Who has over 100,000 miles on their gasoline W211?
 

There's a thread entitled "How many miles on your W211?" but it has a bunch of low mile cars and doesn't differentiate between gasoline and diesel.

How far can a gasoline W211 go? I don't seem to read much about them over 100,000 miles. Do they disintegrate? Just die sudden deaths?

For example, I spoke to the service manager at the Toyota dealership and asked what kind of mileage older Sequoias are coming in with and he said regularly over 300,000 miles and if well maintained close to 500,000 miles. I know many people with similar stories, in varied cars. I know it's apples and oranges (or is it) but for those of us with gasoline cars who are considering keeping them over 100,000 miles I'm curious about what we might be getting into.

So... to aid us folks considering going over to the dark side of 100,000+ miles in gasoline W211's, those of you who have done it can you please post something along the lines of:

-Year
-Model
-Miles
-Mechanical issues
-Any other input you can give

Thanks!

2004
E500
162K miles

Cps replaced twice
both front struts replaced with Arnott
fuel sender has false readings
so thats it pretty reliable car so far.

2003 E500
130,000 miles

Control arms (both sides)
Ball joints (both sides)
Motor mounts
Transmission mount
Rebuilt transmission (coolant contamination)
New radiator (radiator leaked into trans)
CPS
Left rear door lock solenoid

CPS? sorry not to drift a little off topic but whats that?

CPS = crankshaft position sensor

2007 E350.

112,000 miles

Balance shaft, ball joints, conductor plate, fuel sender unit seals, gas tank replaced, fuel pumps replaced, wheel position sensor.

I "hope" I am at the point where there is not much more to replace other than regular maintenance items. As of now, it runs great.

2003 E500 132,000 miles and sold did not buy another MB and won't

3 sets of brakes
Both front airmatic struts
Airmatic aircompressor
Rear shocks
Rear airsprings
Heater control valve
SBC brakes
Ball joints
Engine mounts
Transmission leakage
Battery control module
Power steering pump and on and on and on. .........:smash:

2004 E500 135,000 - Purchased with 29K on the clock

Ball joints
Control arms
Engine mounts
CPS
MAF
Various control modules (dynamic seat, xenon, etc...)
Multiple TCU updates until they finally agreed the early 7Gs had a problem

Car runs like a top though, very strong. Only current issues are my keyless go start/stop button and driver side keyless door handles.

Oil and filter changed EVERY 5K miles with MANN OEM fleece filter and 0/40 Mobile 1. Oil analysis done every 15-20K miles with stellar reports.

2003
E500
153,000
No mechanical issues

Don't be afraid to cross that 100K line in the sand!

110k on 2006 e500. Car still runs great and is tight as a drum. Not one squeak or rattle.

I didn't expect to keep the car this long, but it has been really great.

Not sure if the w163 and w211 share the same V6 - but I was told they do. If they do...I have 213K miles on the ML. Only engine fail items I had was a single cracked rubber hose and I changed the MAF to smooth the idle. Also cleaned the EGR - but there was no reason (that I knew of).

As for the rest of the vehicle...I have no clue. We have a diesel.

I recently sold my 2003 E320 and replaced it with a 2013 E350.

2003 E320
Gas
305,000 miles

Nothing unusual for the age and mileage of the car. The secret, in my opinion, is to continue to follow the maintenance schedule after the warranty period. In the past, I would revert to "break-fix" when the mileage was really high and whatever car I had would not last much past 150,000.

John

nice!

Awesome... but with only 12 responses to this thread it looks like there aren't many gasoline W211's with over 100,000 miles...

2006
E500 4Matic Wagon
150,000 miles

Last 20k miles:

- Both engine mounts
- Rear air springs
- Breather hoses
- AC compressor
- Rollers/idlers
- CPS

Recently, we had a Sprinter put in a new transmission. The old one had 600,000 miles and is the same 5-speed as in 211s (minus the 4matic). Engines (V8s) are bullet proof if maintained with proper oil. Weak points in the long-run are Airmatic and SBC. However, I find that Airmatic components tend to last as long as regular springs/shocks, just cost more.

-Year - 2003
-Model - E320
-Miles - 107k
-Mechanical issues : Had the SBC replaced under warranty, valve cover gasket, replaces calipers, replaced brakes, replaced headlights, replaced Blower under the passangerside, replaces control arms, wheel bearings. NEED: motor mounts, torque converter, transmission mounts, differential rebuilt, rear main seal as of now. Who knows what else. Great car the Idiot I bought it from didn't maintain it.
-Any other input you can give: Its German... great machines till they break. PREVENTIVE schedule stick with it.

03 E500 140,000 nps what so ever :)

Keep 'em coming!

2007
E63
119,000

Under warrantee
CD changer not working
Keyless go door handle (was just loose connection)

After warrantee
Edit: motor mounts at 100k
Broken ground wire at trunk hinge (see DIY)
Whistling PVC (need to get around to replacing, $94)
Gas tank smell, one could argue replacing the fuel filters I a maintenance item.

Everything else I have done is maintenance

2007
E550 4Matic
125K miles

Rear cam cover leak
Conductor Plate
Valve Body (in shop for now)

Goes thru 2qts every 5k miles and has since we got it with 30K on the clock.

2006
E350
135,000

Bought with 130 K - unknown service history
Since then:
Replaced Valve body / conductor plate
Replaced Transmission mount

mileage
 

2006 E55

105k

No real issues just about to replace steering arm bushings and service trans

Valve body/conductor plate... is that the transmission?

Yes. If you don't replace the transmission connector ($10 part IIRC) the oil will actually travel up the wires into the conductor plate. Seen it happen on other MB vehicles as well, that's why it's important to change it whenever you change the transmission fluid. Valve body is also transmission.

2003
E5-hunnert
203K miles

SBC replaced (warranty work)
Heater exchange valve (DIY)
Radiator cooling fan/assembly (broken electrical connector) - DIY
Mass Airflow sensor (several) - DIY
Driver front air strut replaced
Upper/lower ball joints (both sides)
Radiator overflow pipe/hose - DIY
New plugs/wires/solenoids - DIY
Rear air struts (from Airnott $715) without dropping the rear subframe - DIY :y
Replaced both batteries (from Walmart) - DIY
Oil changes, brake pads, brake wear sensors, air filters, the usual - DIY
And she's just starting to drink a lil oil. I was a qt down over 10k miles (last oil change).
No leaks

She's starting to show her age, but she still ticks 27mpg running 75+ on the highway with the AC on..... :bow:

HUH??? How are you doing that? EPA highway estimate for that car is like 20, and the E320 was, what, 23, 24? And at 75, in the heat, in Texas? Dude...seriously?

Impressive miles, though.

^ dont be suprised im getting 30-32 on my E500 highway !!

I changed to NGK sparkplugs the laser ones cost me 11 a piece

But I would Say Average for me is 28-29, I dont complain owning a V8 im suprised my self !!!Street is a diff story lol about 18-22!!



http://i1145.photobucket.com/albums/...ps78c66f2a.jpg



http://i1145.photobucket.com/albums/...psd899a816.jpg

2005 (purchased on ebay in Nov. 2005)
E55 AMG Wagon
103k miles so far
Besides normal, I had to rebuild engine after no. 2 and 8 went lean at 64k miles.
I love this car. As soon as so someone provides a RELiABLe S/c upgrade kit for it, I will buy it. Until then, its finding time to install high stall TC and finding reliable installer for ported heads. Wife thinks I am nuts. She even bribed local merc dealer to persuade me to get current model AMG wagon. But, I love MY 05 wagon too much!

Those pictures are extremely misleading. Just because you coasted downhill for 2 miles, doesn't mean you get 30+mpg in a car that is not supposed to. V8s with 4Matic are lucky to get 25 on the highway with light foot. 14-16mpg in the city is realistic. RWD models are not that better off.

185 degrees... hot damn!

Here is a more accurate depiction of MPGs on a properly maintained 500. Started measuring once I set the cruise control at 70mph:
http://i129.photobucket.com/albums/p.../photo-2-1.jpg

I averaged 25.4mpg last weekend going from Tulsa to OKC with the cruise set at 82MPH.

Of course I had to play throttle jockey at times passing people who were determined to stay in the passing lane, who were doing under the speed limit.

EDIT: Forgot to mention my E550 is at 81,500 miles on the odo. Not quite 100,000, but damn close.

No five-liter engine is getting near that sort of fuel mileage and spark plugs don't magically create super-mileage cars. That's just not possible if you understand how a four stroke gasoline engine works. As posted before, 2 miles does not make for an accurate average because you can be coasting and getting 64mpg for half of that. Additionally, the fuel mileage gauge isn't that accurate. The first indication might be the 185 degree outside temperature... considering the highest temperature ever recorded on Earth is something like 134 degrees.

If you really want an accurate calculation of your miles per gallon, drive the car until the reserve light comes on. Immediately fill the tank with the lever lock on. When it stops don't put in any more gas. Reset your odometer to zero. Drive until the reserve light comes on again. Immediately fill the tank with the lever lock on. When it stops don't put in any more gas. Record how many gallons you filled. Record the miles since reset. Divide the miles by the gallons and you get miles per gallon.

You can start at the reserve light and stop at whatever amount you've used if your distance doesn't allow use of a full tank, but the the more miles and gallons increases the accuracy. I'm sure you understand the math.

The point is that the only way to determine true miles per gallon is to measure how many gallons the car consumes in x-number of miles. If you do that, I'm confident that you'll find that there is no way an '03 E500 is getting more than 23mpg on the highway... tops... and maybe 16 in the city... tops...

2005
E500
112K Miles

--------------

So far nothing majorly wrong with the car. I have replaced the brakes and rotors. I have replaced the Ball Joints as that is very common. I now need to replace the Heater Control Valve and I will get on to that as soon as I can. I replaced the Spark Plugs myself (Very Easy) and a independent was going to charge 500$ labor which is crazy. I had to fix the license plate wiring and replaced them with LED'S which is much better.

I took a trip up to Colorado from Texas last Christmas and it was a joy of a ride going up those mountains. I feel completely safe knowing that I am driving a car that is very dependable for me and my little girl In the back seat. I can rest assure whatever is my destination I will make it there. I also recommend any one needing to do some tire shopping to have a look at the Continental Extreme Contact DWS they handle the rain and snow like a champ.

I can get 27 mpg MAX with my 2007 E550 on the highway, that is with the air conditioner on and at 6000 feet above sea level. In the city I can get about 18.5 mpg max if I drive very consciously... *but* since that never happens I end up getting 14-15 mpg city and 19 highway.

e350 trans problem
 

What are the symptoms when this happens,I have a 06 e350 111000k.The trans has had several problems including not wanting
to shift out of low and recently,not pulling at all, shutting the engine down and restarting and it's good..I have had the trans fluid and filter changed last month..I have not been pleased with this car at all:confused:..thanks for any info or comments..

2004
E500
102k

From the symptoms that you listed, I'd say that your valve body electrical plate is bad. The only way that I can think of checking it is to ask your mechanic to check the plug.

http://www.fcpeuro.com/products/merc...e-1402700861oe

Look at the picture on the left, the plug connector goes in there. If oil got in there, it could mean that your plate is defective. As you can see, it's not expensive, you could probably find it on the internet for $120-$150.

On mine, I saw the oil starting to go up the wire, but the inside of the connector was still dry so I lucked out.

Search for electrical plate problems on this board, I'm sure you'll find plenty as this is pretty common problem.

Read through this thread, seems like the same issues you're experiencing:
https://mbworld.org/forums/w211-amg/...-problems.html

And this:
https://mbworld.org/forums/w211-amg/...on-issues.html

After 40 years of building/driving muscle cars, my now 103,000+ mile 2005 E55 is so enjoyable that I'm looking forward to putting on the highest mileage that I've ever clocked. This happened a few months ago:
http://kropf.us/2005E55/E55-100000mi...30-600x592.jpg

I bought it with about 95,000 ,iles and I'm giving it a bunch of long-lacking TLC as time permits, and making some notes and posts along the way. Here's one that took the most time: https://mbworld.org/forums/e-class-w...les-chart.html

(Here's a related post in the AMG forum: Highest Mileage e55/63 here)

Now onto the 155,000 mile Mercedes High Mileage Award. :zoom:

Oooh. I have less than 4k miles to 155k. Thanks for that info!

That cracks me up that Mercedes-Benz considers 155,000 miles "high mileage"...

100,000 mile debate
 

As far as the service issues or problems by 100,000 mi, I have to say that they are no different than other cars.
Up to now I have had the following things replaced:
brakes
engine mounts
alignment
ball joints
cup holder
center cap for wheel
service battery

So that's it aside from the usual oil/fluid changes, filters, tires, wipers, and occasional bulb etc.

And now for the MPG discussion. The Attached picture is my highway MPG while I was in CA. This was Barstow/LA/Barstow. At one point I topped 32 MPG. I lost MPG b/c of driving into town for a quick bite to eat. I can always expect to see 31ish MPG if the weather cooperates.

I have 116K on my 2003 E320. I bought it three years ago with 67K on it.

I changed the spark plugs myself, and have been using the FSS to tell me what items to address with each oil change. I have had transmission and differential fluids changed, and brake pads replaced, so far the only non maintenance repair has been my SBC system reaching the end of it's service life, luckily while under warranty. Also I had a rear cat that was plugging, but when I took it to the dealer to make sure, it had spit out the obstruction, and they determined there was no issue. So I have three cats now.

2004 E320. Bought car in late 2006 with 27k miles. 7 years later, car has 143k miles.

Repairs:

SBC (under warranty)
Engine mounts, both sides
Transmission mount (preventative maintenance when engine mounts replaced)
Control arms, upper and lower
Ball joints, front
Valve cover gasket
Cup holder
Batteries, both of them

I will soon be replacing the front passenger headrest. My 4 year old daughter got upset and kicked it multiple times... The interior plastics broke and now the the front half of the headrest no longer stays on.

Will also be replacing rear right tail lamp assembly. Somehow got lightly cracked. Half of the running tail light is off. Driver display says that rear right tail light and rear right fog light are both out.

2004 E0500.
158,xxx
averages over 23 m.p.g, per trip computer.
most comfortable car I have ever owned.
bought it with an extended warranty good to 185,xx, hopefully it continues to purr along.

2003 E500 170,000

Front brakes 3 times (DIY)
Rear brakes once (DIY)
Regular oil/filter service ~every 13K (DIY)
Heater control valve (DIY)
Transmission service (flush and filter) (DIY)
Transmission electrical connector replacement (DIY)
Front Lower ball joints (DIY)
Upper control arms and ball joints (DIY)
Thrust control arms (DIY)
Rear battery twice (DIY)
Front aux battery twice (DIY)
air tubing from airmatic air compressor to actuator block, rubbed a hole in the hose from being against the wheel well (DIY)
New light bulbs annually (they seem to go out every Nov/Dec) (DIY)
Headlight lens "polishing" once (DIY)
Various parking lights
Replacement wheels (cracked a set on really bad roads)
Tires every 30-40K
Driver side door lock actuator (DIY)
Wiper/turn signal arm, failed to actuate wipers (Dealer)
Rear window for failed defroster (dealer)
Serpentine belt tensioner, broke when driving) plus belt replacement (Dealer)
Electronic control gateway (Dealer)

Open issues to be addressed in the next 10K-15K:
New rear bumper where I got backed into recently
Rear airmatic dropped last winter. I'll clean up the overflow tank connectors and see if it goes away.
air/oil filter
plugs
new tires
storage drawer under seat just broke

To be addressed between 185-225K
brakes front/rear
rotors front
front struts I suspect
rear bags I suspect (but I hope not)

And (if I make it that long) 225-275K
front brakes (again)
air/oil filter
tires
transmission flush/filter
serpentine belt, pulley and water pump

I'm not sure I'll have it past 225K. I've been wanting a C63 instead and perhaps a beater Fusion/Optima/Cruz for work driving.

Also, I have to say...if I couldn't do this work myself I would have spent a ton at the Dealership. It pays to have tools, spare time, and a garage!

WOW! 185,000 miles? That's great. What company? How strong is the warrenty? what does it cover, & if you don't mind telling us, how much was it?

My warranty is good until July 2017 or 120,000 miles which ever comes first.

I bought it from a used car dealer in Lynnwood, WA. Called Carson Cars. The owner has been a friend and client of mine for well over 10 years. I paid $10,000 for it. The warranty is through a company called American Auto Guardian, Inc. The warranty is for 2 years, or 24,000 miles after the purchase. And the warranty states it will cover all the engine related components. I don't know if it is available outside of a used car dealership, and, have not had any experience using it yet. But, for the price, it seemed like a very good idea. I researched this car extensively, and would not have bought it without a warranty. So far, the only problems is the SBC unit. But, Wilson Motors in Bellingham, WA has already ran my VIN, and confirmed I am eligible for a new SBC unit through MB, at no cost to me. I am just waiting for the registration to arrive, in my name, then I will run it into them, and do the SBC, and get a second key made. I have a long history with Audi's, and it was a choice between this car, and an A6. I am EXTREMELY impressed with this E-500. Comfortable, great mileage, and, wickedly fast when I get on it. And, even at speeds, extremely stable. Wished I had bought an MB a long time ago. I realize I will have some issues with it, but, I am a pretty competent mechanic, and look forward to tinkering on this beast.

