it can be driven with the roof folded down, even in winter. The temperature inside is not susceptible to external factors.
In the fall of 2011, the design underwent cosmetic modernization, the following changes were made: the clock display, LED daytime running lamps, and the 5-speed automatic transmission disappeared from the offer once and for all. In the winter of 2012, the German car underwent another facelift, this time the modifications were much more serious.
The new front apron, refreshed rear of the car, restyled buttons and the steering wheel in the interior are the most noticeable changes. The new silhouette was designed by Michael Frei.
In the meantime, there were also some changes in the engine offer. Since the last modernization, the car is still produced in: Germany, Mexico, India, China and Egypt.
Used Mercedes E-Class W212 engines
Gasoline:
- R4 1.8L CNG version (163 HP) NGT BlueEFFICIENCY
- R4 1.8L Turbocharged (184-204hp) E200, E200 CGI BlueEFFICIENCY, E250, E250 CGI BlueEFFICIENCY
- R4 2.0L (156hp) E200 Natural Gas Drive
- V6 3.0L (231-245hp) E300
- V6 3.0L Biturbo (333bhp) E400
- V6 3.5L (252, 272, 292–306 hp) E350, E350 BlueEFFICIENCY, E350 CGI BlueEFFICIENCY
- V6 3.5L with electric motor (306 + 27hp) E400 Hybrid
- V8 4.7L Biturbo (408bhp) E500
- V8 5.5L (388hp) E500
- V8 5.5L Biturbo (525, 557-585hp) E63 AMG, E 63 AMG 4MATIC S-Modell
- V8 6.2 l (525 bhp) E63 AMG
Diesels:
- R4 2.1 L (136.163, 170-204 hp) E200 CDI, E220 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY, E220 CDI, E220 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY, E 220 BlueTEC BlueEFFICIENCY, E250 CDI
- R4 2.1 l with electric motor (204 + 27 HP) E300 CDI HYBRID, E300 BlueTEC HYBRID
- V6 3.0L (204, 211, 231, 252–265 hp) E300 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY, E300 BlueTEC, E350 BlueTEC, E 350 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY
While browsing the Mercedes E-Class engine offer, it is difficult to get to know it all. Which version you choose depends only on the thickness of your wallet.
Before you decide on a particular variety, you should know about its potential flaws. Most customers choose diesels.
However, it must be remembered that the 2.1-liter R4 engine at the beginning of production struggled with piezoelectric injector failures – Mercedes carried out a service action.
In addition, it’s hard to find fault, the 3-liter V6 diesel is also a durable design. Of course, as befits a diesel engine, with mileage of 250,000–400,000 km, there may be faults in the accessories. Before buying, be sure to check the condition of the diesel particulate filter ! Watch out for German taxis!
And how is the durability of petrol cars? It is difficult to say anything about the dual-supercharged engines, because they are still fresh designs. There are also no objections to the R4 motors.
Particular care should be taken when purchasing the E300 version with a 3-liter engine from 231 to 245 hp and the 272- and 292-hp versions of the 3.5-liter engine (E350 BlueEFFICIENCY and E350 CGI BlueEFFICIENCY), where premature wear of the gears on the balancing shafts – the cost of replacing such elements, including labor, is about $700.
Before buying a Mercedes with an M 272 series engine, be sure to check with the Authorized Service Center (based on the serial number of the engine) whether the problem concerns the selected copy.
Used Mercedes E-Class W212 specifications
The Mercedes E-Class W212 has rear-wheel drive as standard, but the fixed 4 × 4 system (4Matic) is also available as an option.
There are four transmissions to choose from: 6-speed manual or 5-, 7- and 9-speed automatic. In standard versions, both in the front and rear suspension, you will find multi-link systems, and an optional pneumatic system was offered.
Security? Of course, at the highest level – the Mercedes W212 completed the Euro NCAP crash tests with a 5-star result.
Used Mercedes E-Class W212 typical faults
The Mercedes E-Class W212 is, in contrast to the failed W210 model, an almost armored car. Although most of the faults are small, there are also more serious breakdowns from time to time.
The most serious problems in operation are caused by the 7-speed automatic transmission in the configuration with a powerful 3-liter diesel – problems with the hydraulic valves and the torque converter.
If you decide to buy a model equipped with air suspension , be sure to check the condition of the shock absorbers and the compressor. Unsealing the system will end with the need to call a tow truck for help.
Don’t count on somehow to crawl to the nearest service point. In some cars there may be small oil leaks, for example in the vicinity of the turbocharger , in others there is a regular loss of coolant.
W212 users complain about malfunctions of the central locking and too quickly burning out xenon headlight bulbs. Electric windows can also be fickle, as they simply stop working over time.
The button for the automatic closing of the tailgate also refuses to obey. What else can go on strike? Radio control knob, horn and parking sensors.
Used Mercedes E-Class W212 in Our Review
If you were put off by the emergency E-Class W210 , it’s high time to forget about the first eyepiece and forgive the manufacturer for all the mishaps accumulated in this car.
The latest generation of the E-Class looks much better. You can see a clear progress even in relation to the predecessor ( W211 ). Of course, some cars have serious faults, but that is a small percentage of cars.
If you decide on the right engine version (gasoline is unbreakable) and the right gearbox, you can rest assured. From time to time, you will only be bothered by minor faults in electronics and electrics.
When buying a Mercedes E-Class W212, in addition to reliability, you also get: above-average driving comfort, spacious and luxurious interior, very rich equipment and a wide range of attractive engines. It is an almost perfect car.
Disadvantages? The controversial styling of the body before the facelift, high service costs, considerable distortion of the on-board computer’s fuel consumption and the steering system not as precise as in the Audi A6 or BMW 5 Series .
