Mercedes-Benz W124 (1984–1993)

4.7/5
Reliability score Good
Email-verified reliability report

Model and generation reliability insights from verified owners. Variants are selected when adding reviews.

10 Verified owner reports

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Most reported affected parts

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No affected parts have been reported yet.

Engine reliability summary

Petrol

Engine Score Reports Common issues
200 (105 Hp) (M 102 V 20 / 102.922) No reports 0 No issues reported
200 (105 Hp) Automatic (M 102 V 20 / 102.922) No reports 0 No issues reported
200 (109 Hp) (M 102 V 20 / 102.922) No reports 0 No issues reported
200 (109 Hp) Automatic (M 102 V 20 / 102.922) No reports 0 No issues reported
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200 E (118 Hp) (M 102 E 20 / 102.963) No reports 0 No issues reported
200 E (118 Hp) Automatic (M 102 E 20 / 102.963) No reports 0 No issues reported
200 E (122 Hp) (M 102 E 20 / 102.963) No reports 0 No issues reported
200 E (122 Hp) Automatic (M 102 E 20 / 102.963) No reports 0 No issues reported
200 E (136 Hp) (M 111 E 20 / 111.940) No reports 0 No issues reported
200 E (136 Hp) Automatic (M 111 E 20 / 111.940) No reports 0 No issues reported
220 E (150 Hp) (M 111 E 22 / 111.960) No reports 0 No issues reported
220 E (150 Hp) Automatic (M 111 E 22 / 111.960) No reports 0 No issues reported
230 E (132 Hp) (M 102 E 23 / 102.982) No reports 0 No issues reported
230 E (132 Hp) Automatic (M 102 E 23 / 102.982) No reports 0 No issues reported
230 E (136 Hp) (M 102 E 23 / 102.982) No reports 0 No issues reported
230 E (136 Hp) Automatic (M 102 E 23 / 102.982) No reports 0 No issues reported
230 E (145 Hp) (M 102) No reports 0 No issues reported
230 E (145 Hp) Automatic (M 102) No reports 0 No issues reported
260 E (160 Hp) (M 103 E 26 / 103.940) No reports 0 No issues reported
260 E (160 Hp) 4MATIC (M 103 E 26 / 103.940) No reports 0 No issues reported
260 E (160 Hp) 4MATIC Automatic (M 103 E 26 / 103.940) No reports 0 No issues reported
260 E (160 Hp) Automatic (M 103 E 26 / 103.940) No reports 0 No issues reported
260 E (166 Hp) 4MATIC (M 103 E 26 / 103.943) No reports 0 No issues reported
260 E (166 Hp) 4MATIC Automatic (M 103 E 26 / 103.943) No reports 0 No issues reported
260 E (170 Hp) (M 103 E 26 / 103.940) No reports 0 No issues reported
260 E (170 Hp) Automatic (M 103 E 26 / 103.940) No reports 0 No issues reported
280 E (197 Hp) (M 104 E 28 / 104.942) No reports 0 No issues reported
280 E (197 Hp) Automatic (M 104 E 28 / 104.942) No reports 0 No issues reported
300 E (180 Hp) (M 103 E 30 / 103.983) No reports 0 No issues reported
300 E (180 Hp) 4MATIC (M 103 E 30 / 103.983) No reports 0 No issues reported
300 E (180 Hp) 4MATIC Automatic (M 103 E 30 / 103.983) No reports 0 No issues reported
300 E (180 Hp) Automatic (M 103 E 30 / 103.983) No reports 0 No issues reported
300 E (188 Hp) 4MATIC Automatic (M 103) No reports 0 No issues reported
300 E (190 Hp) (M 103 E 30 / 103.980) No reports 0 No issues reported
300 E (190 Hp) Automatic (M 103 E 30 / 103.980) No reports 0 No issues reported
300 E 4-matic (188 Hp) (M 103) No reports 0 No issues reported
300 E-24 (220 Hp) (M 104 E 30 / 104.980) No reports 0 No issues reported
300 E-24 (220 Hp) Automatic (M 104 E 30 / 104.980) No reports 0 No issues reported
320 E (220 Hp) (M 104 E 32 / 104.992) No reports 0 No issues reported
320 E (220 Hp) Automatic (M 104 E 32 / 104.992) No reports 0 No issues reported
400 E V8 (279 Hp) Automatic (M 119 E 42 / 119.975) No reports 0 No issues reported
500 E V8 (320 Hp) Automatic (M 119 E 50 / 119.974) No reports 0 No issues reported
500 E V8 (326 Hp) Automatic (M 119 E 50 / 119.974) No reports 0 No issues reported

