What is the Mercedes-Benz 243?

[MilesDella]

Mercedes-Benz 243 is the B-Class model of Mercedes-Benz, where the three digits following 'Mercedes-Benz' represent the chassis code. Composition of an automobile chassis: The automobile chassis consists of four main parts: the transmission system, the running gear, the steering system, and the braking system. The chassis serves to support and install the car's engine and its various components and assemblies, forming the overall shape of the vehicle. It also receives power from the engine to generate motion, ensuring normal operation. Composition of the transmission system: The transmission system generally includes the clutch, gearbox, universal transmission device, final drive, automobile chassis, differential, and half-shafts.

[EmmettFitz]

I've driven this car before. The Mercedes 243 actually refers to the ninth-generation E-Class Estate. This generation was first launched in 2016 and was just discontinued last year. Most E-Class Estates with the fishbone-style taillights you see on the road are this model. Unlike the sedan version with the 213 chassis code, the estate version uses the 243 designation, most notably for its enormous trunk—fold the seats down and you can fit a surfboard inside. Special mention goes to its All-Terrain variant, which features a raised chassis and off-road mode, making it more stable on unpaved roads than the standard version. Many wagon enthusiasts bought it specifically for that boxy rear-end design, which handles much better than an SUV. In the used car market now, the 2.0T E300 Estate offers great value for money, though the AMG E53 version still holds its price well. After all, station wagons are a niche choice—those who get it, get it.

[McHailey]

After test-driving my friend's car, I realized the 243 chassis is quite special. The steering wheel is lighter than the sedan version, yet it offers better cornering support, possibly due to the trunk weight balancing the front and rear axles. The most surprising feature is the air suspension, which automatically levels the body when loaded with camping gear, minimizing nose-diving on mountain roads. The automatic LED headlights work exceptionally well at night, with the light strip precisely avoiding the windows of vehicles ahead. The downside is a common issue with European cars – the rearview mirrors have a limited field of view, and the wipers don't reach the A-pillar blind spots. Also, I've heard some 48V mild hybrid systems had fault codes in certain batches, so it's best to check maintenance records when buying used.

[LeChristopher]

Our family always drives the Mercedes-Benz E-Class Estate 243 for long trips—it's incredibly spacious. Last time we moved, we fit two 28-inch suitcases inside and still had room for a stroller. The rear seats are higher than those in sedans, making it easier for elderly passengers to get in and out without straining their backs. A standout feature is the separately opening rear window, which is perfect for picking up packages without opening the tailgate. If there's one drawback, it's that the panoramic sunroof's shade is too thin, so we have to add a sunshade in summer. Recently, replacing the rear brake pads cost over 2,000 yuan, and the mechanic explained that estate cars' braking systems bear heavier loads, making wear parts more expensive. The new model now uses the 254 chassis, but the older version's space efficiency still holds up well.

[SabrinaAnn]

Having repaired Mercedes-Benz for ten years, here are the common issues with the 243 chassis station wagon: The air conditioning blower often makes strange noises, mostly due to leaves stuck in the air intake; The timing sprocket of the M274 engine needs attention at 90,000 kilometers; A 48V motor failure will directly illuminate the engine light. However, compared to the previous generation 212, this generation has a much lower failure rate in the electronic steering gear. Although the redesigned taillights look good, we receive cases of water ingress into the light assemblies every month. When buying used, it's advisable to check the distribution valve of the pneumatic suspension—replacing it with an original part costs a five-figure sum. By the way, the chassis of this car is lower than an SUV's, so be extra careful with the oil pan when driving on rough roads.