2006 Mercedes-Benz R350
2006 Mercedes-Benz R350
Overview
The 2006 Mercedes-Benz R350, a luxury crossover, aimed to blend the utility of an SUV with the comfort of a sedan. While offering a spacious and premium interior, its first model year introduced some notable reliability concerns. Owners reported issues primarily stemming from the powertrain and certain electronic components. The vehicle’s complexity, typical of Mercedes-Benz vehicles of this era, can contribute to higher repair costs when problems do arise. Despite its luxury aspirations, potential buyers should be aware of these common issues and factor in potential maintenance expenses.
Engine
3.5L V6 (M272)
Intake Manifold Runner Flap Failure
- Symptoms: Check engine light, rough idle, loss of power, P2004/P2005/P2006 error codes.
- Solution: Replacement of the intake manifold assembly or repair kit.
- Cost: $600 - $1200
Balance Shaft Failure (M272/M273 Engines)
- Symptoms: Check engine light, rough idle, misfires, P0016/P0017 error codes, rattling noise from the engine.
- Solution: Replacement of the balance shaft and associated timing components.
- Cost: $2500 - $4500
Transmission
722.6 5-Speed Automatic
Transmission Control Module (TCM) Failure
- Symptoms: Harsh shifting, slipping gears, transmission warning light, inability to shift.
- Solution: Replacement of the TCM.
- Cost: $800 - $1500
Torque Converter Issues
- Symptoms: Shuddering at low speeds, slipping, delayed engagement.
- Solution: Replacement of the torque converter.
- Cost: $1200 - $2000
Suspension
Standard Air Suspension (Optional)
Air Spring Leaks
- Symptoms: Vehicle sagging on one side, compressor running excessively, ‘Service Suspension’ warning light.
- Solution: Replacement of leaking air springs or air compressor.
- Cost: $500 - $1500 per corner for springs, $400 - $800 for compressor.
Standard Coil Spring Suspension
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: No widespread issues reported.
Electrical
General Electrical System
Window Regulator Failure
- Symptoms: Power windows not operating, window stuck in position.
- Solution: Replacement of the window regulator assembly.
- Cost: $300 - $600 per window.
Headlight Ballast Failure
- Symptoms: One or both HID headlights not working, flickering.
- Solution: Replacement of the headlight ballast.
- Cost: $200 - $400 per ballast.
Exterior
General Exterior
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: No widespread issues reported.
Interior
General Interior
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: No widespread issues reported.
Summary Verdict
The 2006 Mercedes-Benz R350 exhibits a mixed reliability record. The most significant concerns revolve around the M272 engine’s balance shaft and intake manifold issues, as well as potential problems with the 722.6 transmission’s control module and torque converter. Optional air suspension systems can also be a source of costly repairs. While the exterior and interior generally hold up well, electrical components like window regulators and headlight ballasts have been reported to fail. Prospective buyers should be prepared for potentially higher-than-average maintenance and repair costs, especially if purchasing a vehicle with higher mileage or without a comprehensive service history.