E550 Sinking
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Oct 2006
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From: New Jersey
E550 4MATIC
It's normal for the AIRMATIC to settle after locking the car a bit, but when it sinks that much then something is wrong. I think it is commong for dirt or particles to get into the valve and then it can't close so the bellows keep losing air.
Super Member
Joined: Dec 2010
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From: New Jersey
2016 Audi S8 Plus/ 2011 Mercedes e550 4Matic//Gone:1985 500SEL/2000 e320 4Matic/ 2001 e55 Kleeman
They replaced the rear airshocks and after sitting over night at the dealership, they tell me it did not sink. I will report back after I get the car back and have it for a few days. Regards. Ned.
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Joined: Oct 2010
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From: Southern US
2010 E550, 273 Engine: 2012 S550, 278 Engine
Guess you can welcome me to the group. My car is now sinking in the rear. It did it once before after sittiong for 10 days. It looked like the right rear went down as the left side was staying higher.
Then earlier this week both sides in rear went down after two days of sitting in an airport garage. A day after that it did not sink but today both sides in rear went all the way down after sitting only for about 40 minutes. Now it has been ok for a few hours but it seems the left side is higher than righ. I'll take it to the dealer next week.
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From: North Scottsdale, AZ
'71 Pinto
Reference bulletin LI32.22-P-048597 – vehicle drops at rear axle. Dealer should perform all leak tests for Airmatic using DAS “following instructions exactly”, and perform compressor test using DAS.
If tests produce no findings, measure vehicle level at the rear axle on left and right from the wheel center to the fender. Leave the vehicle standing overnight and next day check the vehicle level at both wheels. If the vehicle level has dropped by more than 20 mm, the corresponding air suspension element must be replaced. If the vehicle level on both sides has dropped by more than 20 mm, both air suspension elements on the rear axle must be replaced.
If tests produce no findings, measure vehicle level at the rear axle on left and right from the wheel center to the fender. Leave the vehicle standing overnight and next day check the vehicle level at both wheels. If the vehicle level has dropped by more than 20 mm, the corresponding air suspension element must be replaced. If the vehicle level on both sides has dropped by more than 20 mm, both air suspension elements on the rear axle must be replaced.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Oct 2010
Posts: 5,123
Likes: 1,288
From: Southern US
2010 E550, 273 Engine: 2012 S550, 278 Engine
Reference bulletin LI32.22-P-048597 – vehicle drops at rear axle. Dealer should perform all leak tests for Airmatic using DAS “following instructions exactly”, and perform compressor test using DAS.
If tests produce no findings, measure vehicle level at the rear axle on left and right from the wheel center to the fender. Leave the vehicle standing overnight and next day check the vehicle level at both wheels. If the vehicle level has dropped by more than 20 mm, the corresponding air suspension element must be replaced. If the vehicle level on both sides has dropped by more than 20 mm, both air suspension elements on the rear axle must be replaced.
If tests produce no findings, measure vehicle level at the rear axle on left and right from the wheel center to the fender. Leave the vehicle standing overnight and next day check the vehicle level at both wheels. If the vehicle level has dropped by more than 20 mm, the corresponding air suspension element must be replaced. If the vehicle level on both sides has dropped by more than 20 mm, both air suspension elements on the rear axle must be replaced.
Thanks königstiger !!
Super Member
Joined: Dec 2010
Posts: 908
Likes: 19
From: New Jersey
2016 Audi S8 Plus/ 2011 Mercedes e550 4Matic//Gone:1985 500SEL/2000 e320 4Matic/ 2001 e55 Kleeman
Reference bulletin LI32.22-P-048597 – vehicle drops at rear axle. Dealer should perform all leak tests for Airmatic using DAS “following instructions exactly”, and perform compressor test using DAS.
If tests produce no findings, measure vehicle level at the rear axle on left and right from the wheel center to the fender. Leave the vehicle standing overnight and next day check the vehicle level at both wheels. If the vehicle level has dropped by more than 20 mm, the corresponding air suspension element must be replaced. If the vehicle level on both sides has dropped by more than 20 mm, both air suspension elements on the rear axle must be replaced.
If tests produce no findings, measure vehicle level at the rear axle on left and right from the wheel center to the fender. Leave the vehicle standing overnight and next day check the vehicle level at both wheels. If the vehicle level has dropped by more than 20 mm, the corresponding air suspension element must be replaced. If the vehicle level on both sides has dropped by more than 20 mm, both air suspension elements on the rear axle must be replaced.
Super Member
Joined: Dec 2010
Posts: 908
Likes: 19
From: New Jersey
2016 Audi S8 Plus/ 2011 Mercedes e550 4Matic//Gone:1985 500SEL/2000 e320 4Matic/ 2001 e55 Kleeman
As Konigstiger said, my invoice says that my car failed the 20mm test on both sides after sitting over night. I picked it up yesterday and no sinking this morning. It was cold last night as well so that's a good sign. It seemed to sink more in the cold weather, I guess the seals that are leaking contract more. I don't yet have an opinion if the car drives any better. Regards. Ned.