2004 E320 Wagon, 164,000 miles, runs like it was new. Great Car

-Year 2004
-Model W211 E200K
-Miles 101K
-Mechanical issues - Leaking rocker gasket cover, front coil spring collapse, Timing chain replaced, MAF sensor replaced, driver-side door lock repaired, SBC unit (recall), fuel pump failure.
-Beginning to get tired of the repairs

2004 E500 with 133,000 miles
 

The car is doing well, albeit I have also put in the time/effort/money to keep it running well. Just finished redoing all of the fluids (Engine, Transmission, Differential, Brakes, etc) plus requisite filters.

The only thing I think it needs now is one of the valve covers may be weeping a tiny bit of oil. I just cleaned it and will see next time I look.

My main wish is to get USB power into the glovebox. That would let me power a remote bluetooth audio device into the aux port in there. (Still looking how to best wire it into that).

car bought in 2003 brand new
W211 E240 (Australia)
106K

So far issues repaired/serviced:
SBC (No warranty in Australia however discounted at 50% cost)
Rear and front brakes
Transmission flush and filter
Front Lower ball joints
Upper control arms and ball joints
...... and regular schedule service (oil,filter,wiper,tires, etc)

Need to repair/service:
Motor and transmission mounts
Valve cover gasket
2 Wheels cracked

'03 W211 with 158,000+ but I've always trusted German engineering

My '06 E350 4matic has 120k.

2007 E350 4matic 108000 :y

over 100k
 

I just hit 100k on my 2007 E350. CPO warranty over.

Problems were:
fuel tank leak issues twice, 1st time tank replaced, second time o-rings under warranty

A/C issues, fan motor, evaporator coils twice!( $2000 dealer repair!)Warranty

Crank Position Sensors Warranty

Valve cover oil leak Warranty

Seat heaters stuck on Warranty

motor mounts warranty

Normal Maintenance- tires,brakes pads, brakes rotors at 36K, filters, transmission service twice, spark plugs,
original ball joints and shocks.Florida roads not too bad. Battery as a preventive maintenance item.
Serpentine belt-preventive maintenance,Wheel alignment once.

I found Michelins wear bad on this car, not able to rotate them, went to Continental DWS and at 20K on the fronts look less than 1/2 worn a vast improvement over the Michelin Pilots.

Wow, 305,000 miles... without major issue. Amazing!

2004
E500 4matic
160k mikes

Live on dirt road, so harder on suspension i think
Rear air shocks
Air matic compressor
Front CV driveshafts (used imports, so far so good)
Front ball joints
Regular synthetic oil changes
Brakes - several times
Air conditioner mixer valve
Transfer case. Lot of slop in it, changed several years ago.

Car runs very nice. Cant part with it, definitely nice hwy car.
Body still in great shape too.

Outstanding items to fix
Front door lock - ratchets when opening.
Time for new plugs. Have them just need to do the install.
Front shocks - don't leak, but thinks time for a set of Arnotts.

175,000km / 110,000 mls on my '08 E550 / E500 station wagon.


Problems so far:

• at 70,000mls both front calipers were stuck
• at 80,000mls the electro-hydraulic-control unit of the 7g-Tronic overheated
• at 100,000mls the flaps in the controlled intake manifold broke away (they are made of plastic - caution - if they manage to get into the combustion camber, we are talking about the risk of an complete engine failure!)
• at 110,000mls my ILS-headlights were blind inside, so I decided to replace them.

Other than that, the car is still running very strong, even though it is driven pretty hard on the Autobahn:

133,000 miles on my 2004 E500 Sport and it is still going strong!

http://www.sinz.org/Photos/fullsize/...9_16_10_19.jpg

http://www.sinz.org/Photos/fullsize/...3_17_47_36.jpg

http://www.sinz.org/Photos/fullsize/...3_17_48_22.jpg

http://www.sinz.org/Photos/fullsize/...3_17_48_59.jpg

http://www.sinz.org/Photos/fullsize/...7_16_17_42.jpg

2008
E350 - 4Matic
116.000
Great
:y
Regular Maintenance Issues

Not quite there, 91K on our '07 CPO, but the warrantee is up at the end of the year.
What should I press them to look at for the last CPO covered warranty service?

e320
2003
283k

SBC replaced (warranty work)
Fuel Pump and Filter- Local repair Shop
Water Pump-DIY
Heater exchange valve - DIY
Radiator cooling fan/assembly - DIY
Replaced Head Lights R/L-DIY
Replaced side mirrors-DIY
Idler pulley tensioner and Belt-DIY
New plugs/wires - DIY
Front and rear shocks- DIY
Rear Springs-DIY
Front wheel Bearings-DIY
Replaced both batteries - DIY
Oil changes, brake pads, brake wear sensors, air filters- DIY
Complete front end rebuild (round 2 next weekend)-DIY
Motor mounts and trans mount-DIY *
Replaced a cat that cracked and welded other-DIY

Runs Great!!

2007 E350 Sport ... wife's car
>105,500 miles
>replaced crank position sensor at about 85,000 miles
>otherwise ... knock on wood ... nothing has failed
>rock solid ... interior is clean and fresh ... doors tight as a vault
>never allowed eating, drinking, or smoking in the car
>kids are all grown ... so no kids in the car

So long as the car provides good service and the wife is happy with it ... and she is ... we'll keep it. But if it starts having significant failures ... outta here: I don't want anything in my life that doesn't work right.

2003 E320 4matic wagon
 

super car 205,000 miles going strong!!

My Girlfriends E350 Wagon has 100200miles. Still running solid

2003
Gasoline E500
136,000miles

2003 E320 Lemon!
 

2003 E320, purchased in 2005 w/ 30K miles. It now has 150K. Everything in this car has been replaced except the engine.:confused: I do mean everything... door lock actuators, heated seat console, fuel tank, blah blah blah.

Even after having the transmission replaced in 2009 the car still now slips into neutral when driving down some hills. The fix is to pull off the road, turn off and turn on, lol. Engine oil leaks, will continue driving the car until it explodes... will not put one more dime in this car. I guess I could trade the car in for about $3Kish, but then I would miss out on the satisfaction of video taping while it is compacted at the dump!

2003 E500 with 127,979
That V8 is amazing!!

The irony is that with all the talk of "German engineering"... a Mercedes with over 150,000 miles is a somewhat rare beast...whereas it's pretty common with many other makes.

Good to see some sneak by that milestone, lol!

"Engineering" has many dimensions.


Longevity is only one.

Obviously... and clearly in this case they're engineered for short lives relative to many other companies.

Yet they are also engineered to be reparable at a level beyond most other cars. (Of course that is a compromise because making parts replicable increases complication and the chance of failure.)


I think they don't make the high miles because they because of the cost of maintenance, not total failure.


Seems that most Japanese cars today are 100% used up and unrepairable beyond 150K to 200K miles. Too many press fit, "One Piece" assemblies.


From what I can see the MB trait is to maintainable forever, but at a cost.
Unfortunately, the world has moved beyond cars as long term assets to one of short term disposable ones.

200,000 All Air struts, rear shocks- Replaced brakes 4-5 times, Motor Mounts, Alternator, Battery (2x) Ball joints, control arms....AC Dryer/Compressor 2x. Needs plugs, brake fluid/ coolant flush. Pano jammed closed. Tail light cracked- Thinking about buying tools and starting to DIY this at what it costs. No longer daily driver for me- Gave it to my daughter.....

2003 E320
131,000
Mechanically and cosmetically 98% perfect.
Over the past two years I have only had to put $523.53 into her for maintenance, that includes two DIY oil changes. Main battery was failing so I replaced the original 10 year old battery!! Transmission mount (I recommend everyone do this, its cheap, fast, and makes a huge difference in comfort). Power steering fluid flush. All DIY of course. Valve cover gaskets (fun job to do). Three years ago I also replaced the spark plugs.

God I wish I wasn't such a woman about car maintenance and did some of that work myself. I guess I just don't trust myself when it comes to systems like brakes or costly components. Viva la Gersh

Just had the transmission fluid changed in my 2004 Mercedes. I changed the transmission connector as well. On the 722.6 transmission you can get a leak if the o rings dry out on the connector. May result in Transmission fluid leaking up the wire harness and bye bye transmission control unit or conductor plate on top of valve body.

Ive got a 2003 E500 with 113k miles..love it, but not trouble free.. 1800 frontend ball joint'ish work at 48k or less miles. also I'll soon be spending around 4 grand on the transmission.. been having issues with it since 90k miles though. It's my favorite car to date.. but annoying to hear people say "those Mercedes.. built like tanks .. will last forever" and on both E series I've owned and from a majority of the comments on this thread show expensive transmission issues within the first 100k miles... as well as the ball joint issues. That being said I rent new cars when traveling a few times a year and other than them only having better technology packages the E500 at 10+ years old blows them all out of the water in comfort/ride and power.

They are built like tanks and will last forever if you put in all of the necessary maintenance and treat the car well, at least for the facelift W211 and the Mercedes-Benz vehicles that didn't come from the notoriously bad early 2000s - not a good time for any car manufacturer honestly. A good metaphor is that they are the perfect hot blonde wife - beautiful, head turner, excellent performer ;), intelligent if you're lucky... but they have a terrible spending problem and unless you have an open wallet policy with them you will become unhappy very quickly

$1800 for ball joints?! Sorry to say this, but you got ripped off. I am guessing the same happened with a $4k transmission repair. I am at 157k+ miles and have yet to run into the "expensive transmission issues". Ball joints are wear items - get used to it. This goes for all cars, not just MB.

Plus, you've been running the car with "transmission issues" for 20k+ miles? That's plain negligence and usually does result in high costs.

I won't be the one to say these cars are "built like tanks", they are definitely not. This is not a 1990 Volvo 740 with a 5-speed manual, which IS built like a tank. However, I find that the problems that do occur are normal wear and tear items. Granted, these items cost more to replace, but that's not the point here.

$1800.00 for lower control arms sounds like a quote from the Mercedes Dealer. Same thing for the Transmission. The 722.6 was supposed to be a "Lifetime Sealed" transmission. I have heard of other MB owners having to replace their 722.6 5 speed transmission due to Mercedes telling the owners that their transmission didn't need service. That was the case with my 2004 C230K I purchased from a Mercedes Dealer used. I asked the salesman if the transmission fluid/filter was changed as part of the recon. I was told that the transmission didn't require service as it was "Sealed for Life". I just had the transmission serviced and thank god, no metal, burn or copper colored fluid in the drain pan. The 722.6 is a good transmission but very sensitive to transmission fuild levels. Also you have to love having no transmission dip stick. Have to buy one from the dealer along with the red plastic tabs you have to break off to remove the cap. My 2003 BMW 330i 5 Speed Auto wasn't required to be changed before 100K.

"Lifetime Sealed" does not specify that "life". My guess is that it was supposed to be 100k miles, which is reasonable. Anyone that thought and believed that you never have to change the transmission fluid was clearly mistaken. The 722.6 5-speed transmission is extremely simple in design as I have seen one being taken apart. Complete failure is unlikely. The 722.6 transmissions were also put in the Sprinters. The one that was taken apart I mentioned earlier had about 530k miles on it, and that's on a Sprinter hauling heavy cargo.

The $1800 quote seems astronomically high to me. First off, there is no reason to replace the whole damn thing. The bushings and ball joints can be swapped with just a little more work than replacing the arm completely. Bushings are about $30/each (there are two) and the ball joint is about $70/each. $150 per side, $300 for the whole front, and $1500 for labor? No way it takes 15 hours to replace them especially at MB dealers who have specialized tools to do these jobs quickly.

I did pay $1800.. it must have been for the control arms/bushings/ball joints and it was at ~45k miles and the mechanic(not dealer) told me it wasn't that unusual do have them done around 50k. I bought the car with 45k miles and not sure why I didn't notice it in the testdrive. As far as the transmission I was told by the dealership and 2 other transmission shops a minimum of 3k.. one shop told me they only charge $600 for the labor and the rest would be mb parts and he said it would likely run over 3k. Dealsership was definitely over 4k. What should the cost be? Anyone recommend anyone for transmission work in Seattle?

At 45K it seems that those parts should not be that worn, but then again, it all comes down to road conditions and driving style.

Make sure you ask the shops what exactly they are going to be doing to your car. Chances are the transmission plug was leaking and the fluid traveled up the wires into the electrical plate or TCM. Now, electrical plate can cause all sorts of problems that would lead you to believe that your transmission is toast. If TCM has fluid in it, try taking out and drying it out really well. Best advice I can give you is have them pull codes and post them here. You'd be surprised that most of the time, these problems are not that expensive to fix.

I agree with this. The 722.6 transmission usually only has two problem areas, one the electronic conductor plate on top of the value body (have watch DIY VLOGS with people replacing these, messy but not that hard) or transmission fluid leaking up and messing with the TCM. What issues Trixon are you having with the transmission. I am assuming you have had the transmission fluid/filter changed before reaching 90K.

I found this really good Mercedes expert Kent Bergsma who owns MercedesSource. He did a six part VLOG on You Tube on replaceing the electric conductor plate on a 722.6 transmisson on a used 2000 E320 Wagon 722.6 he bought. The people he bought the car from sold it because they were told it would cost them $7k to replace their 722.6 transmission and didn't want to spend the money. He removed the valve body and replaced the Electric Conductor Place and the Connector Plug. He then had a transmission shop reset some fault codes and transmission runs like new. His shop is located in Washington state. You can contact them at Mercedessource.com. Not sure Kent does repairs (he restores older Mercedes and sells DIY parts and tools), but I sure they could recomend a good independant Mercedes Repair shop in Seattle, WA. Check out his VLOGS on You Tube they are great.
P.s. I moved from Richland WA to CA when I was kid. Love the tri-cites (Richland, Pasco, Kennwick) area.

I had a 2003 C320 that I bought new. Just traded it in recently with 230K. Engine ran fine and transmission shifted perfectly. The car was serviced according to FSS at the recommended intervals -- normally 13000 miles. never had a transmission service -- car had the original fluid. Engine oil consumption was approximately 2 quarts per maint cycle. Engine oil from day one was Mobil One 0W40.

230K with no transmission service. You are one lucky owner. Glad to hear your 230K used 2 guarts of oil between A and B services. My 2004 uses the same amount during services.

147K on 2006 E350 4Matic
 

I have a 2006 E350 4Matic I got with 80K on the clock. Body is in great shape. Mechanicals are a continuous issue (e.g. there's never a time when nothing is wrong or feels wrong). Besides normal oil/filter/air filter/tire changes which every car needs I've done a few things I don't think are "normal" including:

Replaced front struts & springs after 1 spring broke while parked
Replaced both batteries
Replaced front brake sensors
Replaced rear drive shaft (u-joint grenaded on the highway)
Replaced front control wiring harness
Replaced steering rack
Replaced power steering pump hoses (the above due to exploding u-joint damage)
Front rotors (with brake pads) - warped or pads not bedded properly, shimmy/shaking when braking
Rear shocks
Thermostat
GPS Antenna
Rear tail light (backed into a bush! sheesh)

Altogether about 6K in non-scheduled maintenance/repairs in past 3 years.

2006 4M Wagon with 101,000 miles. All routine stuff and one broken wheel from a pothole. Just did the serpentine belt, pulleys, and tensioner. Front brakes (pads and rotors) last year along with fluid flush of transmission and transfer case. Great car on long trips cross country. It really never misses a beat for comfort and being reliable.

2005 E- Tree Twenty
119K

Runs like a champ

Also have a friend with a 2003 E320 with 190k. Replaced airmatic struts all the way around, and other than that just regular maintenance.

My 2009 E350 only has 80K miles, so I guess I can't come out and play with the rest of you for another 20k miles :(

Then why are you out posting? Get out there and DRIVE ;)

2003 E320 w/ 131900. PERFECT!

I get bored at work. Would go out and drive if I could.

I know the feeling with school and work both... luckily I live 20 minutes from one of the best driving roads in this area of Colorado so it's often an after-class treat to go up there and rip through the foothills.

Soon!

