E-Class (W212) 2010 - 2016: E 350, E 550
Sponsored by:
Sponsored by: CARiD

2014 E550 Coolant reservoir leak

Old Oct 6, 2020 | 02:56 PM
  #1  
LINKBXQ's Avatar
Thread Starter
Junior Member
 
Joined: Apr 2016
Posts: 73
Likes: 2
2014 Mercedes E550
2014 E550 Coolant reservoir leak

Hi all,
Did a few search and did not find exact information I wanted. I discover a pin side leak in the coolant reservoir. Coolant kept draining for a few weeks, had Mercedes dealer check during annual service and pointed it out to them. But I was not told anything about it or to worry after they clean it. They did do the steering because of the recall. After they cleaned it, I check every day but can not find any leak under the car. I did a pressure test and it also did not discover any problem and held onto the pressure just fine. It will leak halfway and then stop. I will get the check coolant level message but the level at the halfway point will stay the same. I suspected the cap or maybe the tank itself around the top was leaking after searching on the forum. Last night I filled up the coolant and drove it around the neighborhood and finally saw some smoke and was able to check and find the leak.






I can replace the reservoir. However, I want to do it correct. I am a bit worry that the pressure test didn't show anything. Beside the tank, should I go ahead and replace the cap and lines as well? There were always a bit of residue on the cap so I think the cap itself is not giving a proper seal.

I found a kit on FCP euro and wonder if I should get that or just the tank?
https://www.fcpeuro.com/products/mer...ein-2762000515

Just the reservoir tank
https://www.fcpeuro.com/products/mer...749-2045000750

Also in my search I am reading about headbolt. It got me a bit worry but I am not having any of the issue describe. What I had experience are the collision sensor becoming more sensitive, especially the right side. It is going off in my driveway or garage, I am thinking maybe some coolant got in and touch some electrical. I had not had time to look but if anyone can chime in. My questions are:
Headbolt - I don't think it is something I should worry about, but would like other thoughts.
Should I be concern that the pressure test did not find an issue?
Given that I read this is a common issue, would replacing the tank be enough or I should be extra careful and get the kit from fcp? Anything else I should check for?
Do I need to worry about the coolant line and change those too? Like I said, I rather do this right the first time.
Finally are there any other sensors in the area that could be affected. Ever since I had my car service, my front end, both tires have been loosing air overnight and have the slam look but rise when I start every morning. I never had this issue until I got the steering bolt recall work at the dealer and now, not sure if they connected everything properly.

Last edited by LINKBXQ; Oct 6, 2020 at 02:59 PM.
Reply
Old Mar 24, 2021 | 04:50 AM
  #2  
J Trott's Avatar
Newbie
 
Joined: Mar 2021
Posts: 4
Likes: 0
2014 Mercedes Benz E550
Same Issue

Originally Posted by LINKBXQ
Hi all,
Did a few search and did not find exact information I wanted. I discover a pin side leak in the coolant reservoir. Coolant kept draining for a few weeks, had Mercedes dealer check during annual service and pointed it out to them. But I was not told anything about it or to worry after they clean it. They did do the steering because of the recall. After they cleaned it, I check every day but can not find any leak under the car. I did a pressure test and it also did not discover any problem and held onto the pressure just fine. It will leak halfway and then stop. I will get the check coolant level message but the level at the halfway point will stay the same. I suspected the cap or maybe the tank itself around the top was leaking after searching on the forum. Last night I filled up the coolant and drove it around the neighborhood and finally saw some smoke and was able to check and find the leak.





Leak video

I can replace the reservoir. However, I want to do it correct. I am a bit worry that the pressure test didn't show anything. Beside the tank, should I go ahead and replace the cap and lines as well? There were always a bit of residue on the cap so I think the cap itself is not giving a proper seal.

I found a kit on FCP euro and wonder if I should get that or just the tank?
https://www.fcpeuro.com/products/mer...ein-2762000515

Just the reservoir tank
https://www.fcpeuro.com/products/mer...749-2045000750

Also in my search I am reading about headbolt. It got me a bit worry but I am not having any of the issue describe. What I had experience are the collision sensor becoming more sensitive, especially the right side. It is going off in my driveway or garage, I am thinking maybe some coolant got in and touch some electrical. I had not had time to look but if anyone can chime in. My questions are:
Headbolt - I don't think it is something I should worry about, but would like other thoughts.
Should I be concern that the pressure test did not find an issue?
Given that I read this is a common issue, would replacing the tank be enough or I should be extra careful and get the kit from fcp? Anything else I should check for?
Do I need to worry about the coolant line and change those too? Like I said, I rather do this right the first time.
Finally are there any other sensors in the area that could be affected. Ever since I had my car service, my front end, both tires have been loosing air overnight and have the slam look but rise when I start every morning. I never had this issue until I got the steering bolt recall work at the dealer and now, not sure if they connected everything properly.
I'm currently having the same issue and I was looking at replacing the hose because it seems to be leaking which is causing my coolant to go low. I'm looking for the hose would anyone know the part number?
Reply
Old Mar 24, 2021 | 08:55 AM
  #3  
bmwpowere36m3's Avatar
MBWorld Fanatic!
 