Super Member
Joined: Dec 2010
Posts: 908
Likes: 19
From: New Jersey
2016 Audi S8 Plus/ 2011 Mercedes e550 4Matic//Gone:1985 500SEL/2000 e320 4Matic/ 2001 e55 Kleeman
The car definitely drives better with the new rear air shocks. I wasn't sure this was going to be the case, as the compressor seemed to keep the car at the right height. But the ride seems better, not as harsh over rough roads and just more comfortable. So any of you e550 owners out there should pay attention to this sinking issue and get it fixed. Don't assume that it is normal for the car to be lower after sitting over night even if the compressor then kicks in to raise it!!! It may become a TSB issue as opposed to a recall, which means they won't fix it until you ask them to. Regards. Ned.
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Senior Member
Joined: Jun 2011
Posts: 356
Likes: 103
2021 GLE 450
Okay, so after all this conversation about the airmatic, what's the bottom line here on this system?
I have a 2012 E550 4Matic on order. The service magr told me after a long conversation about this subject the following:
The airmatic system was problematic with the "s" series back in the early 2000's being 2000-2005-6. He told me he has not had any problems with the system at all to speak of and he felt comfortable in purchasing a car with this installed. Where I live gets very cold weather. he said in the last couple of years he has not had an cars in for problems at all.
So, what the parameter for this system. Does it work or not? If there has been all kinds of problems and big time warranty claims to MB, why would they not fix the concerns?
Is there a minimum standard of performance with this system I.E. in 1 week it is acceptable for the car to drop so many mm's?
I look forward to some responses with interest.
Toban
I have a 2012 E550 4Matic on order. The service magr told me after a long conversation about this subject the following:
The airmatic system was problematic with the "s" series back in the early 2000's being 2000-2005-6. He told me he has not had any problems with the system at all to speak of and he felt comfortable in purchasing a car with this installed. Where I live gets very cold weather. he said in the last couple of years he has not had an cars in for problems at all.
So, what the parameter for this system. Does it work or not? If there has been all kinds of problems and big time warranty claims to MB, why would they not fix the concerns?
Is there a minimum standard of performance with this system I.E. in 1 week it is acceptable for the car to drop so many mm's?
I look forward to some responses with interest.
Toban
Member
Joined: Feb 2011
Posts: 93
Likes: 0
From: Raleigh, NC
2008 E350 2013 Tahoe 2007 Mustang GT Conv.
After all these years, why MB hasn't designed a reliable air suspension is beyond me.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Jun 2007
Posts: 1,936
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From: Huntington NY
S560
For those who remember I had major issues with my 2010 E550 getting slammed when it sat for 2 days. In the end my car was lemoned:
https://mbworld.org/forums/e-class-w...t-purpose.html
They really need to fix this!
https://mbworld.org/forums/e-class-w...t-purpose.html
They really need to fix this!
Super Member
Joined: Jun 2011
Posts: 576
Likes: 8
From: Placitas, NM
E550
For those who remember I had major issues with my 2010 E550 getting slammed when it sat for 2 days. In the end my car was lemoned:https://mbworld.org/forums/e-class-w...t-purpose.htmlThey really need to fix this!
Thanks,
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Jan 2011
Posts: 1,747
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From: Central Pennsylvania
2012 S350 Bluetec 4Matic, Diamond White, P2
Okay, so after all this conversation about the airmatic, what's the bottom line here on this system?
I have a 2012 E550 4Matic on order. The service magr told me after a long conversation about this subject the following:
The airmatic system was problematic with the "s" series back in the early 2000's being 2000-2005-6. He told me he has not had any problems with the system at all to speak of and he felt comfortable in purchasing a car with this installed. Where I live gets very cold weather. he said in the last couple of years he has not had an cars in for problems at all.
So, what the parameter for this system. Does it work or not? If there has been all kinds of problems and big time warranty claims to MB, why would they not fix the concerns?
Is there a minimum standard of performance with this system I.E. in 1 week it is acceptable for the car to drop so many mm's?
I look forward to some responses with interest.
Toban
I have a 2012 E550 4Matic on order. The service magr told me after a long conversation about this subject the following:
The airmatic system was problematic with the "s" series back in the early 2000's being 2000-2005-6. He told me he has not had any problems with the system at all to speak of and he felt comfortable in purchasing a car with this installed. Where I live gets very cold weather. he said in the last couple of years he has not had an cars in for problems at all.
So, what the parameter for this system. Does it work or not? If there has been all kinds of problems and big time warranty claims to MB, why would they not fix the concerns?
Is there a minimum standard of performance with this system I.E. in 1 week it is acceptable for the car to drop so many mm's?
I look forward to some responses with interest.