'03 E320

147000 miles

Just before it hit 100.000 miles I went on a fixing spree replacing anything I thought would fail soon, so some things I did just because I didn't want the car to ever fail on me:

aux battery/ main battery

inner/outer tie rod ends

Upper/lower ball joints

Forward front lower control arm/bushing

Aft front lower control arm along with all bushings

Sway bar links

Rear springs ( I live in NY where roads are salted severely so one spring cracked and I put in new beefier springs myself)

Spark plugs

Tensioner pulley

Idler pully

Both rear drive axles ( the reluctor rings are pressed on them and they rusted out on mine and the dealer wanted 1800 a piece so I bought two used from a junked e500 from ebay)

Both rear bearings ( just because I had the rear suspension apart)

Both front bearings ( just because)

New valve cover seals

Cleaned then resealed valve cover breather elements

Engine mounts

Tranny mount

Camshaft position sensor

SBC pump (dealer did it under warranty )



Fluids:

Coolant flush
Power steering flush
Tranny fluid flush, filter change
Diff fluid flush
SBC brake fluid flush


I went alittle overboard but when you have all the tools at your disposal and don't have to pay labor it is worth it. I paid about 3k for all these repairs doing them myself.
This thing runs like a dam tank. Every time I start it I cant tell if the engine is on or not. Tranny shifts nice. Suspension is tight. And have a piece of mind of all the fluids being up to date. Prolly no hassle for about three more years.

140K miles and going strong
 

2003 E500, Airmatic, SBS

139,600 as of today:

- 115K & 118K- replaced the fuel tank seals with black type and leak continued, replaced with Green type seals and leak slowed, RTV'd the Green seals and allowed to dry to tack on the tank side and completely dry on sender side...Leak is no more. But I no longer temp fate by filling beyond 7/8 full.

- 115K Front Airmatic replaced with Arnott's - after DR side failure
- 120K Brake lines replaced with Goodrich braided SS
- 120K Air suspension dampers in the rear
- 120K Rears replaced with Bilstein Air bags - after DR side failure
- 120K Rear Bilsteins replaced with Arnotts following bag failure
- 120K Rotors replaced with Cross drilled and slotted
- 120K Pads replaced with Akebono Ceramics
- 120K Front wheel bearings
- 120K Front Upper control arms - due to squeaking
- 122K SBS accumulator - due to warning light
- 125K Alternator - following failure
- 125k Serpentine belt, tensioner and idler pulley
- 125K Front AGC battery
- 130K Lower control arm ball joints - due to squeaking
- 130K All lower components in front suspension - due to squeaking
- 130K Front sway bar links and bushings - due to squeaking
- 132K 2 O2 sensors in front of the CATS - due to check engine light
- 132K Air compressor - due to failure

- Oil and filter changes every 5K 0w-40 Mobil 1 Euro spec / Hastings fleece filters
- Power steering fluid flush 120K CHF 11s spec fluid
- Rear differential flush and fill 132K Mobil 1 85w-90
- Brake system flush and fill with Super Blue Racing DOT4 fluid at 120K and 125K
- Transmission flush / fill and conductor plate replacement at 120K
- Interior A/C filter change at 120K
- Exterior A/C filter change at 120K
- Exterior engine airfilter change every 10K ( I was using a K&N as of 110K, but went back to Hastings at 135K)

I am now:

- Cleaning MAF
- Replacing the heater changeover/control valve
- chasing down a check engine amber light for a small evaporator leak / throttle position sensor out of limits

If I can't correct it, I'll have the Indy take a look and tell me what to change or fix, and I'll order parts and do the work myself.

I expected things to be a bit more expensive with an M/B (I bought used with no warranty), so I bit the bullet and got a STAR diag computer with Xentry, and made real good friends with the local Indy (no M/B service within 3500 miles), I do most of the work myself, and rely on this forum as well as Benzworld.

Some things were done in response to failures and resulted in towing, because M/B's do not limp home with suspension, brake or electrical issues.

Some things were done following oil changes and inspections and I felt they "should" be changed out to not worry about a failure in 20-30K miles.


Thanks to all of you,

E550 with 142000. Purchased only 6 months ago with 136000 miles.
Replaced front control arm. DIY
Now seems to studder under acceleration while moving.
More work to come.:)

1999 e320 wagon with 221,000 with just regular maintenance but thinking of replacing with 2006 E500 wagon.

Wouldn't that be a W210?

oops. Sorry

2003 E500

160K mileage.

Differential Fluid exchange (preventive)
Gasket replace
heater exchange valve (DIY)
after taking it off road, i broke radiator and got glycol contamination in tranny.

MPG in city is around 16 but on highway on cruise mode is 28. But only with chevron gas.

Running like champion, wont sell it.

2008 E350 4Matic
Purchased CPO in 2010 with 36,000 miles
122,000 miles

Warranty fixes:
Keyless Go (drivers side)
Horn (2x)
Broken Turn Signal Lens (shorted bulb) (4x - dealer kept replacing light bulb not finding out root cause)
Trunk latch (would not latch closed)

Current issues:
Keyless Go (rear drivers side)
Rear door ashtray doesn't ease out
Cracked varnish on wood steering wheel

Oops, forgot to post here.


Last month we turned 100K on the E350 4Matic Sport.
(Just for fun did it at 101 MPH) (I over shot a little)


Lets see, normal maintenance: Oil, Tires, etc.
Trans and drive line fluids around 45 or 50K (due again soon)
Front brakes (Backs are soon)
Rear sun shade (kid induced failure)
Drivers seat cover (lower bolster, guessing wrong cleaning fluid by original owner)
Cam timing sensors (Warranty/Recall)
Front corner marker housing
Thermostat (Just shy of 100K) (Did belt and idler, will do tensioner soon due to slight noise when cold)
Drivers door handle (Keyless-Go failure)
HVAC fan has light chirp on low speed (Will do this fall)


And that is about it.

2006
E350 (gasoline)
132,200

Regular Maintenance
No real problems other then a current transfer case issue that is close to being resolved.

Car still runs beautifully

I sold it before hitting 100K

06 350 4M with 105K and no major issues to date. Just replaced both batteries, flushed radiator, tranny and transfer case, new tires and rear brakes, all elective preventative so I can keep the car for another few years. Still get 24-27 mpg on highway, and the best car I've ever owned. Also, have a great relationship with my dealer service manager and that makes a big difference to my ability to understand what to expect in the future. I've budgeted 10 K for scheduled maintenance and repairs for the next 100K miles. Try buying a new car for that.
The balance shaft problems some are so worried about are no different than any other internal wear concerns and much dependent on proper lubrication intervals and staying with the
Mercedes prescribed service program. It's amazing how much money some people spend on having a new car every 3 years.

That's just the first milestone. Apparently there are different levels. This is taken off their website:

Mercedes Benz mile achieve
The latest Mercedes-Benz to be recognized for surpassing the one-million-mile mark is a 1970 280SE acquired for the Mercedes-Benz Museum Collection from its original owners, George and Luzstella Koschel of Orange County, California. The Koschels bought the car new and drove it for 1,019,000 miles.

The Mercedes-Benz Classic High Mileage Award is presented to owners whose vehicles have logged 155,000 miles or more.

Drivers receive a traditional Star and Laurel Badge and handsome display certificate in a formal presentation folder. Awards are presented at five vehicle mileage milestones.

Award Milestones
155,000 miles (250,000 kilometers)
312,000 miles (500,000 kilometers )
466,000 miles (750,000 kilometers )
625,000 miles (1,000,000 kilometers)
1,000,000 miles (1,610,000 kilometers)

Download your award application here, complete it, and then take your vehicle to an authorized Mercedes-Benz Dealer for odometer verification.

Background

Mercedes-Benz first introduced the High Mileage Award in the 1960s to recognize the many Mercedes-Benz vehicles that routinely travel hundreds of thousands of miles — some even eclipsing the million-mile mark!

The current Mercedes-Benz High Mileage champ is Gregorios Sachinidis, a Greek taxi driver who holds the known record of more than 2.8 million miles in his 1976 Mercedes-Benz 240D.

I totally agree with you. I'm sure that there would be a lot more European cars on the road with high miles if it didn't cost so much to keep them running. I know that the cost to keep a Civic going for 300K miles will be a fraction of the cost of keeping an E-Class running. Thus, many people end up getting rid of their European cars before the anticipated high-dollar maintenance items come due. So it's not really a question of whether or not they can keep going for many miles, but it's more a question of whether or not you want to invest the money to do so.

My 2003 E500 has just a little over 182K miles and everything runs like a brand new car. Besides routine maintenance, the list below covers the items that needed attention:

SBC pump replaced twice
Engine and transmission mounts replaced twice (I made the mistake of using aftermarket parts the first time around so they failed within 2 years and I usd OEM the second time)
CPS
Starter
Front driver Airmatic shock - replaced with Arnott
Rear passenger Airmatic shock - replaced with Arnott
Heater exchange valve
Ashtray assembly due to crack on wood

My 2003 E320 has over 143k, runs and looks amazing. I'm averaging about $250 a year to maintain this car. Mostly preventative....If something is about to wear out, I replace it. This year will be the most costly with Fuel filter/sending unit, Fuel pump, and radiator flush with thermostat replacement. Not because its bad, but come on the car was built in September 2002 and these items have NEVER been replaced. Try that with a Civic. I will submit that a civic is less expensive to maintain but don't lie, would you be caught dead in a 12 year old (or even brand new for that matter) civic!:crazy::crazy::crazy: I would not take a brand new car of ANY regular brand in exchange for my old E Class EVER!

2003 E 500

only 106,000 miles young :naughty:

SBC unit replaced ($ 1,800 :wwf:)

Both front lower control arms

All routine maintenance done by myself (oil, brake pads, spark plugs, etc)

Front 2 Airmatic shocks replaced by previous owner (1 Arnott, 1 Bilstein? )

19" AMG rims with new rubber in all 4 corners.

Aside from SBC and Airmatic, I feel like my car is going to keep up for a long time from now!!!! :y

Hi all,

My 2003 E240 W211 has around 204.000 km's on it. I got it quite cheap a little over 1,5 years ago, but it needed some work. Here's what I have (had) done so far:

- Bought a set of used 16” alloy Avantgarde wheels with winter tires (150 euro’s after trading in the winter wheels of my previous car)
- Fitted newly upholstered leather steering wheel (the old one was quite shiny) (75 euros)
- Fitted new rear suspension pistons (450 euros including labor at my regular indy garage)
- Fitted 4 new (non OEM) velours floor mats as the old ones had become ugly (70 euros)
- Fitted 2 new windshield wipers (65 euros)
- Fitted a new (non OEM )rear battery (AGM type) as the old one had it's best 11(!) years behind it (170 euros including labor)
- at 200.000 km I had the 722.6 5G tronic flushed and relubed with Fuchs transmission oil (275 euros including labor)
- Got new key housings for both my key fobs (around 15 euros each on eBay)
- Retrofitted a black leather interior as the factory fitted fabric interior was quite worn on the drivers seat. (450 euro’s for the replacement interior). The retrofitting was quite the job as the interior came from a RHD W211 (UK) which had different wiring underneath the seats. The door panels were of a different type (non-thermotronic) interior so I had to swap out the leather inlays of the original front door panels. Also, don’t get me started on replacing the folding rear head rests which are a real PITA to remove and install on a sedan!)
- Replaced the Behr interior fan and interior filter as the old one was rattling a lot (330 euro’s including labor)
- Disconnected the alarm siren as it shorted and blew the number 8 fuse the rear SAM module. This happened during the changeover of the interior when both batteries had been disconnected for about 3 days. I suspect that the internal batteries in the alarm siren had begun leaking and shorted the whole unit, which caused my RF antenna setup to malfunction and the remote locking function with it.
As the alarm siren unit is sealed and runs around 450 euros at the dealer I am not bothering with replacing nor repairing it. I do not use the alarm anyhow.
- Had the AC system serviced as it was noisy when running (turns out the system only had 2/3 of it’s 950 grams of coolant left) This cost me around 100 euros with labor. Running totally silent after that :). Gotta love that V6 hum!

Things to do, besides regular maintenance:
- Front suspension has some feint knocking sounds occasionally. Might need replacing some struts or pistons down the line. Luckily I have no air suspension on my W211 as that would prove too costly to repair (3500 euros for both sides I heard)
- Front SBC backup battery might need replacing down the line.
- Front right innermost PDC sensor was busted by a chunk of road gravel and is sometimes acting up.
- Rear thermotronic vent grilles are broken and need replacing.
- Brake fluid change at dealer; needs replacing every 2 years to due moisture buildup in the hygroscopic fluid which may damage the system down the line (231 euro including labor).
- Hope SBC will keep going like it should :). My SBC pump was replaced in 2009 at 132.000 kms and a replacement would cost me around 1400 euros at the dealer.

With a bit of TLC this car will take me around the world, loving it!

A special thanks to all of you for providing me with a lot of useful tips so far, hope this post repays some of the favors!

Best regards,

Vigoras

I'm not over 100K miles on mine yet. This thread has been very informative. I've still got extended warranty on mine, so I better drive more to have some of the problems you folks list get remedied under warranty.

I'm at 75K miles and have fixed a couple items under warranty, so no repairs out of my pocket yet. With the items you guys list, I'm not looking forward to being past my 7 years/100K extended warranty. I think I better plan like one of you said to have $10K ready to get me from 100K -> 200K miles.

2005-Year
E500 Gas-Model
178,000-Miles
1)Just replaced Fuel Pump, both sides, it stopped working
2)at 135,000 replaced Rear Air bags with Easy to replace Arnott units.
3)The windshild defogger stopped defogging passenger side ??
4)Replaced Brake pads at 120,000 rear pads were still ok.
5)Change the Oil with Moble 1 every 7000 miles.
It uses 1 quart in that same time.

Still gets 26 MPG on the Highway at 75 mph
22 MPG combined City/Hwy averaging 45mph

Who has over 100, miles on their gasoline w211
 

.
2003-Year
E320 6-cylinder Gas-Model
106,000-Miles

1) Replaced upper control arms / both sides on front, ball joints/bushings / front end sway bar link at 100,000
2) At 80,000 miles replaced Crank-shaft position sensor
3) At 75,000 miles tires, rotors and pads on all 4 wheels.
4) At 60,000 miles replaced oxygen sensor
5) At 55,000 miles replaced both front shocks and coil springs,
6) At 50,000 miles changed all 4 tires/alignment
7) At 40,000 miles changed front ball joint on one side.
8) At 35,000 miles replaced rotors and disk on front.


Always changed oil with Mobil 1 @ 7000 miles.

Still gets 28 MPG on the Highway at 70 mph
and 22 MPG combined City/Hwy averaging at 45mph

FYI... I sold my car last month, and bought a 2007 E-350 4Matic with 63000 miles and plan on driving it till the odometer again hits 100,000 miles

Thanks
-Irfan Qayyum
2007 E350 4Matic w/ 63,000

2004
E500 4matic
117,000 miles

2003
150,915
Still going strong and looking great!
Replaced coolant, coolant resevoir, thermostat, oil, filter, engine air filters, brake fluid, rotation all at 150,000
Now I'm about to replace upper control arms and upper bushings to the new style. Left side is squeaking pretty bad now.
Planning on keeping it for a great many more years.

2005 E320 4Matic Wagon
164,xxx miles and drives like a dream.
Need to replace the rear air springs, the car falls after sitting for a day or two and gives a red warning 'STOP car too low', takes about 15 seconds for it to re-level after it's started.
Need to address brake light that came on yesterday.
Brakes have been replaced a few times.
Cylinder head gaskets (both sides) have been done twice (60k, 86k miles)
SBC unit has not been replaced.
Original Alternator, original plug wires (maybe plugs have been replaced?), does not look like engine mounts have been replaced, ball joints and control arms look good, only rust underneath is between the front and rear of the exhaust at the coupling. All in all, in great shape and I'm going to try to get another 100k out of it. I'm the 2nd owner and have limited service records (only through 2010). I will be doing most of this work myself or with my mechanic friend who lets me use his lift and knowledge.
Yay! This is a big step up from the last two vehicles I've owned, a VW Passat Wagon and a Beetle.

04 E55
112735 miles and still fast as F***!
I've only owned it since May but so far...
replaced front rotors/pads
replaced rear passenger door latch
replaced heater control valve
changed belts, diff fluid, plugs and valve cover gaskets
replaced fuel tank as part of extended warranty
replaced/upgraded IC pump to 010 version
Most of the stuff listed is just stuff needed for a 100k mile car.

I've owned my e500 for a little over 2 weeks. Has 214k and change. So far I've replaced the following:

Mass air flow sensor
Trans mount
Map sensor
Currently waiting on shipment of the drive shaft support


Looking to possibly replace the rear main seal, do the plugs, fix the small odds and ends. Things like the trunk button, replace the missing emblem, possibly rear bumper, 3rd brake light etc. But I am also contemplating an e63 face lift as well. So we will see.

Today I had to replace the oil level sending unit as it was starting to leak. Plus it was time to flush the break fluid again (every 2 years). Now around almost 155,300 miles on my 2004 E500.

2004 E320 4Matic. 207800 miles. Bought with 203K on it as a first car for my daughter. She will turn 16 in July ’16, so I am driving it for a while. PO fixed most issues listed here, trans is doing fine so far.

We have a 2000 ML320, gasoline engine, currently ~230,000 miles.

2003 with 155k. We put last 10k in 3 years.
Rebuild suspension compressor and changed motor oil/ATF so far.
Next week have new boot for front axle and visit to dealer for alignment.

