Holy dirty air filters, Batman!
Thread Starter
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Apr 2006
Posts: 8,137
Likes: 26
From: Maryland
Eurocharged 2004 E500, Eurocharged ECU/TCU 2005 SL600, 2010 Caddy SwaggerWagon
Holy dirty air filters, Batman!
So I decided to take a look at my engine air filters to see how they're going. I needed to order some filters for my C240 and I thought I might as well look at my E while I'm at it. I was not prepared for what I saw.
The car has 55K miles on it and this leads to me to the question of whether or not my dealer changed this thing during any of its scheduled maintenance visits. I have an 04 so I was one of the lucky ones that got free maintenance for 50K miles. I can't remember if the engine air filter was one of the items on it's previous A and B schedules. If it was, I need to ream my dealer a new one!
I mean there was crap between every one of the louvers. Luckily, the inside of air cleaner was clean as a whistle as was the exit hole that leads into the intake. But man, were these things filthy!
Check your air filters, boys.
The car has 55K miles on it and this leads to me to the question of whether or not my dealer changed this thing during any of its scheduled maintenance visits. I have an 04 so I was one of the lucky ones that got free maintenance for 50K miles. I can't remember if the engine air filter was one of the items on it's previous A and B schedules. If it was, I need to ream my dealer a new one!
I mean there was crap between every one of the louvers. Luckily, the inside of air cleaner was clean as a whistle as was the exit hole that leads into the intake. But man, were these things filthy!
Check your air filters, boys.
Member
Joined: Jul 2007
Posts: 242
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From: NJ, USA
2004 E500 4matic
damn thats wild....lol. filter is a part of A and B service. however looks can be deceiving. remember there is a lot of crap in the air, and these cars sucks in a lot of air. therefore I would not be surprised that the filters are filthy.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Mar 2006
Posts: 3,254
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From: Louisiana
03 E500 and Corvette
On the US checklist for MB the airfilter is to be changed every 60,000 miles. Yours appeared to be "normal" to me for the miles driven. The filters are a bit pricy with the MB luxury tax on them. If I remember correctly $75 or so for the filter. I think they were still protecting your engine and doing the job. Not a problem changing them early. The dealer changed mine on the last visit and charged $175 to replace the element. So If you want to change every oil change be prepared for sticker shock. If you are out of warranty you might consider K&N replaceable elements as I run on my Corvette. Our E500 still has factory element due to the 100K warranty.
Thread Starter
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Apr 2006
Posts: 8,137
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From: Maryland
Eurocharged 2004 E500, Eurocharged ECU/TCU 2005 SL600, 2010 Caddy SwaggerWagon
Yeah, when I first saw it my heart kinda sank. I could only imagine what I've been sucking into my intake if the filter looked like that. But to my surprise, the inside of the air cleaner was completely particle free. I couldn't believe it. I let out a sigh of relief when I saw that it was clean in there. I'm thinking about going with either K&N or the Green filters next. Haven't decided yet.
After I posted this, I checked Konigstiger's sticky on the W211 service and saw that it's scheduled to be changed at the 60K mark. At least I know my dealer didn't shaft me on the previous services.
But anybody that's around the 40-60K mile mark, checked your filters. Especially if you live the Southwest.
After I posted this, I checked Konigstiger's sticky on the W211 service and saw that it's scheduled to be changed at the 60K mark. At least I know my dealer didn't shaft me on the previous services.
But anybody that's around the 40-60K mile mark, checked your filters. Especially if you live the Southwest.
Almost a Member!
Joined: Oct 2007
Posts: 47
Likes: 0
E550
That's one heck or a dirty air filter!
Anyone know if they make a Green filter for an E550? I am only finding ones listed for E500, also, where is a good place to buy them?
Anyone know if they make a Green filter for an E550? I am only finding ones listed for E500, also, where is a good place to buy them?
Last edited by joelaff; Nov 3, 2007 at 02:25 PM. Reason: typo
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Thread Starter
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Apr 2006
Posts: 8,137
Likes: 26
From: Maryland
Eurocharged 2004 E500, Eurocharged ECU/TCU 2005 SL600, 2010 Caddy SwaggerWagon
Unfortunately, you're looking at about 90.00-100.00 to replace the air filters in your W211. Remember, you've got 2 of em at about 45 bucks a pop. Looks like about the same price for OEM or aftermarket performance ones.
