Mercedes-Benz W212 Buyer's Guide (E350, E250, E400, E550, & E63 AMG) - Models, Engines, & Options
► If you're just starting the research phase or if you're actively in the purchasing process of a Mercedes W212, this video covers everything you need to know about this incredibly capable platform.
Kyle Bascombe, the Mercedes-Benz Catalog Manager here at FCP Euro, doesn't leave any stone unturned. He covers the model designations and family tree, Mercedes W211 vs. W212 comparison, pre & post-facelift differences, as well as brief overviews of the engines, transmissions, suspension, and brakes.
This video will cover all W212 Mercedes E-Class Models from 2009-2016 including:
Mercedes E250
Mercedes E350
Mercedes E400
Mercedes E550
Mercedes E63 AMG
Read more Mercedes guides, DIYs, & news on our blog: blog.fcpeuro.com/tag/mercedes
00:00 - Introduction to the Mercedes W212
02:15 - Mercedes E-Class Family Tree/Lineup
03:08 - Mercedes W211 vs W212 Comparison
03:19 - Pre-Facelift vs. Post-Facelift Mercedes W212
05:34 - Mercedes W212 Petrol & Diesel Engines Overview
10:11 - Mercedes W212 Transmission and Drivetrain Overview
13:50 - Mercedes W212 Suspension Overview
14:31 - Mercedes W212 Brake Options and Overview
15:09 - Conclusion
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Nice video but from a buyer's guide I would expect information on which engine is recommended which better to be avoided, what common issues to look for when buying one and other pros and cons.
Just wanted to say, the hard work you put into this won't go unnoticed.
4:18 Quad headlight - just in case anyone wants to know: The quad headlights / dual on each side are in reality a single headlight unit on each side. The bumper has a line that goes over the headlight unit and divides it into two only visually. Technically there is a single headlight unit under the bumper line :)
Now that youve said that, i want to see that e class without that line, it will look like the w204 facelift headlight, or the SL
It was a pleasure to bring my brothers E63 up to you guys for this video!
What color is the car Palladium?
In my humble opinion, I think the W212 ( pre-face lift ) is the "sweet spot" for the Mercedes E-Class. It has a good amount of technology, without being over-bearing or trendy, a very handsome, sexy body design, and the interior perfectly marries some Benz Old-School Charm with a modern design, with a premium fit and finish. Not to mention the Harmon Kardon Audio system is very very good. Anyway, just my honest opinion as a first time Benz owner ( 2011 E350 Sport Sedan ) Let me know if you want the phone number for the 12-Step BMW / AUDI Recovery Hotline lol
I would tend to agree! I'm really looking forwards to picking my 2011 E350 4Matic with Sport Package up next week! Special Order Cuprite Brown Metallic on Beige Artico. Personally I always found the pre facelift cars just a bit more elegant than the facelift ones. I'm coming from a Volvo wagon, and while I will miss the cargo space, I'm really looking forwards to my Benz!
Post-facelift w212 for me. It has the perfect blend of old and new. Love the updated headlights and taillights. They kept the interior the same so no giant screens plastered everywhere.
@@AnontheGOAT yeah no dated quad headlights lmao!
this is my EXACT sentiment about the W212. i love the balance of modern technology but still true to mercedes benz heritage in style and craftsmanship. i even have the same year and model as yours, 2011 e350. i’m starting to love it FAST.
🤣🤣🤣 that was funny (recovery hotline) lol ...
I’m literally starting to love this channel..
We are literally loving the fact that you are starting to love our channel Arnesto. Let us know what it will take to get you to fully committed to love it!
Wait until you discover their website…
@@vitaminA_1 I was gonna say haha
I'm starting to love that car😂
Planning on buying one and as a noob in the world of Mercedes this is exactly what I needed! Thanks a lot
My 2010 E350 has 165k and still running strong. Replaced serpentine belt & pulley due to worn out parts, replaced upper radiator hose because of coolant leak. Still very reliable with lovely ride.
coolant leak problems are not considered very reliable.