Joined: Jun 2020
Posts: 1,363
Likes: 1,012
'11 E350, '11 E550, '98 M3, '95 E320
Originally Posted by J Trott
I'm currently having the same issue and I was looking at replacing the hose because it seems to be leaking which is causing my coolant to go low. I'm looking for the hose would anyone know the part number?

Which hose and your VIN?
Reply
Old Mar 24, 2021 | 09:14 AM
  #4  
J Trott's Avatar
Newbie
 
Joined: Mar 2021
Posts: 4
Likes: 0
2014 Mercedes Benz E550
Originally Posted by bmwpowere36m3
Which hose and your VIN?
It's the same Hose that is in the picture and in the video leak for this thread. I mean it's doing exactly the same thing. it looks like a fine pin whole leaking coolant out of the hose dripping on the engine. the dealership told me it was a oil leak cause smoke but you can clearly see the coolant dripping from the hose. VIN# WDDKJ7DB9EF243343
Reply
Old Mar 24, 2021 | 09:23 AM
  #5  
bmwpowere36m3's Avatar
MBWorld Fanatic!
 
Joined: Jun 2020
Posts: 1,363
Likes: 1,012
'11 E350, '11 E550, '98 M3, '95 E320
To me the video shows a leak from the reservoir, maybe a tiny split in the seam between the upper (black) and lower (opaque) halves.

Here you go:

Reply
Old Mar 24, 2021 | 10:18 AM
  #6  
J Trott's Avatar
Newbie
 
Joined: Mar 2021
Posts: 4
Likes: 0
2014 Mercedes Benz E550
Originally Posted by bmwpowere36m3
To me the video shows a leak from the reservoir, maybe a tiny split in the seam between the upper (black) and lower (opaque) halves.

Here you go:
Ok so if I buy a new reservoir tank will it come with the reservoir line and lower (opaque) Halves u mention?
Reply
Old Mar 24, 2021 | 11:15 AM
  #7  
bmwpowere36m3's Avatar
MBWorld Fanatic!
 
Joined: Jun 2020
Posts: 1,363
Likes: 1,012
'11 E350, '11 E550, '98 M3, '95 E320
No, each part is separate. I made a mistake thinking it was the hose between the reservoir and radiator, when you mentioned hose. What do suspect is leaking?



If its the coolant hose in the photo above, I can't say for sure since I don't have a M278. A wider angle photo would help with where the hose connects on either end. I'm thinking it runs back to the heater core.
Reply
Old Mar 26, 2021 | 09:18 AM
  #8  
J Trott's Avatar
Newbie
 
Joined: Mar 2021
Posts: 4
Likes: 0
2014 Mercedes Benz E550
Same Issue

Originally Posted by bmwpowere36m3
To me the video shows a leak from the reservoir, maybe a tiny split in the seam between the upper (black) and lower (opaque) halves.

Here you go:

so this is line that I mention before. Just like the leak video in this thread. Its leaking coolant right from this line not sure what it's called as far as the part.
Reply
MB World Stories

The Best of Mercedes & AMG

story-0

6 Mercedes Models That Did NOT Age Well (But Are Somehow Still Cool)

 Verdad Gallardo
story-1

Manual Mercedes? 6 Times Sindelfingen Let Drivers Have All The Fun

 Verdad Gallardo
story-2

Mercedes SLR McLaren 722 S Is Extremely Rare Example Modified by McLaren

 Verdad Gallardo
story-3

8 Classic Boxy Mercedes Designs That Have Aged Like Fine Wine

 Verdad Gallardo
story-4

Flawlessly Restored Mercedes 190E Evo II Heads to Auction

 Verdad Gallardo
story-5

Electric Mercedes C-Class Unveiled: 11 Things You Need to Know

 Verdad Gallardo
story-6

Mercedes EQS Gets A Major Update: Everything You Need to Know

 Verdad Gallardo
story-7

5 Underrated Mercedes-Benz Models That Don't Get the Love They Deserve

 Verdad Gallardo
story-8

Mercedes 300D Has Pushed Well Past 1 Million Miles and It Ain't Stopping

 Verdad Gallardo
story-9

10 Most Reliable Mercedes-Benz Models You Can Buy Used

 Verdad Gallardo
Old Mar 26, 2021 | 09:49 AM
  #9  
bmwpowere36m3's Avatar
MBWorld Fanatic!
 
