xr650rguy

I've searched the forum a bit and have a strange problem. I've read some of your posts and you seem very informed.

06 E500. Front suspension makes a popping noise periodically, exclusively at low speeds (1 to 20mph)....or at least that's when I can hear it.

Speed= Just stopping (as in 1 to zero mph)...pop

Speed= Rolling in traffic 2 to 15mph. pop pop klunk. Seems to follow very small imperfections in the roadway (1/4" or less...almost imperceptible). But, larger bumps (3/8") that visibly move the suspension, don't cause the light pop sound. I can feel it in the wheel/floor boards a little.

it's felt a little and heard a little. The dealer says they don't hear it.

It usually happens when the car is hot (never cold). By hot, I mean driving for a while...then sitting in traffic.

A/C on or off makes no difference. Sport mode I/II or comfort makes no difference. Radio off to hear it.

Lugs are tight. Brakes are newer (10k miles ago).

Air suspension does not drop overnight.

This POP/clunk is up in the front, I feel it.

This may sound strange, but if you've ever moved a small refrigerator and tipped it sideways, you'll hear/feel a similar noise. It's the compressor insides bouncing around. I'm not sure how to explain it better than that.

Any ideas on what it might be? It really seems like "friction/sticking" in a shock, but only happens when it's hot weather.

Any input is appreciated.
Car has not been wrecked or hit curbs. 22,000 miles. March 2006 build date.

Benz-O-Rama

Had a similar sound in my right front. Only heard it when going slow over bumps. Turned out to be a worn lower ball joint/thrust arm bushing. Was not warm/cold specific.

konigstiger

Although normally associated with steering wheel twitch during slow speed brake applications (i.e.: stop and go traffic) have the torque strut bushings inspected. The original hydro-mount or partially hollow rubber style bushings can deform and may need to be replaced with solid rubber bushings that have an increased resilience towards deforming during suspension loading. Ambient temperature is a factor.

Part #A2113331114 (#105 in diagram)
DIY $37.50 list/30 net
Warranty mention DTB P-B-33.15/16b AUG08.

If you want a copy of the DTB, PM your email address.

MB211

Sounds a lot like lower ball joints. Popping felt and heard at parking lot speeds......

Neoii

I think I have the same problem. There is a stretch of one lane roads when I pick up my kids. It is usually backed up about 30-40 cars to get to the stop sign. With speeds at under 10mph, I hear a popping/clicking sound. I tried searching on here but was not successful in finding a solution. This looks promising.

Is this a warranty issue or wear and tear? If the latter, anyone know approximate costs for parts? for labor?

MB211

Mine was covered under CPO warranty. If you are paying for it expect $70MSRP ea and a few hours labor time.

mcleantmw

During my A Service last week, my MB Dealer found the ball joints need replacement and it was covered under my CPO Extended Warranty.

Diesel Benz

Odd that the original poster of this thread did not come back with any comments. Anyway, I also had eventually pretty loud popping/thumb noise from the front. It appeared to be the joint, part #107 in the diagram konigstiger posted.

It was really difficult to identify the worn joint irrespectively if the car was standing on wheels or lifted wheels off ground. Also very difficult to figure out where the sound would be coming, at the cabin it appeared like coming from one or the other side, sometimes like it was coming from the rear.

The anti-roll bar easily pushes the joint even if you try to raise only one wheel to make it free from pressure. I found it repeatable by driving pretty slowly and turning heavily from one side to the other, making the car lean left and right.

MercFiveHundred

I also need to replace my lower ball joints as inspected by the dealer today. I'm out of warranty. Is it #107 as stated by Diesel Benz or #20 in Konigstiger's diagram?

vettdvr

70,000 my balljoints made same poping sound. Got really bad going over speed bumps in parking lot.

desert-boater

I'm having the same problem with my '08. Seems as if the sound gets worse when the temperature gets above 50F. Had it in the shop now 4 times because of this. First they changed some balljoints, then they said they would need to grease them using special "Mercedes grease". Last Thursday they said that the left strut is badly stripped and they need to replace it. Last Friday they said that Mercedes wants them to replace both struts. Sounds to me like a wild goose chase. Hopefully I'll get it back today and the noise is gone...

MercFiveHundred

WOW, this on a 2008? I'll never buy MB again! Anyone want my 03 e500? LOL

MercFiveHundred

Guys can anyone help? I'm not sure which one is the "actual lower ball joint". Make a difference buying parts, right? I think if it's #107, then the control arm has to be replaced. If it's #20, then it's just the joint and a special tool, right? Where can i get this "special tool"? Is it just a ball joint "puller"?

Jheedley

Great to hear that I am not alone! My 03 E500 is making the same sound at low speeds and is very obvious when going over a speed bump or entering an uneven surface such as a driveway. Bushing and Bearings sound like an good start. At 90k miles I'd anticipate this type of issues. Now let's hold our breath when it comes to costs! I knew I should have opt for a non adjustable suspension!

sLoWrOtAry_brap

hey sorry to be bumping a thread this old but recently I changed the shocks on my 06 cdi e320 and now if i brake hard right when I release the brake pedal i hear a noise from the front right.. It just sounds like a clunk. I double checked everything with the shocks and everything is nice and tight.

jhutagaol75

I also have the same problem on my 05 E500, it's making the clicking and popping sound and especially when I brake. Anyone knows what to fix and or had it done at any indy shop? I have a mechanic that can put the ball joint, if that is the problem. Any special tool required? Please help thanks

bill.martin.jr

The sound described above( first post) only happened in our 2003 E500 when the temperature outside was hot. Both lower ball joints are being replaced tomorrow...They tried greasing and tightening with no success. 86k miles

jerome8283

Hey guys. I know this is an old post but I have a 2010 experiencing the very same symptoms as described in the original post. I had struts and control arm replaced but still have the same problem. Based on my reading these things need to be checked,

Ball joints
Lower control Arm bushings
lower ball joint/thrust arm bushing
torque strut bushings

Has anyone resolved their issue with the replacment of any of the above?

bill.martin.jr

Replacing the Lower Ball Joints solved this issue for our 2003 E500.
We had 84k miles and this was the 2nd time the lower ball joints were replaced, by the previous owner. Per our MBDealer

jerome8283

Thanks

djrabbi

I have same issue and just ordered ball joints and you ahve a 2010 and having this problem? Better go back to the dealer!

jerome8283

Let us know if your issue is resolved with the replacement of ball joints. Also let us know which ball joints you are replacing.

djrabbi

driver side....but ordered both since it was only $15 more to buy both...should have it resolved this week!

djrabbi

when i raise up the car...makes same noise as something is knocking as i keep raising it higher with a jack...

jerome8283

Hmm...I will try this. This occurs at any time?