@@djkasdjkasdjdjdj it was only the hose that needed to be changed. It was the same one from the factory 12 years ago. Needed to be replaced due only to wear and tear. That’s nothing out of the ordinary
@@djkasdjkasdjdjdj these cars are used as taxis in Europe and run for hundreds of thousands of miles. W210, 211, 212 & 213 all are used as taxis. Running 24 hours a day with different shifts. If that’s not a testament to their reliability, I don’t know what is.
I'm looking forward to buy e class 2012 pre-facelift e350 with 137k miles is it reliable I have checked the car and there is no problem rn but I don't know about the future so can u tell me if it is reliable and what is the maintenance cost
@@honhosh do they mostly use the diesel?
Thank you so much for the in depth presentation! It was great listening to all those facts, and characteristics of the different models! Looking forward to your next projects!
You are very welcome, Paul! Glad it was helpful!
Man do i love your channel, from thumbnail to editing, audio, content etc
Really appreciate the kind words Player Atom, happy to hear you're able to appreciate it all!
Extremely well done video, I love these! Thanks for everything you do for the Mercedes community FCP!
Glad you like them, our pleasure!
Awesome tips. Thanks Kyle!
Very nice video! Can't wait for more videos on the subject of w212 pre facelift and facelift. Very nice animations and slides.
Lots more to come Aleksandar so stay tuned!
Great video. Any chance you'll do a buyer's guide on the facelifted (2014) E350 cabriolet?
Thank you Kyle, Great job!
I appreciate the info on Mercedes Kyle! Love the content
Happy to pass the info on Anton! Thanks for the support
Great review
Very informative and accurate info, thanks for sharing
Thank you so much for the information very detailed. My question to you is I’m in the market for a Benz I want something affordable awd and fast what would you recommend
Really detailed information about these cars
Would love to see w221 buyers guide great vid
That was stunning and so are you. Thank you. I learnt a lot.
I just got my 4th Mercedes and 3rd E class, keep learning more about these wonderful cars, thank you!
Glad you like them!
+1 Informative; thank you for sharing it with us.
Do you guys have a video for the coupe / convertible model yet? I couldn't find one in your video list! :(
Hi, I am looking to buy an e class 250 or 350 cabriolet, can you tell me if they are as comfortable ass the e220 diesel, (seats and suspension etc)
absolutely amazing video , just wanted to know about the diesel one but watched the whole video . learnt heaps. thanks
Glad you liked it!
Hello Just wanting to ask please. currently I drive a 2015 CLA250 4MATIC stock. And I'm looking to change my car to a 2012/2013 E350 coupe due to the engine power. My question is that is it worth it (considering i will be getting some mods done on the E350) or just keep my CLA and get it modified. Thank you
Really looking for more common issues. I can figure out the rest with a test drive! Hopefully an update will follow.
Wish we actually hade it over here in Europe would be so great to have the parts from you!
Which generation of 4matic was used on the facelifted models?
Thanks Kyle, very informative. Looking forward to your video on the W207 (the Coupe and convertible) versions. I have the ‘13 E350 Coupe with 38K miles and wondering if there are particular issues lurking in the future.
We have a whole series of videos coming for your Tony S. At 38k youve got some time though 😉
Like the man said, you've definitely got time with those low miles. I've got a '10 e350 coupe, so most of what I've done doesn't apply to you since I have the m272 & I'm now at 82k mi. 2 things we have in common (which you're a ways off from) are various possible failure points on the bi xenons (actuator motor in my case, right side dies if I use high beams) and a very expensive rear window regulator. My rear driver window is manually adjusted in place. As you know, the rear windows go down slightly as you open/close the doors. Well, there comes a day when they just don't close all the way, leaving a gap between the windows. $500 part and about 6 or so hrs shop time. I was quoted $1,100. If diy, then entire rear panel, belt presenter, and seat come out. You're a ways off from that, along with the front suspension work I did or interior trim pieces slowly coming off (which happen on almost every c207 apparently), but say a little prayer for those rear windows!
