Most common 1997 Mercedes-Benz 280 problems
Share of the 5 complaints; one complaint can involve more than one system. "~" is the median mileage when the problem started.
Mercedes-Benz 280 complaints by model year
Best 280 years: 1997, 2000. Years to avoid: 1995. Compare all years →
Frequently asked questions
Is the 1997 Mercedes-Benz 280 a good car?
Based on 5 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the 1997 280 rates better than average: 46% fewer complaints than a typical year of the 280 at the same age. It is one of the best 280 years by this measure. Complaint counts don't account for sales volume or individual maintenance, so have any used car inspected before buying.
What is the most common problem with the 1997 Mercedes-Benz 280?
The transmission & drivetrain — 2 complaints, 40% of all complaints for this model year, most often about automatic transmission › gear position indication (prndl). Next are the speed control & acceleration (1) and windows, wipers & sunroof (1).
How many recalls does the 1997 Mercedes-Benz 280 have?
NHTSA lists no recalls for the 1997 Mercedes-Benz 280. You can still confirm with your VIN using our VIN recall check.
What are the best and worst years of the Mercedes-Benz 280?
The best years by complaints, compared at the same age, are 1997 and 2000. Years to avoid or approach with caution: 1995. See the full Mercedes-Benz 280 years comparison.
Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) — owner complaints through October 20, 2026, recalls and defect investigations; fuel economy from the EPA. Complaints are unverified reports and are not proof of a defect. How we rate model years.