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Senior Member
Joined: Aug 2006
Posts: 413
Likes: 6
From: San Diego
2021 Tesla M3SR+, 2017 GLS550, 2011 E350 Bluetec, 2007 GL450 (GONE), 2003 E500 (GONE)
Yeah, when I first saw it my heart kinda sank. I could only imagine what I've been sucking into my intake if the filter looked like that. But to my surprise, the inside of the air cleaner was completely particle free. I couldn't believe it. I let out a sigh of relief when I saw that it was clean in there. I'm thinking about going with either K&N or the Green filters next. Haven't decided yet.
After I posted this, I checked Konigstiger's sticky on the W211 service and saw that it's scheduled to be changed at the 60K mark. At least I know my dealer didn't shaft me on the previous services.
But anybody that's around the 40-60K mile mark, checked your filters. Especially if you live the Southwest.
After I posted this, I checked Konigstiger's sticky on the W211 service and saw that it's scheduled to be changed at the 60K mark. At least I know my dealer didn't shaft me on the previous services.
But anybody that's around the 40-60K mile mark, checked your filters. Especially if you live the Southwest.
By the way, does anyone know if aftermarket filters are good for our MBs? I am a bit reluctant to spent upwards of $100 for two air filters and God only know how much for the in-cabin filter. Has anyone tried an aftermarket solution?
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 6,171
Likes: 16
300E a couple 1994 w124wagon E320 Wagon/,1971MGB Track/Rally, MG Midget Autocross ,2000 E320 wagon.
Stay away from
k/n or green if you want to save your maf.Change filters sooner if in areas of concern.
OEM filters why pay 100 bucks?
http://www.autohausaz.com/search/pro...2@Air%20Filter
$36 for the pair.
cabin pollen filter 90 bucks the pair
http://www.autohausaz.com/search/pro...ollen%20Filter
autohausaz.com or germanstar.net why pay dealer prices?
ohlord
"GOT CODES?"
OEM filters why pay 100 bucks?
http://www.autohausaz.com/search/pro...2@Air%20Filter
$36 for the pair.
cabin pollen filter 90 bucks the pair
http://www.autohausaz.com/search/pro...ollen%20Filter
autohausaz.com or germanstar.net why pay dealer prices?
ohlord
"GOT CODES?"
Last edited by ohlord; Nov 4, 2007 at 01:33 PM.
Super Member
Joined: Apr 2006
Posts: 796
Likes: 0
From: Raleigh NC
2007 E63, 2006 C55
Re: Air Filters
Wow, that was costing you power and mileage. I bet you would have done a 14.0 a few weeks back with clean filters!
For what it's worth, I change mine every 10K miles or once a year regardless of mileage. I recall that on my 05 E500 they had quite a bit of dirt etc. after a year and about 9K on the odometer, and the car ran noticably better at WOT after changing them. You can get OEM Mann replacements for around $35 - $40 on the net.
If you want to go aftermarket, I would go with Green on a Benz. They are better quality, filter (clean) better, and flow every bit as well as K&N. IMHO clean paper filters will flow more than the engine needs on an E500.
For what it's worth, I change mine every 10K miles or once a year regardless of mileage. I recall that on my 05 E500 they had quite a bit of dirt etc. after a year and about 9K on the odometer, and the car ran noticably better at WOT after changing them. You can get OEM Mann replacements for around $35 - $40 on the net.
If you want to go aftermarket, I would go with Green on a Benz. They are better quality, filter (clean) better, and flow every bit as well as K&N. IMHO clean paper filters will flow more than the engine needs on an E500.
Junior Member
Joined: Sep 2007
Posts: 54
Likes: 0
E500 sports pack with AMG kit
so does anyone know where we can purchase the stock OEM filters for a little cheaper? I've tried ebay and a google search, no results 
I plan on checking my filers today as well... we'll see how it goes.
Also,
but is there any pix article on how to change air filter / cabin filter?
-thanks
I plan on checking my filers today as well... we'll see how it goes.
Also,
but is there any pix article on how to change air filter / cabin filter?
