The dreaded M272 Balance Shaft
#376
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2021 E450, 2020 C43, 2015 C300, 2007 C280
For those of you wanting to check if your engine is affected, here is a helpful website:
http://www.vindecoderz.com/EN/Mercedes-Benz
It will tell you the serial number of your engine and major issues.
http://www.vindecoderz.com/EN/Mercedes-Benz
It will tell you the serial number of your engine and major issues.
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#377
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'71 Pinto
#378
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2008 E350 4Matic, 2011 E350 4matic
This is a commercial site that wants $4.95. The Mercedes Electronic Parts Catalogue (EPC) is free (although hard to use). If you bought your car new and you are a member of the affected class, you have been notified by now. if you bought it used, you should continue to investigate, unless you are in contact with the original owner.![nix](https://mbworld.org/forums/images/smilies/nixweiss.gif)
![nix](https://mbworld.org/forums/images/smilies/nixweiss.gif)
As mentioned above, EPCnet is now $75 a year.
#381
Sanity Check Needed
Gents, need some help here i have a 2007 Mercedes E350 4matic with the VIN# WDBUF87X57B131570. Last week the CEL come on i took it to an independent Mechanics shop that only deals with Porsche, Audi, Mercedes etc. They did an oil change read the error code and checked my filter, they told me that the filter had minute bits of metal, and that the error code told them it was the teeth on the gear from the balance shaft. I checked the VIN and it told me that the engine # is 272.972 30 601 323. Can someone give me a sanity check i thought that engine was past the issue date? or have we seen any that late fail?
Thanks in advance Mark
Thanks in advance Mark
#382
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2007 E350 Sedan
I think your engine is past the cutoff numbers and should have the modified parts.
See post #6 at this link.
http://www.benzworld.org/forums/w211...ne-serial.html
See post #6 at this link.
http://www.benzworld.org/forums/w211...ne-serial.html
#385
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2021 E450, 2020 C43, 2015 C300, 2007 C280
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There are no choices concerning the proposed settlement. The proposed settlement is:
This settlement does nothing for previous owners who no longer own the car (like myself). There is no compensation for loss of value, either potential (for present owners) or actual (previous owners). I know I lost one potential purchaser for my C280 because of this problem. Not only did I lose a potential purchaser, it was then that I realized that I could not in good conscience sell my car to any friend or relative. Even if I told them about the defect (and took the hit on the price), I would not want to hear later that they had suffered the high costs of this repair, let alone had been stranded on the road because of this defect. I was not much more interested in selling to a stranger. A stranger might come after me, as MBUSA customers have come after them. So I could only trade in my C280. (Oddly, there was no mention of this defect at the dealer. I assume it was factored into a lower price they offered me.)
- for 8 years or 80,000 miles (whichever is less) from the In Service Date, MBUSA will pay 70% of the "reasonable" [as defined by whom? MBUSA?] cost of the repair and
- for 10 years (but over 8 years) or 100,000 miles (but over 80,000 miles), MBUSA will pay 37.5% of the "reasonable" cost of the repair.
This settlement does nothing for previous owners who no longer own the car (like myself). There is no compensation for loss of value, either potential (for present owners) or actual (previous owners). I know I lost one potential purchaser for my C280 because of this problem. Not only did I lose a potential purchaser, it was then that I realized that I could not in good conscience sell my car to any friend or relative. Even if I told them about the defect (and took the hit on the price), I would not want to hear later that they had suffered the high costs of this repair, let alone had been stranded on the road because of this defect. I was not much more interested in selling to a stranger. A stranger might come after me, as MBUSA customers have come after them. So I could only trade in my C280. (Oddly, there was no mention of this defect at the dealer. I assume it was factored into a lower price they offered me.)
Gents, need some help here i have a 2007 Mercedes E350 4matic with the VIN# WDBUF87X57B131570. Last week the CEL come on i took it to an independent Mechanics shop that only deals with Porsche, Audi, Mercedes etc. They did an oil change read the error code and checked my filter, they told me that the filter had minute bits of metal, and that the error code told them it was the teeth on the gear from the balance shaft. I checked the VIN and it told me that the engine # is 272.972 30 601 323. Can someone give me a sanity check i thought that engine was past the issue date? or have we seen any that late fail?
