Resources for the Repair and Maintenance of your Mercedes-Benz 300TE
Mercedes-Benz 300TE Models:
Mercedes-Benz 300TE Problems
Sunroof Components May Fail Due to Age and Wear
The sunroof may not work correctly due to failed components as a result of age and wear. Repairing a sunroof can be labor intensive and very costly.
Shifter Lever Bushings May Break Causing Loose Feel/Noise
The bushings for the shifter lever wear out to the point where they break and fall out. This causes excessive movement (loose feel) in the shifter lever and a clanging-type noise when changing gears.
Improper Temperature Output From HVAC
One or more blend door vacuum actuators may fail resulting in the incorrect output temperature from the HVAC system. Failed actuators will require replacement to restore proper HVAC operation.
Head Light Lenses Become Cloudy/Opaque
The lenses for head lights may become opaque (cloudy or hazy) as a result of sun exposure. This can reduce the effectiveness of the lights. Our technicians tell us plastic polishes can improve the clarity of the lenses, but replacement of the lamp housings is necessary to regain full intensity of the lights.
Squeaking/Worn Brake Pads May Require Rotor Replacement Also
The brakes may begin to squeak at about the 50 percent wear point. This is due to the size and material used for the brake pads and rotors. The brake rotor surfaces become uneven, causing a lip to form at the outer edge. This will generally require replacement of the rotors when the pads are worn (pad life varies depending on driving style and terrain).
Mercedes-Benz 300TE Questions and Answers
Occurs mostly in warm weather and occassionally while running. Thermostat stays pretty much at midrange. Replaced idle control valve and ran good for a while then problem recurred after a month.
All the other cabin lights works.
I have replaced the transmission with a new one. Replaced the O2 sensor, the cam sensor, the BDU, and had a full service on the car. All to no avail...The car is fine to drive around town, smooth ...
My car is actually a 1988, but I wasn't given that choice
fluctuating voltage levels,flickering bulbs,cruise c. auto shuts.
Mercedes-Benz 300TE Reviews
Awesome car!
These cars were so over-engineered and built as to almost never wear out. We drive "Betty" all over the Big Island with no worries about break-downs, etc. If you think getting your oil/filter changed is a service, you're heading for trouble, no matter what you drive.
I service the car well, near-new tires, belts, hoses, etc. replaced on a regular basis. Use only Premium fuel and get 24-25MPG highway, and since we drive 140 miles round-trip to
Hilo or 160 miles RT to Kona often, a proactive service schedule as well as a good pre and post flight inspection is
done before & after each trip. Issues noted are repaired immediately.
This little car may well outlive me. After all, she only has 148k,on the "clock" and is only 20 years old. Since we also have a 2007 MBZ and a 2009, we lovingly call this one our "Beater" (RBEATR) If you see her on the road, give a honk and a wave!
Aloha from the Big Island of Hawaii!
Over all the car is very well made mine has 270,000 miles normal maint is required.
love the car but always seem to need something. Best family car EVER
I have purchased a 1990 300TE. Bodywork fab, general condition is awesome throughout. Some slight problems with the transmission, but nothing that a transmission oil change and check on vacuum pipes won't cure. All in all fantastic! My car has completed 217,000 miles so far. good for another 200,000 with good care.
It's a Benz. Like no other car.
The only problem i had is the
premature suspension failure (at 168K miles)
Replacement parts are rather costly, and so
is the expert service. It is NOT a car to
take to Pep Boys.