1999 Mercedes-Benz 320 problems
Verdict · NHTSA data
A typical year for this model
The 1999 Mercedes-Benz 320 sits mid-pack among 320 years: 45 NHTSA complaints against a model median of roughly 39, with no recalls and no defect investigations.
No single system dominates the record — complaints spread across electrical system (7), transmission (5), and engine (5), which usually points to general build quality rather than one defect.
45
NHTSA complaints
0
Recalls
0
Investigations
0
Crash-involved
1
Fires reported
2
Injuries
0
Deaths
—
NCAP overall
How does 1999 compare to other 320 years?
What are the most common 1999 Mercedes-Benz 320 problems?
| Component | Complaints | Share | vs prior year |
|---|---|---|---|
| Electrical System | 7 | 16% | ▲ up |
| Engine | 5 | 11% | — flat |
| Transmission | 5 | 11% | ▲ up |
| Airbags | 3 | 7% | ▲ up |
| Brakes | 3 | 7% | ▼ down |
| Seat Belts | 3 | 7% | ▲ up |
| Speed Control | 3 | 7% | ▲ up |
| Steering | 3 | 7% | ▼ down |
| Visibility & Wipers | 3 | 7% | ▼ down |
| Suspension | 2 | 4% | ▼ down |
| Body & Structure | 2 | 4% | ▼ down |
| Child Seat | 1 | 2% | new |
| Climate Control (A/C & Heat) | 1 | 2% | — flat |
| Fuel System | 1 | 2% | ▼ down |
| Latches & Locks | 1 | 2% | — flat |
| Lighting | 1 | 2% | ▼ down |
| Seats | 1 | 2% | ▼ down |
Consumer complaints filed with NHTSA
Representative excerpts, cleaned of personal information. These are consumer statements, not verified defects.
“WHILE DRIVING 40 MPH VEHICLE SUDDENLY STARTED SMOKING ON THE RIGHT SIDE. THEN TWO MINUTES LATER, VEHICLE CAUGHT ON FIRE. VEHICLE WAS TOTALED. *AK”
“VEHICLE STALLS WHEN VEHICLE HITS BUMPS IN THE ROAD. DEALER WAS NOTIFIED. DEALER INSPECTED THE VEHICLE, INFORMING OWNER TO NOT PUT ANY KEYS IN THE IGNITION. CONSUMER REQUEST FOR MORE INFORMATION REGARDING THIS SUBJECT. *YC”
“TRANSMISSION LEAKS OIL/GAS PEDAL IS VERY STIFF & HARD TO PRESS/ DOOR LOCKS KEEP GOING UP AND DOWN WHEN USING REMOTE CONTROL/ REAR WASHER HOSE TO REAR WIPER HAD TO BE REPLACED/THERE IS NOISE IN THE LEFT FRONT WHEEL, AND DISC BACKING PLATE IS BENT AND BRAKE PEDAL IS STIFF WHEN TRYING TO STOP.*AK”
“TRANSMISSION LEAKS OIL/GAS PEDAL IS VERY STIFF & HARD TO PRESS/ DOOR LOCKS KEEP GOING UP AND DOWN WHEN USING REMOTE CONTROL/ REAR WASHER HOSE TO REAR WIPER HAD TO BE REPLACED/THERE IS NOISE IN THE LEFT FRONT WHEEL, AND DISC BACKING PLATE IS BENT AND BRAKE PEDAL IS STIFF WHEN TRYING TO STOP.*AK”
“THE FRONT CRANKSHAFT PULLEY FLIES OFF THE FRONT OF THE ENGINE, CAUSING THE VEHICLE TO LOSE POWER STEERING. I OWN A MERCEDES REPAIR SHOP. THERE HAVE PROBABLY THOUSANDS OF FAILURES AND SOMEONE WILL DIE WHEN THEY LOSE THEIR STEERING.MERCEDES IS NOT COVERING THESE FAILURESOUT OF WARRANTY. IT AFFECTS…”
1999 Mercedes-Benz 320 — common questions
Is the 1999 Mercedes-Benz 320 reliable?
It is close to typical for the 320: 45 NHTSA complaints, 0 recalls, and no investigations on file.
What are the most common 1999 320 problems?
According to NHTSA complaint data, the leading problem areas are electrical system (7 complaints), transmission (5 complaints), engine (5 complaints).
Does the 1999 Mercedes-Benz 320 have recalls?
No. NHTSA lists no recall campaigns for the 1999 Mercedes-Benz 320.
Which Mercedes-Benz 320 years should you avoid?
Based on complaint rates and open investigations, the 320 years to avoid are 1994. The cleanest record among 320 years belongs to 1996.
Related
Based on NHTSA ODI data through June 2026. Complaints are consumer-reported and unverified. Updated July 5, 2026.
Compiled by Sharon Ben-Moshe, Founder.