Mercedes Classe E W213 (2016 – 2023)

Reliability score : 8.3/10

The fifth-generation Mercedes-Benz E-Class (W213 for the sedan, S213 for the wagon, C238/A238 for coupe/cabriolet) marks a major technological turning point for the star brand. Launched in 2016 and facelifted in 2020 (Phase 2), it introduced the famous 'Widescreen Cockpit' and advanced semi-autonomous driving aids. Under the hood, it debuted the brand new family of modular aluminum diesel engines (OM654 as a 4-cylinder, then OM656 as an inline 6-cylinder), replacing the aging OM651 and OM642. Although the market is shifting towards hybrid and petrol, the E-Class W213 remains an absolute benchmark for high-mileage drivers thanks to its diesel engines (notably the E 220 d) offering an exceptional performance/consumption ratio. Manufacturing quality is up compared to the W212, although some e

✅ Strengths

Exceptional fuel consumption of OM654 and OM656 diesel engines
Superb ride comfort (especially with Airmatic air suspension)
High-quality interior finish and sound insulation
Highly advanced onboard technology and driving aids (Drive Pilot)
Overall reliability significantly improved from the 2020 facelift (Phase 2)

⚠️ Weaknesses

Costly early issues on OM654 diesels (2016-2018): rocker arms, water pump
PHEV battery integration (E300e / E300de) severely reduces trunk volume
Frequent electronic bugs on early models (black screens, GPS, ambient lighting)
Very high maintenance and spare parts costs in the official network
Airmatic air suspension prone to leaks (air springs/compressor) after 120,000 km

🎯 Verdict

The Mercedes E-Class W213 is an exceptional road car, particularly brilliant in its diesel versions. The OM654 engine (E 220 d) offers an ideal compromise, but it is imperative to favor models produced after late 2018 to avoid the serious rocker arm and water pump issues of the early series. The 6-cylinder diesel (OM656) is a masterpiece of reliability and driving pleasure. The plug-in hybrid (PHEV) versions are fiscally attractive but compromise trunk space too much. For a used car, a clear service history within the Mercedes network is non-negotiable given the electronic and mechanical complexity.

Common issues

Problèmes système AdBlue (SCR) High

🔧 80 000 – 150 000 km

💶 800 – 2 500 €

Utiliser AdBlue de qualité, éviter de rouler réservoir vide.

Défaillance capteurs NOx Medium

🔧 70 000 – 130 000 km

💶 400 – 800 € par capteur

Faire vérifier le système d'échappement en cas de voyant moteur.

Encrassement ou défaillance vanne EGR Medium

🔧 100 000 – 180 000 km

💶 500 – 1 000 €

Effectuer des trajets plus longs régulièrement pour décrasser le système.

Problèmes de suspension pneumatique (Airmatic, si équipée) High

🔧 100 000 – 200 000 km

💶 800 – 1 500 € par boudin ou compresseur

Vérifier l'assiette du véhicule, écouter le compresseur pour bruits anormaux.

Estimated maintenance costs

Oil change	£130 – 220
Timing chain	£1 300 – 2 200 (si nécessaire)
Complete brakes	£350 – 700
Estimated annual budget	£700 – 1 400

Indicative estimates (independent garage, UK market). Prices vary by region and year.