2005 E320 4matic wagon. 172,000kms (106,875miles) Runs like a top.

Only issues with it right now are; the air suspension compressor is noisy but works fine; need the SRS harness repaired in the steering column.

I have 370,000kms on my ML320 when I sold. It still ran like a top also.

2006 E500 166600 Mi.
Drives very strong, no noises. 5000K oil changes Mobil 1 .
1 transmission and transfer case fluid change at 140000 Mi.
AC Compressor, water pump, alternator, Airmatic pressure pump,

As indicated in my signature data, my 2003 E500 just hit 159,000 and still running strong. I've had the usual repairs from wear and tear such as one front air shock, the Glycol transmission contamination which required a new transmission torque converter and radiator (warranty covered), serpentine pulley and belt, windshield sensor for dashboard dimming (warranty), leaking right value cover seal (three years ago) but just told right valve cover seal is leaking, and the main seal has been leaking a little for the last few years but not enough for me to pay big bucks to have it replaced so far. Don't understand why they can't make cars with a Main Seal that doesn't eventually leak......our Volvo 850 had the same problem.

160,000 miles, just wear items; including the fuel pump and sending unit. Just replaced my first set or rear brakes and rotors. The wear indicator hadn't gone off yet but I was getting antsy to finally get new rear brakes installed :-)

190,000 miles, drives like new, fluids and normal wear items. SBC, alternator, ECU, magnets under warranty. Conductor plate and upper control arm DIY

over 100k
 

I have a 2005 E320 with 129k on it.

2004 E320 gas 165,000
Runs amazing, SRS malfunction nothing else

2008 E550 4M 161K+
Nothing to report. Runs like a dream.

2009 E550 2wd-100,650 miles
Thing is a beast... needs some front lower ball joints-engine/trans mount-and some BC coilovers.

FYI -- PartsGeek Lemfoerder Ball Joint $34.33 ea http://www.partsgeek.com/catalog/200...all_joint.html

Lemfoerder Engine Mounts: $70.33 / Bilsteins $45 (depending on chassis #)
http://www.partsgeek.com/catalog/200...ine_mount.html

Bilstein engine mount $18.63 (assuming correct chassis) http://www.partsgeek.com/catalog/200...ion_mount.html

Hate to see people pay dealer prices for this stuff...

Thank you for the insight-however being i'm a tech at a dealer i get employee discount..... I'm a OEM kinda guy myself :zoom:

Me, too -- which is why I cited the Lemfoerders and Febis.

okay i see what you are saying... Are those the manufactures we get our parts from??? I have never actually looked at a manufacture on the engine/ball joints. How can you tell?

^^^^ above comment directed at you! :bow:

Right! Partsgeek will usually identify the OE Manufacturer by putting OEM on the listing for particular parts, but also there are some places that list them. Lemfoerder makes a lot of that kind of stuff for MB, as does Febi/Bilstein. The suspension stuff like shocks and struts is all Bilstein across many models, etc. Jurid/Pagid make the brake hardware, as does Textar on some models. I think there is a site out there that lists the OE manufacturers for various specific parts on specific models, but I'm having trouble putting my finger on it. I will post again if I find it. Also, I will bet you get amazing prices from your employer, but you can always check the specific part number at Huskerparts.com, a Mercedes dealer in Nebraska that sells online at amazing prices.

Shyyt-my price for 2 ball joints 2 engine mounts and trans mount 407-like WTF bruhhh!!!! I just need to find out exactly who the manufacture is so i can see if i can get them for the low somewhere else. you feel me?

there are dealerships who will sell Genuine Mercedes parts at a greatly reduced price: Husker Auto in Nebraska and one in Atlanta, GA to name a couple. If you want a quick and reliable place to search for OEM parts, autohausaz is one of the best!
I've ordered from husker and autohausaz A LOT! Although Mercedes-Benz do not actually produce the specific part, they are made to slightly different specifications when the MB logo is stamped on them.
Case in point: I ordered the OEM tensioner for my W211 and found it to be a bit rough looking. I decided to go with Original Mercedes (since it had originally lasted over 100k it was easy to justify the added cost for another 100k), this part was much "prettier" and overall looked like higher quality fit and finish.

The same went with OEM for BMW control arm bushings I purchased a couple years ago versus Original MB ones this year. Both are said to be the same manufacturer but the difference in appearance was night and day.

Mine just turned a few months ago. I bought it with 96K miles. I purchased the most expensive, inclusive aftermarket warranty I could get, so I'm almost hoping for more warranty items to occur so I can justify the expense :) So far, it has been serviced once, and the axle shaft needed to be replaced, about $750 at my indy.
https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.mbw...bc1724652e.jpg


https://cimg5.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.mbw...b0ccbdd131.jpg

You have extended warranty, take it to dealership.

I definitely considered that. I suppose it may make sense for a once in a while visit to diagnose and address multiple warranty issues, but for normal maintenance:
1. I will end up paying 50-100% more for normal maintenance which is not covered by warranty.
2. I like and trust my indy. They are very capable, have great customer service, are fast and I want to give them my business.
3. The local Mercedes service center in my area gets abysmal user reviews.

I also discussed this with a friend who has been a service manager for multiple European dealerships and indies. He's recently retired, but has a lot of experience with most aspects of the industry. His recommendation was 100% to go with the indy.

This is because people buy these cars and get pissy because it is expensive to fix.

There may be some of that. But there's also lots of customers service complaints. http://www.yelp.com/biz/mercedes-ben...es+benz+repair

when people write reviews its either super good or super ****ty-so all the ****ty ones i read seem to be customers who are unhappy with the car-no one forced you to buy this thing. The hybrid 1 star comment is a exception because there is a warranty bulletin for those hybrids-and they were disabled, thats really rude of them not to look out. Either way people get mad about fixing these things, it is quite amusing actually.

w211 e-350 2005
 

I have 135000 and have done routine stuff, like brakes,rotors and upper control arm. I have bought but not installed some camber bolts to allow more adjustment at the advice of the last guy who aligned it. Did not plan to keep the car more than 5 years, bought in 2009, but I can not justify it since it's been very reliable.

350,000 mile update
 

Update

Just broke 350,000miles
-rebuild transmission at 248,000 miles- Torque converter clutch started to fail(clutches and steels looked good)
-changed Fuel pump again

WOW! 350k! almost at the half million km mark. Gives me a lot of hope for mine @ only 170k.

-Year 2003
-Model E320
-Miles 195k
-Mechanical issues SBC Replaced, Oil changes, brake pads and rotors, and thats it in the 4 years ive had it and it still runs as if it were new

Just remembered to get the paperwork for the high mileage award - with 160,500 miles on my 2004 E500.

Major has been the replacement of the front air-struts with the Arnott air struts. Now have them for nearly 20,000 miles and love them.

The rest has always been fluids, breaks, tires, and, after 10 years, the batteries (yes, 10 years on the original main and secondary battery - I would say that is good performance)

Oh, I do have a active curve light that sometimes signals non-working. Too bad that fixing it would be $1400 (at least)!

-Year 2007
-Model E550
-Miles 115k
-Mechanical issues -

I bought this car with 114k on it recently and I couldn't find a ton of history on this car for anything being repaired other than basic maintenance. The only issue I'm noticing is a strong sulfur smell at WOT only. Canbus monitoring reveals LTFT are around -5 or so, and the catalyst temperature at WOT is hitting 1750 degrees F, so I think she's running slightly rich. After switching to ethanol free fuel, the LTFTs have moved to around -8 or so.

I did all the fluid changes as soon as I got it with the exception of the front Diff as we can't get the fill/drain plug off. I also did a top engine cleaning with seafoam and ran a bottle of techron through one tank and a bottle of B12 through another tank.

Other than that, I plan to do a MAF, all the O2 sensors, and the PCV bits and cam plugs. I also replaced the 2 K&N filters it came with, with Mann paper filters. I'm going for longevity on this car. I saw a couple E500s while I was shopping that had well over 200k on them, so hoping for the best.

2003 E500 Sport
139K Miles and still counting..

I just got her and planning to keep her for a while..

2006 E500 W211 over 100000 k
 

My 2006 E500 4matic has 174000 miles, replaced: Water pump, Airmatic compressor, AC compressor, water pump, valve covers, 2 sets rotors and pads, 1 trans fluid change, 1 transfare fluid change, 2 alternators, AC blower motor and the usual mantainance issues. Oil changes at 5000 miles interval, never went over. Runs great hope to reach 500000 miles.

2008 E300 4Matic
130k miles (203k km)

No major problems other than a light bulb here and there
But getting tranny flushed only as part of maintenance

Just bought a 2nd owner E500 sport with 188k. Almost like brand new. OCD owner with every molecule of maintenance done and not a single door ding. Going through the maint. history to see what's been done.

2008,
E350 4MATIC,
100434 miles,
Replaced front side lamps due to corrosion from water damage,
Replaced console in dash as it was drawing power when off,
Replaced battery,
Will need to replace a tire pressure sensor,
Will need to replace bad alternator.

2004 E320 Wagon 4matic
286,320 miles
BEST CAR EVER!!!
Normal wear and tear on breaks, tires, etc.
fuel pump, air pump and splitter valve for air shocks, front left universal joint

2007 E550 4matic
205k miles

Had rear differential replaced and normal wear and tear items. Now I need transfer case (not in valid list of VINs for service bulletin) and power steering pump. Replaced front left air strut this year for roughly $700. I don't want to replace anymore, but I know they are pretty much over due.

I love the engine and this is my only AWD vehicle at the moment, but It is time for me to invest in something else.

For what it's worth, my dealer got my transfer case working wonderfully just by doing that transfer case procedure: drain fluid, refill with fresh stuff, drive it, drain, refill, drive, drain, refill. Cost me like $300. Transfer case runs basically like new for past 2 years.

And the Power Steering pump is cheap. The Maval is the best rebuilt one, and the best value. About $170 with free shipping from Partsgeek is a pretty-good deal, and if you have a good independent mechanic, it's no big deal to put in.

2007 E350 4Matic, 135k miles.
Other than the right cylinder head replacement at 100k miles (misfire code P0302), just normal maintenance. Regular oil changes using Mobil 1.
Great car.

Rick H

2004
E320 Sedan (Gas)
143,200 miles
Just bought it a month ago
Inside and out not a scratch
or tear anywhere. Rpm fluctuates at idle
and shifts kinda rough on occasion but
that's minor. Love to drive this car at night.
Sorry have no pic.

Try cleaning or replacing the mass air flow sensor for the rough idle. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001CO2GE6/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1

W211
2006 E350 (Gas)

291,410 miles
Just regular oil servicing and brake pads. (DIY)
Doesn't drink much oil. Lovely car, drives like new.

any record of the balance shaft / gear being changed?

My son's 07 E350, 4Matic, has 135k miles on it and no mechanical issues. The engine is in the plagued production run for the defective balance shaft sprocket, however, has not shown any symptoms.
At 106k miles, we replaced the right side cylinder head due to the common valve guide wear issue. The valve guides are inadequately hardened, wear and the valve then wears the seat. The resulting leakage causes a misfire. The best way to diagnose this is with a compression check.

Rick H

Will do that thanks!!!!!!!!!!!

No, but it's a late 2006. Engine 272 number was not in the affected range. It's had all the recalls and a full MB service history, had everything done on time or so it seems. believe me, the first thing I did was check the service records, recalls and the engine number!

2 Gasoline engines to report on.

My fathers 03 E320 - 289k with original SBC, engine and transmission (all highway miles)
My 02 E240 that I bought whilst working in South Africa for 6 months - 122k, almost everything was replaced at some point from what I can remember, a great engine none the less.

I think it almost always is how a car was taking care of. I have seen a couple of W211's for sale with 300,000+ miles on them.

04 E320 4Matic Gas
160,000 miles

A real POS!
Motor mounts
Transmission mount
Both front air struts
Left front upper control arm
Right front lower forward control arm
Right rear axle boot
Cats
Air ride compressor...twice
Both batteries...twice
Brake light switch
SAS
Purge valve
Windshield wiper motor
ABS sensors
Etc.....
Car has now been sitting for about 3 months... still wont crank. Went out and purchased me an Infiniti G35 and fell in love! I will never own another Mercedes again.
...however, if anyone is interested in buying it...:naughty: :rolf: :hollab: Attachment 347818Attachment 347819

I have an 09 e550 4matic that is coming up on 100K miles. (97k currently). Its needed/needs the following:

Heater control valve (done, diy)
Drivers side front and rear door handles (keyless entry buttons stopped working, done, diy)
Needs front axle boots
Needs lower ball joints (likely just replace both upper and lower along with tie rod ends)
Brake Pads (done, DIY)
Thermostat/housing (done, DIY)
Battery (done, diy)

Other than that, just normal maintenance.

Its been a very reliable car. I love it every single time I set foot in it to drive it. Plan to keep it for a long time coming.

not to mention you unfortunately have the worst year/model 211 built (exception 2003). 4matic, V6, with air ride..... Too much going on too early. Nissans are nice and reliable :). No crank? starter :crazy::crazy::crazy::crazy: that isn't on the list hahaha

Lol No nothing! Starter is fine. Batteries "seem" fine. Lights, everything comes on, no noise at all when i turn the key. Been dealing with it for a while. I have done a lot of research or my year and model, read on many sites and spoke with quite a few mb mechanics that say i got f**ked! Lol. So basically if it would've been an 05, i would've been wayyy better off! Lol:hammer:

Yep, have fun with your Nissan and your rubber band transmission.

04 E500 4Matic

https://cimg5.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.mbw...7e58fd17a5.jpg

2006
E-55
130,000... 9/20/2017... Now 141,000
Struts. Rear air spring.
Magic brake pump. I got to pay for it. Grrrrr...
Ball joints, lower arms. Ball joints for front sway bar pivot in front suspension lower arms and links. Clunks and pops gone!
I got to cut and weld in a captive nut for rear subframe attachment. Curious what happened in this car's past. Elroy had been into both sides before I purchased it.
Gas tank that Mercedes paid for. Still intermittently stinks of gas.
Oil leaks on the engine... Old hard O-Rings and rubber gaskets. Easy stuff to fix.
Alternator. Serp belt and a few superdupercharger belts.
Miscellaneous and assorted sundries. Eleven year old car with electronics that work surprisingly well for 2006.
Tires... Lots of tires... Why does the car smell of burning rubber so often?
Love the car. One that goes like this needs to be loved.
Soooooo much more to life then good gas mileage.

Still love the car but have my eye on an S-65.

2003
E320
Bought it at 107k three years ago, right now its 164k miles.

Had to change driver door lock.
Driver side ball joint replaced
Gives me 29mpg with AC on

Regular oil changes after 8k miles

Runs with the wind.. I love it..

200k Milestone
 

Purchased with 42k

2008 E550 4matic Just outlined my 100K
Engine and drive train are great.
Have always had problems with handles with keyless go.
Regular oil changes with Mobile 1 or at the dealer.
Idler pulleys and belt
Wheels and tires (bad roads in NY)

https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.mbw...d59c648308.jpg
Missed taking 100K the right way but did get 123456. Very proud!

I don't drive a Nissan smh. Help him

04 E320 Wagon, RWD.

155,500 miles.

Done:
Airbags all around, compressor and rear level sensing harness.
Water pump, valve cove gaskets, spark plugs, four corner brakes,
fuel tank and sending unit.

To do:
Passenger side machine gun door lock, exterior mirror gaskets, door lock knobs
A/C pulley.

Overall, Dead nuts reliable once the airmatic is sorted with Arnott parts.

https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.mbw...77c26a2a54.jpg

Built year 2004 , 320 CDI, runs perfectly smooth. Returns nice gas milage. Indestructible OM648 Cast iron engine. Chipped with Carlsson to 240 BHP and torque of 580NM

My '05 E500 has 130,000 + miles on it now and it's become a maintenance nightmare at this point... Within the last 6 months, I've repaired the Keyless Go (broken wire in console), replaced the interior blower fan (squeaking), replaced both headlight assemblies, the Heater Control Valve, both front wheel bearings, both tie rods (inner and outer), both CV Axles again (3rd time now), Brake rotors/pads/sensors, and who knows what's next... Oh, and the windshield was replaced in February, but that was a rocks fault...

That is why i prefer the non bells and whistles. No 4matic for the sake of more components to maintain. 2wd all day, but i understand some climates can't do 2wd.

ef those axle boots. They always leak! When i repair them i always put a bead of sealant around the outer most portion of the boot. Still doesn't mean it wont split else where but if they are repaired correctly they should last a good time, depending on driver, area vehicle is in ect. glad to see you've kept hustling with it tho even tho it is digging in your pockets. True love right there :naughty::naughty:

2006 E350 4matic 230k
 

Purchased 2 years ago with 168k.

