Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2012 Mercedes Benz E 350
The 2012 Mercedes-Benz E 350 has multiple NHTSA recall campaigns, primarily concerning airbag issues, with no specific owner complaints readily available. Given the extensive airbag recalls, potential buyers should ensure all recall fixes are performed prior to purchase. Inspection around these areas is advised due to the absence of widespread complaint data.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2012 Mercedes Benz E 350 has 7 NHTSA recall campaigns on file as of . try.vin has no NHTSA owner complaints on file for the 2012 Mercedes Benz E 350. Recall data is refreshed daily from NHTSA.
Recall campaigns on file
- NHTSA #21V638000 Incorrect Front Passenger Air Bag Installed NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #19V010000 Passenger Frontal Air Bag Inflator May Explode NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #17V627000 Inadvertent Driver Air Bag Deployment NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #17V177000 Wrong Control Unit Software Installed NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #17V017000 Passenger Frontal Air Bag Inflator May Rupture NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #12V557000 Fuel Filter may Leak NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #12V492000 Side Air Bag may Deflate too Quickly NHTSA notice
Known issues to inspect
Airbag deployment issues
How to check: Verify all airbag recalls have been addressed.
Software-related recalls
How to check: Check software recalls resolved by checking service history.
Side airbag potential non-deployment
How to check: Confirm side airbag recalls are completed.
Fuel filter flange may crack
How to check: Inspect for any visible fuel system leaks or issues.
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Listen for unusual engine noises like knocking.
Red flag: Persistent engine noises
- 02
First minute idling
What to check: Ensure all dashboard lights turn off.
Red flag: Warning lights stay on
- 03
Initial acceleration
What to check: Observe for transmission smoothness and response.
Red flag: Rough shifting or delays
- 04
Around corners
What to check: Feel for unusual suspension behavior.
Red flag: Excessive rocking or noise
- 05
Highway acceleration
What to check: Note engine power delivery and noise.
Red flag: Lack of power or loud noises
- 06
Braking
What to check: Check for vibration or noise on braking.
Red flag: Brakes vibrate or squeal
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Have all recall repairs been completed?
- Are there any outstanding airbag issues?
- Has the vehicle been in an accident?
- Do you have maintenance records available?
- Are there any current mechanical issues?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Recall repair documents
- Previous maintenance records
- Vehicle history report
- Title and registration
- Inspection certificates
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2012 Mercedes Benz E 350 at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
Looking at a specific 2012 Mercedes Benz E 350? Check the actual car
This checklist covers the model. From your free try.vin dashboard you can go further — paste the seller's listing for a deal score, or drop their photos for an AI condition report.