2006 Mercedes-Benz E320

The 2006 Mercedes-Benz E320 is a mid-size luxury sedan known for its comfortable ride, elegant interior, and advanced technology for its time. The E320 came standard with a 3.2L V6 engine producing 221 horsepower and 232 lb-ft of torque. Other engine options for the 2006 E-Class included a 3.5L V6 (E350), a 5.0L V8 (E500), a 5.4L V8 (E55 AMG), and a 3.0L Diesel V6 (E320 CDI). All engines were paired with a 7-speed automatic transmission. Some owners appreciate the car’s smooth ride and classic Mercedes styling, while others find the maintenance costs and potential for electrical issues to be drawbacks.

Engine

3.2L V6 (E320)

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks, often from valve cover gaskets, oil filter housing gasket, or front crankshaft seal. Visible oil drips under the car and/or a burning oil smell are common symptoms.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking gasket or seal.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+, depending on the location of the leak.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Camshaft Position Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, stalling, decreased engine performance, and the check engine light illuminating. Diagnostic codes related to camshaft position are present.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty camshaft position sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

7-Speed Automatic (722.9)

• Torque Converter Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibration during acceleration, particularly at lower speeds. Can also lead to harsh shifting or complete transmission failure in severe cases.
  • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter, or in some cases, the entire transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Conductor Plate Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Erratic shifting, getting stuck in gear, limp mode activation, and the check engine light illuminating. Diagnostic codes related to the transmission control module and speed sensors are present.
  • Solution: Replace the conductor plate within the transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Airmatic Suspension Failure (if equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sagging on one or more corners, ride height not adjusting properly, “Visit Workshop” message appearing on the dashboard. Compressor failure is also common.
  • Solution: Replace faulty air struts, air compressor, or associated valves and lines.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+ per strut, $500 - $1,000+ for the compressor.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Ball Joint Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Knocking or clunking noises from the front suspension, especially when going over bumps. Steering may feel loose or vague.
  • Solution: Replace the worn ball joints.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800 per side.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• SAM (Signal Acquisition Module) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Various electrical malfunctions, including issues with lighting, wipers, power windows, door locks, and other electronic systems. Often caused by water intrusion.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty SAM unit and address any water leaks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery frequently draining, especially when the car sits for an extended period. Can be caused by a parasitic draw from a faulty module or component.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the source of the parasitic draw.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the complexity of the issue.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof not opening or closing properly, getting stuck, or making unusual noises. Can be due to a broken motor, damaged tracks, or clogged drain tubes.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the sunroof motor, tracks, or clean the drain tubes.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Center Console Buttons Wearing Out
  • Description/Symptoms: The soft-touch coating on buttons (window switches, infotainment controls, etc.) peels or becomes sticky.
  • Solution: Replacement of affected buttons, or in some cases, the entire console trim piece.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $500+ depending on the part.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2006 Mercedes-Benz E320, while a luxurious and comfortable vehicle, is prone to certain issues. Engine oil leaks are common, and transmission problems (particularly with the torque converter and conductor plate) can be expensive to repair. Electrical issues, stemming from SAM module failures or parasitic battery drains, are also frequently reported. Airmatic suspension problems can further contribute to high repair costs. While some repairs are relatively minor, others can be substantial, making pre-purchase inspections and thorough maintenance crucial. The severity of these issues can range from minor annoyances to major mechanical failures, with repair costs ranging from a few hundred dollars to several thousand.