Replaced:
Water Pump
Power Steering Pump/Reservoir
Alternator
All of this was replaced chasing a noise from the A/C compressor pulley bearing.
Replaced the A/C compressor.
CEL light is on and codes point to Balance shaft.
I love the car, but I have no respect for MB because they did not do a major recall on the balance shaft issue. I also have owned a 1995 E 320 that had the wiring harness deteriorating issue that MB would not own and recall. It is sad that a company can be soo expensive, yet sooo cheap.

you must be new to the marque? ours has 295K miles, I have seen many 280K miles +
highest I have seen was 343K miles (original motor, heads and trans) ...

149,000+ miles. Nicest car we've ever owned & we've owned plenty of brand new and used cars... European, Japanese and US made. This optioned-out wagon probably sold for over $70K US new. We bought it for under $5K. Tossed some new batteries and air springs/ struts at it and it continues to amaze. Main point is to fix it yourself & $ave, $ave, $ave.

It regularly blows off a lot of other unaware cars. A true sleeper... "Wha-Hapeeeened?" :zoom:
Update: Recent 1000 mile road trip averaged 22.5 MPG. Not too shabby for a V8

I got mine at 67K and am now at 160K. I have replaced the water pump, and serp belt tensioner, both batteries, had the brake controller replaced under extended ten year warranty (with about a month left). The worst issue I had was a bad tele-aid module issue, which took out my sound system. I got a bad diagnosis from the dealer that sent me down the wrong path, but that was the most annoying thing to fail. Soon coming up on ball joints and front struts, which isn't too bad considering mileage. Other than that, just regular maint stuff, filters, plugs, etc... I tend to catch rocks on the freeway, so I will be getting my third windshield soon, but that isn't Mercedes' fault.

125 000 miles, e500 2005.
valve cover gaskets, fuel pump, motor mounts, control arms and service, rear armatic sturts. Nothing else.

E500
2004
125000mls

Currently Needs 2 ball joint, 2 lower control arm ball joint,2 hood support.
The shifter start button does not work and the trunk door release does not work. Suspect broken wire for both.

My 2cents
 

2009 E350 Sport 4Matic
101K miles
bone stock
Toyota reliability...no issues
front rotors and F & R pads at 85K miles.


The only complaint I have has been the need to replace the MB Tex on the driver's seat bolster twice now.


relinuca

We had to do that shortly after getting it. Dealer blamed it on the PO using the wrong cleaners.
It has been fine ever since. (We clean minimally)

208k. '03 E500. Runs strong and smooth.

162K now on our 2004 E500 4Matic Airmatic. Also runs strong and smooth. I was sitting at idle the other day and noticed that it was just like glass. Not bad for a 14-year-old car. I really love this car, and now I think it's good to go for a while.

Had some significant repairs recently. However, my fabulous Indy (who himself owns a 2004 E500 4Matic Airmatic) at Cove Tire in Glen Cove, Long Island, has helped me get the repairs done comparatively-inexpensively with high-quality OEM parts.

This year:

Replaced a/c blower fan (the TYC one from Partsgeek is fine, and cheap.) I kick myself for not doing that years ago. No more crickets as I drive down the road.

Air conditioning Compressor (thing blew up on a trip) (Denso)

2 pulleys and fan belt when the a/c compressor destructed. (INA pulleys; OE belt from Husker that I had as a spare).

A/C Condenser/Dryer and expansion valve (Denso/Egelhof from Partsgeek).

Replaced Alternator. (Got a brand-new Bosch from Amazon for less than anyone else was selling a refurb Bosch.)

Replaced Chip in front SAM to cure hot rear a/c problem ($2.37 chip; rear a/c now works perfectly)

Front wheel bearings (Timken from RockAuto).

Remanufactured right front axle at CVJ Axles in Denver (beautiful job).

Bi-Xenon control unit (got authentic Hella for like $150 at Advance with some haggling), Indy put it in from underneath in two minutes without having to remove the headlight unit. Bulb and igniter were fine; it was the freakin' controller.

Bi-Xenon bulbs. Bulb died about a week after we fixed the controller. Morimoto XB35 5500K from our friends at AZN Optics.

Driver's Door window switch (replaced it myself) (OE from Husker)

Transmission flush; new pan and gaskets. (OE from Husker)

SBC Unit (I didn't replace it prophylactically when I was thinking about it; could have had a new-but-unneeded one on ebay for $350 and a guy to put it in for $400, but instead I waited until it failed in spectacular fashion as I was getting off the highway; I could'a died, so was freaked and had the dealer do it -- $2000. Silver Star Motors in Queens did gorgeous work -- as they always do, which is unusual in these parts -- but they are expensive as crap. Oy.)

New suspension bushings all through the front end. Not terribly expensive as my indy pressed the bushings in-house. Made a huge difference.

New tires. Pilot Sport A/S3. Love love love them.

New giubos. They were cracking and I'm not gonna wait for them to fail. New transmission mount while Indy was in there. (Febi giubos and Beck/Arnley transmission mount, from Partsgeek.)

New rear brake pads (Textar) and rotors (Zimmermann). From PartsGeek.

Replaced Secondary Air Injection pump and relay and little blue check valve. (Did it myself; cheap. The pump is the easiest thing to replace on the car.) (Bosch, Hella, OEM. From Amazon, Pelican, and local dealer, respectively.)

New main battery. ($144 at Advance for the Platinum Autocraft H8 AGM, which is still rocking on our other Benz.)

Alignments. (Necessary d/t the daily LI to NYC drive on horrible roads.)

New Spark Plugs and Wires (and filters all around) at the big 160K-mile checkup. I did the easy stuff; Indy did the rest. (Autohauz AZ was having a great sparkplug sale; OEM wires from Partsgeek, Mahle filters.)


Future: I have a guy who maybe can help with the Sat Radio on my original COMAND, and I would love to have a better bluetooth option on the car system.

Oh, I forgot to mention, had to replace a split U-joint boot recently...noted during last oil/filter change.

2008 E350 bought it with 85k miles about 2 years ago, currently at 106k.

I've had to replace the following:

Front Upper/Lower control arms
Sway bar links (preventive maintenance)
Front Shocks
Rear Shocks (preventive maintenance)
Water Pump/pulleys/tensioners
Intake Manifold
Brake Light Switch
Oil Separator (had to replace it twice)
Alignment twice due to suspension work
Transmission drain/filter (preventive maintenance)
OEM Mercedes motor mounts (preventive maintenance)
Transmission mounts (preventive maintenance)
Blower Motor

To Do:
Rear Flex Disc needs to be replaced
As of yesterday fuel tank leaking PZEV model. So i have to deal with that now.
Drive side keyless door handle needs to be replaced.

It wont break :p
 

Mine has 100.000 miles (160.000 km) In greece we use w211 as taxis so i have seen many of them for over 400.00km and some at 600.000km which are about 230.000 miles and 400.000 miles. (Have in mind that the brake unit has a life of 1 million brake uses which is about 15 years after that you have to relpace it costs about 2500 euros)

2009 E350 4matic 132,000
 

Great Car
No squeaks or Rattles
300 mile trip last month got 27.6 mpg
No major problems

WHO HAS OVER 100K
 

Purchase new on European Delivery. Just turned 100,000 miles. Schedule E is due in 6,000 miles. Replaced front struts at independent about nine months ago. The independent had to replace the front struts about a month ago no charge when error appeared on the screen CAR TOO LOW.

Rear axle seals replaced by independent about a year ago. Previously replaced by authorized dealer twice under warranty. The independent said it looks like there was some type of glue paste on the seals. The first time the dealer repair the seals after I found a leak on the floor. About a month later there was a leak on the floor. The dealer billed Mercedes for new seals. Nothing major battery changed, tires replaced and normal maintenance. Tire sensors were replaced on all wheels at different times.

I will take it to the independent for Service E and the 100,000 miles service.

2003 e320 w/sport package
251,000
running super smooth
quiet...have faith my friends

Year - 2004
Model - E500
Miles - 125k
Issues - Just replaced the ignition switch, SBC unit. Currently have a small leak in the main rear seal, front right ball joints need to be replaced, Climate control controls don't really work (only blows on the windshield for the passenger and for the driver it blows through the middle vents)and the alarm siren doesn't work.

https://cimg2.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.mbw...e6486d8707.png

2003 E500 Sport
169k
Runs and drives smooth, but currently dumping money into the brakes and suspension.

Really, 100K miles?? try 300+ my wifes car has 303K miles - Original transmission, rear axle, water pump, head gaskets.
Did have to change catalytic converters last month and will need motor mounts next month.


cheers

I have a 2004 mercedes e320 w211 with 188k miles. It is very clean, no rust (california car), no dents, not even a scratch . AMG package sun visors, heated and cooled seats, navigation Love this car my favorite body style MB ever made . I replaced valve cover gaskets, spark plugs, and air filter 3 months ago when I first got it with 155k miles . I replaced fuel pump today . Other than that the car hasn't asked for much i dont have any problems with it not a single light on the dash 🙄 by the way I drove the car from san Diego California to Chicago and came back with only an oil change

My 2003 E500 Still Running Great 184,000 Miles
 

Just hit the 184,000 miles. Running rough at idle so had plugs and wires replaced at an independent MB Shop. Still some occasional misfires, so DIY project: I replaced all eight ignition coils myself with Bosch parts from Advance Auto.....guy said they are same German-made parts sold to Mercedes Benz as OEM. My cost $69 each; MB Dealer $166 - $211 depending whether you get them from an online discount MB Dealer (e.g., www.getmercedesparts.com or www.parts.mercedesbenzofDurham.com). Runs like silk now! Here's how I've maintained my E500 since I bought it Pre-owned in 2005 at local MB Dealer: Mobil 1 change every 5k - 6k miles; transmission fluid & filter changed each 40k miles; other fluids changed periodically such as brakes, power steering, coolant, etc; change spark plugs every 50k - 70k miles (MB says every 100k miles...... no way!).

Based upon www.mercedessource.com recommendation for high miles vehicles, I'm also going to start changing just the oil filer myself in between oil changes at 3k miles.

Major repairs: Intake Manifold replaced 183,000 miles; both front air shocks, one about 75,000 miles, the other about 165,000 miles; front end ball joints etc second time about 155,000 miles; water pump about 150,000 miles; fan belt pulley & tensioner about 160,000 miles. Warranty Repairs: Radiator and transmission torque converter from glycol contamination @ 45,000 miles; SBC Unit @ 60,000 miles.

The above are just what I recall without doing through all my maintenance records.

I'll be happy to answer any questions from you folks.

That's interesting to me. My 2007 E350, now at 176,000, has begun to throw a code randomly indicating a misfire on the #3 cylinder. I plan to replace just that ignition coil and see if that takes care of things, and if it doesn't to replace the rest. The coil replacement process looks pretty straight-forward. Looks like the design on them changed some since your model, and there are not the same number of wires and plugs to deal with.

I know this sounds stupid, but my biggest challenge on that is going to be getting the engine cover off. The front is a snap, but the back hangs on like grim death.

It's recommended to replace all eight (or six) ignition coils instead of just a faulty one. That's what I've seen as a recommendation.

I have seen the same. If I can get that back cover off easily enough, I may just take the opportunity to replace all six. Replacing just one may somehow stress the others, and the cost is not huge.

The coils work independently and can be replaced independently.

That's true, but if you have a 184,000 high mileage vehicle like mine, it's likely that all ignition coils are near their end of life, and it makes sense to replace all eight of them instead of just the defective one. Same goes for routine replacement of spark plugs, replacing all eight makes to most sense for the same reason. But that's just my perspective, and unless it's a low mileage vehicle where just one ignition coil fails, I've read it's best to replace all ignition coils instead of just one.......something to do with intermixing a brand new one with the rest that are worn and operate less efficiently......just what I've read from seasoned mechanics.

Removing/replacing ignition coils
 

FYI, took me about 1 1/2 hours to replace all eight of the ignition coils on my 2003 E500. Most challenging was removing to the two spark plug wires from each coil. Likely, I just had my plugs and wires replaced so the rubber cups from each two sets spark plug wire going into each coil was not "fused on" from wear & tear and heat. I just used a small head screw driver to loosing up each wire cup all the way around and then could pull the cup off. Removing and replace the electrical connector on each coil was easy. Also was cautious about unscrewing the small bolt hold each coil so that I didn't drop it down the side of the engine.......I had no spares!

I think that the design has changed for my 2007. It certainly doesn't look the same, anyway.

See this link (hope it works!)

http://www.pelicanparts.com/catalog/..._pg1.htm#item5

Makes as much sense as replacing all ball joints when the first goes bad, and replacing both brake, turn, headlight, etc. bulbs when one burns out.

Ignition Coils for 2007 E350
 

I don't think that's the correct coil for your vehicle. I'd suggest you first find the part you need on one of the online MB Dealer's parts sites such as www.getmercedesparts.com They offer discount prices on the MB parts if you order them online (not onsite at the dealer). See the part data below for your vehicle which you indicated is a 2007 MB E350. Looks just like the same part design as for my 2003 E500 except with a different part number. Then you can ensure it's the same type part when researching substitutes at other discount parts stores, e.g., AdvanceAuto.

ELECTRICAL / IGNITION SYSTEM / IGNITION SYSTEM / IGNITION COIL
2729060060 - IGNITION COIL
E350

Here's the gif picture: https://www.getmercedesparts.com/med.../5/5717175.gif

MSRP Core ? Save Online Price
$75.00 $0.00 $16.50 $58.50

Hmm. Same parts number on both websites.

Okay, I was looking at the picture of the coil which is obviously not the correct one for the part number.

Got to FCP Euro, or ECS for fitment.

272 ignition coils are extremely stout, no reason to replace all six. If you are replacing 6 of anything, I would definitely recommend the plugs. Delphi is the original supplier for ignition coils, buying that brand should save you a bit. The rear cover should not be a fight, I suspect the hinge at the rear of the cover is latched when you are pulling on it.

--Kyle

Removing the Air Intake Cover
 

So, see the photo of the backside of the cover with both pieces attached. After you take the front cover off, there are four clamp on brackets you can see at the front and rear of the air filter housing. I pull up the main cover front the back or front to unsnap the two brackets and then pull up on the opposite end to dislodge the other two. You see that the large round gasket must align with the MAF bracket in the back of the engine when you replace the main air intake cover.......once that aligned you can push down hard to engage the two back brackets and then push down the front of the cover for the other two brackets.

There's a clip at the back end that needs to be undone. I use a screwdriver to do it but your mileage may vary.

2008 E350
150K mikes
Battery/Alt/audio module for power draw issue/brakes
All and all it has been a good car.

Sorry but your gibberish about the balance shaft is BULLSH$T. My 06 E350 had the issue at 44700 miles, oil changed at least at 10k miles with Mobile1 0-40 and fleece filter.
I was a year out of the Tired LAWSUIT settlement but MBUSA did cover 15% of the $6400 repair.

Your post indicates rage so my regrets for provoking you, but thanks for first apologizing.
It would be useful for others following this to know more details, such as whether you are the original owner and any notable circumstances that preceded the failure. Realizing early on that my car is within the affected range, I’ve done a lot of research on this topic and have studied correspondence from the claimants as well as the legal filings and court documents. Also have gotten into the weeds with three different service reps and two certified MB technicians who are very familiar with the balance shaft premature wear who all agree that the gear was prone to failure but rare to happen when scheduled lubrication intervals are followed.
I like the car and, although financially able to deal with the costs of trading it for a new , or newer model, I just don’t care for the way MB has succumbed to the latest exterior and interior design trends. Why does one of the best engineered automobiles in the world now look like it was designed by the same teams that seem to make every other import look pretty much the same? Again, sorry for your bad experience and good for you to deal with the failure while keeping the car. Mine is now at 132K and getting an A service that is costing about half price with the MB winter service discount promotion. I handle all basic maintenance items myself or with a trusted indie but like to have the car inspected yearly at a competent dealer.

Ok I am the second owner, bought it with 22k in 2009, three years old! Took it to dealer for B service and a belt pulley recall. Since then I have changed the oil four times at 10k intervals with 0-40 M1. The car had 44700 when the check engine light came on.

If you have STUDIED this issue you would know they were sued twice and the settled the second one with a tiered reimbursement to replace the DEFECTIVE balance shaft.

Even if I had only changed the oil every 20k this part should not have failed so soon. I am lucky MBUSA covered 15% but imo they should have covered it ALL!

I get very upset when someone states that lack of maintenance in the reason for a documented inferior made part, albeit NOT a part made by Mercedes, its still their responsibility.

Don't even get me started on the SBC unit, I guess at some point that is going to rear its ugly head.

It is what it is. Pick a manufacturer, any manufacturer, and there are models and model years to stay away from. You got burned on a low mileage failure - not sure if you should be so angry at someone who hasn't experienced the problem at much higher mileage and isn't caught up in the hype. I change my oil every 5k miles - and the dealer was convinced I never would have experienced the problem. It still didn't sit well with me - so I changed it. The W211 is a great car - period. The balance shaft gear is an unfortunate instance in a very successful model run, and far from a high percentage failure rate. The SBC technology is exceptional for it's time. By 2006 it's very robust and extremely reliable - with replacement items way down in price and enough information to service it.

