Mercedes Classe E W213 (2016 – 2023)

Reliability score : 7.4/10

The Mercedes-Benz E-Class (W213 generation for the sedan, S213 for the wagon, C238/A238 for coupe/cabriolet) represents a major technological leap for the star brand. Launched in 2016, it introduced the famous 'Widescreen Cockpit' (dual screen) and advanced semi-autonomous driving aids. The 2020 facelift brought the MBUX multimedia system, new capacitive steering wheels, and almost generalized mild hybridization (48V) on gasoline engines. Although this sheet focuses on gasoline engines (very popular in recent used cars and international markets), the W213 has also been a benchmark diesel long-distance cruiser. Overall, it is an extremely comfortable and well-finished car, but its electronic complexity (especially the 48V EQ Boost systems) requires rigorous monitoring.

✅ Strengths

Imperial ride comfort, especially with Airmatic air suspension
Very high-quality interior finish and sound insulation
Onboard technology (Widescreen, MBUX post-2020) still relevant
Exceptional 6-cylinder engines (V6 M276 and L6 M256) for driving pleasure
Controlled fuel consumption on 4-cylinder gasoline and diesel versions

⚠️ Weaknesses

Erratic reliability of the 48V mild hybrid system (EQ Boost) on 2019-2021 models
Replacement cost of air suspension dampers (Airmatic)
Creaking of center console plastics (gloss black) on degraded roads
Reduced trunk volume on plug-in hybrid (PHEV) versions due to the battery
Price of spare parts and hourly rate in the Mercedes-Benz network

🎯 Verdict

The Mercedes E-Class W213 is an exceptional long-distance cruiser that has aged brilliantly in terms of aesthetics and technology. For gasoline engines, the choice must be strategic. The V6 versions (E400) are the most reliable in the long term. The recent 4-cylinders (M264/M254) and the L6 (M256) offer fantastic driving pleasure thanks to 48V hybridization, but this technology has experienced costly failures: an extended warranty is highly recommended for these models. Avoid poorly maintained models or those without a clear service history, as the slightest electronic or pneumatic (Airmatic) breakdown can cost thousands of euros.

Common issues

Problèmes du système 48V (EQ Boost) / Défaillance de l'alterno-démarreur intégré (ISG) High

🔧 50 000 – 120 000 km (variable)

💶 2 500 – 5 000 €

Vérifier l'historique d'entretien et les rappels liés au système 48V.

Dysfonctionnements du système d'infodivertissement (MBUX) / Électronique Medium

🔧 Dès 30 000 km

💶 300 – 1 500 € (selon module)

Tester toutes les fonctions électroniques et l'écran tactile avant achat.

Fuites d'air de la suspension pneumatique (Airmatic) ou défaillance du compresseur High

🔧 80 000 – 150 000 km

💶 800 – 2 000 € par essieu/compresseur

Vérifier l'assiette du véhicule à l'arrêt et l'absence de bruits anormaux.

Usure prématurée des tendeurs de chaîne de distribution (moteurs M274/M264) High

🔧 100 000 – 180 000 km

💶 1 800 – 3 500 €

Écouter attentivement le moteur au démarrage à froid pour des bruits suspects.

Fuites d'huile moteur (joints de cache-culbuteurs, support de filtre à huile) Medium

🔧 80 000 – 150 000 km

💶 300 – 800 €

Inspecter le moteur et le dessous du véhicule pour toute trace d'huile.

Estimated maintenance costs

Oil change	£90 – 160
Complete brakes	£280 – 550
Estimated annual budget	£650 – 1 300

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