Joined: Jun 2020
Posts: 1,363
Likes: 1,012
'11 E350, '11 E550, '98 M3, '95 E320
That line goes to the pre-fuse box, positive jump point circled in yellow, right? That’s your battery positive cable, so it can’t be leaking coolant. Unless the corrugated sleeve is filling with coolant from somewhere else and leaking out where your pointing to.

Take a better look... make sure coolant reservoir is filled to correct height, warm up engine, while engine is running open hood and check for leaks in the area.

Reply
Old Mar 26, 2021 | 11:48 PM
  #10  
Arrie's Avatar
MBWorld Fanatic!
15 Year Member
Photogenic
Photoriffic
Liked
 
Joined: Oct 2010
Posts: 5,141
Likes: 1,293
From: Southern US
2010 E550, 273 Engine: 2012 S550, 278 Engine
Originally Posted by LINKBXQ
Hi all,
Did a few search and did not find exact information I wanted. I discover a pin side leak in the coolant reservoir. Coolant kept draining for a few weeks, had Mercedes dealer check during annual service and pointed it out to them. But I was not told anything about it or to worry after they clean it. They did do the steering because of the recall. After they cleaned it, I check every day but can not find any leak under the car. I did a pressure test and it also did not discover any problem and held onto the pressure just fine. It will leak halfway and then stop. I will get the check coolant level message but the level at the halfway point will stay the same. I suspected the cap or maybe the tank itself around the top was leaking after searching on the forum. Last night I filled up the coolant and drove it around the neighborhood and finally saw some smoke and was able to check and find the leak.





Leak video

I can replace the reservoir. However, I want to do it correct. I am a bit worry that the pressure test didn't show anything. Beside the tank, should I go ahead and replace the cap and lines as well? There were always a bit of residue on the cap so I think the cap itself is not giving a proper seal.

I found a kit on FCP euro and wonder if I should get that or just the tank?
https://www.fcpeuro.com/products/mer...ein-2762000515

Just the reservoir tank
https://www.fcpeuro.com/products/mer...749-2045000750

Also in my search I am reading about headbolt. It got me a bit worry but I am not having any of the issue describe. What I had experience are the collision sensor becoming more sensitive, especially the right side. It is going off in my driveway or garage, I am thinking maybe some coolant got in and touch some electrical. I had not had time to look but if anyone can chime in. My questions are:
Headbolt - I don't think it is something I should worry about, but would like other thoughts.
Should I be concern that the pressure test did not find an issue?
Given that I read this is a common issue, would replacing the tank be enough or I should be extra careful and get the kit from fcp? Anything else I should check for?
Do I need to worry about the coolant line and change those too? Like I said, I rather do this right the first time.
Finally are there any other sensors in the area that could be affected. Ever since I had my car service, my front end, both tires have been loosing air overnight and have the slam look but rise when I start every morning. I never had this issue until I got the steering bolt recall work at the dealer and now, not sure if they connected everything properly.
Based on your pictures you definitely have a reservoir leak and MB pressure test not showing this is a bit of a mystery. The test is with 17 psi to see if the system holds pressure. I don't know how long they test. I just happened to do the test myself and my system held 17 psi for two hours so I think it is ok but perhaps the pressure in the system is higher during engine fully warmed up? Or is that 17 psi just below the pressure the reservoir cap springs relieves the pressure?

Anyway, if you see some residual in the cap it means the reservoir filled up all the way with hot engine and the relief valve on the cap let some coolant out. This is proper function for over filled cooling system.
Reply
Old Mar 27, 2021 | 07:33 AM
  #11  
S-Prihadi's Avatar
MBWorld Fanatic!
5 Year Member
Liked
Loved
Community Favorite
 
Joined: May 2018
Posts: 6,602
Likes: 6,549
From: Jakarta-Indonesia
2014 - W212.065 - E400 ( M276.820, 3 liter Turbo) RWD not Hybrid
Arrie,

17 psi test pressure is not enough, at least for my pressure cap which stated 1.4 BAR ( 20.58 psi ) and WIS stated so too. I am sure all this type of coolant reservoir has the same pressure cap rating of 1.4 BAR for W212.

Does your radiator system tester has the adapter to also test the plastic pressure cap too ?
I am having tough time buying locally a tester specific to current W212 MB style cap.

