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2003 Mercedes-Benz E500

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By Research the Car 4 min read

The 2003 Mercedes-Benz E500 is a luxury sedan offering a blend of performance and comfort. The E500 was equipped with a 5.0L V8 engine, producing approximately 302 horsepower and 339 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission. Other engine options for the 2003 E-Class included a range of V6 engines in the E320 and a smaller V8 in the E430. Some owners appreciate the E500’s powerful engine and smooth ride, while others dislike its potential for expensive repairs and electrical complexities.

Engine

5.0L V8

  • Oil Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks can occur from various locations, including the valve cover gaskets, oil filter housing, and rear main seal. Signs include oil spots under the car, a burning oil smell, and low oil levels.
    • Solution: Replacing the leaking gaskets or seals is necessary.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $800+, depending on the location and complexity of the repair.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Camshaft Position Sensor Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The car may experience rough idling, stalling, decreased fuel economy, and a check engine light.
    • Solution: Replacement of the faulty camshaft position sensor.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Coolant Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks from hoses, radiator, water pump, or expansion tank. Can cause overheating if not addressed.
    • Solution: Replace the leaking component. Inspect and replace hoses preventatively.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $600+ depending on the component and labor.
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic

  • Transmission Slipping/Hard Shifting
    • Description/Symptoms: Delays in shifting, harsh or jerky shifts, or the transmission slipping out of gear.
    • Solution: A transmission fluid flush may temporarily alleviate the issue, but often indicates wear and tear on internal components requiring a rebuild or replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 (fluid flush) - $4,000+ (rebuild/replacement)
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Torque Converter Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibrations at specific speeds, particularly during acceleration, and possible stalling.
    • Solution: Torque converter replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1800+
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

  • Air Suspension Issues (Airmatic System)
    • Description/Symptoms: The car may sag on one or more corners, fail to maintain the correct ride height, or the air compressor may run constantly. The “Visit Workshop” message may appear on the dash.
    • Solution: Replacing the faulty air struts, air compressor, or valve block. Air struts are prone to leaks.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000+ per strut; $500 - $1200+ for the compressor, depending on the location and labor.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Ball Joint Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Knocking or clunking sounds from the front suspension, especially when going over bumps. Uneven tire wear.
    • Solution: Replacement of the ball joints.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per ball joint
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • Instrument Cluster Pixelation
    • Description/Symptoms: Pixels in the instrument cluster display fade or disappear, making it difficult to read information.
    • Solution: Repair or replacement of the instrument cluster.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ depending on repair vs. replacement.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Battery Drain
    • Description/Symptoms: The battery drains quickly, especially when the car is not in use. This can be caused by a parasitic draw from various electrical components.
    • Solution: Diagnosis and repair of the parasitic draw. Could involve testing various modules and circuits to find the source.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the complexity of the issue.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Central Locking System Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The central locking system may fail to lock or unlock doors, or it may work intermittently.
    • Solution: Diagnosis of the locking system, could require replacing the door lock actuators or the PSE pump (Pneumatic System Equipment).
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • Rust
    • Description/Symptoms: Rust formation, particularly around the wheel arches, door sills, and underbody.
    • Solution: Rust repair, including sanding, patching, and repainting.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+ per area, depending on severity.
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

  • Sunroof Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: The sunroof may fail to open or close properly, or it may make unusual noises.
    • Solution: Repair or replacement of the sunroof motor, rails, or other components.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Command System Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Navigation, radio, and other multimedia functions stop working or function intermittently.
    • Solution: Diagnosis of the COMAND system, could require replacement of the head unit or other components.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2003 Mercedes-Benz E500, while offering a luxurious driving experience, is prone to a range of issues as it ages. The air suspension system is a known weak point, and electrical problems can be complex and costly to diagnose. Oil leaks from the engine and transmission issues are also common concerns. Repair costs can range from a few hundred dollars for minor fixes to several thousand for more extensive repairs. Potential buyers should carefully inspect the car for these issues and factor in the cost of potential repairs before making a purchase.

Mercedes-Benz, E500
Mercedes-Benz E500 2003
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