Drifting @ Higher Speeds
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Joined: Aug 2002
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From: Midwest
Audi, Porsche
Drifting @ Higher Speeds
I remember seeing a thread last fall (can't find it now) that discussed a problem with E Series cars drifting. My '02 E320 tends to drift side-to-side at 70mph+. Originally thought it was wind conditions, but last week cranked it up on vacant stretch of interstate in perfect conditions (zero wind) and I couldn't keep it straight to save my life! I'm definitely going to have it looked at, but going in with some info to back it up would be helpful. Thanks.
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Joined: Jan 2002
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From: New Jersey
2006 E500 4matic Wagon
Enrico:
Silly question: have you checked your tire pressure?
Else, how severe is the variation? I have 100k miles clocked on 4matic versions of the w210 and I can tell you that the steering is very sensitive, especially at higher speeds, and especially compared to the earlier E-class.
I'm guessing though if the problem is as severe as you describe, you should definitely go to the dealer to make sure it isn't an issue of a sway bar or control arm.
Post with your diagnosis. I'll be curious...
Silly question: have you checked your tire pressure?
Else, how severe is the variation? I have 100k miles clocked on 4matic versions of the w210 and I can tell you that the steering is very sensitive, especially at higher speeds, and especially compared to the earlier E-class.
I'm guessing though if the problem is as severe as you describe, you should definitely go to the dealer to make sure it isn't an issue of a sway bar or control arm.
Post with your diagnosis. I'll be curious...
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Joined: Aug 2002
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From: Midwest
Audi, Porsche
BenzE - Yes, tire pressure OK. It's not really a steering sensitivity issue...with no input at all the car will twitch left or right off line. I know it was discussed here before...I hope someone can shed light on a known problem. Thanks.
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Joined: Feb 2003
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From: Raleigh, NC
1997 E420 Sport
What tires are you running? Performance tires were designed for good road conditions and, for the most part, American roads aren't so great. Even most interstates are "rutted" and wider performance tires tend to track back and forth as they attempt to follow the variations in the road.
I would have it checked out though as these cars have speed sensitive steering and it could be the source of the problem I guess.
I would have it checked out though as these cars have speed sensitive steering and it could be the source of the problem I guess.
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Joined: Feb 2003
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From: SF, CA
1997 E420
check tires for culprit
not only does tire pressure play a huge part in handling perf. as does tire and tread design. Several tires with hi perf in mind actually can take away from the experience with their tread design. The previous reply is correct in stating that our roads, US highways etc have been known to induce "tramlining" which is caused by the tire's tread following the grooves of the road giving the sensation that the car is "drifting" as you put it.
***this is sort of off topic*** I was considering an Audi A6 Qt avant, how does it compare to your MB, or better yet, does it compare at all? Reliability/ dependability and fun factor...I know the Audi has a tiptronic and I've always been interested in having a car that has one...why not an Audi? Thanks
***this is sort of off topic*** I was considering an Audi A6 Qt avant, how does it compare to your MB, or better yet, does it compare at all? Reliability/ dependability and fun factor...I know the Audi has a tiptronic and I've always been interested in having a car that has one...why not an Audi? Thanks
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From: Midwest
Audi, Porsche
Tires are standard issue, but I did have to replace one due a re-occuring flat that damaged the tire internally.
I've experienced drifting due to tread design and varying road conditions before in my 928, so I know what that feels like. My post here re: the E320 was not in haste, but after much attention to the tendency, testing, various road conditions, etc. The high speed run I mentioned was on a fairly new, perfectly smooth section of Interstate.
The A6, wow, where to start? Overall a very competent car, but from the reliability standpoint it is a long story. Email me if you wish details and I will provide. That said, I purchased the car for my wife...the other car in the running was BMW 5 series. The list of options for the A6 put it over the top; heated seats front & back, Bose w/ CD changer, Quattro, tiptronic, etc. Not quite as sporting on the road as the BMW. Comfortable at high speeds (I usually peg it at 80 on the interstate, very secure), but a little bit "buzzy". The E320 is much smoother/quieter at high speeds, feels safer with the exception of the problem I am encountering.
I've experienced drifting due to tread design and varying road conditions before in my 928, so I know what that feels like. My post here re: the E320 was not in haste, but after much attention to the tendency, testing, various road conditions, etc. The high speed run I mentioned was on a fairly new, perfectly smooth section of Interstate.
The A6, wow, where to start? Overall a very competent car, but from the reliability standpoint it is a long story. Email me if you wish details and I will provide. That said, I purchased the car for my wife...the other car in the running was BMW 5 series. The list of options for the A6 put it over the top; heated seats front & back, Bose w/ CD changer, Quattro, tiptronic, etc. Not quite as sporting on the road as the BMW. Comfortable at high speeds (I usually peg it at 80 on the interstate, very secure), but a little bit "buzzy". The E320 is much smoother/quieter at high speeds, feels safer with the exception of the problem I am encountering.
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Joined: Dec 2001
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From: Metropolitan Atlanta
2001 Mercedes-Benz E430
Re: Drifting @ Higher Speeds
Originally posted by Enrico
My '02 E320 tends to drift side-to-side at 70mph+. Originally thought it was wind conditions, but last week cranked it up on vacant stretch of interstate in perfect conditions (zero wind) and I couldn't keep it straight to save my life!
My '02 E320 tends to drift side-to-side at 70mph+. Originally thought it was wind conditions, but last week cranked it up on vacant stretch of interstate in perfect conditions (zero wind) and I couldn't keep it straight to save my life!
Try it and let me know what you determine.
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Joined: Dec 2002
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From: Ramona, CA
1996 E320
If you haven't already, try your next high speed run on blacktop surface. As a previous poster noted, many concrete roadways have grooves cut in them to help limit cars' hydroplaning when conditions are wet. Asphalt doesn't have the grooves. If it still wanders, take it to a dealer soon and have them check the front end AND rear end.
One more thought - it may be your brake system. If the traction system is inadvertently applying slight breaking to one or more wheels, the car will pull.
Good luck.
One more thought - it may be your brake system. If the traction system is inadvertently applying slight breaking to one or more wheels, the car will pull.
Good luck.
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