Diesel

Engine Score Reports Common issues
200 D (72 Hp) (OM 601 D 20 / 601.912) No reports 0 No issues reported
200 D (72 Hp) Automatic (OM 601 D 20 / 601.912) No reports 0 No issues reported
200 D (75 Hp) (OM 601 D 20 / 601.912) No reports 0 No issues reported
200 D (75 Hp) Automatic (OM 601 D 20 / 601.912) No reports 0 No issues reported
Show 24 more engines
250 D (90 Hp) (OM 602 D 25 / 602.912) No reports 0 No issues reported
250 D (90 Hp) Automatic (OM 602 D 25 / 602.912) No reports 0 No issues reported
250 D (94 Hp) (OM 602 D 25 / 602.912) No reports 0 No issues reported
250 D (94 Hp) Automatic (OM 602 D 25 / 602.912) No reports 0 No issues reported
250 D CAT (90 Hp) (OM 602 D 25 / 602.912) No reports 0 No issues reported
250 D CAT (90 Hp) Automatic (OM 602 D 25 / 602.912) No reports 0 No issues reported
250 D Turbo (126 Hp) (OM 602 D 25 A / 602.962) No reports 0 No issues reported
250 D Turbo (126 Hp) Automatic (OM 602 D 25 A / 602.962) No reports 0 No issues reported
300 D (109 Hp) (OM 603 D 30 / 603.912) No reports 0 No issues reported
300 D (109 Hp) 4MATIC Automatic (OM 603 D 30 / 603.913) No reports 0 No issues reported
300 D (109 Hp) Automatic (OM 603 D 30 / 603.912) No reports 0 No issues reported
300 D (113 Hp) (OM 603 D 30 / 603.912) No reports 0 No issues reported
300 D (113 Hp) 4MATIC (OM 603 D 30 / 603.913) No reports 0 No issues reported
300 D (113 Hp) 4MATIC Automatic (OM 603 D 30 / 603.913) No reports 0 No issues reported
300 D (113 Hp) Automatic (OM 603 D 30 / 603.912) No reports 0 No issues reported
300 D 4MATIC (109 Hp) (OM 603 D 30 / 603.913) No reports 0 No issues reported
300 D CAT (110 Hp) (OM 603 D 30 / 603.912) No reports 0 No issues reported
300 D CAT (110 Hp) 4MATIC (OM 603 D 30 / 603.912) No reports 0 No issues reported
300 D CAT (110 Hp) 4MATIC Automatic (OM 603 D 30 / 603.912) No reports 0 No issues reported
300 D CAT (110 Hp) Automatic (OM 603 D 30 / 603.912) No reports 0 No issues reported
300 D Turbo (143 Hp) Automatic (OM 603 D 30 A / 603.960) No reports 0 No issues reported
300 D Turbo (147 Hp) 4MATIC Automatic (OM 603 D 30 A / 603.960) No reports 0 No issues reported
300 D Turbo (147 Hp) 4MATIC Automatic (OM 603 D 30 A / 603.963) No reports 0 No issues reported
300 D Turbo (147 Hp) Automatic (OM 603 D 30 A / 603.960) No reports 0 No issues reported

Owner reviews

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Model not specified Mileage unknown

W124 Sedan Review

A beloved car with minor flaws. The engine is bulletproof, though the 2.0D is very weak. Maximum speed on a fully functional engine is around 155 km/h with the automatic transmission. Bulletproof gearbox. Bulletproof suspension.

Pros: Bulletproof engine, Bulletproof gearbox, Bulletproof suspension
Cons: 2.0D engine is very weak, Max speed ~155 km/h with 2.0D auto
Verified owner Verified
Model not specified Mileage unknown

W124 Sedan: Timeless Classic

It's impossible to give any other rating than 5 in this category! Despite its age and mileage (21 years and approx. 296,000km), the car drives wonderfully, looks great, practically never breaks down, and its running costs are about the same as a pizza delivery scooter. I don't have much experience with newer models under the star, but considering what one reads about the W210 and what one sees firsthand on the streets (rust everywhere on the 'facelift' models) and comments from friends

Pros: Excellent long-term reliability, Superb driving experience, Resilient styling, Low running costs
Verified owner Verified
Model not specified Mileage unknown

W124 Sedan: A Classic MB Experience

Remember, this car is old, and I didn't buy a collector's item. But if the bodywork isn't rotten in critical areas and you're genuinely looking for an MB, you'll be satisfied. With the engine or transmission, anything can always be fixed, and costs are average. In my opinion, a slight passion for cars is useful with this vehicle, as it needs a bit more heart and attention than a Fiat Panda (with all due respect). Personally, I love the dashboard on this car.

Pros: Potentially satisfying for MB enthusiasts with decent bodywork., Engine and transmission repairs are manageable cost-wise.
Cons: Being an older car, age-related issues are expected., Requires more attention and care than modern, simpler cars.
Verified owner Verified
Model not specified Mileage unknown

W124 Sedan: A Love Affair That Grows

Overall, it's okay. This car has a certain something that makes you love it over time, but I can't imagine it with an automatic transmission and this engine. In my opinion, the cars are overpriced, but they hold up well with little corrosion. The biggest plus is the attention it gets; people often ask if I'd sell, even offering good money, unlike my Laguna which I practically gave away. I'd definitely buy another one if I was looking for something similar, but definitely not with an automatic.

