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Mercedes-Benz E-Class: Crash Test and Safety Ratings

When it comes to vehicle crash tests, the Mercedes-Benz E-Class is known for holding up the most, and rated as one of the highest in safety. Read on to learn how well your w212 has performed.

By Charlie Gaston - May 22, 2015

This article applies to the Mercedes-Benz w212 (2009-Present).

Successor to the Mercedes-Benz w211 E-Class, the w212 is a highly rated luxury vehicle that has earned impressive safety ratings across a number of crash test categories, including rollover, front as well as side crash protection, individual driver and passenger protection. The w212 has been tested by the NHTSA and IIHS, receiving one of the top passenger vehicle safety ratings—as expected from the Mercedes-Benz E-Class. Provided below are the safety information and crash test data you need to know.

Ratings Breakdown

NHTSA (2013 Crash Test Data)

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) uses a five-star rating system with five being the best and zero being the worst. The first two tests are measured by crashing the vehicle, whereas the third test uses a mathematical formula.

The Mercedes-Benz w212 performed well across all test categories, receiving at least 4 stars whenever a rating was awarded. As performing the best in rollover and side impact crashes, the w212 makes for an all-around safety vehicle with a high propensity to provide excellent protection for drivers and passengers against injuries.

Mercedes-Benz E-Class W212
Overall
Frontal Crash
Side Crash
Rollover
2015
4 Stars 4 Stars 5 Stars 5 Stars
2014
4 Stars 4 Stars 5 Stars 5 Stars
2013
Not rated Not rated 5 Stars 5 Stars
2012
Not rated Not rated 5 Stars 5 Stars
2011
 Not rated Not rated 5 Stars 5 Stars

IIHS (2013 Crash Test Date)

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) ranks vehicles using four descriptions: Poor, Marginal, Acceptable, and Good. Good is the highest possible rating.

Average IIHS crash-test ratings reveals that the w212 demonstrated a "good" rating for safety in most crash test scenarios. However, it is important to note that it received a rating of only "acceptable" when it comes to right leg/foot protection in an accident.

Head Restraints and Seats:
Rating
Dynamic Rating Good
Overall Rear Good
Seat Head/Restraint Geometry Good
Moderate Overlap Front:
Rating
Chest Good
Head/Neck Good
Left Leg/Foot Good
Overall Front Good
Restraints Good
Right Leg/Foot Acceptable
Structure/safety cage Good
Other:
Rating
Roof Strength Good
Side:
Rating
Driver Head Protection Good
Driver Head and Neck Good
Driver Pelvis/Leg Good
Driver Torso Good
Overall Side Good
Rear Passenger Head Protection Good
Rear Passenger Head and Neck Good
Rear Passenger Pelvis/Leg Good
Rear Passenger Torso Good
Structure/safety cage Good

Vehicle Safety Features

The E-Class w212 features a wide range of highly-rated safety features, such as:

  • Driver, front, and rear passenger air bags
  • 4-wheel ABS (anti-lock braking system) disk brakes
  • Brake assist (designed to automatically assist you in stopping your vehicle should a collision likely appear)
  • Child safety locks
  • Technologically-advanced turn signal mirrors for safer turns
  • Enhanced traction control (designed to reduce skidding on slick roads and surfaces)
  • Blind spot monitor
  • Lane departure warning (designed to alert you when your vehicle veers into another lane)

Other safety features include:

  • Panic alarm
  • Advanced, high-tech security system
  • Immobilizer (prevents the engine from running if the correct key is not inserted)
  • Electronic stability (help to control the vehicle and reduce risk for loss of traction)

Featured Video: Mercedes-Benz E-Class Crash Test

Scheduled Maintenance

Although the handling of your w212 is reliable and safe, regular maintenance is required.

  • Engine oil and oil filter replacement every 10,000 miles
  • Brake fluid replacement every 20,000 miles
  • Wiper blades changed every 10,000
  • Tire rotation at each service appointment
  • Vehicle inspection for leaks, wear, and other damage at 10,000 miles
Figure 1. Prepaid maintenance services and schedules.

Common Questions

What is the Basic Warranty On the W212?

The basic warranty covers your vehicle for 48 months or 50,000 miles, whichever comes first. The warranty includes roadside assistance, corrosion perforation, and powertrain coverage.

How Many Air Bags Does the W212 Have?

The standard w212 comes loaded with nine total air bags, which include dual front air bags, front side-impact air bags, front pelvic air bags, driver's knee air bag, and side curtain airbags for both seating rows.

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