1998 Mercedes-Benz 320 Transmission and drivetrain Problems
- Complaints
- 3about this part
- Share
- 8%of 39 total for the year
- Median mileage
- —not reported
- Trend
- Not enough dataFewer than 15 complaints, too few for a reliable trend.
NHTSA recorded 3 complaints about the transmission and drivetrain of the 1998 Mercedes-Benz 320, 8% of the 39 complaints for this model year.
Fewer than 15 complaints name this part, so treat the figures as a rough indication only.
Example complaints
Selected from NHTSA records; personal details are removed. They are consumer reports, not findings.
“Trnsmission failure. Also, repeated failure of windows and electric seats rear entry and brake lights, indicate serious problem with this car. Warranty covers the repairs, but the problems persist. I have never heard of a car having so many problems. What do you know about the 1998 320 clk? What can I do about this?”
NHTSA complaint #720630, filed 2000-03“Driver attempted to accelerate, engine speed increased but the drive system had no power going to the wheel (as if in neutral.) dealer stated the problem occurred due to a crimped o-ring in the transmission which became torn with use, consumer was informed that this was a defect in the manufacturers assembly of the transmission.”
NHTSA complaint #539813, filed 1998-08“Automatic transmission problem, while downshifting to control downhill speed shift lever moved between all shift positions without engaging in any gear, and vehicle was freewheeling.”
NHTSA complaint #10011321, filed 2003-03Transmission and drivetrain: other model years
Other parts of the 1998 Mercedes-Benz 320
6 complaintsExterior lighting
5 complaintsFuel system
5 complaintsSteering
5 complaintsBrakes
4 complaintsEngine cooling
4 complaintsSeats
3 complaintsBody and structure
3 complaintsSuspension
3 complaintsAir bags
2 complaintsElectrical system
1 complaintsEquipment
1 complaints
← All problems reported for the 1998 Mercedes-Benz 320
About this data. Data from NHTSA (ODI) complaints, recalls, TSBs and investigations, updated Oct 31, 2026. Complaints are unverified consumer reports and may be duplicated or inaccurate.
To check a specific vehicle for open recalls, use its VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. Methodology