It can always be worse with bad rod bearings in Lexus and BMW models, IMS bearings in Porsches, valve guides in Ferraris, crappy trans in Honda / Acura models, head gasket issues galore in Toyota's. Just think how boring the forums would be without all this fun to be had fixing the OEM problems!

Were you the one who replaced the shaft himself?

Yes.

Thanks for pointing out those other car's issues, forgot about Toyota head gasket debacle.

Glad I spent the money on my car, im sure engine wise I should have at least 50k without a mechanical issue, but Im worried about the SBC system.

The car is now 11 years old even though I only have 45k miles.

I have not had the brake fluid changed once. I should probably have my local euro indy shop do that.
My car is in a desert location and always garaged.

W211
 

I had a 2003 e500 I sold with around 210k miles. It need both of the rear air struts replaced which is why I sold it. Only thing I did to it was replace the rear control arms and tires.

I since bought a w211 e63 with 94k miles that now has 101k miles. At 75k the previous owner replaced:
- all 4 air struts
- motor mounts
- a/c compressor
- power steering pump
- water pump
And he had all of that done at a MB dealership so he dished out a pretty penny. All I had to do to it so far was an oil change and some tires 😎. It should be good to go for another 100k.

Adabuf
 

146000 miles at 14 years 2003-2004 wagon. SBC has just raised it's ugly head.

134,000 miles on wife's '07 E350 Sport (non-SBC). I replaced the manifold earlier this year. Otherwise ... no repairs other than usual maintenance items.

147,500 on a 2005 e500 Wagon. I've had it about a year, changed the front struts and axles, crankshaft position sensor, transmission filter/pilot bushing, a few oil changes, transmission fluid, sprayed the bushings on the swaybar with silicone spray because of all the cold weather squeaking. I'll be honest, I regret buying this car but now I'm stuck with it. I'm waiting for the rear bags to go out, going to buy remanned OEM axles because the FEQ ones I put in are terrible, and always wondering about the SBC.

211,211 miles 2003 E320. Running like a CHAMP

230k miles. Original trans and engine. Still runs and shifts perfect.

122k on an 07 Bluetec. Original engine and transmission. Oil cooler seal replaced proactively. Original DPF as well.

2007 E550 4matic, just hit 101K, runs fine now
Motor Mount
Transmission Mount
Electrical fan (front part of car)
Oil changes
Brakes & rotors
Recall fuel tank replacement
Front air pump module

No problems yet but received the Service D sign...TBC

Very happy with my E350
 

I have a 2008 E350 4matic. champaigne, sport package, loaded with options, P2 pkge, Nav, sunroof, fold down rear seats for trunk access, with 210k miles. Bought it with 21k miles on it. Very few problems. Redone brakes 4 times, last time new rotors and new front calipers. Keyless Go/Entry driver's side doors work with FOB, not handle buttons. Replaced idler pulley, and front dampener, and have done most work myself after warranty. Dampener was the toughest job only due to the torque required and the special tools. Had windshield replaced once, and it is due again. I love this car it. For about 6 years I drove it over the Cascades Snoqualmie pass every day, a 100 mile round trip as daily commute with lots os winter snow and ice. Never a problem with it no matter how bad the conditions, and with Blizzack WS80's on all 4 wheels it is a virtual snow cat..... Just replaced both windshield washer nozzels, and one headlight washer nozzle, and will replace thermostat tomorrow. I also put a trailer hitch on it and haul our 5x10 aluminum utility trailer with it, which gets some interesting looks and comments.

Just crossed over 111k miles on my 09 e550 4matic. I've done all front end components minus struts and lower control arms. Transmission service, transfer case service, front and rear diff service. Thermostat, keyless entry door handles on the driver side (front and rear, rear is out again) heater control valve, idler pulley, brakes all the way around (rotors and pads) airmatic pump and just did the rear bags this past weekend.

Overall I absolutely love this car.

2007 e63 amg
250000miles
2 radiator
4 front air suspension
air pump
3 camshaft
rotors and brakes
etc etc

I've got a 2007 E550 4Matic with 145k miles on it. The front differential failed and broke a front axle while we were out of town over the new year. Oh yeah, and on the way out of town, a coil failed, which isn't really a big deal, but I knew that I'd be replacing all of them soon. I got this car form the original owner with over 30 pages of service records from the dealer.

I love driving it, but I've only owned it a couple of months now and its kind of been a pain. Hopefully I've got all the issues lined out and it will be reliable for me.

Chris

First post! I've got a 2004 E320 Wagon (yeah, I know I'm in the sedan forum). It has been in the family (2nd owners) since 2006, when it had 36K miles on it. It is currently operating on the original engine and transmission at 346K miles. Yes, 346K miles (used to drive from North Carolina to Florida at least once a month since 2006). I haven't been through the file (it's a big file...) that came with it of service records to confirm, but apparently the engine and transmission (except for fluid changes) have never been opened up.

Now, I inherited this car after it was replaced with a new VW SUV recently. The car runs and drives great, although there is some slight hesitation from the transmission around 2500 RPM. That, and I am getting a rhythmic sound when driving, which makes me think a wheel bearing is on the way out.

Glad to be here.https://cimg9.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.mbw...a152d2a4c0.jpg

05 E500 Wagon 4Matic 161,300 miles. All original. I have had this car for 4 years. The two biggest expenses thus far were my initial A service with my local dealer so I could develop a relationship with them.....then $500 for MBstar set up so I would never have to deal with them again. (I got charged $35 for resetting the TPMS...which this VIN is not optioned with. There was a short argument)

To date - This is the best "all around" car I have ever owned. I'm a single dad so when I had to put away the toys...I got the wagon which is peppy enough and holds seven. I'm looking for another very soon to build my fleet of estates.

How long ago did you get it?

At 3K miles a year, I would guess it is going on too many short trips.
The Balance shaft is a known problem, but the transmission is likely to be a time rather then mileage issue, maybe made worse by all the sitting.

The v1 and v2 of the VGS controller boards could be better. Good news is - if you decide to change out the conductor plate - you'll get v3 from a different OE supplier. The rest of the trans is robust.

I was planning on using a refurb service that will fix my oem unit.

the 722.9 is a stout transmission for what it is. Released in early 2002 if i'm not mistaken in the w230/220 chasis. It's gotten better and better over the years tbh. I don't think he's making excuses per-say. I agree that 47k miles on a 12/13 yo auto trans is no where near enough use imo. couple that with the fact you purchased a 2006, first year of the M272 and if i'm also not mistaken first year the .9 trans was implemented in awd models "s, e, c class"

December of 2012 over 5 million 722.9's manufactured. I'd have to say it's not that bad of a transmission. haha

And if it was in fact a poor design MB would have re-designed or applied a different trans when "direct select" became about.....

I think chrysler and a few others use this trans as well.....

I like the 5 speeds but fuel economy is very poor.

How many miles on your E350 and any trans issues?

'09 E 350 4Matic Sport
 

Current mileage = 108,000
Major problems = none
Minor things = recently had oil cooler and oil separator seals replaced due to oil leaks.
Mntce. History = Maintained according to "the book", except oil changes. Oil/filter changed each 5K miles, and oil sample tested annually...all results = Excellent.

relinuca

PS: For the past 35 years, our primary vehicle has been a luxury class car; i.e., 3 Jaguars w/mixed results, a BMW 740 iL...a terrific car, a M-B 320 CLK Cabrio...another terrific car, and now our '09 E 350...may be the Best of the Bunch. Presently, we intend to keep the E 350 for a couple more years, and then maybe find a pristine 2014-15 ML 350 suv.

288k+ and counting
 

2003 W211
E320 GAS
4 Door Sedan Sports
288K+ and counting- pls see the images in my album
(I am adding 175 miles per day Ubering in DTSF)


- No known or reported a major mechanical issue.
- Replaced the radiator a year and 1/2 ago.

* the previous owner who happened to be my uncle has been driving MB since the 70's and although the car has a high mileage he did a very good job in maintaining the car, he does oil change every 8k, replace transmission fluid every 12 to 18 months, lube and grease all the bushing on the suspension every year, as well as checking and adding oil in the differential box.

*brake fluid, coolant and power steering fluid, and engine oil, are being checked regularly.

As of today, the car is running smoothly the engine is quiet and with good compression. Transmission is shifting properly no fluid leaks. The suspension is making some noise every time I hit a bump. There are minor scratches and some dings on the body, all the leather, felt, dashboards, and woods, in the interior are all intact and well-taken care as well.

2005 E500 wagon 170,000 miles
 

Purchased at 129,000 . For two and a half years I drove it with absolutely no problems just regular maintenance. The car is a dream for me and my particular needs very fast very tight very comfortable. I sold off my small business and changed businesses and started driving my car for 8 hours a day and instantly started having loads of continuous problems. The first thing that went was the fuel pump when that was replaced then the front bearings went then the alternator went and working on the alternator by moving the Overflow bottle which had dry-rotted I broke the Overflow hose and bottle and that was replaced. Front driver side CV axle boot were replaced . Check engine light p0453 high evapoative pressure signal . Both rear air springs have gone . That is all in a matter of 5 months . I love this car when it drives , I hate it when it doesnt ! I need a large wagon for my other business , after driving this vehicle for a while I dont think I could be happy with any other wagon . Kind of like a junkie , a Mercedes wagon junkie . Lord help me I dont think I have enough money for this addiction !

I have had most of those issues too. Also the front ball joints, water pump and Crankshaft Position sensor. None were hard to replace and might be worth doing as preventative maintenance. Ours replaced a Buick Roadmaster wagon and this is light years better in every way.

2008 E350 Sport
Current mileage = 164,000 miles
Major problems: = None, but see below (steering rack)
Maintenance History = This week I replaced all rear suspension links and bushings (except subframe bushings), rear brakes, had brake fluid flush done, replaced steering rack due to 2 leaks on it, necessarily had PS fluid flush done.
Last year I had front suspension components replaced, replaced intake manifold (due to butterfly breakage), knock sensors, cam magnets , another variety of sensors and seals & throttle body (I think I ruined it cleaning with throttle body cleaner when I replaced the intake manifold).
~2 yrs ago I replaced shocks & struts, had fuel tank assembly replaced under warranty (due to issue with gas smell after filling tank).
Car runs absolutely great.

To those with transmission issues, I've done some research that suggests that the trans fluid MUST be changed religiously every 39,000-40,000 miles or transmission failure is pretty much a given

04 e320 RWD 100k miles
 

Maintaining a friend's e320 for him. Replaced the following so far

100k - water pump, passenger side PCV gasket reseal, aux battery, main battery. Will do plugs soon.
80-90k - driver side lower control arm, transmission mount

Other than this, normal ATF flush + ATF filter, air+cabin filter, oil filter changes

How important is servicing the transmission? I had a Honda with a notorious transmission issue, died on me at 140k miles. Even with manual trans, I change the oil when it gets to 100k. My parents' E350 that I maintain hit 100k pretty recently, and I do not want a rerun of the fate that befell the Honda.

+1.

I think the current interval is every 39K miles.

I replaced the filter, fluid, and pan after about 160,000 miles, and the thing shifts a little more smoothly as a result (wasn't bad before that, but definitely better now). But this is the kind of thing that local garages can screw up if they're not competent. Wouldn't get it done at an oil-change place. A good independent mechanic will do it affordably. Get the OE filter online from husker, mbdirectparts.com. And get the right fluid, not just any old fluid.

Very DO IT NOW!

2009 E350 4Matic Sport
at around 90K=new battery, and replaced some leaking oil seals on the topside of engine; replaced MB-Tex on driver's seat bolster...had to replace again around 110K.
At 100K, repaired electric trunk wiring harness...typical.
117,000+miles now, and car runs great...a well built car for sure.

Complaints?
I don't like the 18" AMG wheels...too easy to scuff...wish it had the OEM 17s", but the AMG wheels look cool.

relinuca

I do think we do not have the actual Sport package which would include stiffer springs, different front calipers, ect. I think it is very rare because people would rather pay for the AMG version of the w211 E klasse. perhaps AMG styling package is a better term for our cosmetically enhanced 09's

edit

No 09's were effected by balance shaft issue so no idea what your gripe is about

'07 E350 4matic wagon just turned 190K miles.
Major issues: Water pump, Fuel pump, Serpentine Belt, Air springs, Drive shaft and Transmission. (tranny was replaced with a used one @ 140K however that one is starting to misbehave now as well. I have a live time warranty on it so I'm not too concerned, yet).
Minor issues: Too numerous to list.
We bought this car used with 130K on it as a H.S. car for our daughter at an auction. In hindsight not very well bought and should've spend a couple of grand more for a well sorted example as I don't think the previous owner took very good care of it. I'm well aware of the "sunk cost" fallacy, but at this point it's the devil we know, That and paying for college is draining our budget faster than we can save up for something more reliable. ;(

My 08 E550 is around 144k miles now. Problems encountered are as follows:

Cam seals needed replaced (was leaking oil @ ~120k m)
Panoramic sunroof motor died (once under warranty, again out of warranty at around 130k m)
Airmatic strut failure as expected
Thermostat died that resides in the engine coolant reservoir.

So nothing major in my opinion, though I absolutely hate airmatic. I've done some basic preventative maintenance, for example, changing the rear diff fluid, changing oil/filter and fluids on schedule, and replacing the serpentine belt and associated pulleys/idlers at 130k. That's honestly about all I've done other than wearables (brakes/tires) and the car still runs great.

Just turned 139k on my 2006 E-350 base wagon. The engine was replaced @ 136k because someone returned it to the dealer filled with diesel fuel. (it was a courtesy vehicle for my indie mech.) He put in a new engine with all of the externals parts new inceluding a new fuel pump. He also replaced the plate on the transmission that controls the shifting. I just put in a new radiator about a week ago. This is the best wagon that I've had. Had a 2000 and 2002 E-320 wagon. The extra power is noticeable right away. I'm getting about 24 - 26 mpg highway at 70 mph. I'm liking it so far.

Why would someone replace an engine due to putting diesel in the tank?

Don't know N_Jay, that's what I was told. First time I saw the car it was on the lift with the engine out, the tranny and exhaust on the floor. Damaged pistons and cracked heads was one of the things mentioned. He didn't know how long the fuel was in the car.

2005 E500 4matic wagon 196k miles, I've owned it for the last ~40k. Still runs strong.

I haven't really had to do much, and I usually do it myself unless it's December and I have a $150 off $300 service coupon:
Crankshaft position sensor
Fuel pump and sending unit/filter (not sure which was bad, just replaced both)
Broken wire to the air compressor
Front lower control arm bushings and subsequent alignment (I had this done at a shop)

Current issues:
It's telling me to visit the shop for the Airmatic, but it's working fine.
It's also telling me to check coolant levels, which are fine. I'm guessing it's a sensor.
The check engine light is on, I checked the code and it's p0446 : Evaporative System (EVAP) canister vent control valve failure. Apparently it's an emission thing and doesn't affect much, so I'm choosing to ignore it for now.

Checking back in a year later. 124K miles on the clock. Only new things to add to the list are rear breather cover on the passenger side valve cover, oil cooler gasket, and the front passenger side rotor is warped (again) Im thinking that the CV axle on that side is slightly out of balance and causing the issue. Everything else is new (the CV is a high dollar rebuilt unit) but the caliper isnt stuck, slides/pins are clean and greased. So its gotta be something else. Also the drivers side front door handle is shot (again) Lock/unlock has quite working again. Everything else is as good as gold!

Still absolutely LOVE this car!

For the rotor warping ... check to make sure the disc is seated against the hub completely. If you take the disc off, and clean both surfaces (hub & rotor) very well (and lube somehow, I use anti-seize), and put it back together and see what happens? I had this happen on my right rear -- R&R & clean and all's well 20k miles later.

2007 E350 Sport Edition 176,000 changed the fuel pump/filter ,camshaft solenoids/sensors.

2007 E350 Sport, 102000 miles. Just purchased 3 weeks ago.

After owning a 2003 E320 for 3 1/2 years and a short adventure with a 2007 S550, I wanted a W211 again.

So far running strong, as it was meticulously maintained by previous female owner at the local MB Dealership.
https://cimg5.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.mbw...0af57aa35e.jpg

It's great knowing so many people on here own these vehicles up to 200k miles or possibly more.

Im pretty sure is was done at some point, just curious what you paid and have you ever heard the saying "The most expensive car is a cheap used Mercedes"?

Ill definitely check this when I am doing new rotors here in the next couple of weeks. I also now need to replace the front bumper as I just lost the bottom half of it in the last snow storm that we had :(

W211 2003 E500 Sport
 

2003 E500 Sport
107,566 miles
Ball joints, control arms, air springs, air struts, motor and tranny mounts, R left tail break light issues (Rear SAM), alarm horn (will deal with it), heat exchange valve(motor)(will deal with it), rear window curtain will not fold down(soon to deal with it), sunroof reset, radio reset, some minor issues with telematics, some bulbs need replacing on tail lights, etc...

