Jun 24, 2015, 07:27 PM
Last edit by: IB Advertising
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ALL W212 OWNERS !!! REPORT YOUR W212 E550 AIR SUSPENSION LEAK TO NHTSA
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Jun 2015
Posts: 1,523
Likes: 85
From: New Jersey
2010 E550 P2 w/AMG Sport Package + Pano, 2015 Nissan Pathfinder
So....after a year of 2010 E550 ownership I'm kind of disappointed with MB....both headlight assemblies had to be replaced due to failing actuator, both rear air bellows/springs had to be replaced and currently the vehicle is in the shop for a left front strut leak.....which is not covered by my Route66 Extended Warranty 
Anyone has any clue where to get the best front left air strut or possibly know how to repair or knows where to buy a repair kit.
Anyone has any clue where to get the best front left air strut or possibly know how to repair or knows where to buy a repair kit.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Dec 2011
Posts: 1,273
Likes: 129
From: Orlando, FL
2015 GL550 4matic
So....after a year of 2010 E550 ownership I'm kind of disappointed with MB....both headlight assemblies had to be replaced due to failing actuator, both rear air bellows/springs had to be replaced and currently the vehicle is in the shop for a left front strut leak.....which is not covered by my Route66 Extended Warranty Anyone has any clue where to get the best front left air strut or possibly know how to repair or knows where to buy a repair kit.
Anyone has any clue where to get the best front left air strut or possibly know how to repair or knows where to buy a repair kit.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Jan 2014
Posts: 1,258
Likes: 56
From: East coast
2010 E550 4M P2 Distronic, CLK550 Cab P2
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Oct 2015
Posts: 1,583
Likes: 292
2019 E300
Give it a rest Jon, we all know your stripped down used E550 is the crème de la crème, at least in your own opinion. My god, I have seen advance Alzheimer's patients that repeats himself less than you do.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Dec 2011
Posts: 1,273
Likes: 129
From: Orlando, FL
2015 GL550 4matic
Don't like it, DONT READ IT AND MOVE ON!
Maybe you're just butt-hurt that you have the crappy systems. Clearly here is ANOTHER "repetative" thread that Airmatic sucks and always has problems.
I guess you're the same a-holes that just reply with "use search dumbass" every time someone asks a question because it's been said before.
Maybe you're just butt-hurt that you have the crappy systems. Clearly here is ANOTHER "repetative" thread that Airmatic sucks and always has problems.
I guess you're the same a-holes that just reply with "use search dumbass" every time someone asks a question because it's been said before.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Oct 2015
Posts: 1,583
Likes: 292
2019 E300
Don't like it, DONT READ IT AND MOVE ON!
Maybe you're just butt-hurt that you have the crappy systems. Clearly here is ANOTHER "repetative" thread that Airmatic sucks and always has problems.
I guess you're the same a-holes that just reply with "use search dumbass" every time someone asks a question because it's been said before.
Maybe you're just butt-hurt that you have the crappy systems. Clearly here is ANOTHER "repetative" thread that Airmatic sucks and always has problems.
I guess you're the same a-holes that just reply with "use search dumbass" every time someone asks a question because it's been said before.
Calm down my friend, no need to get your panties all twisted up. How can I not read it when you flood this site with posts on how smart you are for buying a no option used E550. All we ask is for you to give us a break with your self righteousness comments.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Jan 2014
Posts: 1,258
Likes: 56
From: East coast
2010 E550 4M P2 Distronic, CLK550 Cab P2
Don't like it, DONT READ IT AND MOVE ON!
Maybe you're just butt-hurt that you have the crappy systems. Clearly here is ANOTHER "repetative" thread that Airmatic sucks and always has problems.
I guess you're the same a-holes that just reply with "use search dumbass" every time someone asks a question because it's been said before.
Maybe you're just butt-hurt that you have the crappy systems. Clearly here is ANOTHER "repetative" thread that Airmatic sucks and always has problems.
I guess you're the same a-holes that just reply with "use search dumbass" every time someone asks a question because it's been said before.
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MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Jun 2015
Posts: 1,523
Likes: 85
From: New Jersey
2010 E550 P2 w/AMG Sport Package + Pano, 2015 Nissan Pathfinder
LMAO..When I saw this thread bumped up I was like Uh Oh Jon seen it and posted on it. I was surprised it was someone who earlier got a fix under warranty. I've already put about 10k in miles on my car or more and Airmatic so far hasn't given me a problem yet.
Member
Joined: Feb 2014
Posts: 84
Likes: 14
From: Emerald Coast of FL
Previous: 2011 E550 4MATIC Current: 2018 AMG C 43 Coupe, 2021 GLC 300
Add me to the list
Mine was bought at 40K almost two years ago and now has 60.
