1997 Mercedes-Benz E300 Electrical system Problems
- Complaints
- 2about this part
- Share
- 25%of 8 total for the year
- Median mileage
- —not reported
- Trend
- Not enough dataFewer than 15 complaints, too few for a reliable trend.
NHTSA recorded 2 complaints about the electrical system of the 1997 Mercedes-Benz E300, 25% of the 8 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.
“The wire harness is brittle and the insulation is disintegrating, resulting in shorts and electrical failures. The headlights stopped working unexpectedly.”
NHTSA complaint #10876659, filed 2016-06“While starting vehicle battery under rear passenger seat had exploded. Dealer/manufacturer were notified and were unwilling to assist. Consumer states in spite of various attempts, a foul smell still remains.”
NHTSA complaint #899139, filed 2001-11Related service bulletins
- 10186142Dec 9, 2020Unmotivated Reaction from Park Assist - model series 213 facelift / 238 facelift with option code 235 (active par- king assist) and option code 501 (surround view system)
- 10179951Jul 20, 2020AIRMATIC Fault Message "Max 80 km/ h (50 mph) " In Instrument Cluster
- 10134789Dec 4, 2017Various fault codes logged in power electronics control unit
- 10135639Oct 17, 2014Vehicle cannot be unlocked (CL), engine does not start - 12V starter battery discharged
Electrical system: other model years
Other parts of the 1997 Mercedes-Benz E300
2 complaintsTransmission and drivetrain
2 complaintsBrakes
1 complaintsExterior lighting
1 complaintsFuel system
1 complaintsSuspension
1 complaints
← All problems reported for the 1997 Mercedes-Benz E300
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