So far no major repairs other than the usual air springs and a few battery replacements.

Ah! Broken clip hold for cigarette lighter case on center console, the cup holder needs to be pulled out, needs lubricating the sliding shell a bit, me thinks.
No power on the above mentioned plug for usb devices. Haven’t had the time to check why yet...

The blue tinted window films on both front doors are a bit aged, a bit wrinkled lines here and there.

Xenon headlamps need a pick-me up in brightness...
one of the headlights washer nozzles came off from the tubing. I saved it for later DIY time. It just popped right up to the windshield! Hhhhh

The left rear sits a bit lower than the right, when parked for a while. I think I need to replace the power steering pump, pulley and all. Also a new set of spark plugs might do some good.

Posting here the last OBD II scan for faults.



https://cimg2.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.mbw...5eec1eb45.jpeg
https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.mbw...53a4f7ba2.jpeg
https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.mbw...03e407c6c.jpeg
https://cimg5.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.mbw...f963e65b9.jpeg
https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.mbw...da5043115.jpeg
https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.mbw...6eb3d2748.jpeg
https://cimg9.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.mbw...5ebd202f7.jpeg
https://cimg1.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.mbw...146c1cca2.jpeg

What app and obd reader are you using?

Autel HT200
add-on App: Diag-BENZ (you pick 1 free module on reg)

https://cimg1.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.mbw...8f9a1dbc6.jpeg

It does the job rather well!

easy to find extensive info on fault codes generated within the app and out of it too.
It’s Bluetooth based and works on your cell phone.

I gave this one for a while now. There are newer versions of it by Autel

iPhone? Bluetooth?

iPhone and Bluetooth, yes!

The HT200 is Bluetooth and uses an app on the iTunes Store to set it up. But it also has an app for Android phones with the app on google store.

You can also get live data from it as you run the car with the scanner on the port and your phone.

You can save all the results on PDF format and save it on the app for later review.

It’s very handy.

2006
E500 (5,5 L) 4matic
103.000 miles (purchased 2013 at 62.000 from MB-dealer)

transfer case (directly at the first day - warranty)
TCC lockup problems - don´t get worse since 2013, maybe I try to fix this with a new lockup-soleniod
front bearing of lower front suspension arm (fluid-filled) leaked out - must fix this soon...

In general I always seem to be lucky with my cars ;)

Can you describe or give more detail of the TCC lockup problems?

The TCC doesn't engage in a smooth way but in 2-4 "steps" especially after shifting 2-3 and 3-4. The dealership once made a flush which of course didn't help (to my experience a fluid change/flush never solves a "real" issue) but caused and still causes vibrations at acceleration in low rpms when TCC isn't fully closed. Obviously the fresh fluid doesn't mate with the worn TC clutches...

I purchased a new TCC solenoid and all the drop-in parts for the 722.6 (mine is a 5-speed) I could find from Sonnax and will install these when changing the fluid next time. I will also try some friction modifyer (I know Mercedes forbids the use of modifyers, but the car is out of warranty anyway) on the vibration issue.

-Year 2003
-Model W211 E500
-Miles 150,400 Miles
-Mechanical issues Front Left wheel speed sensor failure, Rear main seal leaking, Flex disc cracked at the bolts. Total cost of repair will be about 4k
-Any other input you can give: The SBC pump, wheel speed sensors are covered under a lifetime warranty replacement from the dealer.

Whack-a-Mole repairs
 

2005 E320 4matic
135K miles, bought 3 years ago with 98K miles.
Fixed: Conductor plate, 2 front axles, 4 O2 sensors, EGR, CPS, MAF, wiring in trunk worn by hinge arm, lots of brake pads (rolls eyes 'cause he knows that's his fault)
Need to fix: Door luck actuator, SOS malfunction (ignore), nav CD reader, trunk wiring (again), air pump (works but throws codes), battery drain

Excellent road car (25-27MPG highway), guzzles gas in town. Typical European car: Weirdo electrical problems. I find German over-engineering a bit bizarre. 2 air filters? 12 spark plugs? 8.5 quarts of oil? 0-40 Mobil 1 isn't cheap. Let's put it this way: If I didn't do most of the work and buy parts online, the car wouldn't be worth owning. Called local dealer for a front axle and they said $900. Yes, I nearly filled my undies. Found one online for $200 30K miles ago and still working fine. Not a car for the average non-mechanical person unless they have a trustworthy tech with a very altruistic attitude. Also have owned a 2000 Volvo S70 for 12 years (186K miles) which is no problem and has rarely needed anything, and is stupid easy to work on. Can't believe how much I have to futz with my E320. Like the car but don't love it like I have others I've owned.

You can use any oil that meets MB 229.5 or 229.51 specs (Shell, Valvoline etc), either 0W30/40 or 5W30/40.
Here in Europe the "original", highly recommended Mobil 1 new life 0W40 isn´t available a few years now (due to "experts" the successor uses a different formula...), but cars are still running.
Mine also, despite it´s engine was never driven on Mobile 1 ;)

So my 2006 E 350 I purchased with around 165k about 31/2 years ago. At that time the CEL was not on and I figured that I had managed to escape the dreaded balance shaft issue. At around 185k the light came on and the codeP0016/P0017 made it official. I now have 222k, drive it every day approx 90+ miles round trip to work with no performance issues. My sliding rear cover has stopped, auto backup mirror adjustment is intermittent, rear hatch struts are dead, a slow leak down on my left rear airbag, and I have developed an unusual tread wear pattern on the right rear tire that hollows out the inside corner and causes the tread to separate in several locations. The tire shop said that that alignment was good but I have had to replace this tire twice this year. I think I have figured out a way to change the balance shaft without removing the engine. I plan on tackling that this summer. I still get 22/23 mpg on highway and love the hauling cap.

So you've driven 37,000 miles with a bad balance shaft? Any consequences? Worsened over time? When mine went the vibration was barely noticeable but I had it repaired within a hundred miles so I didn't have much experience driving it like that.

No problems. It is my daily driver 90% highway. Acceleration and cruising and no vibes. I just have to get a waiver for my tags since my county in North Carolina requires no CEL. I have done a ton of research, watched numerous how to videos on changing that thing, but I do not have a garage so when I decide to tackle this project it will be truly shade-tree. I have never seen anyone change it without removing the engine.

Mine can get 29-30 in the right conditions and average is 26 on the hwy

That is awesome Shack. Is your Merc a 4Matic?

'07 E350, 170k miles. But not without a new intake manifold at 160k miles and a new right side cylinder head at 107k miles.
Otherwise, very tight and nice drive.

No, 2006 sedan version of yours

103K miles
 

Bought used in 2009 at 29K, now has 103K. Bought extended warranty but cancelled it when factory warranty expired due to lack of problems.

70K Yaw sensor failed, Stealer wanted $2K to fix, reduced to $1250 when I declined due to cost! Never went back to him.

81K Evaporator temp sensor replacement solved AC freezing up on long trips. DIY

86K AC compressor replaced

< 90K Tumble flap arm failed but I chose to ignore this as they are stuck open, car passes emmissions, and mileage has not suffered.

96K. Bad oil leak from left cam plugs and right side breather

Replaced SBC battery at 57K and 99K miles with regular non-AGM motorcylce battery.

Change Mobil 1 0W40 oil (DIY) usually once at one year at ~6 to7K miles, or 10K whichever comes first. Tranny service every 39K miles.

About to replace voltage regulator to get rid of occasional low voltage warning, battery is fine.

Driven cross country 3 times, about to do it again this August. Great road car!

109K and no mention of motor mounts being replaced? Or any suspension arms, rubber bushings torn or worn out? Struts haven't been replaced? That is amazing!

i have 180+ on the e500 estate. just got done doing a LOF and state inspeciton. will need to do rear pads and rotors soon(er) and possibly valve cover gaskets in near future as well.

145k and running strong (sort of)
 

The car runs great, absolutely no reason to turn it in. It runs well until it does. When something goes wrong it makes me panic (primarily due to towing and stealership partying on me).
Brake fluid flush once (stealer)
Steering fluid flush once (stealer)
Rear differential fluid once (stealer)
Central computer module (stealer, in fact it was alternator that I did myself)

Oil change every 5000 miles (diy)

Following are DIY with parts from FCP Euro

Three brake pad sets (two rear)
Transmission oil at 106k, 133k and then again 133k due to leak
Lower balljoints twice
Engine and transmission mounts twice
Two front suspensions
Two rear suspensions
Two rear struts
Valve cover resealing
Alternator once (dont do voltage regulator alone, does not last and results in towing)
Coolant flush at 110k and 120k (once at stealership and once myself in 10k after stealership work)
Thermostat (BorgWarner, preventive)
Coolant temp sensor (preventive, bosch I think)
4th set of tires (always go for name brand tires, dont repeat my mistake)
Thurst arm twice (will do this again with Lemforder)
Upper ball joints (once)
Lower control arm (preventive, with TRW from FCP)
Tie rods inner and outer (preventive, Lemforder)
Front sway bar link
Crankshaft position sensor
Idler pulley (preventive)
Tensioner (preventive, just pulley but put back the original, will do this again with INA)
All rotors (preventive)
Front wheel bearings (one side went bad again, but FCP use-abuse-return warranty covered it)
Ambient temp sensor
Now on 3rd battery. First battery lasted 11 years, second only 3 years (all MB batteries)
Secondary battery once
Air filter twice
Cabin air filter (once, I doubt it requires replacement, after 14 years the original one looked like new)
Cleaned throttled body once
Cleaned MAF once

I was getting 23 mpg doing 80 mph, after fixing vibration issues related to wheel bearing I am now getting 26.5 (doing 80 mph). I remember I was getting 28.5 doing 70 mph but no longer have the patience to do 70 mph

2003 w211 e500 2007,000K gas .... no major engine problems, mostly front suspension joints and bushing replacement

141,000 on my 2003 E320 I have owned it for 9 months, was given the car by an older couple that was moving and did not want to make it roadworthy again.

I have replaced the:
Battery, aux battery, battery control module, battery relay, alternator, cup holder, right rear door glass (broken), fuel filter, visors, front brake pads, fixed trunk leak, cleaned carpets and replaced heater switching valve.

Next it needs a transmission service, tune up, brake flush, cooling system flush, rear axle service, oil change and a headliner. I have found no major problems with the car and try to drive it at least 250 miles a week.

104,000 miles on my 2008 E350 4Matic. I drive about 5-6000 miles a year.

-Oil changes (DIY with vacuum extractor)
-Brake service including fluid replacement and greasing calipers
-Air filters, cabin filter
-Spark plugs at 100k
-Set of summer and winter tires (Michelin Pilot Sport AS3+, Bridgestone Blizzak WS80)
-Upgraded to SL55 wheels for summer, stock wheels for winter
-Replaced drivers seat foam
-Full detail and compound/polish every spring

Only outstanding issue is the rear pano roof shade, it seems to have come detached from the motor? and won't open. Have to drop the headliner to fix it, but if I've been putting it off while considering upgrading to the alcantara headliner found in the E63 and designo cars. Front bumper could also use a respray.

2007 E 550
 

2007 E 550 (gas, not 4 matic), bought well kept at 34,000. Now 132,000. Keyless Go just stopped working 4 weeks ago, but otherwise nothing but well known brushings, suspension arms/joints, motor mounts-- costs not bad as either warranty at dealer or great local indie Goose here in SA. Considered selling cuz bought new cabriolet but keeping to see if can reach almost 300,00 mom's SLE reached. I am looking into upgrade of command audio as like functionality of cabriolet's system & rear view camera.

If it is just the start button there is a common problem where the wire breaks at the base of the shift lever.

Search the fix.

Thanks
 

Thanks. Done so & unfortunately (fortunately?) not just start button. Great info on issue but none worked. Probably end up paying dealer unless too crazy at which time will do as did in good ole days w first 8 Benz & use key.

2009 w211 153000miles timing chain tensioner problems

What is your symptom?

Do you DIY the transmission service? Is the transmission service a full flush (10+ qts) or a pan drain and refill?

also wondering about this

i am at 150,000 miles, pot holes in my area are causing me to have to replace wheels and suspension components, but other wise its been great.

I have replaced the intake manifold, various intake solenoids, the oil breather, and the transmission conductor plate.

I have also had to fix a hose on my sunroof drain.

Next project is CV Boot replacement

I do my own oil service, but without a lift, trannys are a lot messier on my garage floor so I let the local Indie shop do it. Drop the pan, replace the fluid lost and replace the filter. Not a flush.

mileage 185590 2005 e500 estate

recently had to replace the main battery (lasted 5 years), New tires all around, and alignment. Also did a LOF while at it.

2004 E55 AMG 204,500 miles

241k and going strong!!

2003 e500 208K running great, and even gas mileage is better then new? 18 in city , 28 on HWY.. maybe because using LIQUI MOLY Molygen is a high performance low-friction motor oil for year-round use. https://www.liqui-moly.com

Just rolled over 230,000 miles on my 2005 E500 4matic. (my first Benz after a slew of Saab and Volvo) I got it at 213k last year, hasn't beat me up at all in the 17k I've done. Came to me with no history(IAA auction, 2 damaged doors), but obviously "highly maintained" I swear the previous owner used to pull over and get out to break wind. Car still impresses me every drive, and I have no hesitations to drive it anywhere, any time, in any conditions

2003 E500
168k miles
Owned the car for 2,5 years, changed airmatic to bc racing coilovers because 3 of 4 of the struts/bellows blew outout.
also had to change the MAF once but that's it so far
Love the car

One piece of information I'd like to see is those with the higher mileage what all has broken or needed repaired/cost...?

IE: I have 150k miles on the w211 however, I've spent 22k in maintenance and parts to get it that far.
I think that would be useful information in terms of people that aren't at the mileage yet, would then be at least expecting running costs of a high mileage w211.

Our 09' only has about 60k miles on it. I would love to get it to that of the daily driver Toyota Solara which is currently at 214k miles..lol

-Nigel

https://cimg1.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.mbw...c9280974ff.jpg
https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.mbw...4a063fd62a.jpg
Looking to drive it another 50k to 75k!
https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.mbw...7e982b7fb8.jpg
While I realize that this thread is for W211's, my W212 was purchased in 2018 and was a previous CPO car. I did have to put in a tranny, which my MB dealer sourced out for me and warrantied it for 12 months, unlimited miles at a cost of $4,500 last year. Put in a Pedal Sensor in August, parts $136 and labor $205, MB Battery in October ($263), Brake pads and rotors at 140,000 in 2016. Vehicle had regular filters & oil changes but I am doing my own now with a top loader and cabin filter, air filters and oil change takes about 1 1/2 hour.

268 HP engine is a little underpowered, but seems bulletproof! I have a CPO 2015 GL550 that has a MB 2 year extended, warranty and will definitely buy an E-400 Wagon when it expires. I also had e a 2003 E-320 Wagon with 185k and it was just as nice a vehicle, but the 212 has the newer tech stuff and fits my needs better.

Sorry you’re offended. Didn’t realize I shouldn’t post here. Been a Mercedes guy for 36 years, but less than 2 years on MB World. Certainly wasn’t trying to degrade the 211’s in any way.

Dont worry about it, that guy clearly has a problem. He is NOT an accurate representation of most on this forum. Disregard him and just continue to enjoy MBworld.

Broly,

Post removed.

Kindly avoid flaming other members or do not post.

Bob

Thanks! Had a 2008 E-350 sedan that I think had the same engine as the 2011 and I wish I’d have kept it!

Wow, there a lot of heavy mileage 55s on the road but still looking good!

145K E320 Wagon, about the usual maintenance-wise since 100K miles. Overall satisfaction with car, high (third MB wagon in 40 years, bought one new, rather buy used going forward).

- Replaced all four rotors again last year, easy job (pads too, of course). They last about 50K miles.
- Replaced rear air springs at 125K (not a 4-matic car). Ditto air pump.
- Replaced assorted vacuum hoses - easy job (do them one at a time and evaluate). Inexpensive, and no special reason other than car is 15 years old.
- Replaced valve cover gaskets - did plugs while I was at it and believe it or not, OEM plugs looked fine! Same gas mileage, same performance.
- Replaced alternator (may have been able to get by with just the voltage regulator but didn't feel like it so I ponied up for the whole thing). Serpentine belt at same time.
- Replaced engine/transmission mounts . . . terrible problem. They last six months and die. Symptom is steering wheel shakes at idle.
- Replaced both rubber disks on driveshaft recently (trying to figure out why engine mounts don't last). Discovered flat spot in u-joint - and it's not replaceable. Got used driveshaft with plan to machine off the two yokes and weld on replacement yokes (ones for which I can replace the u-joints). Car is on lift to measure and ensure driveshaft is same-same (MB in their wisdom dropped part number for whole shaft for 2005 - replaced with separate numbers for each half - grrr). Anyway, presently have vibration under hard acceleration, which wasn't present before replacing rubber disks and mid-shaft bearing. Used shaft is #2114100306 if anybody knows for sure.
- Replaced battery again - car eats batteries so I buy 3-year AGM batteries.
- Replaced key fob batteries. Darn things don't last but maybe 6-months. Cheap, but still.

