The 1995 Mercedes Benz E320 is a classic vehicle admired for its luxury and performance. However, like many cars of its era, it’s prone to certain age-related issues. One significant problem reported by owners and highlighted in complaints to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is the deterioration of the engine wiring harness.
Owners of the 1995 E320 have filed complaints detailing how the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) wiring harness becomes brittle and cracks over time. This degradation often manifests around the 100,000-mile mark, though some instances have been reported at lower mileages, such as 76,000 miles. The consequences of a failing wiring harness can be serious, leading to engine misfires and triggering the “Check Engine” light. In one reported case, a Mercedes-Benz dealership discovered a frayed harness shorting out in a valve cover during a routine service.
These wiring harness issues are not isolated incidents. Online forums and complaint databases reveal similar experiences among 1995 Benz E320 owners, and even those with models from 1994 to 1996. Some complaints suggest that dealers have had to replace the wiring harness multiple times, indicating a potentially recurring problem stemming from the quality or durability of the original components.
The decomposing wiring harness in the 1995 Benz E320 is more than just an inconvenience. As one complaint to NHTSA stated, this type of defect could be considered a safety issue. Owners experiencing symptoms like engine misfires or check engine lights in their 1995 E320 should be aware of the potential wiring harness problem and seek professional inspection to ensure safe and reliable vehicle operation.
