Owners have filed 378 complaints
about the 2014 Mercedes Benz E350 with NHTSA between 2013 and 2026.
The largest single group is the brakes.
Across this model's run it ranks 1 of 15 worst.
The letter says how bad. This says what kind — whether this year drew
an unusual number of complaints, unusually dangerous
ones, or failures that arrived unusually early.
The dashed ring is 50 — the national norm. Further out is worse.
Complaint volume — 100
Against the median year of the Mercedes Benz E350. 50 means typical for this
model; 100 means roughly double.
Severity — 68
13.2% of these complaints
involved a crash, fire, injury or death, against a national rate of
9.7%.
Early failure — 70
41% of failures with a mileage on record happened under
36,000 miles, against a national rate of
29%.
How 2014 compares with every other Mercedes Benz E350
NHTSA files every complaint against a named sub-assembly, not just a
system. This is the difference between knowing it was "the engine" and
knowing which part of it — the list to hand a mechanic.
Body
1651.6%
Frame AND Members
412.9%
Blind Spot Detection
39.7%
Automatic Emergency Braking
26.5%
Adaptive Cruise Control
26.5%
Sun/Moon Roof Assembly
26.5%
Steering Control Module
13.2%
Speedometer/Odometer
13.2%
When it fails
Odometer readings owners gave when they filed. About half of all
complaints include one.
Under 1,000 miles
74.8%
1,000 – 9,999 miles
2919.9%
10,000 – 24,999 miles
106.8%
25,000 – 49,999 miles
3524.0%
50,000 – 74,999 miles
3423.3%
75,000 – 99,999 miles
2114.4%
100,000 – 149,999 miles
85.5%
150,000+ miles
21.4%
When owners complained
A spike years after the car went on sale usually means a part wearing
out on schedule across the whole fleet — the kind of pattern no single
owner can see from inside their own car.
Nov 2013peak 11Jul 2026
NHTSA investigations into the 2014 Mercedes Benz E350
An investigation is the step before a recall: the agency has seen enough
complaints to look into a pattern itself. An open one means it thinks
something may be wrong and nothing has been fixed yet.
From 2000 through 2017, Takata produced millions of air bag inflators using two types of phase-stabilized ammonium nitrate ("PSAN") propellant -- propellant 2004 and propellant 2004L. After prolonged exposure to high temperature cycles and humidity, inflators using propellant 2004 can degrade, causing the propellant to burn too quickly when ignited. The rapid burning can cause the inflator to rupture during deployment, potentially causing serious or even fatal injury to vehicle occupants. See 2016 Blomquist Report at www.nhtsa.gov/sites/nhtsa.gov/files/documents/expert_report-hrblomquist.pdf.C...
DP20004Opened 24 Apr 2020Closed 9 Oct 2020SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
Rear brake line failure
On April 10, 2020, NHTSA's Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) received a defect petition from Mr. Surjit Singh alleging premature corrosion of the rear brake lines in his 2013 Mercedes-Benz E350 sedan. The petitioner states that he was recently informed by a Mercedes dealer service department that his car had severely rusted brake lines that need[ed] to be replaced immediately at a cost of about $3300. He further stated that the dealer service advisor informed him that he had seen the issue on many cars like his. The petitioner requested ?that NHTSA launch an investigation into this serious...
Complaints that involved harm
Reports where the owner recorded a crash, a fire, an injury or a death.
Sunbury, OHFire
SUSPENSION
Vehicle subframe corrosion (manufacturer extended warranty offered). Rear brake lines corroded/leaking. Vehicle leaks fuel; steel fuel line corroded. Vehicle has about 105k miles. Minor fire started when yard maintenance came in contact with fuel saturated ground where vehicle had been parked/moved out of the way just prior. With rear suspension subframe springs corroded, vehicle bottom can contact road surface while driving, scraping steel exhaust with fuel present. EXTREMELY dangerous. Local Sunbury Ohio Mercedes dealership inspected then offered subframe replacement. Stated it was leaking fuel and not hydraulic fluid we originally thought. Brake, suspension and fuel line corrosion repairs were quoted in excess of $4,000, which was a "great deal" according to them "because the subframe would already be removed and would make it much easier."
