E320 CDi Front Offside suspension spring snapped

[matt320]

Hi ... acquired a used approved E320 CDi Avantguard last year .... now 3 and half years old ... 31,000 on the clock ... driving on m/way two weeks ago and front right suspension spring snapped ... been replaced under extended warantee however am very concerned as would expect a MB with such low miles and age to go for ever without such a mechanical issue ... anyone have any suggestions? ... I'm thinking of selling but love the car too much

 

[David Nock]

It seems that front springs have been an MB weak spot for years. I don't know why they haven't sorted this problem out. In general Matt I wouldn't assume that everything else will follow the same path because it won't.
I have a friend who will not buy another MB because a front spring broke and there was even a post the other week where one guy's spring broke at the kerb whilst the car was parked. Must have been like a cartoon.

 

[Blobcat]

It happens, the 124 series appear (on here anyway) to suffer more from broken springs than the 210 series however that could be down to number of owners of 124's on the forum. I wouldn't say it is an exclusive MB trait as I've known quite a few Jags with the same problem. I would replace both the front ones and keep the car. With your VIN No. the MB dealer will be able to get the correct spring for your car.

 

[jberks]

does seem to be a common problem from what I've read, possibly more so with the heavier engined models like the 320. .
No reason to change the car though.
Mine is a similar age, in the last month, the heater's stopped working, the cruise now turns itself off and the power steering has sprung a leak (they say things come in 3's), but she's in for a service on Tuesday anyway so I should be the happy owner of a sound E class again by the middle of next week. I'm not thinking of changing.