I think we need to test to 21 - 21.5 psi till the pressure cap spring releases at a bit above 20.58 psi, at least we the know the cap is healthy and the radiator system overall can handle +-21 psi.



Reply
Old Mar 27, 2021 | 02:24 PM
  #12  
Arrie's Avatar
MBWorld Fanatic!
15 Year Member
Photogenic
Photoriffic
Liked
 
Joined: Oct 2010
Posts: 5,141
Likes: 1,293
From: Southern US
2010 E550, 273 Engine: 2012 S550, 278 Engine
Originally Posted by S-Prihadi
Arrie,

17 psi test pressure is not enough, at least for my pressure cap which stated 1.4 BAR ( 20.58 psi ) and WIS stated so too. I am sure all this type of coolant reservoir has the same pressure cap rating of 1.4 BAR for W212.

Does your radiator system tester has the adapter to also test the plastic pressure cap too ?
I am having tough time buying locally a tester specific to current W212 MB style cap.

I think we need to test to 21 - 21.5 psi till the pressure cap spring releases at a bit above 20.58 psi, at least we the know the cap is healthy and the radiator system overall can handle +-21 psi.
I did 17 psi because a MB SA said that is what they use for the test pressure.

I don't know if I have adaptor for the cap. I bought the test kit from Harbor freight. It has all sorts of adapters for different cars but doesn't really have one for MB. Have to use adjustable bracket with a plug on the tank. It worked but took awhile to figure out how to set it up. I have not looked at testing the cap yet.
Reply

Currently Active Users Viewing This Thread: 1 (0 members and 1 guests)
 

Thread Tools
Search this Thread
Rate This Thread
Rate This Thread:
You have already rated this thread Rating: Thread Rating: 0 votes,  average.


All times are GMT -4. The time now is 01:55 PM.

story-0
6 Mercedes Models That Did NOT Age Well (But Are Somehow Still Cool)

Slideshow: Not every Mercedes design becomes timeless, some feel stuck in the era they came from.

By Verdad Gallardo | 2026-05-12 18:09:07


VIEW MORE
story-1
Manual Mercedes? 6 Times Sindelfingen Let Drivers Have All The Fun

Slideshow: Yes, Mercedes built manual cars, and some of them are far more interesting than you'd expect.

By Verdad Gallardo | 2026-05-02 12:36:58


VIEW MORE
story-2
Mercedes SLR McLaren 722 S Is Extremely Rare Example Modified by McLaren

Slideshow: A one-of-one U.S.-spec Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren Roadster became even rarer after a factory-backed transformation at McLaren's headquarters.

By Verdad Gallardo | 2026-04-29 11:19:28


VIEW MORE
story-3
8 Classic Boxy Mercedes Designs That Have Aged Like Fine Wine

Slideshow: Before curves took over, Mercedes mastered the art of the straight line, and some of those shapes still look right today.

By Verdad Gallardo | 2026-04-25 12:05:49


VIEW MORE
story-4
Flawlessly Restored Mercedes 190E Evo II Heads to Auction

Slideshow: The 190E Evolution II shows how a homologation necessity became a six-figure collector icon.

By Verdad Gallardo | 2026-04-22 17:53:47


VIEW MORE
story-5
Electric Mercedes C-Class Unveiled: 11 Things You Need to Know

Slideshow: Mercedes is turning one of its core nameplates electric, and the details show just how serious this shift is.

By Verdad Gallardo | 2026-04-21 13:58:06


VIEW MORE
story-6
Mercedes EQS Gets A Major Update: Everything You Need to Know

Slideshow: Faster charging, longer range, and a controversial steer-by-wire system define the latest evolution of Mercedes-Benz EQS.

By Verdad Gallardo | 2026-04-15 10:35:34


VIEW MORE
story-7
5 Underrated Mercedes-Benz Models That Don't Get the Love They Deserve

Slideshow: These overlooked Mercedes-Benz models never got the spotlight, but they quietly delivered more than most remember.

By Verdad Gallardo | 2026-04-13 19:35:45


VIEW MORE
story-8
Mercedes 300D Has Pushed Well Past 1 Million Miles and It Ain't Stopping

Slideshow: A well-used 1991 Mercedes-Benz 300D with more than one million miles is now looking for a new owner, and it still appears ready for more.

By Verdad Gallardo | 2026-04-10 10:05:15


VIEW MORE
story-9
10 Most Reliable Mercedes-Benz Models You Can Buy Used

Slideshow: From bulletproof sedans to surprisingly tough SUVs, these Mercedes models proved that the three-pointed star can go the distance.

By Verdad Gallardo | 2026-04-08 09:55:49


VIEW MORE