Mercedes Classe E W212 (2009 – 2016)

Reliability score : 7.6/10

The Mercedes-Benz E-Class W212 (sedan) and S212 (wagon) marks a return to the brand's roots, with a more angular design and a desire to erase the reliability issues of the previous generation (W211, particularly the SBC brakes). Positioning: A premium road car par excellence, it is the queen of taxis and high-mileage drivers. It offers imperial comfort, high-level soundproofing, and advanced passive/active safety for its time. Evolution: The model underwent a major facelift in 2013 (Phase 2). This facelift was not just aesthetic (abandonment of separate twin headlights): Mercedes invested over a billion euros to modernize the car, introducing new engines, new driving aids, and correcting almost all the early defects of Phase 1. Expert's overall note: An excellent road car, but its reliabil

✅ Strengths

Manufacturing and finish quality significantly improved compared to the W211
Exceptional ride comfort, especially with Airmatic suspension
Soundproofing worthy of the upper class (S-Class)
Engine block longevity (diesels often exceed 400,000 km if well maintained)
Interior space and gigantic trunk volume on the wagon version (S212)
Excellent overall reliability of Phase 2 (2013-2016)

⚠️ Weaknesses

Very high maintenance and spare parts costs (Mercedes network)
Catastrophic injector problems on early OM651s (2009-2011)
Location of the timing chain on the OM651 (gearbox side) making its replacement prohibitively expensive
Airmatic air suspension (optional or standard on rear of wagons) prone to leaks (air springs, compressor)
Comand NTG4/NTG4.5 multimedia system aging and slow today
High weight impacting brake and tire wear

🎯 Verdict

The Mercedes E-Class W212 is a mileage-eating machine, designed to last. However, buying it used requires great caution. For diesels (your target): Avoid 2009-2011 (Phase 1) 4-cylinder models (OM651) unless the service records prove the replacement of both the injectors AND the timing chain. The V6 diesel (OM642) is a monument of driving pleasure, but budget 1000 to 1500€ for the inevitable oil cooler leak if it hasn't been done. The expert's choice: Absolutely prioritize a Phase 2 (from mid-2013 onwards). For diesel, a well-maintained E220 BlueTEC (Phase 2) is a rational and extremely reliable choice. For petrol, an E200/E250 (M274) or an E350 (M276) will protect you from the DPF and chain issues of older generations. Avoid hybrid versions, whose battery repair costs negate any fuel savings.