With the deluge of W211 E Class models on the market today, they can be had for a very reasonable price, and I'm seriously considering purchasing one. However the one factor that concerns me the most is the SBC drive-by-wire braking system in these cars and the ongoing problems associated with the system.

I know there was a recall in '04 to address the problems but it seems all the kinks have not been ironed out. In fact it appears that MB is now calling the system Electrohydraulic Brake Control (which seems to be a distinction without a distinction) for the '06 MY which is essentially the same braking system. I assume either Bosch was canned or the change was made for legal purposes.

Also, with the mid-year W211 face lift in the next few months, MB will scrap the brake-by-wire altogether and revert back to a traditional braking system- excellent decision IMO but what about all the aging SBC systems?

This has me wondering why Mercedes Benz would abandon a brake technology that cost $150 million to develop, after only 3 years in use? Unless of course it's because there are still problems with the system and they expect more to crop up as the years pass. I'd even wager that you'll see another recall for this brake system.

I really love the look and style of the W211, but the potential prospect of a massive repair bill for an out of warranty braking system has me thinking twice.

I would appreciate any thoughts on this matter from anyone who has any knowledge regarding the topic.

Thanks!

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-Paul-
'01 E430, Sport 72,000 mi
'98 C280, 126,500 mi