NHTSA complaint #11749054 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Sunbury, OHFire
SERVICE BRAKES
Vehicle subframe corrosion (manufacturer extended warranty offered). Rear brake lines corroded/leaking. Vehicle leaks fuel; steel fuel line corroded. Vehicle has about 105k miles. Minor fire started when yard maintenance came in contact with fuel saturated ground where vehicle had been parked/moved out of the way just prior. With rear suspension subframe springs corroded, vehicle bottom can contact road surface while driving, scraping steel exhaust with fuel present. EXTREMELY dangerous. Local Sunbury Ohio Mercedes dealership inspected then offered subframe replacement. Stated it was leaking fuel and not hydraulic fluid we originally thought. Brake, suspension and fuel line corrosion repairs were quoted in excess of $4,000, which was a "great deal" according to them "because the subframe would already be removed and would make it much easier."
NHTSA complaint #11749054 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Sunbury, OHFire
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
Vehicle subframe corrosion (manufacturer extended warranty offered). Rear brake lines corroded/leaking. Vehicle leaks fuel; steel fuel line corroded. Vehicle has about 105k miles. Minor fire started when yard maintenance came in contact with fuel saturated ground where vehicle had been parked/moved out of the way just prior. With rear suspension subframe springs corroded, vehicle bottom can contact road surface while driving, scraping steel exhaust with fuel present. EXTREMELY dangerous. Local Sunbury Ohio Mercedes dealership inspected then offered subframe replacement. Stated it was leaking fuel and not hydraulic fluid we originally thought. Brake, suspension and fuel line corrosion repairs were quoted in excess of $4,000, which was a "great deal" according to them "because the subframe would already be removed and would make it much easier."
NHTSA complaint #11749054 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Stafford, VACrash1 injured
AIR BAGS
UNKNOWN
NHTSA complaint #11720019 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Royal Oaks, CAFire
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
I've had the car for 3 years and its all stock. It has 38,500 miles and today out of no where the driver side speaker in the door started making a crackling and popping noise. Smoke started coming from the speaker and filled the cabin. I quickly pulled over and turned off the car, because the smell of plastic burning was horrible. I was immediately alarmed by this and let the car cool down. I started driving again and it started again crackling and alot of smoke coming from the speaker. I called my mechanic and he said that that car had a known problem for a short and others had complained about their speakers melting due to overheating from the amplifier. He quickly searched the fuse box numbers and had me pull fuse #67 that disarmed the amp and speakers but allowed me to drive the car again. There is no warning and this is extremely dangerous due to a possible car fire. I am just thankful that my wife or children were not driving this car when this happened. I researched the problem more and I can't believe there has not been a serious recall for those amps that came with the car.
NHTSA complaint #11677680 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Florence, SCFire
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
While driving in stop and go traffic I heard a loud popping noise from the dash area and smoke started filling the cabin. I called a DC area dealer service dept and was told to exit the DC beltway and un plug the audio amplifier in the trunk left access door That stopped the popping noise and the smoke .
NHTSA complaint #11633188 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The most recent complaints
In the owners' own words, exactly as filed with NHTSA.
Celina, OH
SUSPENSION
The failure was when I hit the brakes hard in an emergency braking situation and the car very eratically and violently veered to the left. There was no warning and thank God there was no car coming in the left lane otherwise it would have been a broad side hit. I was doing 55 mph. We had the car inspected at a local shop and the left rear tie rod link was completely severed from the suspension sub-frame because of rust. The brake lines above the sub frame were also severely rusted and leaking. I called my closest dealer and they said the rusted frame replacement is covered under extended warrenty but not the brake lines which had the same issue, severe corrosion and a potential catostrophic failure! Mercedes Road Side Assistance was called to tow the car 70 miles to the closest shop.
NHTSA complaint #11752742 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Celina, OH
SERVICE BRAKES
The failure was when I hit the brakes hard in an emergency braking situation and the car very eratically and violently veered to the left. There was no warning and thank God there was no car coming in the left lane otherwise it would have been a broad side hit. I was doing 55 mph. We had the car inspected at a local shop and the left rear tie rod link was completely severed from the suspension sub-frame because of rust. The brake lines above the sub frame were also severely rusted and leaking. I called my closest dealer and they said the rusted frame replacement is covered under extended warrenty but not the brake lines which had the same issue, severe corrosion and a potential catostrophic failure! Mercedes Road Side Assistance was called to tow the car 70 miles to the closest shop.
NHTSA complaint #11752742 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The failure was when I hit the brakes hard in an emergency braking situation and the car very eratically and violently veered to the left. There was no warning and thank God there was no car coming in the left lane otherwise it would have been a broad side hit. I was doing 55 mph. We had the car inspected at a local shop and the left rear tie rod link was completely severed from the suspension sub-frame because of rust. The brake lines above the sub frame were also severely rusted and leaking. I called my closest dealer and they said the rusted frame replacement is covered under extended warrenty but not the brake lines which had the same issue, severe corrosion and a potential catostrophic failure! Mercedes Road Side Assistance was called to tow the car 70 miles to the closest shop.