Toban
Some folks, in fact quite probably the vast majority have no problems with airmatic. There are some that have bad parts, as this can happen with a bad run from a supplier. Keep in mind, forums tend to attract enthusiasts, folks looking for answers to problems, and folks looking for general information, perhaps to help make a purchasing decision. Of course there are other but those are the main groups. That said, in a forum you will likely see several users with a common complaint. When you think of the number of individuals on the forums complaining compared to the total number of vehicles out there, it is not a representative sample. It is a Mercedes. If your car sinks, they wil replace the suspension. If it sinks again, they will fix it again. It does not seem to be an issue that effects the drivability. after the second fix, it is likely you can request an extended warranty on just those failing parts from the regional office. I had an issue with an Acura. The parking brake would loosen over time and would not support the car on an incline. It was replaced half a dozen times. After talking with the regional manager, he arranged for the parts to be replaced at every service. Eventually, they finally figured it out and a permanent replacement was installed. These are weird issues and probably not as wide spread as the boards can make them seem. That said, there is smoke, so there could be fire. Be cautious, but not OCD about it. If the car make you smile just get it. It is after all only a car, and, I am pretty sure they are gonna make a lot more of them.
Last edited by ImInPA; Feb 17, 2012 at 12:50 AM.
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Joined: Jun 2007
Posts: 1,936
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From: Huntington NY
S560
I received a refund of all interest paid and taxes, I put virtually nothing out of pocket so there was not much money to get back. There was no mileage adjustment. I think they made it quick and easy since I was getting another MB...
Super Member
Joined: Dec 2010
Posts: 908
Likes: 19
From: New Jersey
2016 Audi S8 Plus/ 2011 Mercedes e550 4Matic//Gone:1985 500SEL/2000 e320 4Matic/ 2001 e55 Kleeman
For those who remember I had major issues with my 2010 E550 getting slammed when it sat for 2 days. In the end my car was lemoned:
https://mbworld.org/forums/e-class-w...t-purpose.html
They really need to fix this!
https://mbworld.org/forums/e-class-w...t-purpose.html
They really need to fix this!
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Oct 2010
Posts: 5,123
Likes: 1,288
From: Southern US
2010 E550, 273 Engine: 2012 S550, 278 Engine
Guess you can welcome me to the group. My car is now sinking in the rear. It did it once before after sittiong for 10 days. It looked like the right rear went down as the left side was staying higher.
Then earlier this week both sides in rear went down after two days of sitting in an airport garage. A day after that it did not sink but today both sides in rear went all the way down after sitting only for about 40 minutes. Now it has been ok for a few hours but it seems the left side is higher than righ. I'll take it to the dealer next week.
Then earlier this week both sides in rear went down after two days of sitting in an airport garage. A day after that it did not sink but today both sides in rear went all the way down after sitting only for about 40 minutes. Now it has been ok for a few hours but it seems the left side is higher than righ. I'll take it to the dealer next week.
Both rear air springs were replaced. New springs have a new design clamp or something so hopefully it will be better than the original.
Super Member
Joined: Jun 2011
Posts: 576
Likes: 8
From: Placitas, NM
E550
We'll see . . . .
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Oct 2010
Posts: 5,123
Likes: 1,288
From: Southern US
2010 E550, 273 Engine: 2012 S550, 278 Engine
10 days? My parts came the next day. The fix was three days because when the new springs came they realized they need new clamps or what ever "attachment parts" and it took another day to get those in. Guess they have the parts now in the country now?
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Dec 2011
Posts: 2,056
Likes: 5
From: Paradise
w212 E550
i don't think my car has this issue but like some members mentioned the ride quality from this thread: https://mbworld.org/forums/e-class-w...rly-stiff.html. like what ned said, it may become a TSB issue as opposed to a recall, which means they won't fix it until you ask them to. so is there a way to have them change the shocks under warranty even mine isn't sinking 
?
?
Junior Member
Joined: Nov 2009
Posts: 58
Likes: 0
From: South Florida
E550
I seem to have that sinking issue too. I told my service advisor and I am bringing it in to him tomorrow. He also wants to change out all the wood trim in my car. He says there is also a TSB that they have been fading out and wants to replace it before it starts to fade. I hope he doesn't keep my car for too long.
Out Of Control!!
Joined: Jun 2008
Posts: 10,557
Likes: 24
From: Earth
Porsche Macan S SportDesign / Ex M-B's: 11 & 10 & 06 E350's, 02 S500
I seem to have that sinking issue too. I told my service advisor and I am bringing it in to him tomorrow. He also wants to change out all the wood trim in my car. He says there is also a TSB that they have been fading out and wants to replace it before it starts to fade. I hope he doesn't keep my car for too long.
Senior Member
Joined: Mar 2011
Posts: 352
Likes: 5
From: Toronto
2011 E550 4Matic & 2010 Audi Q5 & 2015 C63 507
Got my car back from the dealer after the rear airmatics were replaced. It seemed to ride nicer now. I just can't explained it. Furthermore, my ECU software must have been updated because my car seemed to have better throttle response now. Hmmm. I have two improvements after service. However, crappy Continentials are still having vibration issues at high speed. Hopping my dealer will switch my brand of tires to something else. I just have to wait and see.
Junior Member
Joined: Nov 2009
Posts: 58
Likes: 0
From: South Florida
E550
I am just anxious to get my car back for the weekend.