Tonight after parking in the garage I heard an odd gurgling coming from the rear passenger wheel well. Recently noticed the pump was working a little more than usual. Pulled the wheel off and it is coming from the bottom of the airmatic bellows. Attached a picture--blow it up and you see the moisture at what looks like a sealing area.
Appreciate learning that this is usually worse in the cold, it fits what I've been experiencing. I'm going to try a third party shop, am sick of MB dealerships evading known issues like this and brake judder. This is my first Mercedes and disappointed at the issues given the sticker price, but not ready to give up on the brand yet.
Over Christmas I drove a 2016 E350 for a few days and noticed the handling was much tighter, more like the wife's 5 series. The straight six was better than expected, but I bought the 550 because of the W273 engine and wanted to try all wheel drive.
Thank God for extended warranties; figured this one might pay for itself, and think I'll be right.
Tonight after parking in the garage I heard an odd gurgling coming from the rear passenger wheel well. Recently noticed the pump was working a little more than usual. Pulled the wheel off and it is coming from the bottom of the airmatic bellows. Attached a picture--blow it up and you see the moisture at what looks like a sealing area.
Appreciate learning that this is usually worse in the cold, it fits what I've been experiencing. I'm going to try a third party shop, am sick of MB dealerships evading known issues like this and brake judder. This is my first Mercedes and disappointed at the issues given the sticker price, but not ready to give up on the brand yet.
Over Christmas I drove a 2016 E350 for a few days and noticed the handling was much tighter, more like the wife's 5 series. The straight six was better than expected, but I bought the 550 because of the W273 engine and wanted to try all wheel drive.
Thank God for extended warranties; figured this one might pay for itself, and think I'll be right.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Jun 2015
Posts: 1,523
Likes: 85
From: New Jersey
2010 E550 P2 w/AMG Sport Package + Pano, 2015 Nissan Pathfinder
I've read somewhere that replacing the bellows is a less expensive issue then other components in the airmatic. Some people even say to replace them preemptively to prevent compressor or pump from going. I've noticed since it's turned cold that my car will sit a little lower then it did during the winter but so far no noticeable issues have arose. I'm due for an oil change and brake pads to be changed. So I'll have my shop take a look at it while they are working on pads.
Member
Joined: Feb 2014
Posts: 84
Likes: 14
From: Emerald Coast of FL
Previous: 2011 E550 4MATIC Current: 2018 AMG C 43 Coupe, 2021 GLC 300
I have a low rider in the garage this morning. Reminds me of the shuttle SRB O rings that failed in low temperatures on the ground. Does not compute given our cars are manufactured in a country where IT'S COLD.
Just ordered a pair of Arnotts for the rear, might as well do both. The AMG guys say these do not have leak issues, and don't seem expensive at $250/each.
Arnott's instructions look straightforward; take the wheel off, then disconnect/remove/replace. Warranty will replace with OEM, and we know how well that works with the cross drilled rotors. I'll take peace of mind in exchange for five bills and a few hours wrenching.
Just ordered a pair of Arnotts for the rear, might as well do both. The AMG guys say these do not have leak issues, and don't seem expensive at $250/each.
Arnott's instructions look straightforward; take the wheel off, then disconnect/remove/replace. Warranty will replace with OEM, and we know how well that works with the cross drilled rotors. I'll take peace of mind in exchange for five bills and a few hours wrenching.
Member
Joined: Feb 2014
Posts: 84
Likes: 14
From: Emerald Coast of FL
Previous: 2011 E550 4MATIC Current: 2018 AMG C 43 Coupe, 2021 GLC 300
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Oct 2015
Posts: 1,583
Likes: 292
2019 E300
Just ordered a pair of Arnotts for the rear, might as well do both. The AMG guys say these do not have leak issues, and don't seem expensive at $250/each.
Arnott's instructions look straightforward; take the wheel off, then disconnect/remove/replace. Warranty will replace with OEM, and we know how well that works with the cross drilled rotors. I'll take peace of mind in exchange for five bills and a few hours wrenching.
Arnott's instructions look straightforward; take the wheel off, then disconnect/remove/replace. Warranty will replace with OEM, and we know how well that works with the cross drilled rotors. I'll take peace of mind in exchange for five bills and a few hours wrenching.
Senior Member
Joined: Aug 2007
Posts: 255
Likes: 1
From: TEXAS
s65
Just get Arnott....from Arnott DIRECT!! They will register the warranty for you as a customer. They are cheap and great. You want a nice ride go air, you want an excellent ride buy better MB and get ABC, you want crap convert to springs and brag about it lol. Yes it's an issue but sure feels nice to drive...I have replaced all 4 on my e500 (191k miles) and they are awesome...had a leak on one & Arnott replaced for free a few yrs later... just bought this w212 with a sometimes sag in rear....guess what...$500 for two rear air springs. Yes it is a pain. Sry guys it is what it is...Is there something else that could cause a rear sag? on "comfort" it sags sometimes in the AM but on "sport" its always an issue. All help is appreciated...