@@fcpeuro where are the w207 vids
Hi You have not mentioned E200 model. I have that one I do have a starting cranking sound and engine light come up Only some times. Do you have any comments. Hari.
I want to ask u about the w207 e550 vs clk 550 wish one is more reliable
Great video!
Thanks Kyle, very informative
My pleasure!
Help needed, I have a 2014 E63 with 38k miles. I’m hearing a slight ticking only when decelerating. An oil change & filter was done but still heating it periodically when slowing down/engine breaking. Any recommendations of what could be the issue?
Thank you for the info.
Super helpful. Good to know the 722.9 trans holds up on cars much more powerful than my 350 Bluetec.
how is your 350 bluetec still holding up? I just got a 2013 with 80k on it
FFC very nice explanation 👌 well done..
Great video, you guys should do this for every MB series
Eventually we will have one for all of them, just may take us some time gianfrancoa ^.^
Useful to know the specs. I screenshot the pertinent info on my 2010 E350. However, it has seen a lot of miles and my ESC and cruise control are inoperative.
Can you guys do a video on the common problems on the M278?
So, if one was considering an E350, is it better to go with the 2011 because that motor is the carry over port injected? Direct Injection is a pain in the ass and causes carbon build-up, among other things. I would think the 2011 model year would be more reliable than the 2012 one with DI, yes?
I thought that the 3 L turbo diesel was only available in the pre-facelift, and the facelift only got the 2.1 L turbo diesel. Was I wrong? Or was there an edit issue in this video?
Thank you for this. Love your business model.
Thanks for watching!
I have a large family and I’m looking for a 7-seater car, but I want to avoid buying an SUV. I saw that the E450 has a third row of seats, but then I found some units of the E350 and even the E250 as well. Can you tell me precisely which models have this option? Is this third row always optional or is there a model that comes standard? Are there any other series of Mercedes, besides the E series, or even another brand that has 7-seater sedans or wagons?
in the UK my E350 diesel has 264hp- did the US not get this engine? It pulls like a train
Great video
Would this be a good beater to buy
hi thank u for ur effort and I like ur channel I have? isn't normal that e350 w212 2010 drive 100 km per 20 litter in town and around 135 high way the has 150.000 km thank you
THANKS!Great Video.YOU VERY SMART!
Can you help me sir? I have a problem with my car w220 200 model s320 I check with Mecanic still they can’t find. Only this happens morning start when we press unlock key all indicator will blink except the right side indicator inside the headlight.after I start the real problm start Right side head light will not work and it flickers and signal light inside the right side head lamp allso will not work,horn will not work, rear seat down side cabin light , front seat down side cabin light allso will blink same time when the head light blinks When I start to Drving that time I will get warning Display defective , battery low,after 30 minutes of Drving I need to stop my car and want to start it again, then everyting will work normal Really what is the problm?
Hello van someone help me i wann to buy a E 500 w212 with 387 ps , and ia want to drift, ist this car ok to drift?
Hey guys, great video. Seriously considering a 2014 E550, looking at cars in the 50k-80k mile range. Engine and trans mounts, potentially leaking rear air springs (I'd by the Arnott units from you guys), on top of other suspension issues I can deal with, any other potential pitfalls of this particular year and engine configuration? Coming from a 2009 E90 335, so looking for a little bit more reliability out of my next, used German car and with longer intervals between visits to the shop!
You will want to check control arms and the bushings. They are known to fail although not very expensive to fix. I have a 2014 AMG and it’s been rock solid so far at 90,000 KMs.
I hope you bought one because I just did a few days ago and it has every option available at the time and I couldn’t be happier😊
Sir am looking for manual Book for Mercedes benz W212 E 250CDI 2012 model.
Best video thanks
This is awesome. A like from me!
Thanks Joshua! We thin you're pretty awesome too!
Great video, full of data!! In Europe there is a E350 with 292hp, is it the M272 or the M276 motor? I think this is a direct inyection model. What can you tell us about the reliability of this engine? Thank you!!
im late but it is the M272. M276 has 306hp (non turbo charged).
