2016 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Safety Report

2016 Mercedes-Benz E-Class: No Recalls, but Significant Airbag and Structural Concerns Reported

88Complaints
0Recalls
55/100Reliability Score
6Crash Reports
1Fire Reports
4Injuries
Most reported components: Air Bags (24)Steering (6)Unknown Or Other (6)Engine (5)Visibility/Wiper (4)Structure (4)Fuel/Propulsion System (3)Visibility (3)Power Train (3)Electrical System (2)

AI Safety Analysis for the 2016 Mercedes-Benz E-Class

The 2016 Mercedes-Benz E-Class exhibits a mixed safety profile based on available NHTSA data. While there are no official NHTSA crash test ratings for this specific model year, the complaint data reveals several concerning patterns. A total of 88 complaints have been filed, including 6 crashes, 1 fire, and 4 injuries. A significant portion of these complaints, 24 out of 88, are related to the 'AIR BAGS' component, with multiple reports of airbags failing to deploy in crashes or passenger seat sensors malfunctioning, potentially compromising occupant protection. This is a critical safety concern, especially given reports of injuries in crashes where airbags did not deploy. Beyond airbags, other notable complaint areas include 'STEERING' (6 complaints) and 'ENGINE' (5 complaints). Steering issues range from power steering malfunctions to the steering wheel becoming stuck, which can severely impact vehicle control. Engine complaints include knocking sounds, head gasket failures, and timing chain problems, some of which are noted by complainants as being similar to issues covered by recalls on other E-Class models, though not specifically for the 2016 model year. The absence of any recalls for the 2016 E-Class is noteworthy, especially when considering the recurring nature of some reported problems like fuel leaks and subframe corrosion, which have been addressed in other Mercedes-Benz vehicles. Several complaints also highlight issues with 'STRUCTURE' (4 complaints) and 'VISIBILITY/WIPER' (4 complaints), primarily concerning windshield seal failures leading to water leaks and potential electrical damage. Furthermore, there are multiple reports of severe rear subframe corrosion, with Mercedes-Benz USA extending warranty coverage for this issue on some vehicles, indicating a known structural integrity concern. The overall picture suggests that while the vehicle may offer luxury, potential owners should be aware of these documented safety and structural vulnerabilities, particularly the high number of airbag-related complaints and the lack of recalls to address these issues.

Reliability Score

The 2016 Mercedes-Benz E-Class receives a reliability score of 55 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates average reliability — some notable concerns exist that prospective buyers should be aware of.

Known Issues for the 2016 Mercedes-Benz E-Class

The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2016 Mercedes-Benz E-Class:

IssueSeverityFrequencyTypical Mileage
Airbag System Malfunction/Non-Deployment
Multiple complaints (24) regarding airbag system failures, including non-deployment in crashes, passenger seat sensor faults preventing airbag activation, and general airbag warning lights.		 High Common variable miles
Rear Subframe Corrosion
Reports of extensive rust and perforations on the rear subframe, posing a risk of accident or injury. Mercedes-Benz USA has extended warranty coverage for this issue on some vehicles.		 High Occasional 50000-80000 miles
Windshield Seal Leaks
Water leaking into the cabin from compromised windshield seals, potentially causing damage to interior and electrical components.		 Medium Occasional variable miles
Fuel Leaks/Odor
Strong fuel odor detected inside and outside the vehicle, with diagnoses including cracked fuel filters and leaking fuel pump assembly seals.		 Medium Occasional variable miles
Steering System Malfunctions
Loss of power steering functionality, 'steering wheel malfunction' messages, and steering wheel becoming stuck in position.		 High Occasional variable miles
Engine Issues (Knocking, Head Gasket, Timing Chain)
Reports of knocking sounds, check engine light illumination, head gasket failure, and timing chain problems, similar to issues in other E-Class models.		 High Occasional variable miles

Common Problems Reported by Owners

Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2016 Mercedes-Benz E-Class:

Air Bags 27% of complaints

The most frequently reported issue, with 24 complaints, involves airbag system malfunctions, including non-deployment in crashes and sensor failures.

Steering 7% of complaints

6 complaints relate to steering issues, such as power steering loss and the steering wheel becoming stuck.

Engine 6% of complaints

5 complaints detail engine problems, including knocking sounds, head gasket failures, and timing chain concerns.

Structure 5% of complaints

4 complaints are about structural integrity, notably severe rear subframe corrosion and windshield separation.

Visibility/Wiper 5% of complaints

4 complaints concern visibility, primarily due to windshield seal leaks causing water intrusion.

Fuel/Propulsion System 3% of complaints

3 complaints mention fuel system issues, including strong fuel odors and leaks from fuel filters or pump assemblies.

Power Train 3% of complaints

3 complaints describe power train issues such as rough shifting and transmission not shifting gears.

Frequently Asked Questions About the 2016 Mercedes-Benz E-Class

Is the 2016 Mercedes-Benz E-Class safe?

Based on NHTSA complaint data, the 2016 Mercedes-Benz E-Class has significant safety concerns, particularly with its airbag system, which accounts for 24 out of 88 total complaints. There are reports of airbags failing to deploy in crashes, leading to injuries. Additionally, structural issues like severe subframe corrosion and windshield leaks are noted. While there are no official NHTSA crash test ratings or recalls for this specific model year, the documented complaints suggest potential safety vulnerabilities.

What are common problems with the 2016 Mercedes-Benz E-Class?

The most reported issues for the 2016 Mercedes-Benz E-Class are related to the AIR BAGS (24 complaints), including non-deployment and sensor faults. Other common problems include STEERING malfunctions (6 complaints), ENGINE issues like knocking and head gasket failures (5 complaints), and STRUCTURE problems such as rear subframe corrosion and windshield leaks (4 complaints).

Are there any recalls for the 2016 Mercedes-Benz E-Class?

According to NHTSA data, there are currently no recalls issued specifically for the 2016 Mercedes-Benz E-Class. However, some complaints mention issues similar to those covered by recalls on other E-Class models, such as timing chain problems and fuel system leaks.

How does the 2016 Mercedes-Benz E-Class perform in crash tests?

The 2016 Mercedes-Benz E-Class does not have official NHTSA crash test ratings (Overall, Frontal, Side, Rollover) available. Therefore, its crash test performance cannot be directly assessed through NHTSA's rating system.

What should I look out for when buying a used 2016 Mercedes-Benz E-Class?

When considering a used 2016 Mercedes-Benz E-Class, pay close attention to the airbag system's functionality, check for any signs of rear subframe corrosion, inspect the windshield for leaks or poor sealing, and listen for unusual engine noises. A pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic familiar with Mercedes-Benz vehicles is highly recommended to identify these known issues.

Buyer Advice

Our recommendation: Given the significant number of airbag-related complaints and structural concerns like subframe corrosion, a thorough pre-purchase inspection by a Mercedes-Benz specialist is crucial. Be prepared for potential repairs related to these documented issues, especially considering the lack of recalls for this model year.

NHTSA Data Summary for 2016 Mercedes-Benz E-Class

This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2016 Mercedes-Benz E-Class. The data includes 88 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 0 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 6 reported crashes, 1 fire incidents, 4 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.

All data presented in this report is sourced from public NHTSA databases. Our AI analysis identifies patterns across complaint narratives, correlates them with recall history, and produces the safety assessment above. This analysis is updated as new complaints and recalls are filed with the NHTSA.

Consumers are encouraged to report vehicle safety problems to the NHTSA at nhtsa.gov. If your vehicle is subject to a recall, contact your dealer to schedule the free repair.