Most common 2004 Mercedes-Benz E Class problems
Share of the 15 complaints; one complaint can involve more than one system. "~" is the median mileage when the problem started.
Mercedes-Benz E Class complaints by model year
Best E Class years: 1995, 1996, 2008. Years to avoid: 2003, 2000, 1997, 1998, 2001. Compare all years →
2004 Mercedes-Benz E Class recalls (4)
Electrical system
Mercedes-Benz is recalling my 2006-2008 m-class, r-class, my 2005-2009 slk-class, my 2005-2008 c-class, my 2003-2004 and 2006-2008 clk-class, my 2003-2008 e-class, my 2004 and 2008 cl-class, my 2008 cls-class, my 2004 and 2007-2008 s-class, my 2003 g-class, and my 2003-2004, 2006 and 2009 sl-class vehicles.
Remedy: Dealers will recode the scn free of charge. The recall began on August 30, 2008. Owners May contact Mercedes-Benz at 1-800-367-6372.
Service brakes, hydraulic
On certain vehicles, the sensotronic brake control (sbc) system May prematurely shift to the hydraulic back-up function mode, due to deterioration of the wiring harness connection, or due to premature failure of the hydraulic pump.
Remedy: Dealers will install a bracket and replacement ground wire to the sbc pump unit on all vehicles free of charge. Additionally dealers will inspect and replace the sbc pump unit in sl vehicles produced during a limited…
Service brakes, hydraulic
On certain vehicles, the electronic monitoring system of the sensotronic brake control (sbc) is designed to monitor the pressure gradient within the high pressure line of the brake system. If an unacceptable pressure gradient is detected, the system will switch, as it is designed to do, into the hydraulic function mode.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect the sbc hydraulic unit, replacing it if necessary. The recall began on October 21m 2004. Owners should contact Mercedes-Benz at 1-800-367-6372.
Seat belts
On certain passenger vehicles, some seat belt buckles May have a burr on a metal component of the locking mechanism. The presence of the burr could prevent the seat belt from locking under certain circumstances.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the seat belts. Owner notification began on December 22, 2003. Owners should contact Mercedes-Benz at 1-800-367-6372.
What 2004 Mercedes-Benz E Class owners say
Fuel & propulsion system
I came out to my garage one morning to find a my car wreaking of fuel. I decided to drive the car around for a few to see if it the pungent odor would go dissipate altogether. During this time, I took it to my mechanic to let him do a quick once-over before he left for the day. He stated that there was fuel leaking onto my exhaust. Being that he didn't have the tools and whatnot to replace the sending unit, I had it towed to Mercedes Benz. I was not going to let my girlfriend drive the car to the dealership. No way, no how. Skyland automotive(my local mecedes Benz dealership) found a puddle of fuel under my back seat. They replaced the fuel sending unit partially under my third party warranty. I, however, had to pay roughly $500 out of pocket. I have heard of this issue happening on many w211 e Class cars, it has happened to some more than once. …
After refueling and filling the fuel tank, a strong odor of gasoline emits from the outside of the car and inside the car. After checking online, previous complaints of fuel level sending unit seal failure causing pooling of gasoline around the sending unit next to electrical connectors and directly under the left rear passenger seat. I removed the rear seat and access panel to the sending unit and discovered pooled gasoline around the sending unit. The sending unit appeared tight. I did not notice any cuts or failure to the hose, just around the sending unit itself. My local Mercedes dealer claimed there are no recalls for this condition, even though there appear to be many complaints. The dealer also told me I would have to bring my car in to be inspected by a mechanic to truly diagnose the issue.
Transmission & drivetrain
Vehicle purchased new in June 2004. Since then the vehicle has been serviced four times within six months of purchase for the same issue - transmission oil leak. Dealership has stated that leak is related to connector (?) not being long enough and has used another non-manufacturing spec'd connector to resolve matter. Vehicle is also leaking engine oil. On last service it was noted that sweat stains were seen and gasket replaced. As of today - engine oil leak evidence can still be seen. Vehicle is in dangerous state since serious malfunction is imminent. Lemon law action will be taken.
While driving automatic transmission failed. Vehicle was taken to the dealer, who repaired the transmission, but did not inform the consumer of the parts that were repaired. Two weeks later, the automatic transmission failed again. Vehicle was taken to the dealer, who repaired the transmission again, but consumer was concerned about the safety, and did not want to take the vehicle back.
2004 Mercedes-Benz E Class engines & fuel economy
| Engine | Transmission | Drive | MPG city / hwy / combined |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3.2L 6-cyl | 5-speed automatic | RWD | 17 / 24 / 20 |
| 3.2L 6-cyl | 5-speed automatic | 4WD/AWD | 16 / 22 / 19 |
| 5.0L 8-cyl | 7-speed automatic | RWD | 15 / 22 / 17 |
| 5.0L 8-cyl | 5-speed automatic | 4WD/AWD | 14 / 19 / 16 |
| 5.4L 8-cyl supercharged | 5-speed automatic | RWD | 13 / 19 / 15 |
EPA ratings. Class: Midsize car.
Frequently asked questions
Is the 2004 Mercedes-Benz E Class a good car?
Based on 15 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the 2004 E Class rates average: 1.3× as many complaints as a typical year of the E Class 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz E Class?
The fuel & propulsion system — 5 complaints, 33% of all complaints for this model year. Next are the transmission & drivetrain (3) and electrical system (2).
How many recalls does the 2004 Mercedes-Benz E Class have?
There are 4 recalls for the 2004 Mercedes-Benz E Class, the most recent from July 7, 2008 (electrical system). Recall repairs are free at any authorized dealer — check whether yours has been done with the VIN recall check.
What are the best and worst years of the Mercedes-Benz E Class?
The best years by complaints, compared at the same age, are 1995, 1996 and 2008. Years to avoid or approach with caution: 2003, 2000, 1997, 1998 and 2001. See the full Mercedes-Benz E Class years comparison.
At what mileage do 2004 Mercedes-Benz E Class problems happen?
The median mileage reported in complaints is about 6,000 miles; 64% 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.