2006 Mercedes-Benz R500

2006 Mercedes-Benz R500

Overview

The 2006 Mercedes-Benz R500, a luxury crossover, aimed to blend the utility of an SUV with the comfort of a sedan. It was offered with a potent 5.0L V8 engine, paired with a sophisticated 7-speed automatic transmission. While generally offering a premium experience, like many complex luxury vehicles of its era, it can present specific reliability concerns that owners should be aware of. This data focuses on documented common issues beyond routine maintenance, providing insights into potential repair costs and common problems across key vehicle systems.

---

Engine

5.0L V8 (M113)

Oil Leaks (Valve Covers, Oil Cooler Seals)

• Symptoms: Visible oil stains under the vehicle, burning oil smell, low oil level.
• Solution: Replacement of leaking gaskets and seals.
• Cost: $300 - $700

Coolant Leaks (Intake Manifold Gaskets)

• Symptoms: Sweet smell of coolant, white residue in coolant reservoir, engine overheating.
• Solution: Replacement of intake manifold gaskets.
• Cost: $500 - $900

Transmission

722.6 7-Speed Automatic

Transmission Control Module (TCM) Failure

• Symptoms: Harsh shifting, slipping gears, ‘limp mode’ engagement, check engine light.
• Solution: Replacement of the TCM.
• Cost: $800 - $1500

Conductor Plate Issues

• Symptoms: Erratic shifting, no gear engagement, transmission warning light.
• Solution: Replacement of the conductor plate and associated sensors.
• Cost: $600 - $1100

Suspension

Air Suspension (Optional)

Air Spring Leaks

• Symptoms: Vehicle sagging on one or more corners, compressor running excessively, uneven ride height.
• Solution: Replacement of leaking air springs or air lines.
• Cost: $500 - $1200 per corner

Air Compressor Failure

• Symptoms: Inability to raise or lower the vehicle, constant compressor running, suspension warning light.
• Solution: Replacement of the air compressor unit.
• Cost: $700 - $1300

Standard 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, grinding noise when operating window.
• Solution: Replacement of the window regulator and motor assembly.
• Cost: $300 - $600 per window

Headlight Ballast Failure

• Symptoms: One or both HID headlights not illuminating, flickering headlights.
• Solution: Replacement of the headlight ballast unit.
• Cost: $250 - $500 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

Seat Heater Malfunction

• Symptoms: One or both front seats not heating, intermittent heating.
• Solution: Replacement of seat heating elements or control module.
• Cost: $400 - $800

---

Summary Verdict

The 2006 Mercedes-Benz R500 offers a luxurious and spacious experience, but potential buyers should be aware of common issues, particularly with the optional air suspension and the 7-speed automatic transmission. Engine oil and coolant leaks are also noted. Electrical components like window regulators and headlight ballasts can require attention. While the standard suspension and exterior are generally robust, the complexity of the optional systems and the age of the vehicle mean that proactive maintenance and a budget for potential repairs are advisable for long-term ownership satisfaction.