Mercedes-Benz E-class C238 (2016–2023)
Generation-specific owner insights from 18+ substantive owner discussions, with US complaint and recall records.
Should I buy one?
816
US owner complaints (NHTSA), 2016–2023
3
recall campaigns
engine
most-complained area
What owners say about this generation
Our take, from owner reports
Owners of the C238 E-class coupe are overwhelmingly positive, praising its gorgeous styling, comfortable and luxurious interior, and strong reliability.
7 problems reported (1 recurrent, 6 isolated) · high confidence
Problems owners report
- RecurrentHigh maintenance costs
Multiple owners report that dealer servicing, especially transmission fluid changes ($700-$1800), is expensive, and annual maintenance can reach $4k.
- IsolatedTransmission hesitation or rough shifting at low speeds
One owner reported kick-down issues that were resolved by a full transmission service (fluid, filter, torque converter drain, recalibration).
- IsolatedRear window shade getting stuck
One owner reported this as the only issue in 60k miles.
+ 4 more issuesShow fewer
- IsolatedDiesel engine rattle at low revs under power
One owner reported this on two OM654-equipped cars and was able to fix it.
- IsolatedSqueaky driver-side window in cold weather
One owner reported this, fixed with lubricant.
- IsolatedCreaky speaker grille above the dash
One owner warned not to touch it if it doesn't make noise.
- IsolatedSteering wheel leather degradation
One owner advised tinting the windshield or using a sunshade to prevent this.
The version owners recommend
Insufficient owner data available to declare a consensus. Owners mention both the E400 (3.0L twin-turbo V6) and diesel (OM654) variants as reliable and enjoyable, but no single trim or engine is clearly favored over others.
Competitors to consider
Owners compare it most often with the BMW 5-series, BMW 4-series (C205), Lexus GS and Volvo S90/V90.
Is a 2016–2023 E-class right for you?
Get an answer for your year, mileage and budget.
Full owner reportHide full owner report
Overall sentiment
Owners of the C238 E-class coupe are overwhelmingly positive, praising its gorgeous styling, comfortable and luxurious interior, and strong reliability. The car is described as a huge upgrade over its predecessor, particularly in interior quality. While early reactions to the design language were mixed, long-term owners report high satisfaction, with many calling it a daily driver they enjoy walking out to. The main criticisms center on expensive dealer maintenance and the need to carefully option the car to avoid missing key features like CarPlay or desirable packages.
Positioning vs competitors
Owners who cross-shopped the C238 against the BMW 5-series felt the Mercedes had a more luxurious interior, while the BMW offered better driving dynamics. Some owners specifically chose the C238 over the C205 (C-class coupe) because the C238 is based on the larger E-class platform, offering more space and a higher-quality feel. The Lexus GS was mentioned as a more reliable alternative, but owners who chose the Mercedes valued its interior and brand cachet.
Recommended configurations
Owners strongly recommend seeking out cars with the following options: Multibeam headlights, dual digital screens, AMG package, Premium 2 or 3 package, adaptive cruise control, and attractive interior colors. They advise taking time to find a well-specced example, as the shopping process is part of the enjoyment. Some owners note that not all cars have wireless Apple CarPlay, so that should be verified if important.
General recommendations
This generation is ideal for buyers seeking a stylish, comfortable, and reliable luxury coupe that can be used daily. Owners recommend buying a car with a documented service history and a warranty (either Mercedes or aftermarket) to cover potential expensive repairs. They advise finding a trusted independent mechanic specializing in German cars to save on dealer labor rates. The car is best for those who appreciate a grand-touring character over outright sportiness.
Remarks
The C238 is based on the W213 E-class platform, not the C-class, which owners note gives it a more substantial feel than its predecessor. The 64-color ambient lighting is a frequently praised feature. Analysis based on approximately 18 substantive owner discussions about this generation.
Complaints and recalls by model year
| Year | Complaints | Recalls | Most-reported area |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | 96 | 0 | engine |
| 2022 | 88 | 0 | electrical system |
| 2021 | 40 | 0 | electrical system |
| 2020 | 63 | 1 | engine |
| 2019 | 113 | 1 | electrical system |
| 2018 | 71 | 1 | engine |
| 2017 | 167 | 0 | engine |
| 2016 | 178 | 0 | air bags |
Source: US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Higher-selling years naturally accumulate more complaints.
Recall notices for this generation
2020 · power train:driveline:universal jointcampaign 26V216000
Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2018 E 400 4MATIC Sedan, E 400 4MATIC Wagon, E 400 4MATIC Cabriolet, E 400 4MATIC Coupe, 2018-2020 Maybach S 560 4MATIC, S 560 4MATIC Coupe, S 450 4MATIC, 2019-2020 E 450 4MATIC Sedan, E 450 4MATIC Wagon, E 450 4MATIC Coupe, and E 450 4MATIC Cabriolet vehicles. The drive shaft universal joint may break, resulting in a sudden loss of drive power.
2019 · power train:driveline:universal jointcampaign 26V216000
Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2018 E 400 4MATIC Sedan, E 400 4MATIC Wagon, E 400 4MATIC Cabriolet, E 400 4MATIC Coupe, 2018-2020 Maybach S 560 4MATIC, S 560 4MATIC Coupe, S 450 4MATIC, 2019-2020 E 450 4MATIC Sedan, E 450 4MATIC Wagon, E 450 4MATIC Coupe, and E 450 4MATIC Cabriolet vehicles. The drive shaft universal joint may break, resulting in a sudden loss of drive power.
2018 · power train:driveline:universal jointcampaign 26V216000
Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2018 E 400 4MATIC Sedan, E 400 4MATIC Wagon, E 400 4MATIC Cabriolet, E 400 4MATIC Coupe, 2018-2020 Maybach S 560 4MATIC, S 560 4MATIC Coupe, S 450 4MATIC, 2019-2020 E 450 4MATIC Sedan, E 450 4MATIC Wagon, E 450 4MATIC Coupe, and E 450 4MATIC Cabriolet vehicles. The drive shaft universal joint may break, resulting in a sudden loss of drive power.
Owner insights summarize real ownership discussions for this generation only. Complaint and recall data is public NHTSA (US) information. Always verify recalls against your VIN at nhtsa.gov.