2005 Mercedes-Benz E55 AMG

The 2005 Mercedes-Benz E55 AMG is a high-performance variant of the W211 E-Class sedan, renowned for its blistering acceleration and luxurious features. It came equipped with a 5.4L Supercharged V8 producing 469 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission. While praised for its power, comfort, and handling, the E55 AMG can be prone to certain issues due to its age, complexity, and performance-oriented design. Potential buyers often dislike the high maintenance costs and potential for expensive repairs.

Engine

5.4L Supercharged V8 (M113K)

• Intercooler Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Reduced engine power, overheating, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) related to the intercooler system. The intercooler pump circulates coolant through the intercooler to cool the intake air. When the pump fails, the engine experiences heat soak and loses power.
  • Solution: Replace the intercooler pump.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
• Crankshaft Position Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine stalling, difficulty starting, rough running, and a check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace the crankshaft position sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Supercharger Clutch Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Whining noises from the supercharger, reduced boost, and a noticeable decrease in performance.
  • Solution: Replace the supercharger clutch assembly or rebuild the supercharger.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+
• Valve Cover Gasket Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks around the valve covers, burning oil smell, and visible oil residue on the engine.
  • Solution: Replace the valve cover gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic (722.6)

• Conductor Plate Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or erratic shifting, transmission slipping, getting stuck in a single gear, or inability to shift. Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) related to the transmission.
  • Solution: Replace the conductor plate and filter, and perform a transmission fluid flush.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering during acceleration, unusual noises from the transmission, poor fuel economy, transmission slipping.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,200 - $2,500+
• Solenoid Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Erratic or harsh shifting, transmission slipping, failure to shift into certain gears, and diagnostic trouble codes related to the transmission solenoids.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty solenoids.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Airmatic Suspension Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Sagging suspension (especially after the car sits), compressor running constantly, uneven ride height, error messages on the instrument cluster (“Visit Workshop”).
  • Solution: Replace faulty air struts, air compressor, or air lines.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000+ per strut, $500 - $1000+ for the compressor.
• ABC (Active Body Control) System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Leaks from hydraulic lines or struts, suspension sagging, rough ride, error messages related to ABC.
  • Solution: Repair leaks, replace faulty struts, flush the ABC system.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Can vary significantly depending on the component affected. $1,000 - $3,000+

Electrical

• EIS (Electronic Ignition Switch) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Key not recognized, inability to start the car, steering wheel lock malfunction.
  • Solution: Replace the EIS. Requires programming by a qualified technician.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
• Battery Drain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Dead battery after short periods of inactivity.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the source of the parasitic draw. Common culprits include faulty modules, improperly installed aftermarket electronics, or a failing voltage regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (depending on the cause).
• SAM (Signal Acquisition Module) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Malfunctions in various electrical components such as lights, wipers, windows, or central locking.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty SAM unit and program it to the car.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust formation on door panels, fenders, rocker panels, and around the wheel wells. The W211 chassis is known to be prone to rust in certain climates.
  • Solution: Repair and repaint affected areas.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3000+ (depending on severity).

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof motor failure, sticking sunroof, water leaks.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the sunroof motor, lubricate the tracks, or replace the seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Climate Control Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Malfunctioning climate control system, blower motor failure, blend door actuator failure, or refrigerant leaks.
  • Solution: Repair or replace faulty components, recharge the A/C system.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2005 Mercedes-Benz E55 AMG, while a powerful and luxurious sedan, is prone to several common issues due to its age and complex systems. Suspension problems, especially with the Airmatic or ABC systems, and transmission issues are frequent concerns that can be expensive to repair. Electrical problems stemming from the EIS or SAM units also contribute to potential maintenance costs. Rust is a significant issue to watch out for, depending on the vehicle’s location history. Overall, owning an E55 AMG requires a willingness to invest in maintenance and repairs to keep it in good running condition.