Most common 1998 Mercedes-Benz 320 problems
Share of the 39 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz 320 owners say
Windows, wipers & sunroof
Trnsmission failure. Also, repeated failure of windows and electric seats rear entry and brake lights, indicate serious problem with this car. Warranty covers the repairs, but the problems persist. I have never heard of a car having so many problems. What do you know about the 1998 320 clk? What can I do about this?
While driving, sunroof glass exploded, luckily the shade was closed and kept the glass from entering vehicle, temperature outside was freezing .
Steering
The vehicle was taken to the dealer for maintenance and the mechanic noticed that power steering needed to be replaced because an essential part was missing. There was low fluid. Further examination revealed that the power steering cylinder leaked into the boot.
As the vehicle was being parked driver heard a loud noise, power steering was lost and a fire erupted under the hood. The vehicle was totaled. It took 5 fire trucks to put out the fire out.
Fuel & propulsion system
While driving 30 MPH, vehicle lost all power, stopping all of a sudden, and failing in middle of road. Owner said she almost was struck in the rear. Dealership inspected vehicle, and found that fuel pump was the cause. This was her third replacement. Please describe details.
Excessive wind noise sunroof/windows/larm malfunctioned. Also fuel pump failure. Car is becoming a lemon.
Frequently asked questions
Is the 1998 Mercedes-Benz 320 a good car?
Based on 39 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the 1998 320 rates avoid: 2.3× as many complaints as a typical year of the 320 at the same age. It is one of the 320 years we suggest avoiding. 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz 320?
The windows, wipers & sunroof — 6 complaints, 15% of all complaints for this model year, most often about power window devices and controls. Next are the steering (5) and fuel & propulsion system (5).
How many recalls does the 1998 Mercedes-Benz 320 have?
NHTSA lists no recalls for the 1998 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz 320 problems happen?
The median mileage reported in complaints is about 109,000 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.