-thanks
Super Member
Joined: Sep 2005
Posts: 723
Likes: 32
From: Central Jersey
2003 E500, 2004 G35X
The OEM air filters are not expensive. I remember I ordered 2 sets of Mann air filters(each set has two filters for our car) a few years ago and It was like less than $40 for a set. You can easily find these online.
Super Member
Joined: Sep 2005
Posts: 723
Likes: 32
From: Central Jersey
2003 E500, 2004 G35X
so does anyone know where we can purchase the stock OEM filters for a little cheaper? I've tried ebay and a google search, no results
I plan on checking my filers today as well... we'll see how it goes.
Also,
but is there any pix article on how to change air filter / cabin filter?
-thanks
I plan on checking my filers today as well... we'll see how it goes.
Also,
but is there any pix article on how to change air filter / cabin filter?
-thanks
1. Remove the front portion the huge plastic cover over the engine by lifting it.
2. Disconnect the two big hoses (air inlet ) attached to the plastic cover.
3. Grab the two sides of the plastic cover where the two hose were attached and LIFT it straight up.
My dealer showed me that several years ago when I had problem to remove that big plastice cover. I have not changed my cabin filter yet so I don't have any experience.
Senior Member
Joined: Nov 2006
Posts: 336
Likes: 0
From: Long Beach, CA
07 E350, 03 Lexus ES300, 04 CLK 320 (gone)
nice post...I just cleaned(brushed them off)my K&N's this past weekend.....with all the fires, dust and ash in the air I knew I had to at least inspect them....it was more for peace-of-mind... 
... with the K&N's on my old CLK and wifey's Lexus, I would check them about every 10K miles--I plan on checking the filters on the E at about the same intervals...
... with the K&N's on my old CLK and wifey's Lexus, I would check them about every 10K miles--I plan on checking the filters on the E at about the same intervals...
Thread Starter
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Apr 2006
Posts: 8,137
Likes: 26
From: Maryland
Eurocharged 2004 E500, Eurocharged ECU/TCU 2005 SL600, 2010 Caddy SwaggerWagon
Well,
Just changed them in both my E500 and C240. Oddly enough, they took the exact same engine air filter. Weird.
Anyway, I was able to find the OEM MANN filters for 36.11 for the PAIR for each car.
Not bad. I also did the cabin filter on my C240 too. Total cost for both cars was 80.00
Purchased filters from www.autopartsworld.com
Just changed them in both my E500 and C240. Oddly enough, they took the exact same engine air filter. Weird.
Anyway, I was able to find the OEM MANN filters for 36.11 for the PAIR for each car.
Not bad. I also did the cabin filter on my C240 too. Total cost for both cars was 80.00
Purchased filters from www.autopartsworld.com
Super Member
Joined: Aug 2007
Posts: 768
Likes: 0
From: DVStyle
2006 Mercedes Benz E350
Well,
Just changed them in both my E500 and C240. Oddly enough, they took the exact same engine air filter. Weird.
Anyway, I was able to find the OEM MANN filters for 36.11 for the PAIR for each car.
Not bad. I also did the cabin filter on my C240 too. Total cost for both cars was 80.00
Purchased filters from www.autopartsworld.com
Just changed them in both my E500 and C240. Oddly enough, they took the exact same engine air filter. Weird.
Anyway, I was able to find the OEM MANN filters for 36.11 for the PAIR for each car.
Not bad. I also did the cabin filter on my C240 too. Total cost for both cars was 80.00
Purchased filters from www.autopartsworld.com
Junior Member
Joined: Sep 2007
Posts: 54
Likes: 0
E500 sports pack with AMG kit
Ok, so i tried to clean out my filter last weekend and failed...lol
How the heck do you remove the top portion of the plastic cover? I was able to remove the cover with the Star logo fine, but there is another cover that I need to remove that has "mercedes-benz" written on it.
Can someone please help out
How the heck do you remove the top portion of the plastic cover? I was able to remove the cover with the Star logo fine, but there is another cover that I need to remove that has "mercedes-benz" written on it.
Can someone please help out
Thread Starter
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Apr 2006
Posts: 8,137
Likes: 26
From: Maryland
Eurocharged 2004 E500, Eurocharged ECU/TCU 2005 SL600, 2010 Caddy SwaggerWagon
Ok, so i tried to clean out my filter last weekend and failed...lol
How the heck do you remove the top portion of the plastic cover? I was able to remove the cover with the Star logo fine, but there is another cover that I need to remove that has "mercedes-benz" written on it.
