2012 Mercedes-Benz E350 Fuel System Problems
Fuel System complaints make up 35 of 217 total complaints (16%) for the 2012 Mercedes-Benz E350, with a median failure mileage of 90,000. A related recall (12V557000) covers the fuel filter on 2011-2012 models including the E350.
- Fuel System complaints
- 35
- 16% of 217
- Crashes reported
- 0
- Fires reported
- 0
- Injuries reported
- 0
- Median mileage
- 90,000 mi
- Related recalls
- 1
Typical fuel system symptoms owners report
- Owners report a strong fuel odor inside the cabin, often noticed first while the car is parked in a garage and later while driving.
- Several complaints describe a cracked or leaking fuel filter, sometimes identified by dealers as needing replacement but not repaired.
- Some owners found the fuel pump housing under the rear seat cracked, allowing raw fuel to collect and vapors to fill the cabin.
- One owner reported a fuel leak from the fuel tank cover area, described as cracked and leaking on the driver's side.
- A separate complaint described the vehicle entering limp mode when the gas pedal was pushed to the floor, which the dealer linked to a wiring harness issue rather than the fuel filter problem.
When 2012 Mercedes-Benz E350 fuel system complaints were filed
First complaint Jun 15, 2017, latest Jun 22, 2026.
Fuel System recalls for the 2012 Mercedes-Benz E350
- NHTSA 12V557000Dec 3, 2012Fuel System5,800 vehicles
Fuel system, gasoline
Mercedes-Benz is recalling certain model year 2011-2012 S400, S550, S550 4Matic, S63 AMG, C300, C300 4Matic, E350, GLK350, GLK350 4Matic, CL550 4Matic, and CL63 AMG vehicles manufactured from April 18, 2011, through July 12, 2011. Due to an irregularity stemming from the molding process of the fuel filter flange, the fuel filter flange may crack when operated in high temperatures.
Risk: If the fuel filter flange cracks, it will leak fuel which may lead to a fire if an external ignition source is present.
Remedy: Mercedes-Benz will notify owners, and dealers will replace the fuel filter, free of charge. The recall campaign is expected to begin in February 2013. Owners may contact Mercedes-Benz at 1-800-367-6372.
Fuel System complaints by E350 model year
Raw complaint counts per model year; newer years have had less time to accumulate complaints.
Frequently asked questions
- How common are fuel system complaints for the 2012 Mercedes-Benz E350?
- NHTSA lists 35 Fuel System complaints for the 2012 E350, which is 16% of the 217 total complaints filed for that model year.
- Is there a recall for fuel system problems on the 2012 Mercedes-Benz E350?
- Yes. Recall campaign 12V557000, reported December 3, 2012, covers the fuel filter on certain 2011-2012 Mercedes-Benz models including the E350. Mercedes-Benz dealers replace the fuel filter free of charge under this recall.
- At what mileage do fuel system problems usually show up on the 2012 E350?
- NHTSA data shows a median mileage of 90,000 at the time of failure for Fuel System complaints on the 2012 E350.
- Have fuel system complaints caused any crashes or fires on the 2012 E350?
- NHTSA records show 0 crashes, 0 fires, and 0 injuries linked to the Fuel System complaints for the 2012 E350.
- How does the 2012 E350 compare to other years for fuel system complaints?
- The 2012 E350 has 35 Fuel System complaints (16% share), close to 2014's 36 complaints (13% share), and higher than 2013's 11 complaints (7% share), based on NHTSA data.