2006 Mercedes-Benz R500

The 2006 Mercedes-Benz R500 is a unique blend of minivan and SUV, offering a spacious and luxurious ride. It features a 5.0L V8 engine producing 302 horsepower and 339 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 7-speed automatic transmission. Other engine options available for the 2006 R-Class include the R350 with a 3.5L V6 and the R320 CDI with a 3.0L diesel V6 (though the diesel was not always available in all markets or years). Owners appreciate the R500’s comfortable interior, smooth ride, and ample cargo space. However, common complaints include the vehicle’s complexity, leading to potentially expensive repairs, and its relatively poor fuel economy.

Engine

5.0L V8 (M113)

• Oil Leaks from Valve Cover Gaskets
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaking onto the exhaust manifold causing a burning smell, visible oil around the valve covers.
  • Solution: Replace the valve cover gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
• Oil Leaks from Oil Cooler Lines
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible oil leaks near the oil filter housing, potential for low oil pressure warning.
  • Solution: Replace the oil cooler lines.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $700
• Camshaft Position Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light, rough running, stalling.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty camshaft position sensor(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300

3.5L V6 (M272) (If Applicable)

• Balance Shaft Sprocket Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light, rough idle, engine noise (ticking or rattling). This issue is more prevalent in earlier M272 engines, and it’s critical to check the engine serial number to determine if the car is affected.
  • Solution: Engine removal and replacement of the balance shaft sprocket. This is a major repair.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $6,000
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

7-Speed Automatic (722.9)

• Conductor Plate Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh shifting, failure to shift, limp mode.
  • Solution: Replace the conductor plate within the transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500
• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Erratic shifting, slipping, delayed engagement.
  • Solution: Valve body replacement or rebuild.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1200 - $2500

Suspension

• Airmatic Suspension Compressor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Suspension not lifting, sagging, “Visit Workshop” warning light.
  • Solution: Replace the airmatic suspension compressor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
• Airmatic Strut Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Sagging suspension, especially overnight, hissing sound from struts.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking airmatic strut(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $2000+ per strut

Electrical

• EIS (Electronic Ignition Switch) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Key not recognized, inability to start the car, steering wheel not unlocking.
  • Solution: Replace the EIS and potentially reprogram keys.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $2000
• SAM (Signal Acquisition Module) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Malfunctioning lights, wipers, or other electrical components.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty SAM unit and program it to the vehicle.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery dying overnight or after a few days of sitting, difficulty starting.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the source of the parasitic drain (often related to a faulty module).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+ (depending on the complexity of the issue)

Exterior

• Rear Tail Light Bulb Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rear tail light bulb goes out frequently, burnt connector.
  • Solution: Replace the bulb and repair or replace the bulb holder/connector.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50-$200

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof jammed, not opening or closing properly, motor failure.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the sunroof motor or mechanism.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+

Summary

The 2006 Mercedes-Benz R500 presents a mix of luxury and practicality, but potential buyers should be aware of its common issues. The airmatic suspension, electrical systems, and transmission are known weak points that can lead to expensive repairs. Engine issues, particularly oil leaks, are also common. The severity of these issues ranges from minor annoyances to major mechanical failures, and repair costs can be significant, potentially exceeding several thousand dollars for major components like the airmatic suspension or transmission. Careful inspection and a pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic are highly recommended.