Awesome! Thanks :)
More than welcome Graham ☺
How many w212 m156 engine were made
imo i think the quad headlight design can still be seen in the facelift, it looks like the made the LED DRLs separate the bulbs to look like 2 separate sections
What year of the e550 w212 didn't have the airbag suspension I'm looking for rear wheel 550 non air bag suspension
All of them have the option to have it or not. My 2012 has it but it was special order.
The m272 or m276 are more reliable?
Very nice information on w212 ...I. Have e220 ...love from India
My dream car😍💓
I have a 2014 e350 sport trim, 78,000 miles. Items that have failed or malfunctioned in the past 24 months: Motor for the power tilt/telescope steering wheel, sensor for the trunk release, replaced the auxiliary battery for the 3rd time, the heating element for the driver seat cushion, a blown speaker. There is an engine oil leak I have to address and the dealer is telling me I need to replace the engine and transmission mounts.
Did you get a quote from the dealer? If so how much was the mount job
Interesting that the dash of my 2011 prefacelift looks like the one you are showing as facelift version, maybe it is because it is european?
I'm driving an E250 Bluetec 4Matic. It's a '14. I "threw" a front U-Joint / Driveshaft at 182k miles. Runs great since repairs were made. I put on many miles. That's why I'm a diesel guy. Great video!
What do you have to look out for when maintaining it to perfection? It would be my first diesel and i heard its gas friendly and have more torque
why do some people say the diesel e350 cdi has 260hp but some say 210-220 ??? which one is it ......
I have a 2014 e350 4MATIC. My question is: you mentioned that the transmission fluid needs to be changed every 40k. But The dealership says every 70k. So which one is it?
We always err on the side of caution and what we've seen in the wild driving and owning these cars.
I am looking at purchasing a W212, 2013, pre-facelift E500 (4.7 V8 turbo with many AMG Sport Specs) with only 95 000km on the clock at a very well respected dealer. You don't mention it. Where does it fit into the picture? Or is this channel, like many others, intended only for US/EUR viewers?
This channel is mostly for US viewers. I know in Germany you can get a E500 wagon with the M278 engine. 95,000 or 59,000 is just the beginning for these engines.
My decision to buy a W212 was based on the information provided in this video
Why is it that in Mexico we have a E250 with the M271? :O Is that a reliable gas engine?
So the pre-facelift W212 had an E350 Bluetec with the OM642 engine...it debuted for the ‘11 model year. Your graphic in the beginning seemed to suggest there wasn’t one.
Bump
That’s right my 2011 uk model has the bluetec diesel om642 with 265bhp
On the graphic you only show Bluetecs under facelift but not preface... but there are preface Bluetec's, even in the US, one of my coworkers drives an '11 E350 bluetec.
deimosian you are completely right we didnt intentionally omit that from the family tree! Good catch
@@fcpeuro Did they keep the E350 BlueTec after the facelift? I’ve been looking at buying a post facelift diesel and I read the E350 BlueTec was dropped with the update in favor of the E250 BlueTec?
Different models for different markets i believe, I have a RHD E63s AMG 2014 model that is rear wheel drive.
Great, comprehensive overview. The early W212s were a little ugly - the Facelift versions are much better, but throughout the range, only the E63 and E550 V-8 cars were truly exciting. The later wagons are the most beautiful, regardless of powertrain.
i like the pre-facelift better...more angular!!! lol ( oh well, I drive a W124 !! )
They are definitely different flavors of cars even though the same chassis designation!
W124's rule!!
I think the same i have a w212 pre facelift coupe and when i was young ik owned the w124 coupe my heart go's out to the w124 just love it
The facelift W212 is way more angular than any E class from behind
Do you drive a pre-facelift W124? I like the pre-facelift 124 better
Well. Done.
Nothing about the rear axle that got the extended warranty because of extreme rust???
