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2002 Mercedes-Benz E430

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By Research the Car 4 min read

The 2002 Mercedes-Benz E430 is a mid-size luxury sedan that offers a blend of performance, comfort, and classic Mercedes styling. The E430 boasts a 4.3L V8 engine producing 275 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. Other engine options available for the 2002 E-Class include the E320 with a 3.2L V6 and the E55 AMG with a 5.5L V8. A 5-speed automatic transmission was standard across all models except the AMG model. Owners often praise the E430 for its smooth ride, powerful engine, and luxurious interior. However, common complaints include electrical issues, particularly with sensors and electronics, as well as some potential issues related to the aging hydraulic suspension components.

Engine

4.3L V8 (M113)

  • Oil Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks often develop from the valve cover gaskets, oil filter housing gasket, and front crankshaft seal. This can lead to oil consumption, burning smells, and visible oil spots under the car.
    • Solution: Replacing the affected gaskets or seals.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $600+ depending on the leak and the mechanic’s hourly rate.
  • Mass Air Flow (MAF) Sensor Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, stalling, poor acceleration, and a check engine light with codes related to the MAF sensor.
    • Solution: Replacing the faulty MAF sensor.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $350+
  • Camshaft Position Sensor Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Engine misfires, rough idling, poor performance, and a check engine light with codes related to the camshaft position sensor.
    • Solution: Replacing the faulty camshaft position sensor.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $250+
  • Crankshaft Position Sensor Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Engine stalling, difficulty starting, and a check engine light with codes related to the crankshaft position sensor.
    • Solution: Replacing the faulty crankshaft position sensor.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $250+

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic (722.6)

  • Slipping or Harsh Shifting
    • Description/Symptoms: The transmission slips between gears, shifts harshly, or fails to shift properly. This can be caused by low transmission fluid, worn-out clutches, or a faulty valve body.
    • Solution: Replacing the transmission fluid and filter, repairing or replacing the valve body, or rebuilding the transmission.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $3,000+
  • Transmission Conductor Plate Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Erratic shifting, transmission stuck in gear, limp mode, and diagnostic trouble codes related to the conductor plate.
    • Solution: Replacing the conductor plate and possibly the valve body.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+

Suspension

  • Air Suspension Failure (If Equipped)
    • Description/Symptoms: The car sits unevenly, the air compressor runs constantly, or the car does not rise to the correct ride height. This is common with the Airmatic system.
    • Solution: Replacing the air struts, air compressor, or air lines.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+ per strut. $300-$800 for the air compressor.
  • Ball Joint Wear
    • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the front suspension, especially when going over bumps, and loose or vague steering.
    • Solution: Replacing the worn ball joints.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ per side.
  • Control Arm Bushing Wear
    • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises, vibration, and poor handling.
    • Solution: Replacing the worn control arm bushings or the entire control arm.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150-$800+

Electrical

  • Instrument Cluster Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Pixels missing from the LCD displays, gauges malfunctioning, or the entire cluster failing.
    • Solution: Repairing or replacing the instrument cluster.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+
  • Window Regulator Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The windows move slowly, erratically, or not at all.
    • Solution: Replacing the faulty window regulator.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per window.
  • Door Lock Actuator Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The doors fail to lock or unlock with the remote or the door switch.
    • Solution: Replacing the faulty door lock actuator.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ per door.
  • Sunroof Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof failing to open or close.
    • Solution: Repairing or replacing sunroof motor or components.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200-$800+

Exterior

  • Rust
    • Description/Symptoms: Rust along the rocker panels, fenders, and door bottoms.
    • Solution: Repairing the rusted areas by cutting out the rust and welding in new patches of metal.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500-$3000+

Interior

  • No Issues Found

Recalls:

  • 2002070005

Summary

The 2002 Mercedes-Benz E430 can be a rewarding vehicle to own, offering a good balance of performance and luxury. However, potential buyers should be aware of the common issues, particularly those related to the engine, transmission, suspension, and electrical systems. The severity and cost of these issues can vary widely, from relatively inexpensive sensor replacements to costly suspension or transmission repairs. Careful inspection and a thorough pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic are highly recommended.

Mercedes-Benz, E430
Mercedes-Benz E430 2002
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