NHTSA complaint #11752742 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
North Arlington, NJ
STEERING
While braking from highway speeds or any other speed, the vehicle becomes unstable and pulls to the left, making it difficult to maintain control. During hard braking, the vehicle does not track straight and requires steering correction to remain in its lane, creating a significant safety hazard. To diagnose the problem, the vehicle was inspected by an independent mechanic. An alignment was performed, and the suspension and braking systems were inspected. The mechanic determined that the rear subframe has severe rust and corrosion. The rusted rear subframe is available for inspection upon request. Despite the alignment and inspection of the suspension and brakes, the unsafe braking behavior remains. There were no warning lights or messages indicating this condition before it was discovered. The problem has been reproduced multiple times under similar braking conditions. This condition puts the driver, passengers, and other motorists at risk because the vehicle can become difficult to control during braking, particularly at highway speeds or during an emergency stop. Based on the mechanic's inspection, the severely corroded rear subframe is the source of concern and should be investigated as a safety-related defect. I have also contacted Mercedes-Benz USA regarding this safety issue and requested assistance, but I have not yet received a response.
NHTSA complaint #11751828 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
North Arlington, NJ
SUSPENSION
While braking from highway speeds or any other speed, the vehicle becomes unstable and pulls to the left, making it difficult to maintain control. During hard braking, the vehicle does not track straight and requires steering correction to remain in its lane, creating a significant safety hazard. To diagnose the problem, the vehicle was inspected by an independent mechanic. An alignment was performed, and the suspension and braking systems were inspected. The mechanic determined that the rear subframe has severe rust and corrosion. The rusted rear subframe is available for inspection upon request. Despite the alignment and inspection of the suspension and brakes, the unsafe braking behavior remains. There were no warning lights or messages indicating this condition before it was discovered. The problem has been reproduced multiple times under similar braking conditions. This condition puts the driver, passengers, and other motorists at risk because the vehicle can become difficult to control during braking, particularly at highway speeds or during an emergency stop. Based on the mechanic's inspection, the severely corroded rear subframe is the source of concern and should be investigated as a safety-related defect. I have also contacted Mercedes-Benz USA regarding this safety issue and requested assistance, but I have not yet received a response.
NHTSA complaint #11751828 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Wingdale, NY
STRUCTURE:BODY
Rear subframe rotted / corroded. Rear brake lines rotted and rear springs broken from corrosion . Mercedes refuses to address the issues under warranty except the subframe issue . Almost crashed on i-84 with child in vehicle due to rear control arm being rotted from subframe .
NHTSA complaint #11751724 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
North Arlington, NJ
STRUCTURE:BODY
While braking from highway speeds or any other speed, the vehicle becomes unstable and pulls to the left, making it difficult to maintain control. During hard braking, the vehicle does not track straight and requires steering correction to remain in its lane, creating a significant safety hazard. To diagnose the problem, the vehicle was inspected by an independent mechanic. An alignment was performed, and the suspension and braking systems were inspected. The mechanic determined that the rear subframe has severe rust and corrosion. The rusted rear subframe is available for inspection upon request. Despite the alignment and inspection of the suspension and brakes, the unsafe braking behavior remains. There were no warning lights or messages indicating this condition before it was discovered. The problem has been reproduced multiple times under similar braking conditions. This condition puts the driver, passengers, and other motorists at risk because the vehicle can become difficult to control during braking, particularly at highway speeds or during an emergency stop. Based on the mechanic's inspection, the severely corroded rear subframe is the source of concern and should be investigated as a safety-related defect. I have also contacted Mercedes-Benz USA regarding this safety issue and requested assistance, but I have not yet received a response.
NHTSA complaint #11751828 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Sunbury, OHFire
SUSPENSION
Vehicle subframe corrosion (manufacturer extended warranty offered). Rear brake lines corroded/leaking. Vehicle leaks fuel; steel fuel line corroded. Vehicle has about 105k miles. Minor fire started when yard maintenance came in contact with fuel saturated ground where vehicle had been parked/moved out of the way just prior. With rear suspension subframe springs corroded, vehicle bottom can contact road surface while driving, scraping steel exhaust with fuel present. EXTREMELY dangerous. Local Sunbury Ohio Mercedes dealership inspected then offered subframe replacement. Stated it was leaking fuel and not hydraulic fluid we originally thought. Brake, suspension and fuel line corrosion repairs were quoted in excess of $4,000, which was a "great deal" according to them "because the subframe would already be removed and would make it much easier."
