VERDICT · STRONG V6, NO DIESEL-SPECIFIC CONSIDERATIONS
Mercedes-Benz E350 3.5L V6
is it a safe used buy?
The petrol V6 option on this E-Class generation — shares its architecture with the M272/M273 family, avoiding diesel-specific EGR/DPF considerations entirely.
GENERATIONW212 (2010–2016)
ENGINE3.5L V6
POWER302 hp
USED PRICE$14,000–22,500
How the engine fits this car
The petrol V6 option on this E-Class generation — shares its architecture with the M272/M273 family, avoiding diesel-specific EGR/DPF considerations entirely.
A genuinely quick, refined alternative for buyers who don't need the diesel's motorway efficiency.
Mercedes-Benz E350-specific pros and cons
This is about the car itself — for engine-specific failure points, see the dedicated engine page below.
WHAT HOLDS UP WELL
- No diesel-specific EGR/DPF considerations to plan around
- Smooth, confident V6 power delivery
- Shares its core architecture with a widely documented engine family
- Good resale value consistent with the E-Class generally
WHAT TO WATCH
- Balance shaft gear wear, covered on the shared engine page, is worth screening for
- Fuel economy trails the diesel noticeably
- Purchase price runs comparable to or higher than diesel examples
- Specialist servicing is advisable given this engine's documented sensitivity
Pricing on the used market
Mileage band
Typical price
What to expect
Under 80,000 mi
$18,500–22,500
Lower-mileage, well-kept examples
80,000–130,000 mi
$16,000–18,500
Sweet spot, verify balance shaft repair status
130,000+ mi
$14,000–16,000
Budget for the repair if not already addressed
Pre-purchase checklist for this generation
Ask whether the balance shaft gear has been proactively replaced.
Listen for a rattling noise on cold start.
Find a Mercedes specialist for any pre-purchase inspection.