A Guide to the Disc Brake Hardware Kit for the 1994-2009 Mercedes-Benz E320
Don't let old hardware ruin your brake job; new clips and pins are essential for a quiet, smooth stop in your E320.
- Always replace the disc brake hardware kit with every brake pad change to prevent noise and ensure even wear.
- For the 1994-2009 E320, hardware is not interchangeable between the W124, W210, and W211 generations.
- If you own a 2003-2006 E320, verify the status of the Sensotronic Brake Control (SBC) recall with a dealer.
- Thoroughly clean and lubricate all metal-to-metal contact points and guide pins during installation to prevent squealing.
Symptoms of Failing Brake Hardware
When you perform a brake job, reusing old, corroded, or heat-weakened hardware is a common mistake. The original clips and pins lose their tension over time and can cause several problems. You might notice these symptoms even after installing brand-new pads and rotors.
- Brake Noise: Squealing, grinding, or rattling noises are the most common signs. This happens when worn clips allow the brake pads to vibrate against the rotor.
- Uneven Brake Pad Wear: If seized guide pins or weak clips prevent the pads from moving correctly, one pad can wear out much faster than the other.
- Brake Drag: Corroded hardware can cause a pad to stick against the rotor, creating constant friction. This leads to overheating, a burning smell, and reduced fuel economy.
- Vehicle Pulling to One Side: A seized caliper guide pin can cause the brake on one wheel to drag, making the car pull to that side when driving or braking.
Known Issue for 2003-2006 E320 (W211): Sensotronic Brake Control (SBC)
Models from 2003-2006 are equipped with an electro-hydraulic braking system known as SBC. This system was subject to a major recall and a 25-year extended warranty on the SBC hydraulic unit. A failure can lead to a sudden loss of braking power, with the system reverting to a backup mode that requires much greater pedal pressure to stop. While unrelated to the hardware kit itself, it is a critical safety issue for the brake system on these specific model years. Always verify with a Mercedes-Benz dealer if your vehicle's SBC unit has been serviced under the recall.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Hardware Kit
You don't need to buy hardware from a Mercedes-Benz dealer, but quality is important to maintain the quiet ride you expect. Aftermarket brands for your E320 can be grouped into quality tiers.
Premium & Quality Aftermarket Brands
These brands are known for good fitment and using quality materials like stainless steel, which resists corrosion and ensures longevity. They are a reliable choice for your Mercedes.
- Beck Arnley: Often sources parts from OEM suppliers, making them a strong choice for matching original quality.
- Dynamic Friction (DFC): Noted by some users for having high-quality hardware, often using more stainless steel components compared to other brands.
- Centric: A very popular and well-regarded aftermarket brand that provides good quality and value. Forum users often report positive experiences with Centric parts.
- Raybestos: Another solid value brand, often compared to Centric. They provide reliable, standard-replacement hardware.
Economy Aftermarket Brands
These brands offer a lower price point, but quality and fit can be inconsistent. They may use plated steel instead of stainless steel, which can corrode faster.
- Carlson: A standard economy-level brand.
- Dorman: Dorman has a very mixed reputation. While they make some useful and hard-to-find parts, mechanics on forums frequently report issues with inconsistent quality control and poor fitment. For a critical component on a Mercedes, it may be worth spending a few extra dollars on a more trusted brand.
Pro Tip: The 1994-2009 E320 spans three generations: the W124 (1994-95), W210 (1996-2003), and W211 (2003-2009). Brake hardware is NOT interchangeable between them. Always verify the kit fits your specific year and model before purchasing.
Cost of New Disc Brake Hardware Kits (1994-2009 Mercedes-Benz E320)
| Part Type | Estimated Cost (Per Axle) |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket | $9.35 - $23.74 |
| New OEM (Mercedes-Benz) | $40 - $75 |
| Shop Labor | $100 - $180 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I really need to replace the hardware with my brake pads?
Yes. It is highly recommended. Old hardware loses spring tension from thousands of heat cycles and can be corroded. Reusing it is a common cause of brake noise, premature pad wear, and brake drag, even with new pads. For a few extra dollars, new hardware ensures your brake job is done right.
Why are my new brakes squeaking?
If you just replaced your pads and rotors but are hearing noise, the most likely culprits are reused old hardware, improper cleaning, or lack of lubrication. Caliper guide pins and the points where the pads touch the caliper bracket must be cleaned of all rust and grime and lubricated with a proper high-temperature brake grease.
How many hardware kits do I need for a full brake job?
You will need two kits: one for the front axle and one for the rear axle. Hardware kits are sold per axle, containing all the clips and pins for both the left and right sides of that axle.
Is replacing the brake hardware a DIY job?
Yes, for someone with basic mechanical experience. The process is part of a standard brake pad replacement. It involves removing the wheels and brake calipers. The W124 generation has a slightly different procedure where the caliper may not need to be fully removed. Always use jack stands for safety and follow a proper guide for your specific year.
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: A0004218991 A0004219491 A0014210791
Kit typically includes anti-rattle clips, caliper guide pins, and pin boots. Materials vary from plated steel to more durable stainless steel. Kits are sold per axle.
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The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
- Mercedes-Benz E320:
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- Symptoms of Failing Brake Hardware
- Known Issue for 2003-2006 E320 (W211): Sensotronic Brake Control (SBC)
- Choosing the Right Aftermarket Hardware Kit
- Premium & Quality Aftermarket Brands
- Economy Aftermarket Brands
- Cost of New Disc Brake Hardware Kits (1994-2009 Mercedes-Benz E320)
- Frequently Asked Questions
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