2003 Mercedes-Benz E500

Introduction

The 2003 Mercedes-Benz E500 is a luxury sedan known for its performance and comfort. It features a 5.0-liter V8 engine that produces 302 horsepower and 339 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission. Other engine and transmission options include a 2.6-liter V6 and a 3.2-liter V6, both paired with a 5-speed manual or automatic transmission. People enjoy the E500’s powerful engine, smooth ride, and luxurious interior, but criticize its high fuel consumption and expensive maintenance costs.

Engine

5.0-liter V8

• Intake Manifold Runner Control Flap Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The intake manifold runner control flaps can fail, causing a loss of power and rough idling.
  • Solution: Replace the intake manifold.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Cam Position Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The cam position sensor can fail, causing the engine to run erratically or stall.
  • Solution: Replace the cam position sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Timing Chain Tensioner Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The timing chain tensioner can fail, causing a rattling noise and reduced engine performance.
  • Solution: Replace the timing chain tensioner and timing chain.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $2500+
  • Recalls: None Found

2.6-liter V6

• No Issues Found

3.2-liter V6

• No Issues Found

Transmission

5-speed Automatic

• Transmission Slippage
  • Description/Symptoms: The transmission may slip or hesitate when shifting gears.
  • Solution: Rebuild or replace the transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2000 - $4000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The torque converter can fail, causing a loss of power and rough shifting.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found

5-speed Manual

• No Issues Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Compressor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The air suspension compressor can fail, causing the vehicle to sag or ride rough.
  • Solution: Replace the air suspension compressor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Strut Mount Bearing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The strut mount bearings can fail, causing clunking or rattling noises.
  • Solution: Replace the strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: The battery may drain prematurely due to a parasitic draw.
  • Solution: Identify and fix the source of the parasitic draw.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The alternator can fail, causing the battery to not charge properly.
  • Solution: Replace the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Headlight Condensation
  • Description/Symptoms: Condensation may form inside the headlights, especially in humid conditions.
  • Solution: Replace the headlights.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: The sunroof may leak water into the interior.
  • Solution: Inspect and reseal the sunroof.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Navigation System Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The navigation system may freeze or display incorrect information.
  • Solution: Update or replace the navigation system software.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2003 Mercedes-Benz E500 has some common issues that can be costly to repair. The engine, transmission, and suspension components can experience significant problems, while the electrical and interior issues are less severe. The overall severity and cost of these issues vary depending on the specific issue and the age and maintenance history of the vehicle.