Airmatic Problems and Coilovers
Thread Starter
Junior Member
Joined: Jun 2012
Posts: 25
Likes: 0
2003 Mercedes E500 W211
Airmatic Problems and Coilovers
I have a e500 w211 with an airmatic system leak on the front right side. I wanted to know if anyone else has this issue? If so, how can it be repaired? Do i need to replace the airmatic suspension on the front right side, seal the leak, or change to coilovers on all four? I know this is an issue for many w211 owners and i want to know if mercedes benz has recalled these cars yet?
Newbie
Joined: Jan 2012
Posts: 2
Likes: 0
From: Los Angeles, CA
'03 E500 Sport (W211), '02 ML500 Sport (W163)
You've got some choices -
1. Spend $500 to get a rebuilt unit from Arnott
2. Spend $1100+ to get a new OEM unit installed
3. Spend $2300+ to get a coil-over conversion. I only know of one place that does this, Benz Works, Huntington Beach. But you can ask a local independent mechanic in your area if he's willing.
1. Spend $500 to get a rebuilt unit from Arnott
2. Spend $1100+ to get a new OEM unit installed
3. Spend $2300+ to get a coil-over conversion. I only know of one place that does this, Benz Works, Huntington Beach. But you can ask a local independent mechanic in your area if he's willing.
Senior Member
Joined: Apr 2008
Posts: 405
Likes: 0
From: Los Angeles, CA
07' IS 350, 08' E550
I have a e500 w211 with an airmatic system leak on the front right side. I wanted to know if anyone else has this issue? If so, how can it be repaired? Do i need to replace the airmatic suspension on the front right side, seal the leak, or change to coilovers on all four? I know this is an issue for many w211 owners and i want to know if mercedes benz has recalled these cars yet?
I hope more folks respond with more advice and/or suggestions.
Newbie
Joined: Jan 2012
Posts: 2
Likes: 0
From: Los Angeles, CA
'03 E500 Sport (W211), '02 ML500 Sport (W163)
I just purchased my E550 and this is one of the major concerns I have. I've read on these boards that alot of folks are having these airmatic problems and the best solution in my opinion is to do a coilover conversion.....if you can afford to. I can't afford to shell out $2,300 bucks on a car I just bought!!! The airmatic suspension is so lame I'm just waiting for them to go out so I'll really have a reason to bite the bullet on the coilover conversion I hope more folks respond with more advice and/or suggestions.
I hope more folks respond with more advice and/or suggestions.Craigslist has many parts brokers with pulled OEM units and Arnott has refurbished units.
I drive a little more carefully now. But that Coil-over conversion is tempting.
Senior Member
Joined: Apr 2008
Posts: 405
Likes: 0
From: Los Angeles, CA
07' IS 350, 08' E550
If you bought your E550 under the CPO program, I wouldn't worry about it. My Airmatic problems were due partly to my driving habits. The airmatic system is designed to with stand vertical forces. I happened to hit a curb square on with my right front tire and the lateral force was enough to spring a leak with the airmatic system.
Craigslist has many parts brokers with pulled OEM units and Arnott has refurbished units.
I drive a little more carefully now. But that Coil-over conversion is tempting.
Craigslist has many parts brokers with pulled OEM units and Arnott has refurbished units.
I drive a little more carefully now. But that Coil-over conversion is tempting.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Oct 2011
Posts: 1,084
Likes: 68
From: Athens, GA USA
2011 E63, 2011 Hyundai Genesis 4.6 v8, 2013 GMC Denali XL, 1965 Ford Mustang, 2005 Merc. E500
I just put two Arnott front air struts on my 2005 E500. Had the same problem as you. Cost 399.99 each at Advance Auto parts online, free shipping less 25.00 each from a coupon I had. Installed myself in about 2.5 hours. The Arnotts come with a lifetime warranty so no worry of cost in the future. Total 750.00 plus tax.
