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I don't know if this has been covered yet but i need some definitive answers. What does dynamic handling package include? I have paddle shifters, manual mode on the transmission lever, and a separate sport button. Searching the net it showed some flashy words including change with the dampers. I honestly can't tell distinctly any change in damping, even if i try to it might be a placebo. Only difference is throttle response and maybe the steering. Does sport mode make the car noticeably less comfortable? It is not comfortable right now so is it possible that some module that controls the dampers has been fried?
Not sure if this totally answers your questions, but here's a brochure for the 2010 model year (first year of the C207). It doesn't really explain what dynamic handling is (I'm sure a Google search would solve that), but it shows what packages include it, etc.
Regarding whether or not it changes the handling, I'm pretty sure I notice a difference (it's more rough in sport mode over bumps and stuff). Depending on the mileage of your car, it seems reasonable that the damping characteristics of the struts/shocks might be diminished. If there are no codes, my presumption would be that everything is functioning as intended (other than potential general wear which might not result in a code). If it's a big concern, just take it to a local specialist (and be prepared to pay a lot of money haha). In a worst case scenario where you might need new shocks/struts, make sure you get the Monroe version (about $330 vs $1200 for Mercedes) even though they're the same thing.
That sport button is how you know you have the dynamic handling package. The shocks and struts are electronically controlled. They get stiffer in sport mode.
When I click the suspension to Sport mode there is zero change. I've tested it on kinda rough roads, cornering etc, nothing. I also have wheel hop now, for some reason, and some people say they do as well but putting it in Sport stops it. Not mine, zero difference. Maybe mine is broken, but I tested it when I got the car w/ 28K miles so I assume it was not? Or at least not broken from wear.
When I select the S vs E mode for the engine, it does make a difference in how the eng runs and trans shifts, but the suspension is the same.
I've never noticed any difference in steering between any of those settings. When I had a Rat chew my wiring and really screwed things up, the steering would switch, now and then, from normal to much harder to turn the wheel. Not sure what that's about but maybe there is least two different steering modes and it was confused and switching? I dunno, but it's never switched under normal conditions.
I just realized the issue. The E350 (US Model) does not have dynamic handling. Only the E550 (US Model) does. Here’s a pic from the 2012 brochure.
I do notice a difference, definitely tighter and stiffer when it’s in sport mode. My shocks and struts are new (less than 5k miles on them) so that could be why.
Ever since I’ve had my vehicle it does have a wheel hop if I floor it at standstill. That’s the only time. I’ve updated most suspension parts but haven’t put new tires. It may need that or could be something else, like more weight needed in trunk.
Mine wheel hops bad if I power brake. If I just floor it from a stop it usually won't, or maybe just a wee bit. New tires did help a lot but it's still there and violent when power braking.
I don't understand how it's even possible, but clearly it is, and I don't know how to fix it. I posted a while back hoping someone would say it's xyz part that needs to be replaced, but nothing.
My suspension has never been touched so I suppose something is the cause, considering it didn't wheel hop before, but I have no clue what. It all looks good and tight, but who knows what happens at launch with all that torque. Maybe I should put a camera down there.
ibbij; is is possible that info is the bare min base, but the OP could have it as an option? I guess a VIN check is in order? https://www.lastvin.com/
The OP has a 350 according to the user profile. So it likely doesn’t come equipped with dynamic handling.
@Chevota I’m sorry yours is having some suspension issues. If you were in Chicago I’d give you my guy’s number. He’d get under there and check everything. Have you done an inspection by a suspension shop?
It is an European version with v6 diesel. the option list says dynamic handling and the steering is a little better in sport when cornering. wanted to know whether the suspension does something, i can try to feel a difference and it might be there. Could try being driven since the driver usually feels most of the vibrations and i'd actually have to try and feel a difference. The thing is, my car has been in an accident, not sure what kind and whether suspension components have been changed. Of course a person that has bought a car that used to cost 70 000 for a price of 30 000 would try cutting corners when fixing it and might put the cheapest variants of the suspension. The reason for asking is because mercedes cars are described as floaty and all but this car does not feel comfortable. It has the amg package that is probably stiffer and lower, but, is that some standard tune or does it become like that in sport mode
Ibbij; I do all my own work, but it doesn't bother me that it doesn't do anything. If anything it rides too stiff, so I can't imagine stiffer. My previous '13 E350 was even stiffer, or so I recall. Or perhaps I'm just getting used to it?
@votnus24 the amg sport suspension does ride firm, I agree. This particular W207 E-class (Coupe/Cabriolet) is made in same factory as the W204 C-class coupe/cabriolet/sedan in Bremen, Germany. As a result I think that the vehicle is meant to have a firm suspension and not soft and cushiony as other Mercedes. The W207 and W204 chassis have much in common.
If this has been the W212 E-Class Sedan it has option of air ride suspension as well as the S-Class coupe/cabriolet/sedan. Those all would be floaty vehicles. Anything with air ride will have floaty feel whether Mercedes or another manufacturer.
The firm suspension originating from the shocks/struts just seems to me to be firm from the onset with the way the chassis of the W207/W204 were made and never meant to be soft or float type instead more firm and grounded type. You’d had to have opted for a more luxury orientated Mercedes and not the sport orientated or base models.
well, it looked better than anything mb has released, top 3 with the cls and s coupe and in addition had literally zero error codes and it ran like it was brand new. the firm ride is probably not that bad, i increased the tire sidewall but the interior creeks when going over holes which drives me crazy. It was perfect when purchased but 3 years in eastern europe's roads will take its toll
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