2006 Mercedes-Benz E55 AMG

The 2006 Mercedes-Benz E55 AMG is a performance sedan that blends luxury with impressive power. This model year features a supercharged 5.4-liter V8 engine, producing 469 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque, paired with a five-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise the E55 AMG for its exhilarating acceleration and comfortable ride, while common complaints revolve around maintenance costs associated with its high-performance components and age-related issues.

Engine

5.4L Supercharged V8 (M113K)

• Supercharger Clutch Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Loud whining or grinding noise from the supercharger, loss of boost, and reduced acceleration. This can be caused by worn or damaged clutch components.
  • Solution: Replace the supercharger clutch assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
• Intercooler Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Overheating, reduced engine performance, and potentially triggering a check engine light. The intercooler pump circulates coolant through the intercooler to cool the intake air charge. Failure can result in heat soak and significant power loss.
  • Solution: Replace the intercooler pump.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
• Valve Cover Gasket Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks around the valve covers, burning oil smell, and potentially oil dripping onto exhaust components.
  • Solution: Replace the valve cover gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
• Crankshaft Position Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine stalling, difficulty starting, and potentially a check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace the crankshaft position sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic (722.6)

• Conductor Plate Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Erratic shifting, transmission slipping, limp mode (restricted to a single gear), and diagnostic trouble codes related to the transmission.
  • Solution: Replace the conductor plate.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1200+
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibration, especially during acceleration, slipping between gears, and potentially stalling.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $2500+

Suspension

• Airmatic Suspension Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sagging on one or more corners, failure to maintain ride height, compressor running constantly, and warning lights on the dashboard. This is a common issue with the air suspension system.
  • Solution: Diagnosis is required to determine the specific component failure. This can include air struts, air compressor, valve block, or air lines. Replacement of the faulty components is necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+ per strut; $500 - $1000+ for compressor replacement.
• ABC (Active Body Control) Suspension Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Leaking fluid, vehicle leaning to one side, ABC warning light, rough ride.
  • Solution: Diagnosis is required to determine the specific component failure. This can include ABC Struts, hydraulic pump, or pulsation damper. Replacement of the faulty components is necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+ per strut; $1500 - $3000+ for pump replacement.

Electrical

• Instrument Cluster Pixelation
  • Description/Symptoms: Pixels missing or fading on the instrument cluster display, making it difficult to read information.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the instrument cluster.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+
• SAM (Signal Acquisition Module) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Multiple electrical malfunctions, such as lighting issues, window problems, or central locking failure. The SAM controls various electrical functions in the vehicle.
  • Solution: Diagnosis to determine the affected SAM module (front or rear) and replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+
• Door Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Door not locking or unlocking properly, either manually or with the key fob.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty door lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per door.

Exterior

• Headlight Condensation
  • Description/Symptoms: Moisture buildup inside the headlight housings.
  • Solution: Remove headlight assembly, dry out the moisture, and reseal or replace the headlight housing.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on repair vs. replacement.

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof failing to open or close properly, making unusual noises, or leaking water.
  • Solution: Diagnose the cause of the issue (broken tracks, motor failure, etc.) and repair or replace the affected components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+
• Center Console Buttons/Switches Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: Buttons or switches on the center console (e.g., for seat heating, climate control) failing to respond or sticking.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty buttons or switches.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400+

Summary

The 2006 Mercedes-Benz E55 AMG offers impressive performance, but owners should be prepared for potentially high maintenance costs. Common issues include problems with the air suspension, electrical components, and age-related wear on the engine and transmission. Repair costs can range from a few hundred dollars for minor fixes to several thousand dollars for major component replacements like the air suspension or transmission.