Overall, not much different from owning a Toyota. Pretty reliable car. Nicely built. Reason I keep owning. Also have W463 for me (wagon is wife's).
https://cimg0.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.mbw...02d6e0504f.jpg

06 e350 Balance shaft fix prematurely done odometer reads 125k purchased for my daughter.:smash:

What's the balance shaft fix?

The Balance shaft fix is removing the defective balance shaft and replacing it with the newer version, also had the heads gone through new timming chain, front cover knock sensors all sensors have been changed, car should run forever, .

Was this specific to the 3500cc engine or is the year older 3200cc V6 in my 2005 model E320 also prone to this malady? And what is the symptom?

I believe it effects all e 350s from 06-09.
symptoms can be a misfire, engine timming retarded, enginge failure worst case. Its not a difficult job at all engine comes out vey easy, most important thing is MAKE SURE YOU PIN THOSE EXHAUST CAMS BEFORE YOU REMOVE THEM. also pin the balance shaft everything else is cake.

You Tube , short list
1.Disconnect Battery
2 .fuel line only 1
3.lift vehicle (high enough to get under and remove exhaust)
4.drain coolant ,oil.
5.trans cooler lines
6. ac compressor, ps resevoir, alternator, they can stay in the car once unbolted not in the way upon removal or install.
7.torque convertor, engine to trans bolts, engine mounts,
8.starter .
9.ecu connection "passenger side only".
10.remove ecu from atop of intake set aside it will stay in the car.
11.cherry pick engine. Did mine in the driveway. Had engine out in under an hour.

I forgot you also have to remove the engine covers "first" lol.

Don't the fronts of MBs come off clean like the front of a VAG car?

Not sure if they are like the vws thats just way more work tou dont even have ro pull the fans or radiator.

Most VAG cars you just pull the bumper and support and then the radiator "carrier" and you have open access to the engine.

Doing some work on a Passat right now that way.

2004 E500

Just turned 225K Miles.
Aside from a current issue with the battery, the car runs just fine.

https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.mbw...d31b99e537.jpg

2005 E-500
124,500 miles
motor mounts
ball joints
master window switch
outter tie rods
2- crank sensor's
bought with 29,000 miles
oil changed every 5,000 miles(0-40 euro,mann filters)
plug and wires every 40,000
runs and performs great

I bought this 2006 E350 wagon 2 years ago with 159,000 miles.
It had 1 owner and a CarFax record that shows full servicing every 3 months, for the entire life of the car, at an authorized MB dealer.
I've had it 2 years and only put 7500 miles on it.

Another interesting piece of history about this car is the color.
Mercedes made a color called "Tobacco Brown" between 1963-1973.
Apparently this owner custom ordered directly from MB in Germany and had them go into their vaults to find some of this color.....so it truly is a "one of a kind!"
In the 7500 miles that I have had it it has been perfect until about 1 month ago when there was a fuel pump failure that was easily fixed for $300.

I found a really great local mechanic who specializes in MB's and is very honest.
While he was at it I also had him replace both front wheel bearings, brake pads, and ball joints.
I also put on new Continental Pure Contact LS tires.

I have also replaced the (synthetic) oil and filters (fleece) twice.
I'm planning to do a transmission fluid and filter change shortly.

Everything feels 100% perfect and , not being experienced, I don't know what other "preventitive" actions I should be taking.
I have owned BMW's and my last car was an Audi AllRoad wagon which were all great.
This is my 1st Mercedes and I am now fully converted....It is (so far) the best car I have ever owned!
https://cimg2.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.mbw...7b64bc37d1.jpg

cues, thanks for the interesting story about your M-B. It looks great!

115,000

on what model?

What service is required every three months?

'08 E550 - I've changed all four air bags and getting ready to do Motor/Trans Mounts. That's all the major repairs I've done.

2007 E350, 112K miles.

Regular maintenance, Ignition Coils, Spark Plugs.
https://cimg0.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.mbw...eb4e4b4806.jpg

How long have you had it?

Purchased in January 2019 from the 1st owner, an older lady who had it meticulously maintained at the local MB Dealer.

This car had a transmission service at 40K and 80K miles.
She told me that she was not able to change the clock, could never figure it out. So every daylight savings/end of daylight savings, the car went to the dealer to get the time changed.

I just rolled at 100k and have no issues and gas mileage have been consistent what I have been averaging 24-27 depend on my driving habits. Ive always do my regular maintenance and upkeep so it's been running like a champ, nothing ever broke or broken down on me.

2004 E320 Sport, 104,000 miles. Just had the 100,000 mile service done, I get almost 28 mpg on the highway. I've done a bit or work on the car, but decided to keep it, it's only worth around $5 grand.

Great car, but when it breaks, it will bruise your checkbook.

2004 E320 4MATIC Gas with 241K
 

Hello,

I have a 2004 E320 4MATIC Gas powered with 241K miles.

I am looking at replacing the radiator as the drain valve is leaking.

2004 E55 AMG

144k miles

Squeaky front brakes. New Akebono pads and Zimmerman rotors didn't help. (need to fix)
Small oil leak (valve gaskets, breather hoses, and oil filter housing)
That annoying supercharger delay/chirp (need to get a new pulley and belt)
Stupid SOS goes off sometimes (tried to disable)
Broken rear right ashtray (need to replace)
Broken rear window sun shade (will fix eventually)
Front windshield cover or cowl with brittle/broken rubber (need to replace)
Headlights seem very dim (need to upgrade)

https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.mbw...c9a5ee8a7d.jpg

Post deleted.

I used to get between 27-30 miles/gallon on highway in my old 2003 E320.
I sold it with 115k back in 2015 and still miss it.

I replaced it with a 2007 E-350 4-Matic , nice car but the miles/gallon is not as great as my old E320 that was rear wheel drive.

Are you still using Liqui Moly Molygen? Do you still highly recommend it? I can only get 10W30 here where I am, but I am thinking on switching to Molygen next time.

2007 E350 4matic turned 165,000 today. Notable repairs being: Transmission Conductor Plate, Intake manifold, and front CV joints
https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.mbw...f6babc69e.jpeg
165000 today

Congratulations!! My 2004 E500 4matic now has over 200,000, and runs like the day she came from the showroom. Regular oil changes and replacement of the parts that wear out, of course, but she's not going anywhere if I have anything to do with it!!

One thing I discovered: use the Bosch wires if replacing the wires when doing a tune-up. I used the OEM Beru brand about 10,000 miles ago, and caught a check-engine light for misfires recently. My (super-honest) mechanic said that they never really fit perfectly, and showed evidence of (I forgot the word he used but I envisioned it as) scorching. I had a couple of coils that were bad (not sure whether one was the result of the other). Replaced with the Bosch wires and new Bosch coils (from PartsGeek and RockAuto -- reasonable enough), and she idles better than she has literally in years. Who knew? The Bosch stuff works great and is still affordable at PartsGeek and RockAuto, if a little more expensive than the Bremi. Probably won't need to touch them for many years now.

2007 e350 4matic 153831 miles
its got some transmission shifting issues I deliver newspapers in it so I put about 60 miles on it a night 6 nights a week. Had to replace most of the front end suspension. But other than it drives fine starts every time no problem

My last '03 E500 had 254K when I felt compelled to sell it. The trans had begun to act up, which at the time I didn't understand may have been an easy fix anent conductor plate, or other straightforward fix. It burned @ 1qt engine oil each 1500 miles, which I understand is normal. Otherwise it was solid.

I now have another '03 E500 which I bought at 172K. It now has 181K. It's had the trans rebuilt at 60K which I don't understand what was done or if a complete rebuild was necessary. It ran and runs well, but had never had the factory plugs replaced, which I promptly did. Changed all filters and fluids, cleaned out the egr, maf, throttle, etc... and replaced a slew of vacuum hoses. One door is inop on the keyless go, and the Airmatic air pump makes noise, but the system works well. The interior and body are solid except for paint needed on the front bumper. It doesn't burn oil. And all recalls and maintenance campaigns have been performed. Fast and nimble.

07 E350 4Matic 177K miles.
Still going strong.

2003 E320 - 257,000 miles

2004
E320 Petrol Wagon Basic
125,000 miles
absolute gorgeous condition. I expect another 100k. Use highest octane gas and keep the best oil up to it. I change the oil every 5000 miles or so. Keep the servicing up and keep the mechanic honest!

im near the mid 200kms on my w210 e320......just replaced door handles and front seatbelt, aircon compressor, visors.....ah so good to see spare parts being availabel for such a long time....also speakers...did steering rack a few years ago.......great car

Sell!
 

Seriously, it's ridiculous to witness what these so-called German engineered luxury performance sedans fail after 50k miles. And my E500 is prime, garaged, maintained and no Toyota I've ever owned experienced catastrophic brake system failure - even at 300k. Now we know why used Mercedes is so cheap.

Wait, you just figured this out? LMFAO

There's plenty of MBs well over 300k miles but the owners invested in maintainance. People expecting to get 300k miles without maintainance are delusional. Most of these older MBs are not maintained because it's expensive. The car keeps depreciating but the cost of repairs doesn't. Being able to afford to buy an old Mercedes is one thing but can you afford to maintain it? I doubt it. That's main reason Toyota's routinely go past 300k miles and keep their value while Mercedes don't. Those of us that are able to wrench on our cars have a district advantage. The parts are cheap, the labor is expensive. I can buy a $3000 w211 with 170k miles that the previous owner neglected for years, invest another $2000 in parts and I have a reliable $5000 car that will last me another 10 years. Take the same car to a mechanic and you're looking at a $10000 bill just to catch up on deferred maintainance. If you don't know how to DIY, you're better off with a $13000 used Toyota.

I just replaced the right front air shock on my 2004 E500 4Matic. And, of course, the air pump. Arnott for both. [I used the remanufactured Arnott strut, because Arnott remanufactures the adaptive damping shock, changes the shock oil, etc., and so maintains the adaptive damping feature, whereas the new Arnott strut uses a shock without the adaptive damping.]

Interestingly, the left front air shock failed within the first 5 years and was replaced out of warranty at the dealer (before we knew better). Ouch.

The one that just failed was original, so it lasted almost 3 times as long as the left one.

Now, at over 220,000 miles and almost 18 years, my car is running like a champ again.

E320 2002 W210
 

Beautiful, just replaced door handle, drivers seat belt , two sunvisors, speakers with genuine parts.....240,000km petrol and going strong
Very few problems unlike my S65AMG which is tichy and higher maintenance

We just got 2008 E350 120,000 miles on it. We really hope it will survive next 10 years, another 100,000 miles. Our 2002 C320 is now 220,000 miles. While it still runs, it has many issues...

2004 E500
 

207960 as of today. 28mpg, everything works like new. Expecting another 100K

2013 E350 Wagon
121,890 miles
MPG average which is 50/50 town and highway is 19. Trips on freeway show a solid 26 at 80 mph which is our limit in Texas on the Interstates. I never run the car without ac which eats up mpg.
replaced spark plugs at 100,000 since they were original
replaced pads and rotors, front, and pads rear at 100,000 since they original
replaced tires because they wear out
replaced windshield at 100,000 because they wear out on any car
installed Bilstein B4's because I always ride on Bilstein or Koni
other work is maintenance: oil and filters, antifreeze, wipers etc.
All options except massaging seats and parktronic
When I bought the car at 90,000, the dealer updated all of the software for $55 (MBRace does not work because Mercedes reneged on their agreement with Verizon)
Updated Navi for $125
This car is rock solid and a dream to drive. I will never again own a car without electric steering ( a dream) and radar! I live in Texas and when the weather is over 100 degrees, the ac is fantastic. Car easily exceeds a ton when the roads are empty and "safe." I installed the highest performance Michelin tires you can buy and they are a game changer like nothing else. Xenon headlights that turn with the car are incredible and super bright.
I am a Mercedes mechanic so I take care of the car myself for most items.
The main things I need in a car are 1. Safety 2. Beautiful condition interior 3. Reliability. This car has all those features and is a dream to own and drive.
One has to be vary careful when buying a used Mercedes because the maintenance/upkeep costs can be breathtaking.
My 1998 E300D was also a dream car but the maintenance and replacement items needed was Enormous and I had to sell it because it just ate up parts.
Also, I think Mercedes wagons are a better car because they make so few of them that I believe they do a much better job of construction.
Last, buy a gently driven car with lowest mileage. My car was an ex-corporate car and well treated.
At the end of the day, if you want the latest technology and solid luxury and cache, a Mercedes is a good choice. Great safety. And things like the radar which I have has been around since 2006 whereas Toyota is only now catching up. If you don't care about those things and want the easiest car to maintain etc. buy a Camry or Avalon etc.

Just ticked over 150k miles on my 2007 E550 today. Of course, a cop had to ruin my fun by giving me a ticket for modded exhaust (M273 sounds so muscular, I love it). Also used to have a 2003 E500 with over 200k on it that I’d still be driving today if it weren’t totaled…

March 2003 E500.
Currently showing 171,999 kilometres (106,875 miles)

Graeme

2003 E55 AMG
Currently 167231 Miles (Lightly modified)
Pulling strong with no issues

-Year 2008
-Model E350 Sport
-Miles 141,000
-Mechanical issues - Belt Tensioner, Idler Pulley (upper), Idler Pulley (lower), Front and Rear Rims numerous times, Light Assembly, SAM, Power Supply and Fuse Box, Spring Arms, Control Arms, Lower Ball Joints, Upper Ball Joints, Wheel Bearing and Hub Assembly (front right and left), Tie Rod Ends (outer and inner for right and left), Mass Air Flow Sensor, Crankcase Vent Valve Kit, Power Brake Booster, A/C Blower Motor.
-Any other input you can give

Bigger ticket repairs started af 120M miles or so during 2018. My son and I did a lot of the work, which makes it more tolerable financially. My biggest complaint is the low profile tires. The roads in New Orleans are horrible, so blowouts and cracked rims are more common than I would like. Other than that, great car.

- 2003 Mercedes-Benz E500
- 220,829 Miles
- Mechanical Issues - Starting with Major Suspension work. Replaced all Upper, Lower Ball joints (Replaced Multiple Times), Control arms and Tie Rods with LEMFÖRDER. Replaced Front and Back Air Suspension with Arnott. Sway Bar and Motor mounts recently done. Replaced Secondary Air Pump and hoses. SBC and Gas Tank Warranty replacement completed by MB Dealer. Radiator had a crack in the upper flow chamber. Replaced Radiator with transmission fluid flush with Differential fluid completed at the same time. Power Steering pump had a loud squeal on cold starts. Replaced Power steering Pump with fluid change. Washer Fluid Hose and Pump replaced. Heater Control Valve done. Recently completed Valve Cover Gaskets and Reseal breather covers. Main Battery and Auxiliary Battery Replaced. Alternator replaced.

Future Repairs - Needs OBDII port replaced. Just waiting on parts to ship. Driver Side B-Pillar will be replaced soon. Needs minor body work from rock chips.

https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.mbw...fc8696dbac.jpg

2004 E320 4matic Estate Wagon.
197,000 miles, 2nd owner, Alaskan car in Ohio
I've replaced the rear SAM module, all of the batteries, secondary catalytic converters which had split open.
Other than regular maintenance like oil changes, brake pads, and tires, I've done nothing to the car other than what is listed above.
My gauge cluster has a few electrical faults but the car rides great, runs smooth, and shifts cleanly.
It is in absolutely gorgeous condition and I plan to do only mild cosmetic and comfort modifications.
I'm aware how brittle and fickle these things can be, I bought the car for a very cheap price, and I know it will eventually fail me. I'm just seeing where I'll be stranded with brake failure or a transmission code.
I love it.

Over 100k mi on w211
 

I am the lucky owner of a 06 E350AWD (LOL!) that has been in limp mode in my driveway for 2+ years! I have replaced the conductor plate and ATF, elec plug (dry) and would like to replace the TCM if I could only find the sucker! I looked in the passenger footwell (above and below the carpet) and found nothing. I am at the point of sending this beautiful car to the salvage yard. I'd sell it but hate the thought of putting this pig in someone else's driveway. It also has the Balance Shaft issue and the fuel pumps/gas tank were replaced under the exnteded 25 yr warranty.
Anyway, to answer your question, I have 155K Mi on a 06 E350AWD and must have entered the grenade mode.

If you replaced the plug and conductor plate then it's probably either the TCU or the shift module. I found both on ebay for an ok price.

My problem ended up being the shift module, which get wonky when you spill drinks in the console.

I have an extra TCU if you want to try that. Find the best deal you can on ebay or whatever and I'll sell you mine for $5 cheaper if you want.

Someone made this on another site, might help with TCU:
https://www.benzworld.org/attachment...2-jpg.2618782/
Here's a video on replacing the shift module: