Considering a 2003 Mercedes-benz E320 as your next used car? The W211 E-Class generation, including the 2003 E320, is often lauded for its blend of luxury and performance. However, like any vehicle, especially one of this age, it’s crucial to be aware of potential issues and maintenance needs. This article will delve into some common concerns associated with the 2003 Mercedes-Benz E320 to help you make an informed decision.
One notable area of concern for the 2003 Mercedes-Benz E320 is the radiator. A potential design flaw in some early W211 models can lead to radiator failure. This failure can result in coolant contaminating the transmission fluid. Transmission fluid contamination by coolant is a serious issue, as it can lead to significant and costly transmission problems. While later models may have addressed this, it’s essential to be vigilant about this potential problem in a 2003 E320. Checking for milky or discolored transmission fluid during a pre-purchase inspection is highly recommended.
Another significant point to consider for the 2003 Mercedes-Benz E320 is the Sensotronic Brake Control (SBC) system. This brake-by-wire system was a feature on models like the 2003 E320. SBC systems are known to have components that can fail, and Mercedes-Benz eventually discontinued SBC in favor of the Adaptive Brake system in later models (MY07-). Vehicles equipped with SBC, including the 2003 E320, often had extended component warranties for 10 years, which would now be expired on a 2003 model. Potential buyers should be aware that repairs to the SBC system can be expensive. It’s worth investigating the service history of a 2003 E320 to see if any SBC-related maintenance has been performed.
Moving on to the electrical system, early W211 models, such as the 2003 Mercedes-Benz E320, utilized a dual-battery setup. This system is more complex than the single-battery systems found in later, non-SBC models (from MY07-). The dual-battery system in the 2003 E320 includes a separate battery control module. While generally reliable, this more intricate electrical system can present additional points of failure compared to simpler setups. Routine checks of both batteries and the charging system are advisable for 2003 E320 owners.
Furthermore, owners of a 2003 Mercedes-Benz E320 should be aware of the Teleaid/MBRACE system. Earlier cars, including the 2003 model year, were equipped with an analog-only Teleaid/MBRACE system. This analog system is no longer functional in many regions due to the phasing out of analog cellular networks. While Mercedes-Benz offered (and may still offer) equipment upgrades to restore functionality, these upgrades can be costly. Originally, some owners had lifetime basic service for emergency features like airbag deployment notification and roadside assistance, but this is tied to the now-obsolete analog system. This is primarily an informational point as it doesn’t directly impact the car’s mechanical reliability but affects the functionality of integrated communication features.
While not specific to the 2003 model year alone, it’s important to address transmission fluid and filter replacement for any used car, including a 2003 Mercedes-Benz E320. For Mercedes-Benz vehicles of this era, it’s generally recommended to perform the first transmission fluid and filter replacement somewhere in the 50,000 to 70,000 mile range. Regular transmission maintenance is crucial for the longevity of the transmission. If the service history of a 2003 E320 is unknown, or if it’s approaching or exceeding this mileage range without a documented transmission service, it would be a wise preventative maintenance measure to undertake.
Finally, a highly recommended practice when considering the purchase of any used Mercedes-Benz, including a 2003 E320, is to conduct a pre-purchase inspection using a Star Diagnostic system. A Star Diagnostic system is the dealer-level diagnostic tool for Mercedes-Benz vehicles. Using this system allows a qualified technician to access error logs and current fault codes from all of the car’s electronic modules. This can reveal hidden issues or potential problems that might not be apparent during a regular visual inspection or test drive. Error logs can provide valuable information about the nature of any past faults, when they occurred (mileage stamp), and how frequently they have recurred. While dealerships may be reluctant to provide a detailed diagnostic report before a purchase, asking an independent Mercedes-Benz mechanic to perform a pre-purchase inspection with Star Diagnostic is a worthwhile investment for peace of mind.
In conclusion, while the 2003 Mercedes-Benz E320 can be an appealing used car option, potential buyers should be aware of the common issues discussed, particularly radiator concerns, the SBC brake system, and the older electrical and telematics systems. A thorough pre-purchase inspection, including a Star Diagnostic scan, and a review of the car’s maintenance history are essential steps to ensure a sound purchase. With proper maintenance and awareness of these potential issues, a 2003 Mercedes-Benz E320 can still offer a rewarding ownership experience.
