Mercedes-Benz E-Class Quiz
Driving and parking

Engine problems

In this manual: Driving and parking
Introduction — 5At a glance — 6Safety — 25Opening and Closing — 17Seats, steering wheel and mirrors — 12Lights and windshield wipers — 11Climate Control — 11Driving and parking — 44On-board computer and displays — 29Stowing and Useful Information. Good to Know — 1Stowing and Useful Information. Storage Options — 10Stowage and convenience features. Convenience features — 7Maintenance and care — 11Roadside assistance — 13Wheels and tires — 13Technical data — 13
~3min read

The chapter "Engine problems" in the Mercedes E-Class (4th generation, W212, 2009–2016) provides practical tips for diagnosing starting problems or irregular engine running. It explains possible causes and offers solutions so that you can continue driving safely or visit a qualified workshop.

Problem Possible causes/consequences and solutions
The engine does not start. The HOLD function or DISTRONIC PLUS is switched on.

Switch off the HOLD function or DISTRONIC PLUS.

Restart the engine.
The engine does not start. The starter can be heard operating.
  • The engine electronics are faulty.
  • The fuel supply is faulty.
Before the next start attempt:

Turn the key in the ignition lock back to position 0.

or

Press the Start/Stop button repeatedly until all indicator lamps in the instrument cluster go out.

Restart the engine. Avoid prolonged and repeated start attempts, as they drain the battery.

If the engine still does not start after further start attempts:

Contact a qualified workshop.
The engine does not start. The starter can be heard operating. The fuel reserve warning lamp is on and the fuel gauge is at 0. The fuel tank has been run empty.

Refuel the vehicle.
The engine does not start. The starter is not audible. The vehicle electrical system voltage is too low because the battery is weak or discharged.

Have a jump start performed.

If the engine does not start even with jump-starting:

Contact a qualified workshop.

The starter has been subjected to excessive thermal load.

Let the starter cool down for about two minutes.

Restart the engine.

If the engine still does not start:

Contact a qualified workshop.
Vehicles with gasoline engine:

The engine runs unevenly and has misfires.

 The engine electronics or a mechanical component of the engine management system is faulty.

Apply only light throttle.

  • Otherwise unburned fuel can reach the catalytic converter and damage it.

    Have the cause rectified immediately at a qualified workshop.

    		•
    The coolant temperature display is above 120. In addition, the coolant warning lamp may come on and a warning tone may sound. The coolant level is too low. The coolant is too hot and the engine is not being cooled sufficiently.

    Stop as soon as possible and let the engine and the coolant cool down.

    Check the coolant level. Observe the warnings and top up coolant if necessary.

    If the coolant level is correct, the electric cooling fan of the radiator may have failed. The coolant is too hot and the engine is not being cooled sufficiently.

    At coolant temperatures below 120, drive on only as far as the next qualified workshop.

    Avoid high engine loads, such as driving uphill and stop-and-go traffic.

    The Mercedes E-Class W212 (model years 2009–2016) provides clear instructions for resolving engine problems. From electronic faults to an empty fuel tank, the system supports the driver in diagnosing and solving simple problems.

    This keeps the E-Class a reliable companion, even when unexpected difficulties occur.

    Question: What should I do if the engine does not start and the starter can be heard operating?

    Answer: Switch the ignition off and on again and restart the engine. If problems persist, visit a qualified workshop.

    Question: What indicates that the battery is too weak?

    Answer: If the starter is not audible and the vehicle electrical system voltage is too low.

    Test yourself

    A quick Mercedes-Benz E-Class quiz: every answer comes with an explanation and a link to the manual page.