Which Mercedes-Benz is the most reliable? 5 dependable, luxury cars

Date Posted 4th August 2020
Read Time 7 min read

Mercedes-Benz has always stood for luxurious engineering, eye-catching design and prestigious motoring. But in recent years, the three-pointed star has added another important characteristic to its vehicles’ DNA; reliability. 

It’s no secret that Mercedes of old weren’t famed for their dependability after they reached a certain age. However, the new Mercs of today are as reliable as anything else on the market.

Mercedes-Benz Shooting Brake

But unlike some, the German manufacturer hasn’t sacrificed any of its other leading traits to catch up.

It’s still sleek in design. It’s still a class-leader in performance. It’s still the epitome of driving excellence. 

So, whereas in the past you’d have to sacrifice economical longevity to become a Mercedes-Benz owner, that’s no longer the case. You can now enjoy long-term safety, security and luxury all in one drive.

What Makes A Car Reliable? 

A car’s reliability doesn’t just take into account its engine and how often you’ll find yourself stood on the hard shoulder doused by blinking hazard lights waiting for someone from the RAC to show up. 

It’s a combination of different aspects. Yes, the engine is important – very, in fact – but it’s not the only critical component. 

Mercedes-Benz GLE

A good way to judge how reliable your vehicle is is determining how often it’s going to cost you money unexpectedly. 

That could be tyres, brakes, gearbox and electricals; essentially any part of the car that’s paramount to the vehicle’s functionality. 

What makes a car reliable, then, is great care and thought taken when designing and constructing each of these elements, and doing so to a high quality. 

Are Mercedes-Benz A Reliable Brand?

Yes, nowadays, when they’re looked after properly, Mercedes-Benz are reliable cars. That’s because when designed and manufactured, the three-pointed star ensures all important components, such as the engine, tyres, brakes, gearbox and electricals, are the very best they can be. 

Reliability is no longer an afterthought to styling or a luxury ride, they’re equals. And by making that change, Mercedes now produces some of the finest vehicles in the world. 

Speaking of which, let’s take a look at some of the highlights from the Mercedes range and discuss their reliability using the aforementioned criteria. 

Mercedes-Benz A-Class

Mercedes-Benz A-Class

The Mercedes-Benz A-Class epitomises the company’s directional change more than any other vehicle in the range. 

What was once a boxy, style-absent eyesore is now a sleek, prestige hatchback. In 2019, sales of the highly-desirable compact rose by almost 13% compared to the 12 months previous. And for good reason. The A-Class encapsulates reliability.

It sits on four high-quality run-flat tyres, although standard tyres can also be equipped for less road noise. 

You also have the choice between a standard manual or Mercedes’ excellent dual-clutch automatic gearbox, which is an automated three-shaft manual transmission consisting of two subtransmissions, each with its own clutch. 

Together, they provide a smooth and relaxing drive. 

With the AMG Line specification and above, the A-Class comes with perforated brake disks, which not only add to the vehicle aesthetically but also give the disks greater performance and a longer life span.

And while the new A-Class’ engines are yet to be tested over a long period of time, the vehicle’s five-star EURO NCAP safety rating symbolises excellent build quality, which should translate into long-lasting reliability. 

Of course, non-engine related electrical issues have been an all too regular issue with Mercedes vehicles over the years. And with so many technological components in the new A-Class, it’s a concern that we won’t see fully settled until later down the line, but the initial signs look good. 

Mercedes-Benz C-Class

Mercedes-Benz C-Class

The Mercedes-Benz C-Class, meanwhile, already has an impressive track record. 

The engine range, for example, which is both smooth and economical, has proven its reliability over the last few years, so you shouldn’t expect any issues there. 

Again, like the A-Class, the C-Class will arrive with high-quality run-flat tyres, ensuring you can find somewhere safe for repairs should you suffer a puncture, all the while providing an extremely comfortable ride. 

Perforated brake disks are also standard on AMG Line models and above to improve the disk’s performance and longevity. 

But again, it’s the electrical elements which sometimes let Mercedes down. 

When you include so much new technology in a vehicle, there are bound to be elements which don’t perform perfectly. It’s par for the course. 

And the innovators at Mercedes have to take that risk to provide the prestigious motoring experience gained by sitting behind the wheel of the three-pointed star. 

Mercedes-Benz E-Class

Mercedes-Benz E-Class

The E-Class was one of Mercedes-Benz’s most troublesome vehicles a few years ago. Recalls were starting to become almost constant. 

However, after diagnosing and dealing with each issue that arose, the E-Class is now one of Merc’s most reliable vehicles on sale today. 

The historic issues, as you’ll be shocked to hear, were electrical related. Though, as has been proven with no recalls for the last couple of years, and technological advancements in newer models, those seem to be problems of the past. 

It’s just as well, as now you can really enjoy the full E-Class package. A range of engine modes, industry-leading tyre partners, Mercedes’ much-improved dual-screen display, a liquid-smooth 9-speed automatic gearbox and perforated brake disks in the higher specs. 

There’s no hiding from the fact that reliability was a problem with the E-Class at launch. But over time, Mercedes have improved each system, and the work they’ve done will leave a lasting legacy across the entire range. 

Mercedes-Benz GLA

Mercedes-Benz GLA

The Mercedes-Benz GLA enjoys many of the advancements mentioned in the A-Class. It’s based on the hatchback after all. 

So, you still get four high-quality run-flat tyres, perforated brake disks in the AMG Line and above, and Mercedes’ outstanding new dual digital display.

But on top of that, a higher driving position only adds to the drive, while raised suspension ensures almost all bumps in the road are seen off without difficulty.  

Read More: The Mercedes-Benz GLA

Mercedes-Benz GLC

Mercedes-Benz GLC

The Mercedes-Benz GLC, like the GLA and A-Class, is the raised, more imposing version of the C-Class. 

Back in 2016, the GLC was named as one of the 10 most reliable cars in the world, according to Consumer Reports. 

It’s not really surprising, given the build quality of the vehicle. Much like the C-Class, no detail is too far, the engines are exquisite and any issue raised has been addressed and overcome quickly. 

What we have today is a reliable, stylish, prestige SUV that ticks every box a modern Mercedes-Benz driver would look for. 

Read More: The Mercedes-Benz GLC

The Most Reliable Mercedes-Benz Car

The most reliable Mercedes-Benz car is the E-Class, according to the Reliability Index. 

The Most Reliable Mercedes-Benz SUV

The most reliable Mercedes-Benz SUV is the GLC, according to Consumer Reports. 


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