Mercedes-Benz E 350 W212 — Reliability

W212 Sedan Executive 2009–2016 2 engines

Reliability Summary

Best engine M276 — 78/100 BUY
Worst engine M272 — 50/100 CAUTION
Average reliability 64/100

Engine Comparison

Engine Reliability Score Verdict Known Issues
M276
V6 3.0/3.5L 		78/100 BUY Timing chain tensioner / camshaft adjuster +2
M272
V6 NA 2.5-3.5L 		50/100 CAUTION Balance shaft sprocket wear — class-action +2

Engines in this model

BUY 78

M276

V6 3.0/3.5L

Refined M272 successor. Direct injection. 200k+ km with care.

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CAUTION 50

M272

V6 NA 2.5-3.5L

Smooth V6. Early models: balance shaft defect (class-action). Post-2008: better.

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Known Issues Across All Engines

Issue Engine Severity Onset
Timing chain tensioner / camshaft adjuster M276 moderate 100,000 km – 170,000 km
Spark plugs + ignition coils M276 minor 80,000 km – 150,000 km
Valve cover / cam cover oil leaks M276 minor 100,000 km – 200,000 km
Balance shaft sprocket wear — class-action M272 critical 60,000 km – 150,000 km
Intake manifold swirl flaps failure M272 moderate 80,000 km – 150,000 km
Spark plugs + ignition coils M272 minor 80,000 km – 150,000 km

FAQ

Is the Mercedes-Benz E 350 reliable?

The Mercedes-Benz E 350 has 2 engine options with reliability scores ranging from 50/100 (CAUTION) to 78/100 (BUY). Average reliability: 64/100.

Which Mercedes-Benz E 350 engine is most reliable?

The M276 is the most reliable engine in the Mercedes-Benz E 350, scoring 78/100 (BUY).

What problems does the Mercedes-Benz E 350 have?

Across all engine variants, the Mercedes-Benz E 350 has 6 known issues. The most common are related to Timing chain tensioner / camshaft adjuster, Spark plugs + ignition coils, Valve cover / cam cover oil leaks.