Thanks in advance Mark
Thanks in advance Mark
I think your engine is past the cutoff numbers and should have the modified parts.
See post #6 at this link.
http://www.benzworld.org/forums/w211...ne-serial.html
See post #6 at this link.
http://www.benzworld.org/forums/w211...ne-serial.html
I know it rots to have to pay $3500 to $4500 for a repair before trading in the car. I have heard of as high as $7500! That car must have had some other damage, perhaps from the metal bits. But then you are shedding metal bits. You have to repair it or trade it immediately. You don't want to drive it any farther than to your independent shop or to the dealer. You can't slide a car that is shedding metal into the oil system under the dealer's radar. You can't even let the dealer take your car for a high-speed test drive!
Some of the dealers in our area have helped out on the repair when they did the work. If I was going to trade the car (it IS a 7 or 8-year-old car), I would try not to do the repair. I would get estimate (by phone) from an independent shop and from a dealer. Then I would try to get the dealer to reduce the trade-in price by only the amount the repair would cost them. Unless you have better sources of information, I would ask that the trade-in price be reduced by no more than 60% of the lower of the independent or dealer price, whichever is lower. I would accept a reduction of 80% of the retail cost of repair. I wouldn't negotiate with my car sitting there, either. The dealer salesman would know that if you did not reach agreement, you would have to drive your wounded car back home and then to your independent shop.
#386
Member
Thread Starter
Reply to Allanbritto 96k mi question above. No ... you are not out of the woods. If you are within the affected range, I believe that your balance shaft is bad. Period. Meaning ... that if your M272 engine is within the range .. it's bad ... all of them ... and it will fail ... eventually. Some balance shaft sprockets failed at 30k, 50k, etc ... some have yet to fail. I bug my local dealer service guys about this every time I visit .. it's now a running joke. They just did the balance shaft job on a 203,000 mi 2006 ML350. that's 200k before the problem manifested itself! Which, again, is why I feel that they're ALL bad ... I'm at 120k right now on my affected 2006 E350 4m and I know that my balance shaft is going to fail eventually. No issues, no codes as of yet.... but I've changed my oil EVERY 5k miles with 0w40 Mobil 1 and drive like a grandpa. Too many factors involved to know when ... but it will. Driving habits, oil changes, oil type, etc etc etc.
#387
Hello! I was directed here after posting about getting a P0020 error code. I thought it might have been related to replacing the driver's side camshaft solenoids (which didn't need to be replaced, it was preventive, and they might have been faulty) but since this error isn't the same as the previous camshaft error. My VIN is WDBUF56J16A965612, engine #272964 30 351714 which is in the affected range. However, I'm wondering if this P0020 code could be because the camshaft solenoids I unnecessarily changed were defective (my fault, not the manufacturer's). At this point I am tempted to just order new ones and replace them, because if it ends up being a $4000+ repair, an extra $100 on solenoids is hardly a concern. As far as I can tell there is no link between P0020 OBD code and the balance shaft being worn down, but am I wrong? Thanks!
My original thread: https://mbworld.org/forums/e-class-w...ml#post6777198
My original thread: https://mbworld.org/forums/e-class-w...ml#post6777198
Last edited by samsquamsch; 04-20-2016 at 02:39 AM.
#388
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Left intake camshaft solenoid (top driver side) part # 2720510177 – may be solenoid but before replacing revisit wiring. In addition I suggest having someone pull/clear codes with MB SDS.
Last edited by konigstiger; 04-20-2016 at 12:34 PM.
#389
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Also, since you're basically a divine being when it comes to this stuff, and assuming this clears the code, what would you recommend I do with the car? It's been pretty great (had to change camshaft solenoids, obviously, as well as crankshaft position sensor, minor fixes) but now I've got this issue looming in my mind about the sprocket wearing down to nothing. Would you sell/trade it? Thank you so much for your reply!
edit: Wiring is intact as far as I can tell, ordering new solenoids today. Also, another question, if the solenoid is bad, how come I didn't get a specific error like I did when the passenger side ones needed to be replaced (P0015 and 16, if I'm not mistaken)? Thanks!
Last edited by samsquamsch; 04-20-2016 at 04:18 PM.
