1996 Mercedes-Benz E Class Engine cooling Problems
- Complaints
- 3about this part
- Share
- 19%of 16 total for the year
- Median mileage
- 125,500miles
- Trend
- Not enough dataFewer than 15 complaints, too few for a reliable trend.
NHTSA recorded 3 complaints about the engine cooling of the 1996 Mercedes-Benz E Class, 19% of the 16 complaints for this model year. Where a mileage was given, the median is 125,500 miles. 1 recall campaign on record is filed under a similar system.
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.
“Engine and all electrical functions suddenly stopped while driving. After towing, it was discovered that the electrical wiring harness had virtually disintegrated. Parts and labor to repair approx. $1000. Filing now only because I just found out that it is a recurring problem on Mercedes-Benz vehicles around my year (1996).”
NHTSA complaint #10202793, filed 2007-09, 125,500 miles“After several electrical abnormalities, I examined the engine compartment, which for all practical purposes, looks as new. I was shocked to see that the wiring at the glow plug relay was deteriorated and bare. I also noted that all the wiring in the engine compartment was brittle to the point that any manipulation, no matter how slight,. Would cause the insulation to fall away. This is a fire hazard. I have parked the car, and removed the battery, since I feel it is too dangerous to even park in the yard.”
NHTSA complaint #10453136, filed 2012-03Related recalls
- 96V058000Apr 4, 1996The drive belt pulley on the engine can develop fatigue cracks in the metal and break. If the drive pulley breaks, the car would not have engine cooling…Covers: Mercedes-Benz E Class 1996, C Class 1996, S Class 1996 +1 more
Engine cooling: other model years
| Year | Complaints | Share of year |
|---|---|---|
| 2005 | 1 | 11% |
| 2004 | 1 | 7% |
| 2003 | 4 | 9% |
| 2001 | 3 | 20% |
| 2000 | 7 | 21% |
| 1998 | 4 | 17% |
| 1997 | 1 | 3% |
| 1996 | 3 | 19% |
| 1995 | 5 | 24% |
| 1994 | 6 | 16% |
Other parts of the 1996 Mercedes-Benz E Class
7 complaintsElectrical system
6 complaintsEquipment
1 complaintsTransmission and drivetrain
1 complaints
← All problems reported for the 1996 Mercedes-Benz E Class
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