Oil Grade For 2011 (E-Class W212 / S212)
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Joined: Jan 2014
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E350
Oil Grade For 2011 (E-Class W212 / S212)
Hi All,
This time I took my 2011 E-350 to a new mechanic for Service A and he changed the oil with the 0W-20 grade, whereas in the past it was always replaced with 5W-40. When I asked for the reason he said it's way much better and due to the Southern California weather you don't need thick oil. This one is lighter and will give me a better performance. I am not sure if it's ok to replace the oil grade or not and really need help to make sure it will not create some major issues in the future.
He also changed the Spark Plugs at the same time, but somehow he is not able to reset the Service light. He said he tried all the options (using the key fob to reset) and nothing is working and most probably needs the re-calibration. I am not sure if it's due to the Spark Plugs or something else or why he is not able to reset the Service light.
Any input will really be appreciated.
This time I took my 2011 E-350 to a new mechanic for Service A and he changed the oil with the 0W-20 grade, whereas in the past it was always replaced with 5W-40. When I asked for the reason he said it's way much better and due to the Southern California weather you don't need thick oil. This one is lighter and will give me a better performance. I am not sure if it's ok to replace the oil grade or not and really need help to make sure it will not create some major issues in the future.
He also changed the Spark Plugs at the same time, but somehow he is not able to reset the Service light. He said he tried all the options (using the key fob to reset) and nothing is working and most probably needs the re-calibration. I am not sure if it's due to the Spark Plugs or something else or why he is not able to reset the Service light.
Any input will really be appreciated.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Dec 2020
Posts: 2,412
Likes: 1,482
From: 122W, 37N
2016 E350 4Matic wagon, 2019 Ford Expedition, 2019 Chevy Bolt EV
I'd use 5w30 in California.... Maybe 5w40 in the heat of the Southern California desert summer. Full synthetic, always.
On my 2016, I can reset the service A, B reminders from the steering wheel control menu.... I think it's as simple as pulling up the reminder, pushing OK, and following the menu. Dunno if the pre facelift are the same.
On my 2016, I can reset the service A, B reminders from the steering wheel control menu.... I think it's as simple as pulling up the reminder, pushing OK, and following the menu. Dunno if the pre facelift are the same.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Sep 2018
Posts: 3,243
Likes: 932
From: New Orleans Area
2015 E400 Sedan
owner's manual has chart in back about ambient temp and what weight oils are acceptable.
As rule of Thumb:
Lower the number the thinner the oil viscosity.
First number is used to to determines this cold temp rating.
Second number is when at operating temps...
You will see many different weights of oil are acceptable for same starting temp since first number maybe 5w20, 5w30 & 5w40.
For warm weather you would want a higher second number since oil viscocity is reduce as its temp goes up.
He gave you 0W20 which per my 2015 manual is not listed in acceptable chart
Heck I dunno I might make him change it...
Was oil MB approved for your car? different specs based on engine model.
Also, you should not mix grades inside engine.... unless stranded.... I say.
As rule of Thumb:
Lower the number the thinner the oil viscosity.
First number is used to to determines this cold temp rating.
Second number is when at operating temps...
You will see many different weights of oil are acceptable for same starting temp since first number maybe 5w20, 5w30 & 5w40.
For warm weather you would want a higher second number since oil viscocity is reduce as its temp goes up.
He gave you 0W20 which per my 2015 manual is not listed in acceptable chart
Heck I dunno I might make him change it...
Was oil MB approved for your car? different specs based on engine model.
Also, you should not mix grades inside engine.... unless stranded.... I say.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Jun 2005
Posts: 1,511
Likes: 267
From: Chicago
2025 AMG E 53; 2018 GLC300 4Matic; 2003 360 Modena
2011 = M272 Engine
https://operatingfluids.mercedes-benz.com
0W-30; 0W-40 or 5W-40.
The key fob to reset the service reminder, and a re-calibration? Here's one of the many YouTube videos to reset the maintenance minder...
https://operatingfluids.mercedes-benz.com
0W-30; 0W-40 or 5W-40.
The key fob to reset the service reminder, and a re-calibration? Here's one of the many YouTube videos to reset the maintenance minder...
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Feb 2014
Posts: 6,190
Likes: 1,550
From: MA
2008 E350 4Matic, 2011 E350 4matic
Basically the engine calls for MB 229.5 and the only grades that meet that spec is 0w30, 5w30, 5w40 and 0w40. I pretty much run Mobil 1 0w40 or Castrol 0w40. At the dealer it's Mobil 1 5w40.
I'd switch to a different mechanic, he clearly doesn't know what he's doing if he can't even reset the service minder.
https://operatingfluids.mercedes-ben...sheet/229.5/en
I'd switch to a different mechanic, he clearly doesn't know what he's doing if he can't even reset the service minder.
https://operatingfluids.mercedes-ben...sheet/229.5/en
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