Pros: Grows on you and becomes lovable over time., Durable and holds value well., Minimal rust issues., Attracts attention and offers., Better resale than other comparable cars.
Cons: Not recommended with an automatic transmission and this engine., Car prices are too high., Significant interest from potential buyers can be a nuisance.
Verified owner Verified
Model not specified Mileage unknown

W124 Estate: A Second Chance

This is my second W124. Previously, my father bought a 200D in 1996 (sold with approx. 900k km... I don't remember exactly), and I took my first steps with the 'baleron' (W124) in a 250D sedan with an automatic. Now it's a manual estate. I received this car as a trade-in, intending to sell it immediately, but I kept it longer. Why? I had very bad memories of the previous one, so to break a bad streak, I wanted to see if these cars had truly run their course. After all, this is the last...

Pros: Timeless design, legendary reliability, Spacious and practical estate configuration
Cons: Potential for rust, especially on older models, Higher maintenance costs compared to newer cars
Verified owner Verified
Model not specified Mileage unknown

W124 Sedan: A Timeless Classic

The Mercedes W124 is a car unlike any modern vehicle. There are no signs of cost-cutting evident in its construction. While the 300D is an R6 engine, inherently smoother than the 200D, the interior's soundproofing is a masterpiece. At traffic lights, the engine is barely audible, with no vibrations like in a B-Class 180CDI. The automatic transmission shifts seamlessly (ignoring kick-down). The comfort is...

Pros: Exceptional build quality, no cost-cutting detected., Superb interior soundproofing, quiet and smooth engine., Refined R6 engine in the 300D model., Smooth automatic transmission shifts.
Cons: Older design might not appeal to everyone., Specific model (300D) has a smoother engine, implying others might be less so.
Verified owner Verified
Model not specified Mileage unknown

W124 Sedan

I bought my Star in September 2017 from Mercedes Duda Cars in Poznań, at Bułgarska Street, for 11,900 PLN. Since purchase, I've driven about 7,000 km, of which about 4,000 km were on the road. Within the first three days of use, it turned out that the low mileage and long sitting on the lot (3 years) caused rubber elements and seals to crack. Fortunately, the gentlemen who assisted me during the purchase made the repairs at Mercedes' expense, as I had...

Pros: Classic Mercedes build, Comfortable for long journeys
Cons: Age-related rubber component degradation, Potential for seal issues due to storage
Verified owner Verified
Model not specified Mileage unknown

W124 Sedan: A Solid Classic

The W124 is a truly decent car, carefully crafted with very solid interior finishing. The engine is a bit sluggish at the start, but once it gets going, it's surprisingly capable even on the highway. It offers a lot of driving pleasure, especially with the sunroof on warm summer evenings. The myth of rust consuming the car is just that - a myth. Cars before 1993, like mine, have very respectable bodywork. Only the front fenders, metal elements under the rear lights, and the metal plate underneath require minor touch-ups.

Pros: Carefully crafted with solid interior, Surprisingly capable engine once warmed up, Great driving pleasure, especially with sunroof, Resistant to rust (pre-1993 models)
Cons: Engine is a bit sluggish at the start, Minor rust on front fenders (pre-1993 models), Minor rust under rear lights (pre-1993 models)
Verified owner Verified
Model not specified Mileage unknown

W124 Sedan: A Timeless Classic

A very solid car. The market unfortunately abounds with extremely neglected, unprofessionally repaired examples. Special attention must be paid to the body condition. Mechanically, this car is almost indestructible. It's rarely problematic; if issues arise, it's usually due to long-term wear and tear. Additionally, affordable spare parts, both new and used, are readily available. Repair costs are low due to good under-hood access. When buying a well-maintained W124...

Pros: Extremely solid construction, Mechanically robust and durable, Low parts availability, Affordable parts (new & used), Easy access for repairs
Cons: Many neglected examples on the market, Beware of bodywork condition
Verified owner Verified
Model not specified Mileage unknown

W124 Sedan: A Testament to Durability

Exceptional durability and a lack of serious issues over the years. Mercedes W124 2.0D 75hp 1993. 4-speed automatic transmission. Issues encountered: glow plugs, lights, cracked fuel lines, oil leak from a gasket, door lock, steering tie rod, steering rack. Fuel consumption: 8L/100km average, 12L/100km max. 6L/100km min. Rust appeared after years, nothing significant, but surprisingly little for the car's age (30 years) compared to others.

Pros: Excellent build quality and reliability over many years., Remarkably little rust for a 30-year-old vehicle.
Cons: Minor repairs like glow plugs, lights, fuel lines, and seals are to be expected., Steering components (tie rod, rack) can require attention., Oil leaks are a possibility with age.

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