1999 Mercedes-Benz E280
1999 Mercedes-Benz E280
The 1999 Mercedes-Benz E280 is a mid-size luxury sedan that was available with two engine and transmission options:
- 2.8L V6 (M112.942) with a 5-speed automatic transmission (722.6)
- 3.2L V6 (M112.962) with a 5-speed automatic transmission (722.6)
The E280 was praised for its comfortable ride, luxurious interior, and powerful engines. However, it was also criticized for its high maintenance costs and potential reliability issues.
Engine
2.8L V6 (M112.942)
Intake Manifold Gasket Failure Description/Symptoms: Coolant and oil leaks, engine overheating, reduced engine power Solution: Replacement of the intake manifold gasket Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
Head Bolt Failure Description/Symptoms: Coolant and oil leaks, engine overheating, catastrophic engine failure Solution: Replacement of the head bolts and resurfacing of the cylinder head Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $3,000+
Valvetrain Noise Description/Symptoms: Excessive ticking or clattering sounds from the engine Solution: Replacement of the hydraulic lifters or camshafts Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+
3.2L V6 (M112.962)
Oil Pan Gasket Leak Description/Symptoms: Oil leak from the oil pan Solution: Replacement of the oil pan gasket Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
Air Mass Sensor Failure Description/Symptoms: Engine stalling, rough idling, reduced engine power Solution: Replacement of the air mass sensor Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
Transmission
5-Speed Automatic (722.6)
Transmission Slippage Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, delayed gear engagement, loss of power Solution: Replacement or rebuild of the transmission Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
Torque Converter Failure Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or slipping during gear changes, loss of power Solution: Replacement of the torque converter Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
Suspension
Rear Air Suspension Failure Description/Symptoms: Sagging rear end, rough ride quality Solution: Replacement of the rear air suspension components Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
Front Control Arm Bushing Failure Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling sounds from the front suspension, uneven tire wear Solution: Replacement of the control arm bushings Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
Electrical
Alternator Failure Description/Symptoms: Dimming lights, battery drain, charging system warning light Solution: Replacement of the alternator Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
Battery Drain Description/Symptoms: Difficulty starting the vehicle, dead battery Solution: Diagnosis and repair of the electrical system components causing the drain Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
Exterior
Rusty Brake Rotors Description/Symptoms: Visible rust on the brake rotors, reduced braking performance Solution: Replacement of the brake rotors Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
Interior
Instrument Cluster Failure Description/Symptoms: Malfunctioning gauges, flickering display Solution: Repair or replacement of the instrument cluster Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
Heater/Air Conditioner Failure Description/Symptoms: Lack of heat or cold air, blower motor not operating Solution: Diagnosis and repair of the heating and air conditioning system components Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+
Summary
Overall, the 1999 Mercedes-Benz E280 can be a reliable vehicle when properly maintained. However, there are several potential issues to be aware of, particularly with the engine and transmission. The severity of the issues varies, but some, such as the head bolt failure, can be quite costly to repair.