2004 Mercedes-Benz E500

The 2004 Mercedes-Benz E500 is a luxury sedan known for its comfortable ride, powerful V8 engine, and advanced technology for its time. It offered a blend of performance and sophistication. The E500 boasts a 5.0L V8 engine producing 302 horsepower and 339 lb-ft of torque. Other engine options for the 2004 E-Class include the E320 with a 3.2L V6, the E320 CDI with a 3.2L Inline 6 Turbo Diesel, and the E55 AMG with a supercharged 5.4L V8. All engine options were equipped with a 5-speed automatic transmission. Common owner praises include the car’s smooth ride and powerful engine. Criticisms often revolve around maintenance costs and electrical gremlins.

Engine

5.0L M113 V8

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks are common from valve cover gaskets, oil cooler lines, and the front crankshaft seal. Symptoms include visible oil leaks on the engine or garage floor, and a burning oil smell.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking gaskets or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ depending on the location and severity.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Idler Pulley Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The idler pulley or tensioner pulley can fail, causing a squealing noise from the engine bay.
  • Solution: Replacement of the idler pulley or tensioner assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic (722.6)

• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The 722.6 transmission is known to have valve body issues. Symptoms include harsh or delayed shifting, slipping between gears, or a complete loss of gear engagement.
  • Solution: Replacement or rebuild of the valve body.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Conductor Plate Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The conductor plate inside the transmission can fail, leading to erratic shifting or a complete loss of gear selection. This component houses the transmission’s speed sensors.
  • Solution: Replacement of the conductor plate and potentially the electrical connector.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Airmatic Suspension Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The Airmatic air suspension system is prone to failure. Symptoms include the car sitting low on one or more corners, a “Visit Workshop” message on the dash, and a malfunctioning air compressor.
  • Solution: Replacement of the air struts, air compressor, or relay. Sometimes the air lines themselves develop leaks that need to be patched or replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+ per strut, $500 - $1,000+ for the compressor.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Front Lower Control Arm Bushings
  • Description/Symptoms: The front lower control arm bushings are prone to wear and tear. Symptoms include clunking noises from the front suspension, especially over bumps, and loose or vague steering.
  • Solution: Replacement of the control arm bushings or the entire control arm assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300-$800+ per side.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Instrument Cluster Pixelation
  • Description/Symptoms: The LCD screens in the instrument cluster often suffer from pixel loss, making it difficult to read information.
  • Solution: Replacement or repair of the instrument cluster.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• SAM (Signal Acquisition Module) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The SAM modules control various electrical functions. Failure can lead to issues with lights, wipers, door locks, and other systems.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty SAM module and reprogramming.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Electronic Ignition Switch (EIS) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The EIS can fail, preventing the car from starting. Symptoms include the key not turning in the ignition or the car not recognizing the key.
  • Solution: Replacement of the EIS module and reprogramming.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust is a known issue, particularly on the door panels, around the wheel arches, and under the trunk lid.
  • Solution: Rust repair or panel replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3,000+ depending on severity.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Center Console Buttons Peeling
  • Description/Symptoms: The soft-touch coating on the center console buttons can peel off, making them look worn and unsightly.
  • Solution: Replacement of the affected buttons or refinishing of the center console.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary The 2004 Mercedes-Benz E500, while a luxurious and powerful vehicle, is prone to several common issues. Suspension and electrical problems are the most frequent and can be expensive to repair, particularly the Airmatic system and SAM modules. Engine and transmission issues, while less frequent, can also result in substantial repair costs. Rust is also a potential problem, especially in regions with harsh winters. Prospective buyers should carefully inspect the vehicle for these issues and factor in potential repair costs when considering a purchase.