Problem Reports
Problem with your car? See what our experts say or submit your own.
1997 Mercedes-Benz E420 Problems
Check Engine Light and Engine Misfire
Failed spark plug wires and/or ignition coils can cause intermittent misfires (rough running); the Check Engine Light may also illuminate. Diagnoses of the ignition system will be necessary to determine which components are at fault.
One or More Instrument Cluster Display May Fail
Instrument cluster displays tend to fail, especially the clock and gear indicators; the instrument cluster needs to be replaced.
Premature Tire Wear Due to Cracked Lower Control Arm Bushings
Irregular and premature tire wear can be caused by the lower control arm bushings cracking, resulting excessive movement at the control arm pivot point. Ball joints can also wear out prematurely, causing similar tire wear symptoms. I some cases it may be necessary to replace the lower control arm, including bushings & ball joint to correct this concern.
Squeak in Steering Column Due to Rubber Boot or Seal
A squeak from the steering column is often related to a rubber boot in the column or a seal in the power steering rack.
Poor AC performance Due to Evaporator Temperature Sensor Failure
The evaporator temperature sensor can fail, causing the AC compressor not to cycle. If the AC compressor does not turn on, the AC system will not blow cold air. If the compressor is stuck on, the air will be very cold at first, before warming up.
Coolant Hoses May Fail Unexpectedly
The cooling system hoses may fail unexpectedly. The hoses can look good on the outside, but the rubber can degrade and erode on the inside. If not carefully checked, the hoses can burst at any time.
Switch For Vanity Mirror Light Above Sun Visor May Fail
The switch for the vanity mirror light above the sun visor fail; there is an updated switch for some models. On the remaining models, due to a redesign, the mirror "cassette" will need replacement.
Throttle Valves May Experience Electrical Failure
The electronic throttle assembly may suffer an electrical failure. It is often cheaper to send the valve to a service center for repair that to purchase a new part.
Check Engine Light On Due to Failed Mass Air Flow Sensor
The mass air flow sensor can fail, resulting in poor fuel economy and Check Engine Light illumination.
Brake Light Not Working Due to Melted Bulb Holder Housing
Brake lamp housings can melt, resulting in a loss of contact for the brake light bulb holder. If this happens, the brake light will not work. Replacement of the damaged lamp housing should correct this problem.
Coolant Leak/Overheating Due to Radiator Leak
A coolant leak may develop form the Radiator due to degradation of its plastic components. Replacement of the failed radiator will be necessary.
Transmission Oil Seals May Leak on High Mileage Vehicles
High mileage vehicles may develop a leak from one or more of the transmission oil seals.
Noise and/or Smoke From Drive Belt Area
The emissions air injection pump can seize, causing a loud squealing noise followed by smoke from the drive belt. If the engine is not turned off, the belt will break, turning on the alternator/battery warning light.
ABS Modulator Failure Due to Dirty Brake Fluid
As brake fluid becomes dirty over time, it can cause a failure of the anti-lock brake system (ABS) modulator assembly. Our technicians recommend a complete brake system flush every two years to help prevent this issue.
Erratic HVAC Blower Motor Operation
A malfunctioning HVAC blower motor regulator can cause the blower motor to operate below the requested speed or not at all. Updated regulators are available; the blower motor and cover need to be replaced at the same time to upgrade the system.