2020 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Safety Report

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz E-Class has a limited safety data set from NHTSA, with no overall safety ratings available for frontal, side, or rollover crash tests. Despite this, the vehicle has accumulated 19 total complaints, including 2 fire incidents and 4 injuries, but no reported crashes or deaths. A significant concern is the occurrence of two separate vehicle fires, one while the car was at a stop light and another while turned off under a carport, both with relatively low mileage (under 18,000 miles). These fire incidents, coupled with reports of engine issues, suggest potential underlying safety risks that warrant further investigation. Common complaint patterns revolve heavily around the ENGINE, which is cited in multiple complaints, including instances of the AC compressor causing engine lock-up, corroded electrical harnesses leading to engine failure, and oil pump valve malfunctions. Other notable issues include 'BACK OVER PREVENTION' (rearview camera failures) and 'TIRES' (sidewall splits and rapid deflation). The lack of recalls for a vehicle with reported fire incidents and multiple engine-related complaints is noteworthy, as recalls are typically issued to address widespread safety defects. The absence of crash test ratings makes it difficult to assess the vehicle's passive safety performance in a collision scenario. The overall safety picture for the 2020 Mercedes-Benz E-Class is mixed. While there are no reported crashes, the presence of fire incidents and several critical engine and safety system malfunctions (like rearview camera failures and panoramic sunroof explosions) raises concerns. The 19 complaints, particularly the 2 fires and 4 injuries, indicate that despite its luxury status, the vehicle is not without significant safety issues that potential buyers should be aware of. The lack of NHTSA crash test data means consumers cannot rely on independent government ratings for crashworthiness.

Our recommendation: Given the lack of crash test data and reports of serious issues like engine fires, electrical failures, and rearview camera malfunctions, proceed with caution. A thorough pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic, focusing on the engine, electrical system, and safety features, is highly recommended.