#390
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2014 CLS 550 4-Matic
Hi There,
All new to the forum here and was reading up on the M272 engine and the balance shaft issues. I'm currently looking at a W219 from 05/2007 (CGI engine), the VIN is:
WDD2193571A110635
Can someone please check if this engine is affected?
As far as I understand from this website it should be out of the range according to the engine serial no, am I right?
Thank you!
All new to the forum here and was reading up on the M272 engine and the balance shaft issues. I'm currently looking at a W219 from 05/2007 (CGI engine), the VIN is:
WDD2193571A110635
Can someone please check if this engine is affected?
As far as I understand from this website it should be out of the range according to the engine serial no, am I right?
Thank you!
Last edited by carndt; 08-19-2016 at 10:52 AM.
#391
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Fine.
#393
Newbie
Konigstiger, are you still responding to engine number requests in connection with balance shaft issues? I have the opportunity of taking possession of a 2007 350e wagon, likely built mid 2006. I can send vin this coming Saturday.
#394
Senior Member
I wouldn't put to much faith in the revised part either.
My 2010 ML550 was dropped off at the shop this morning for a worn Idler Gear.
$3,500 repair.
My 2010 ML550 was dropped off at the shop this morning for a worn Idler Gear.
$3,500 repair.
#395
MBWorld Fanatic!
konigstiger here you go. so people can just come to forums and maybe see this stickey-ed, maybe start a new thread saying balance shaft/idler gear serial number range.
Engine 272 in model 164, 171, 203, 209, 211, 219, 221, 230, 251
Engine 273 in model 164, 209, 211, 216, 219, 221, 230
Implementation of series measure changing material for balance shaft sprocket as of engine 2729xx30 468993 as of October 2006 production
Implementation of series measure changing material for timing chain guide wheel as of engine 2739xx30 088611 as of September 2006 production
Model 164.172/186/871/886
Model 171.454/456
Model 203.052/054/056/087/092
Model 209.356/372/456/472
Model 211.056/072/087/090/256/287
Model 216.371
Model 219.372
Model 221.171/186
Model 230.471
Model 251.156/165
Equipped with M272 or M273 engines bearing serial numbers up to 2729..30
468993 or 2739..30 088611, respectively.
Engine 272 in model 164, 171, 203, 209, 211, 219, 221, 230, 251
Engine 273 in model 164, 209, 211, 216, 219, 221, 230
Implementation of series measure changing material for balance shaft sprocket as of engine 2729xx30 468993 as of October 2006 production
Implementation of series measure changing material for timing chain guide wheel as of engine 2739xx30 088611 as of September 2006 production
Model 164.172/186/871/886
Model 171.454/456
Model 203.052/054/056/087/092
Model 209.356/372/456/472
Model 211.056/072/087/090/256/287
Model 216.371
Model 219.372
Model 221.171/186
Model 230.471
Model 251.156/165
Equipped with M272 or M273 engines bearing serial numbers up to 2729..30
468993 or 2739..30 088611, respectively.
Last edited by cmriv; 03-17-2017 at 05:49 PM. Reason: more info
#396
E350 engine light turning on and off randomly?
Hello,
I have an E350 (W211) - DOM: December 2006 which has only been driven ~ 104, 000 km.
VIN: WDB2110562B100725 Engine number: 272 964 305 470 57
Over the past few months as I have been driving my E350, I have noticed the engine light coming on randomly when I am driving on motorways/freeways. This usually occurs after a few hours of driving but after a few warm up cycles it simply turns off. During normal city driving the engine light does not come on.
Initially, I suspected it could be an issue with the position of the camshaft ‘timing markings’ so I had a look and it appears that the markings are centered. I have attached an image of this to show what it looks like for a second opinion?
Would someone be able to give their thoughts on whether this could be an issue with the camshaft timing, solenoid problem or something else?
Solenoid part number on my car is: A272 051 0077
I would greatly appreciate some help on this problem.
Thank you,
Sam
I have an E350 (W211) - DOM: December 2006 which has only been driven ~ 104, 000 km.
VIN: WDB2110562B100725 Engine number: 272 964 305 470 57
Over the past few months as I have been driving my E350, I have noticed the engine light coming on randomly when I am driving on motorways/freeways. This usually occurs after a few hours of driving but after a few warm up cycles it simply turns off. During normal city driving the engine light does not come on.
