Most common 1997 Mercedes-Benz 320 problems
Share of the 19 complaints; one complaint can involve more than one system. "~" is the median mileage when the problem started.
Mercedes-Benz 320 complaints by model year
Best 320 years: 2002, 1996. Years to avoid: 1998, 1999. Compare all years →
What 1997 Mercedes-Benz 320 owners say
Suspension
4/3/2012 for 2 days rattle from left front end. Had it checked at independent tire dealer. Said strut bushing dry. Lubed it. A few hours later nose intensified and spring and other pieces fell onto road as I was turning left into condo driveway. Having it towed to dealer. Had I been at speed and/or in traffic things could have turned out very bad. All 97 e320's should have this area inspected.
Since purchase vehicle has been pulling to right. Took to dealer 4- 5 times, did wheel alignment and changed tires. Vehicle will not retain a wheel alignment, constantly pulls to right.
Windows, wipers & sunroof
Visual systems: double pane window,rear windshield,rear view mirrors: blurred images,can't tell how many vehicles are coming up besides driver, distorted headlights. Manufacturer doesn't see a problem ,but it can be a hazard.
Design problem with windshield wiper; the single blade does not keep up with the heavy rain fall, causing continuous intermittent loss of road visibility.
Lights
Visual systems: double pane window,rear windshield,rear view mirrors: blurred images,can't tell how many vehicles are coming up besides driver, distorted headlights. Manufacturer doesn't see a problem ,but it can be a hazard.
Frequently asked questions
Is the 1997 Mercedes-Benz 320 a good car?
Based on 19 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the 1997 320 rates average: about as many complaints as a typical year of the 320 at the same age. 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 320?
The suspension — 5 complaints, 26% of all complaints for this model year, most often about front. Next are the windows, wipers & sunroof (3) and lights (3).
How many recalls does the 1997 Mercedes-Benz 320 have?
NHTSA lists no recalls for the 1997 Mercedes-Benz 320. You can still confirm with your VIN using our VIN recall check.
What are the best and worst years of the Mercedes-Benz 320?
The best years by complaints, compared at the same age, are 2002 and 1996. Years to avoid or approach with caution: 1998 and 1999. See the full Mercedes-Benz 320 years comparison.
At what mileage do 1997 Mercedes-Benz 320 problems happen?
The median mileage reported in complaints is about 190,000 miles; 0% of problems with a recorded mileage started before 50,000 miles.
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.