murf thesurf

Recently purchased an 06 R350 with 89k miles, the check engine light is now on and my mechanic initially replaced the two cam positioning sensors, reset the computer and after driving 14 miles the check engine light returned. He believes the problem is the sprocket on the balancer is worn. I've read some info on this problem and it seems quite enovled, has MB repaired this for anyone that is outside their warranty?

dewdaltz

What was the code? Was it P0012? Let us know so that we cpould help.

murf thesurf

The codes are P0016 & P0017

dewdaltz

Just to give you an idea because I had my R350 with CEL - P0012 code only. Been reading MB forums and this one came up to my attention. And I did replaced the "magnet" or solenoid and so far until now the code did not came back. If your are a little handy you can this in 15 minutes or less for one side. The driver side is kinda hard a bit because of the PS reservoir. I might do that in summer time.

https://mbworld.org/forums/c-class-w...ank-1-a-4.html

murf thesurf

Mine is on the passenger side.

murf thesurf

After the senors were replaced and the check engine light came back on, it did not show a code. The diagnostic computer only said "timing retarted".

dewdaltz

I have my OBD reader always in my R all the time when this CEL started coming out. Probably 4 times it came out wihtout code present and the car started some kind vibration then I stop checked the codes but nothing is there. Erased it and start driving normally again. Lastly, the code P0012 came out and decided after reading some MB post replaced the "magnet" and thats the end of my story. I dont have the MB DAS computer so I dont have the "advanced" computer per se like the DAS.

murf thesurf

Spoke to my mechanic this afternoon and what I called the sensors were actually the magnets. So where do I go from here? Can the gear, chain and related parts be changed without pulling the motor?

j21importer

You can replace the chain with out pulling the motor, but the balance shaft which is very common, or any other timing components the motor has to be disassembled which is much easier with the motor pulled.

lkchris

If they did, it was for a customer that purchased and had car serviced at their dealer.

murf thesurf

Looking at replacing the sprocket & chain, is that possible without pulling the motor?

j21importer

It would be possible, but you would save a ton of time by pulling the motor out.

murf thesurf

Has anyone had this done? If so, how much did it cost?

fstshrk

Did you take your car to an MB dealer with the proper computers to diagnose the fault?

murf thesurf

No, do they have a different computer than independent repair facilities?

marcboxx

This is sounding like the Cam gear problem that is causing havoc for alot of V6 owners from '05 to '07 E, R, GLK and ML's. The problem is with the Cam Gear on the cam shaft that is failing prematurely from the factory. The only way to correct is a complete rebuild of the motor ranging from $4k to $9k dollars per a number of sources. Their is a facebook page related to this problem when many people have reported their claims along with some possible assistance from MB in certain instances. We just traded our '06 R350 for an '05 Cayenne to avoid this issue.

shobbs666

Why anyone would buy a previously owned MB and not purchase a bumper to bumper, 5 yea,r 50,000 mile for $4,500 is beyond me? Unless you like gambling. Sorry but it sounds like you just threw craps!!

marcboxx

I would have to agree with you as far as covering all basis when buying cars like these, however a $5k warranty would not necessarily be an option for myself or any other pre-owned buyer. The better way to approach a high line purchase is do your homework not just on the actual vehicle being purchased, but also on its track record through forums like this one. The wealth of knowledge is gained when one does the extensive research to find out what issues the vehicle will be prone to during its lifetime. I NEVER buy vehicles naked straight out of the 50k warranty opting instead for a mileage range north of 80k up to 100k miles. Yesterday and today's German hardware are good for extremely high mileage (have an E320 at 208K replacing a C220 with 300K...both bought at 100k). I have found that most kinks have either been identified and / or worked out prior to 100k. The cam gear problem itself is an interesting concern in that it is presenting itself in many cases both within warranty and up to 40k miles outside the warranty. The material the gear was produced with was not cured (hardened) properly at the factory causing the gear to become brittle esp. since oil changes were being done typically at 10k mile intervals. For me that is too late unless you are driving the older W210 engine (bullet proof) found in E320's. BUT, I do understand the logic in purchasing the warranty as it at least provides some piece of mind concerning potential out of pocket expenses. For me, my vehicles ('98 E320 & '05 Cayenne S) are serviced by independent shops and / or dealer employed friends where I can usually enjoy services for about half the shop going rate. Also, you can save even more money by sourcing parts on your own via Ebay, Rock Auto, etc. BTW, from a maintenance perspective a tip on brake pads. Get Akebono Premium pads for your Benz as they last 70% longer that OEM's. I put almost 100k (60% highway) on my current set.