Initially, I suspected it could be an issue with the position of the camshaft ‘timing markings’ so I had a look and it appears that the markings are centered. I have attached an image of this to show what it looks like for a second opinion?
Would someone be able to give their thoughts on whether this could be an issue with the camshaft timing, solenoid problem or something else?
Solenoid part number on my car is: A272 051 0077
I would greatly appreciate some help on this problem.
Thank you,
Sam
#397
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2007 E350 Sedan
Hello,
I have an E350 (W211) - DOM: December 2006 which has only been driven ~ 104, 000 km.
VIN: WDB2110562B100725 Engine number: 272 964 305 470 57
Over the past few months as I have been driving my E350, I have noticed the engine light coming on randomly when I am driving on motorways/freeways. This usually occurs after a few hours of driving but after a few warm up cycles it simply turns off. During normal city driving the engine light does not come on.
Initially, I suspected it could be an issue with the position of the camshaft ‘timing markings’ so I had a look and it appears that the markings are centered. I have attached an image of this to show what it looks like for a second opinion?
Would someone be able to give their thoughts on whether this could be an issue with the camshaft timing, solenoid problem or something else?
Solenoid part number on my car is: A272 051 0077
I would greatly appreciate some help on this problem.
Thank you,
Sam
I have an E350 (W211) - DOM: December 2006 which has only been driven ~ 104, 000 km.
VIN: WDB2110562B100725 Engine number: 272 964 305 470 57
Over the past few months as I have been driving my E350, I have noticed the engine light coming on randomly when I am driving on motorways/freeways. This usually occurs after a few hours of driving but after a few warm up cycles it simply turns off. During normal city driving the engine light does not come on.
Initially, I suspected it could be an issue with the position of the camshaft ‘timing markings’ so I had a look and it appears that the markings are centered. I have attached an image of this to show what it looks like for a second opinion?
Would someone be able to give their thoughts on whether this could be an issue with the camshaft timing, solenoid problem or something else?
Solenoid part number on my car is: A272 051 0077
I would greatly appreciate some help on this problem.
Thank you,
Sam
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SR10 (03-27-2017)
#398
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2021 E450, 2020 C43, 2015 C300, 2007 C280
Men Don't Ask For Directions
(For what it's worth, I was notified later that my W203 was indeed part of the balance shaft pinion class action. However, I had already traded the car in on a new, 2015 C300 4MATIC (W205).)
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SR10 (03-27-2017)
#399
I'm thinking of purchasing my own scanner so I can use it when necessary. There's quite lot out of different models out there. Would you have any recommendations in terms of good diagnostic scanners at a reasonable price?
Thanks,
Sam
#400
MBWorld Fanatic!
Hello,
I have an E350 (W211) - DOM: December 2006 which has only been driven ~ 104, 000 km.
VIN: WDB2110562B100725 Engine number: 272 964 305 470 57
Over the past few months as I have been driving my E350, I have noticed the engine light coming on randomly when I am driving on motorways/freeways. This usually occurs after a few hours of driving but after a few warm up cycles it simply turns off. During normal city driving the engine light does not come on.
Initially, I suspected it could be an issue with the position of the camshaft ‘timing markings’ so I had a look and it appears that the markings are centered. I have attached an image of this to show what it looks like for a second opinion?
Would someone be able to give their thoughts on whether this could be an issue with the camshaft timing, solenoid problem or something else?
Solenoid part number on my car is: A272 051 0077
I would greatly appreciate some help on this problem.
Thank you,
Sam
I have an E350 (W211) - DOM: December 2006 which has only been driven ~ 104, 000 km.
VIN: WDB2110562B100725 Engine number: 272 964 305 470 57
Over the past few months as I have been driving my E350, I have noticed the engine light coming on randomly when I am driving on motorways/freeways. This usually occurs after a few hours of driving but after a few warm up cycles it simply turns off. During normal city driving the engine light does not come on.
Initially, I suspected it could be an issue with the position of the camshaft ‘timing markings’ so I had a look and it appears that the markings are centered. I have attached an image of this to show what it looks like for a second opinion?
Would someone be able to give their thoughts on whether this could be an issue with the camshaft timing, solenoid problem or something else?
Solenoid part number on my car is: A272 051 0077
I would greatly appreciate some help on this problem.
Thank you,
Sam