Avoid: 2007, 2006 (lowest Year Scores on complaints per year on the road, crash reports and recalls)
Best: 2012
7 model years of NHTSA owner complaints and recalls · How we grade
Across 7 model years, the Mercedes-Benz R-class has 289 owner-filed NHTSA complaints and 0 recalls on record. The most-reported areas are suspension and electrical system. 2006 drew the most complaints (128), 2012 the fewest (8).
Source: NHTSA complaints and recalls filed for Mercedes-Benz R-class vehicles (US, public record).
Complaint volume by model year. Raw NHTSA totals, not adjusted for sales volume or time on the road, so older and higher-selling years accumulate more. Every year links to its full breakdown.
Highest: 2006 (128 complaints). Lowest: 2012 (8).
\nSentiment is mixed, characterized by strong affection for the vehicle's core concept and driving experience, tempered by widespread and serious concerns about reliability and maintenance costs.
Various sensor failures and control module problems.
Air ride suspension bags are a noted headache and common point of failure.
Described as "finicky" with repairs needed approximately every 4-5 months; complex, over-engineered components lead to costly fixes.
Likely to require attention.
Requires premium unleaded fuel, with real-world fuel economy around 17 MPG; expensive routine maintenance (oil changes, spark plugs).
Owner insights cover all generations of the R-class. Individual model years are broken down above.
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