1990 Mercedes-Benz 350SDL

Introduction

The 1990 Mercedes-Benz 350SDL is a luxury sedan known for its comfort, reliability, and advanced features. It comes equipped with a 3.5L inline-6 turbocharged diesel engine that produces 155 horsepower and 221 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission. The 350SDL is praised for its smooth ride quality, spacious interior, and robust mechanical components. However, it shares some common issues with other Mercedes-Benz models of this era.

Engine

• 3.5L Inline-6 Turbocharged Diesel Engine
  • Injection Pump Failure: Symptoms include difficulty starting, loss of power, and increased fuel consumption. Solution: Replace the injection pump. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $3,000+
  • Cylinder Head Gasket Failure: Symptoms include overheating, coolant leaks, and white smoke from the exhaust. Solution: Replace the cylinder head gasket. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,200+
  • Turbocharger Failure: Symptoms include a whistling noise, decreased boost pressure, and black smoke from the exhaust. Solution: Replace the turbocharger. Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1,500+
  • Glow Plug Failure: Symptoms include difficulty starting, especially in cold weather. Solution: Replace the glow plugs. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+

Transmission

• 4-Speed Automatic Transmission
  • No Issues Found

Suspension

• Front Suspension:
  • Strut Mount Failure: Symptoms include clunking or rattling noises over bumps. Solution: Replace the strut mounts. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
• Rear Suspension:
  • Subframe Mount Failure: Symptoms include a sagging rear end and misaligned wheels. Solution: Reinforce or replace the subframe mounts. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+

Electrical

• Alternator Failure: Symptoms include flickering lights, dimming instrument panel, and battery discharge. Solution: Replace the alternator. Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600+
• Battery Drain: Symptoms include a dead battery after the vehicle has been parked. Solution: Identify and fix the source of the drain, such as parasitic draw from accessories or modules. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400+
• Window Regulator Failure: Symptoms include windows getting stuck or falling off track. Solution: Replace the window regulator motor or mechanism. Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+

Exterior

• Door Lock Actuator Failure: Symptoms include difficulty locking or unlocking the doors. Solution: Replace the door lock actuator. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+

Interior

• Climate Control Actuator Failure: Symptoms include malfunctioning climate control, such as stuck or unresponsive controls. Solution: Replace the climate control actuator. Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
• Power Seat Switch Failure: Symptoms include inoperable power seat controls. Solution: Replace the power seat switch. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+

Summary

The 1990 Mercedes-Benz 350SDL is a generally reliable vehicle, but it is not without its issues. Some of the common problems include injection pump failure, cylinder head gasket failure, and door lock actuator failure. While these issues can be costly to fix, they are relatively rare compared to other Mercedes-Benz models. Overall, the 350SDL is a well-built and comfortable sedan that can provide years of reliable service with proper maintenance.