That has M272 #563634 - it's beyond the range for balance shaft trouble.

Hello Rodney,

Which year models have less problems/issues, after 2005 Mercedes-Benz cars? Would you recommend specific models which have lesser problems/issues?

Some models have balance shaft problems, some models have SBC issues, some models have transmission issues, etc...

I think that MB's effort to lower their manufacturing costs as Toyota/Lexus and others do is one of the causes that have brought the realiability issues. IMHO, MB must do their best to keep their traditional virtue and reputation at least in the mechanical/hardware robustness.

For the W209 CLK, I'd suggest a MY2008 or MY2009. The balance shaft issue affects all models across the board using the M272 and M273 engines through mid-MY2007. This includes V6 and V8 xx230, xx280, xx300, xx350, xx450 and xx550 models. TMY2005 SLK250 was the first with the M272, then other models followed in MY2006. Also, the early 7GTRONIC 722.9 transmissions tend to be more problematic. It was introduced on the MY2005 SLK350, and all MY2005 V8s. It went brand-wide in MY2006. Note these is one exception - the MY2005 W163 ML did not use the M272 even though it was badged ML350 (it used a 2/7l version of the M112). Also, the MY2005 ML500 did not use the 722.9.

WDDGF81X78F104426

2008 C300

Thanks Rodney!!!

WDBTK72G67T080437

2007 CLK550

I am looking at purchasing a c230 sport 2007 and would like to know if the car is in the ranges that have the balance shaft issue? VIN# WDBRF52H37F927411. If you could respond asap it would be greatly appreciated as I am in the middle of making a deal on this car as I type. thanks for your time.

That one has M273 #96931 - beyond the problem range.

That has M272 #596019 - it's beyond the affect range.

Thank you

Rudeney,

2006 ML350 - 4JGBB86E76A093151

Thanks

4JGBB86E76A093151 is a MY2006, so it's going to be in the affected range. M272 engine #273538 confirms that is is.

Thanks. Do you know if such repair would show on a carfax? I just bought a 2006 ML350 and am wondering if the repair has been performed already. Thanks.

It is doubtful that Carfax would give enough details. I would check with our dealer - they can pull a VMI and it would definitely show on that if ti was done at a dealer. Just remember that only a small percentage actually fail.

anyone know of a good Benz VIN decoder?? I need to find out what options are on a new to me car I'm buying - specifically need to know if it has BOSE audio Thx!

Here's one - it's in Russian, so use Google Chrome to access it and it will translate for you:

http://www.auto-parts.spb.ru/cat/cat...&client=dr2000

If that doesn't work for you, post the VIN and I'll look it up for you in my copy of EPC.

after getting dealer price, decided to bite the bullet and replace balance shaft myself.
The car had no running issue, but would not pass emission inspection, due to the balance shaft issue. It has become a project car, so with the savings, I don't mind buying more tools.
2006 c230 sport


As I just removed old shaft, the teeth were complete gone, the shaft was not in time but there was no indication of a balance issue, ran very smooth.

Interesting that the shaft was not rotating, but the engine was smooth. So, how bad was the job? how long did it take?

Can you check this for me? Thanks heaps


WDB2093542F242444

Please check this one:
WDBRF52H87F917750

Thanks!!

Hi rudeney

I am planning to buy a clk280 model 2008 and I was wondering if it you can check my vin code and give me your recommindation?
I would really appreciate it

My vin#: WDBTJ54H78F248079

Thanks

Hi Rudney

Looking at 2008 GL450

Vin# 4JGBF71E78A343948

with 72K - car fax says camshaft position sensor replaced at 43k

is this the same as balance shaft gear or that gear is going bad?

could you check VIN to see if engine is affected?

Thanks! JayZ

You have M272 #743551 (beyond the affected range)

That has M272 #575892 - beyond he affected range.

That's a MY2008, so no worries - M272 #811951.