Mercedes-Benz 500 years to avoid
Across 1984–2003, no single 500 year stands out as one to avoid by our thresholds. The 1993 drew the most complaints; 1991 the fewest.
123
Total complaints
2
Recall campaigns
1984–2003
Years covered
0
Years to avoid
Complaints by model year
Every 500 year
| Year | Complaints | Recalls | Investigations |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2003 | 11 | 0 | |
| 2000 | 14 | 0 | |
| 1999 | 9 | 0 | |
| 1998 | 2 | 0 | |
| 1997 | 9 | 0 | |
| 1996 | 9 | 0 | |
| 1995 | 14 | 0 | |
| 1994 | 8 | 1 | |
| 1993 | 24 | 1 | |
| 1992 | 20 | 1 | |
| 1991 | 0 | 1 | |
| 1990 | 1 | 2 | |
| 1988 | 0 | 0 | |
| 1987 | 0 | 0 | |
| 1986 | 0 | 0 | |
| 1985 | 1 | 0 | |
| 1984 | 1 | 0 |
Common questions
What is the best year for the Mercedes-Benz 500?
By complaint volume, 1991 has the cleanest NHTSA record among 500 years with enough data to compare.
How many recalls does the Mercedes-Benz 500 have?
Across all model years, the 500 has 2 distinct NHTSA recall campaigns and 123 consumer complaints on file.
Based on NHTSA ODI data through August 2026. Complaints are consumer-reported and unverified. Updated August 28, 2026.
Compiled by Sharon Ben-Moshe, Founder.