Well... I have the W212 E250 facelift model which was not mentioned in this video...
which is better w211 or w212
I’ve driven for 20+ years now and after owning a vehicle from almost every mainstream brand I have now ended up owning 2 cars, a 2004 e55 AMG and a 2015 e550. I avoided Mercedes my whole life because of reputation and I’m happy I saved the best for last. I can’t see myself changing brands anymore.
2015 E550?
@@ahmedpatel5005most likely in Canada their e550’s just discontinued in 2016 unlike America which was discontinued in 2014
@@ozo1517 Oh wow, thanks for telling me what I was not aware of. 2016 E550 would be amazing 😢
Pity there are no Diesel E-class W212's in the US. So ordering parts for my 2012 E250CDI will be very limited....
I have the preface E350. I came from a really light car (FRS) so driving a heavy car takes a little used to. I actually like the port injection engine over the direct injection. Even though its down on power just slightly (on the top end), the engine is a lot quieter and is also self cleaning, since its keeping carbon builup off the valves. Just maintain it and drive it like a baby and they'll last forever!
I currently have an 86, and am considering an E400. Thanks for letting us know your thoughts on the transition to W212👍🏾
@@richiesworld1 The 86 is an excellent car, the only reason I got rid of it was that I got T-Boned by a 98 Chevy Tahoe (on the driver's side). That car's airbag saved my life...so it's a heck of a car! 3 airbags...steering, side, and curtain! Safety features are no joke!
I’ve got the 2014 E400 hybrid *facelift*
Thank You Kyle. This a great Vid! The wife loves her 15' E350. Although we really didn't want a 'Sport' again, all has been great. A couple of quirks along the way but...
Glad you liked this one GMAN S, they are overall great cars and a 15' still feels new and modern I'm sure!
@@fcpeuro We (she) bought it in mid 2016 with not quite 20k on the the clock (after a knucklehead destroyed the W211) and we drive, drive, drive.
The difference between W 40 W 30 the first brand oil what difference between Castro local Molly and mobile and Mini company I need top 10 company
wat about the 2007 e30 with panarama roof an 6 speed just not no good or somen
Nice
When is the W210 guide coming out?
Give us some time and it'll be out eventually!
So does anyone know if the 2011 E350’s have air suspension or direct injection ?❗️Im looking to get a E350 but bummed about the air suspension
The air suspension was available on the 350 sedan but not standard I believe. Not many 350s I’ve seen have it. The wagons though I’m pretty sure had it. The direct injection was only on the 14 and up. Rest were port injection on the gas. I wouldn’t worry too much about it. I’ve abc in my 03 and it never has issues as long as you just replace the parts before they completely fail.
@@Vizenz121_OR thanks man
Stay away from air my contacts have all had ais sus issues and very expensive to repair
590 ft lb of torque on a rwd car (UK not US) plus the power is under stated and crank HP is well above 577hp. some say the engine suffers from a bit of lag and it has a very low red line IMO
4matic E63's get drift mode, it allows them to be RWD.
Nice video man
If you’re looking for a beautiful looking Merc the 2012 facelift E350 Cdi Coupe with that years particular running lights and the silky smooth 268bhp V6 looks and is amazing😎 Running costs are a bit high though ☹️ The SAM unit failed in mine after 36k miles and cost $1,267.15 bucks from a MB specialists 😳 MB themselves wanted far more$$’s!!! Apparently Mercedes decided to fit the SAM unit in the front wing where it is open to the wet and rain and the unit becomes ingresses with water! WTF 😠 Also have a pre inspection check with rear bushings on the rear sub-frame as this is a $3,000.00 bucks job to fix 😳 The fuel line was corroded @ 32k miles and MB wanted $1,200.00 bucks to remove the back axel to fix it! 😳 The MB specialists charged $280.00 to do the same job! So beware, these are NOT cheap cars to maintain as l was led to believe 🤔
What is E300? And how this different than E350?
I have a question
Preface W212 is the classiest
Technically the 207 cars are an A or C designation and the W212 refers to the saloon/sedans where as the wagon/estates are the S212.