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Dec 2011
Posts: 1,273
Likes: 129
From: Orlando, FL
2015 GL550 4matic
WOW, that looks soooo much easier than the info I looked up on W211. On the older models, you have to drop the exhaust and the whole rear axle!! Definitely not something I would ever want to tackle, and I consider myself a pretty advanced DIY guy.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Dec 2011
Posts: 1,273
Likes: 129
From: Orlando, FL
2015 GL550 4matic
Just get Arnott....from Arnott DIRECT!! They will register the warranty for you as a customer. They are cheap and great. You want a nice ride go air, you want an excellent ride buy better MB and get ABC, you want crap convert to springs and brag about it lol. Yes it's an issue but sure feels nice to drive...I have replaced all 4 on my e500 (191k miles) and they are awesome...had a leak on one & Arnott replaced for free a few yrs later... just bought this w212 with a sometimes sag in rear....guess what...$500 for two rear air springs. Yes it is a pain. Sry guys it is what it is...Is there something else that could cause a rear sag? on "comfort" it sags sometimes in the AM but on "sport" its always an issue. All help is appreciated...
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Dec 2011
Posts: 1,273
Likes: 129
From: Orlando, FL
2015 GL550 4matic
Mine was bought at 40K almost two years ago and now has 60.
Tonight after parking in the garage I heard an odd gurgling coming from the rear passenger wheel well. Recently noticed the pump was working a little more than usual. Pulled the wheel off and it is coming from the bottom of the airmatic bellows. Attached a picture--blow it up and you see the moisture at what looks like a sealing area.
Appreciate learning that this is usually worse in the cold, it fits what I've been experiencing. I'm going to try a third party shop, am sick of MB dealerships evading known issues like this and brake judder. This is my first Mercedes and disappointed at the issues given the sticker price, but not ready to give up on the brand yet.
Over Christmas I drove a 2016 E350 for a few days and noticed the handling was much tighter, more like the wife's 5 series. The straight six was better than expected, but I bought the 550 because of the W273 engine and wanted to try all wheel drive.
Thank God for extended warranties; figured this one might pay for itself, and think I'll be right.
Tonight after parking in the garage I heard an odd gurgling coming from the rear passenger wheel well. Recently noticed the pump was working a little more than usual. Pulled the wheel off and it is coming from the bottom of the airmatic bellows. Attached a picture--blow it up and you see the moisture at what looks like a sealing area.
Appreciate learning that this is usually worse in the cold, it fits what I've been experiencing. I'm going to try a third party shop, am sick of MB dealerships evading known issues like this and brake judder. This is my first Mercedes and disappointed at the issues given the sticker price, but not ready to give up on the brand yet.
Over Christmas I drove a 2016 E350 for a few days and noticed the handling was much tighter, more like the wife's 5 series. The straight six was better than expected, but I bought the 550 because of the W273 engine and wanted to try all wheel drive.
Thank God for extended warranties; figured this one might pay for itself, and think I'll be right.
Super Member
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 761
Likes: 23
From: Oklahoma
W211 E320 & W212 E550
Oh no kidding!!!! I did the same thing to see if I wanted to tackle it, I was like OMG no flipping way!! I'm definitely a savy DIY guy too. Those instructions look simple though for the 212. So has anyone done it yet? I've had both rears replaced and I have 13k miles on my car, so it's rarely driven. So it's not a wear issue though it may exacerbate the issue. My 1st one was replaced within the 1st yr of purchase.
Banned
Joined: Oct 2005
Posts: 4,957
Likes: 1,640
Oh no kidding!!!! I did the same thing to see if I wanted to tackle it, I was like OMG no flipping way!! I'm definitely a savy DIY guy too. Those instructions look simple though for the 212. So has anyone done it yet? I've had both rears replaced and I have 13k miles on my car, so it's rarely driven. So it's not a wear issue though it may exacerbate the issue. My 1st one was replaced within the 1st yr of purchase.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Oct 2010
Posts: 5,141
Likes: 1,293
From: Southern US
2010 E550, 273 Engine: 2012 S550, 278 Engine
The E350 sports springs is somewhere between the Airmatic Sports and Comfort settings.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Jan 2014
Posts: 1,258
Likes: 56
From: East coast
2010 E550 4M P2 Distronic, CLK550 Cab P2
Jon, If I recall, you drove one airmatic on a test drive. Not nearly enough seat time to make any sort of an accurate assessment....esp on one car with an unknown history.....and yes I'm aware airmatics are prone to having issues...