NHTSA complaint #11749054 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Sunbury, OHFire
SERVICE BRAKES
Vehicle subframe corrosion (manufacturer extended warranty offered). Rear brake lines corroded/leaking. Vehicle leaks fuel; steel fuel line corroded. Vehicle has about 105k miles. Minor fire started when yard maintenance came in contact with fuel saturated ground where vehicle had been parked/moved out of the way just prior. With rear suspension subframe springs corroded, vehicle bottom can contact road surface while driving, scraping steel exhaust with fuel present. EXTREMELY dangerous. Local Sunbury Ohio Mercedes dealership inspected then offered subframe replacement. Stated it was leaking fuel and not hydraulic fluid we originally thought. Brake, suspension and fuel line corrosion repairs were quoted in excess of $4,000, which was a "great deal" according to them "because the subframe would already be removed and would make it much easier."
NHTSA complaint #11749054 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Sunbury, OHFire
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
Vehicle subframe corrosion (manufacturer extended warranty offered). Rear brake lines corroded/leaking. Vehicle leaks fuel; steel fuel line corroded. Vehicle has about 105k miles. Minor fire started when yard maintenance came in contact with fuel saturated ground where vehicle had been parked/moved out of the way just prior. With rear suspension subframe springs corroded, vehicle bottom can contact road surface while driving, scraping steel exhaust with fuel present. EXTREMELY dangerous. Local Sunbury Ohio Mercedes dealership inspected then offered subframe replacement. Stated it was leaking fuel and not hydraulic fluid we originally thought. Brake, suspension and fuel line corrosion repairs were quoted in excess of $4,000, which was a "great deal" according to them "because the subframe would already be removed and would make it much easier."
NHTSA complaint #11749054 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 78,000 milesDallas, TX
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
The contact owns a 2014 Mercedes-Benz E-Class. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the contact noticed fuel odor in the interior and exterior of the vehicle. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or the dealer. The dealer was made aware of the failure. The contact referenced an unknown recall; however, the VIN was not associated with a recall related to the failure. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The contact was advised to take the vehicle to the dealer for diagnostic testing. The failure mileage was approximately 78,000.
NHTSA complaint #11738986 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Hollywood, FL
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Driving shaft malfunction.
NHTSA complaint #11734659 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Thousand Oaks, CA
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
Strong smell of fuel from the rear wheel well areas, especially after a fill. I have been searching the recalls and found a 15V-792 / 2015110006 Recall Summary as well as a 15V-792 / 2015110006 Recall Solution. Please advise if this is of safety concern and the dealer should address this concern. [XXX] [XXX] [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11732141 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Granby, CT
SERVICE BRAKES
Brake line failure. Front section of the line that feeds the rear wheels leaked while traveling. Warning light came on. Purchased brake fluid and drove to local service provider. The rear section left to right above subframe was found to be rotted, but not leaking yet. Local service provider replaced front and rear brake lines.
NHTSA complaint #11731615 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 40,905 milesLeland, NC
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
The contact owns a 2014 Mercedes-Benz E350. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked, fuel was leaking from near the fuel tank. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact stated that the failure was intermittent. The vehicle was taken to the dealer; however, the failure could not be duplicated. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 40,905.
NHTSA complaint #11728634 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Frisco, TX
ENGINE
Issue with fuel injection for Benz E350 2014 2014 Mercedes-Benz E350 fuel injection issues often stem from faulty injectors causing misfires, often on Cylinder 5, or a recalled fuel feed line. Symptoms include rough idling, reduced gas mileage, stalling, and check engine lights (P0300-P0306 codes).
NHTSA complaint #11723123 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Frisco, TX
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
Issue with fuel injection for Benz E350 2014 2014 Mercedes-Benz E350 fuel injection issues often stem from faulty injectors causing misfires, often on Cylinder 5, or a recalled fuel feed line. Symptoms include rough idling, reduced gas mileage, stalling, and check engine lights (P0300-P0306 codes).
NHTSA complaint #11723123 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Stafford, VACrash1 injured
AIR BAGS
UNKNOWN
NHTSA complaint #11720019 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Carlisle, PA
SERVICE BRAKES
Brake lines leaking because corrosion under frame from ABS module which is essential a safety aspect that should not be happening.
