Is the 2002 Mercedes-Benz E-Class reliable?

The 2002 Mercedes-Benz E-Class scores 72/100 (C+) on OwnerKeep's reliability index, which places it in the moderate risk category. See the full report for the specific strengths and failure points.

What are the common problems with the 2002 Mercedes-Benz E-Class?

See the Common Issues section above for the top failure areas reported by real owners, with typical mileage ranges where problems start showing up.

How much does it cost to maintain a 2002 Mercedes-Benz E-Class?

Expected maintenance costs depend heavily on age, mileage and how well the vehicle was kept up. Run the full report for a year-by-year cost outlook.

What should I check before buying a 2002 Mercedes-Benz E-Class?

Focus on the top risk areas flagged in this report, review service history, and verify the vehicle is not inside one of the mileage danger zones listed above.

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Reliability AnalysisBased on known issue patterns, repair cost data, and ownership trends · How we score

2002 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Reliability ReportKeepScore 72/100 · top failure points · buy or avoid

72/ 100

KeepScore

MODERATE RISK

Grade: C+

A comfortable, classic luxury sedan that demands proactive ownership and a substantial repair budget to offset its common, costly flaws.

Full system breakdown + what I would do

Quick Facts · 2002 Mercedes-Benz E-Class

Outscores the 2003 Mercedes-Benz E-Class by 14 points — one of the stronger nearby years to consider.
The system most likely to surface first: electrical system (major severity).
No active NHTSA safety recalls on record — a clean recall slate for the 2002 model year.

2002 Mercedes-Benz E-Class: Buy or Avoid?

The 2002 Mercedes-Benz E-Class, representing the final year of the W210 generation, offers a classic luxury experience with robust powertrains. However, it requires a discerning buyer and diligent maintenance to avoid significant costs, primarily due to persistent electrical gremlins and severe rust susceptibility. Don't expect Toyota reliability, but a well-maintained example can still provide years of comfortable, engaging driving if you're prepared for its specific weaknesses.

Biggest Strengths

Durable M112/M113 engines
Robust 722.6 automatic transmission
Superior ride quality and comfort

2002 Mercedes-Benz E-Class — Known Trouble Spots

The systems that break first on the 2002 Mercedes-Benz E-Class. Mileage windows, repair costs, and fix-before-you-buy notes are in the full report.

Electrical Systemmajor

Rust and Corrosionmajor

Air Conditioning Evaporatormajor

Typical mileage, cost ranges, and the exact what-to-check list are in the full report.

Safety Recalls on the 2002 Mercedes-Benz E-Class

No active NHTSA safety recalls on file for the 2002 Mercedes-Benz E-Class. Always verify with your VIN atnhtsa.gov.

What breaks on the 2002 Mercedes-Benz E-Class?

Full reliability breakdown — engine, transmission, rust, electrical. With repair costs and mileage danger zones.

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Mercedes-Benz E-Class — Year-by-Year Comparison

Compare KeepScores across nearby years of the Mercedes-Benz E-Class. Click any year for its full report.

All Mercedes-Benz E-Class years ranked →Mercedes-Benz E-Class years to avoid →Mercedes-Benz E-Class common problems →

Competing 2002s Worth a Look

Similar class, similar year range — ranked by KeepScore.

2001 ToyotaLand Cruiser

88/100

2000 ChevroletCorvette

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Frequently Asked Questions

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