Models · Mercedes-Benz
Mercedes-Benz E-Class W212 buying guide
The W212 E-Class was sold from 2009 to 2016 as a saloon and estate, with a facelift in 2013. Most UK cars are four-cylinder or V6 diesels. It's a generally reliable car that can cover high mileages if it's been well looked after.
The versions
- Diesel: E220 CDI and E250 CDI 2.1 four-cylinders, and the E350 CDI 3.0 V6; after the facelift the E220 BlueTEC (175bhp) and E350 BlueTEC (255bhp)
- Petrol: four-cylinder E200 and E250, the larger E350 and E500; after the facelift the E250 2.0 (211bhp) was the saloon's only petrol
- Saloon from 2009 and estate from 2010; the coupé and cabriolet are a separate model line
- Seven-speed 7G-Tronic automatic on most cars
- The E300 BlueTEC Hybrid is not covered here; the E63 AMG has its own page
What to check on a W212 E-Class
3 model-specific things to look at when you view one. They're a starting point, not the full inspection.
Rust on the rear subframe and axle
What to look for: With a torch, look under the back of the car at the frame the rear suspension is mounted to and the axle parts around it. Surface rust is normal at this age; flaking, swollen or holed metal is the thing to note.
Why it matters: Rust on the rear subframe and axle is a widely reported issue on the W212, worst on cars that have lived where roads are salted. Treated early it's manageable, and a clean, protected underside is a sign of a car that's been looked after.
Water pump noise and coolant leaks
What to look for: With the engine running and the bonnet up, listen at the front of the engine for whining, grinding or rumbling. With it off and cool, look around the engine and underneath for wet coolant or dried crusty residue, and check the coolant level.
Why it matters: Water pumps are a common failure on the W212 and usually give a warning noise first. On the diesels, coolant leaks around the EGR cooler and water pump are also known, and early V6 diesels can leak from the oil cooler.
7G-Tronic gearbox shifts
What to look for: On the drive, let the automatic change up through the gears from a standstill and back down as you slow. Note any harsh, slow or slurred changes, and ask for records of transmission servicing.
Why it matters: Faults with the seven-speed 7G-Tronic gearbox can be troublesome to put right, so smooth shifts and a history of regular transmission care are what you want to see.
Also in the full guide
- Diesel timing chain and particulate filter
- The cold start, test drive and paperwork checks for the exact version you're viewing
The full guide to the W212 E-Class
The CrankSight guide walks you round the car on your phone at the viewing, with every check for the exact version you're looking at: what to look for, where to find it, and what anything you find is likely to cost. As you go it builds an assessment of that car, and if you view more than one, it lines them up side by side.
£29 for the model, used on as many cars as you like, delivered within 72 hours or your money back.
General points for the model, last checked October 2026. Every car is different, so treat this as a guide to what to look at, not a verdict on any car. CrankSight is independent and has no connection with Mercedes-Benz.