NHTSA complaint #11714883 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 61,500 milesBonita Springs, FL
STEERING
The contact owns a 2014 Mercedes-Benz E350. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, and occasionally while starting the vehicle, the steering wheel seized, and the message “Power Steering Malfunction” was displayed. The dealer was contacted; however, the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 61,500.
NHTSA complaint #11702194 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 140,000 milesSwainsboro, GA
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
The contact owns a 2014 Mercedes-Benz E-350. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked and occupied, the contact heard an abnormal rattling sound coming from the engine that lasted for approximately 3 seconds when first started. An independent mechanic was contacted. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, and the contact was informed that the failure was a common issue, and that the vehicle operated as designed. The contact stated that the failure might be related to the timing chain or the lifters. The contact stated that there were no issues while driving the vehicle, only whenever the vehicle was first started. The contact stated that after the engine had warmed up to operating temperature, the sound was no longer heard. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and advised the contact to report the failure to the NHTSA Hotline. The approximate failure mileage was 140,000.
NHTSA complaint #11693801 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Flemington, NJ
SERVICE BRAKES
2014 Mercedes e350 these models as well as those from2009-2015. Have recall on subframe but the brake lines rust out and deteriorate as mine has now done. If you go on line you tube etc. you will see the issue and all complaints. I had my subframe replaced under warranty at Mercedes of flemington. About 1 1/2 years ago. While it was being serviced they asked me if I wanted to replace brake lines for $1200 since they had this part out job would be easy. So this means Mercedes is well aware of the deterioration of these line the man at mb said the metal was inferior and this is result. On YouTube it was stated that individuals took mb to court or accountability for this but results were negative. Yet problem exists. If you breaks fail while driving it is very dangerous. Also I believe there is a recall for gas lines for my model 2014 manufactured from June and July. The brake lines on my vehicle are rusting as is gas tank. This also is dangerous condition should accidents occur the lines because compromised with rust can much easily rupture causing fuels to spew out causing possible explosive condition. I have pictures and can forward
NHTSA complaint #11693371 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Flemington, NJ
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
2014 Mercedes e350 these models as well as those from2009-2015. Have recall on subframe but the brake lines rust out and deteriorate as mine has now done. If you go on line you tube etc. you will see the issue and all complaints. I had my subframe replaced under warranty at Mercedes of flemington. About 1 1/2 years ago. While it was being serviced they asked me if I wanted to replace brake lines for $1200 since they had this part out job would be easy. So this means Mercedes is well aware of the deterioration of these line the man at mb said the metal was inferior and this is result. On YouTube it was stated that individuals took mb to court or accountability for this but results were negative. Yet problem exists. If you breaks fail while driving it is very dangerous. Also I believe there is a recall for gas lines for my model 2014 manufactured from June and July. The brake lines on my vehicle are rusting as is gas tank. This also is dangerous condition should accidents occur the lines because compromised with rust can much easily rupture causing fuels to spew out causing possible explosive condition. I have pictures and can forward
NHTSA complaint #11693371 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Dallas, TX
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
Fuel smell in the rear of the car, it was checked by a indepent mechanic and the tank is leaking fuel. They said is the Fuel filter which is usually faulty in this model. It seems the car can catch fire according to the mechanig. No warnings of the leaking in the dashboard, only the strong smell.
NHTSA complaint #11687667 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Odenton, MD
ENGINE
The camshaft adjuster failure. Though I'm told safety is not in immediate danger, it's a very expensive fix that can cause other issues if left unpaired. It began subtly with strange noises, hesitation during start-up, inconsistent performance. I take meticulous care of this vehicle. Regular service. Genuine parts. Always handled with care. And yet, here I am, facing a repair bill that is not only shocking, but unjust. Especially for this to be a common problem. Not to mention the potential for severe engine damage if left unresolved. I’ve since learned that I am not alone. Many loyal Mercedes owners have faced the same issue; often at relatively low mileage, with little to no warning. This is not an isolated defect. It is a systemic issue with significant implications, not just for the vehicle, but for the trust your customers place in your brand. To say I’m disappointed is an understatement. I feel let down. Mercedes-Benz has always held a status. A great looking car. A great engineered car. And while this is a great looking car, it has a serious engineering flaw. German and Japanese engineered cars hold the standard and this must be fixed. A goodwill repair assistance, or a broader recall initiative would show some integrity.
NHTSA complaint #11685698 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.