Can someone please help out
How the heck do you remove the top portion of the plastic cover? I was able to remove the cover with the Star logo fine, but there is another cover that I need to remove that has "mercedes-benz" written on it.
Can someone please help out
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: May 2005
Posts: 1,439
Likes: 540
From: Philadelphia, PA (USA)
2025 E53 Hybrid
step by step air filter change instructions
I posted this on the MBCA site about a year ago. Hopefully, some forum members will find it helpful.
http://mbca.cartama.net/showthread.p...ght=air+filter
http://mbca.cartama.net/showthread.p...ght=air+filter
Out Of Control!!
Joined: Aug 2004
Posts: 10,574
Likes: 2
From: Silicon Valley, CA
1999 C280 Previous / 2008 E350
I still have yet to find KN filter for my car...
Member
Joined: May 2007
Posts: 139
Likes: 0
From: little rock,ar
E-320 Bluetec
I still have yet to find KN filter for my car...[/QUOTE]
I have a while yet before my filters need changing (now at 12K), but don't see a listing for the Bluetec on K&N's website either. I have them on my 99 Acura and my 03 Yukon XL and they do a great job. I shake them out every 10K and clean & reoil after 30K.
[/QUOTE]I have a while yet before my filters need changing (now at 12K), but don't see a listing for the Bluetec on K&N's website either. I have them on my 99 Acura and my 03 Yukon XL and they do a great job. I shake them out every 10K and clean & reoil after 30K.
Member
Joined: Dec 2007
Posts: 121
Likes: 0
From: USA
2005 E320
My Dirty Air Filters
Well, after seeing the air filter photos at the beginning of this thread, I thought I would take a look at my filters. I purchased the car in Dec. '07 with just under 39K miles on it. It now has approx. 41K. I should add that when I purchased the car my salesman assured me that (although it wasn't sold as a Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) car) it had gone through all of the same checks as a CPO car. 
So, this morning I popped off the air filter housing and was shocked at what I found. Especially considering the fact that it was supposed to have been serviced by MB less than 4K miles ago.
If you look closely at the main photo (the photo that shows all of the parts) you can see 2 piles of dirt laying on the floor to the the inside of each tube. This is the dirt that fell out of the tubes as I was flipping the assembly over.
These photos are unedited. It looks like some type of rodent was trying make a little nest in one of the filter housings. No, I didn't find any dead bodies...I looked.
To my surprise, I was able to get these filters fairly clean with the use of a shop vac and a lot of patience. I had no choice but to get them as clean as possible as I don't have replacement filters at the moment. I was able to see light passing through each filter after the cleaning, which makes me think I can get a few more mice...I mean, miles out of them.
This was my first time checking the filters and it was really easy to do. From start to finish I could have been done in less than 20 minutes had I not spent a lot of extra time thoroughly cleaning each part.
This is a highly recommended maintenance procedure for those of you who have never checked your air filters.
So, this morning I popped off the air filter housing and was shocked at what I found. Especially considering the fact that it was supposed to have been serviced by MB less than 4K miles ago.
If you look closely at the main photo (the photo that shows all of the parts) you can see 2 piles of dirt laying on the floor to the the inside of each tube. This is the dirt that fell out of the tubes as I was flipping the assembly over.
These photos are unedited. It looks like some type of rodent was trying make a little nest in one of the filter housings.
No, I didn't find any dead bodies...I looked. To my surprise, I was able to get these filters fairly clean with the use of a shop vac and a lot of patience. I had no choice but to get them as clean as possible as I don't have replacement filters at the moment. I was able to see light passing through each filter after the cleaning, which makes me think I can get a few more mice...I mean, miles out of them.
This was my first time checking the filters and it was really easy to do. From start to finish I could have been done in less than 20 minutes had I not spent a lot of extra time thoroughly cleaning each part.
This is a highly recommended maintenance procedure for those of you who have never checked your air filters.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Mar 2003
Posts: 5,546
Likes: 6
From: SFV, SoCal
2022 CLS450 AMG 4Matic
Wow, those are some freakin diry filters boy! You guys need to check your filters every other oil change like clockwork. These cars are gasping for air as it is and you don't need any help losing more power from all of the crap in there!
