2007 Mercedes-Benz E500

The 2007 Mercedes-Benz E500 is a luxury sedan appreciated for its comfortable ride, powerful engine, and elegant interior. It came standard with a 5.5L V8 engine producing 382 horsepower and 391 lb-ft of torque. Other engine options available in the E-Class lineup for 2007 included various V6 and diesel engines. The E500 specifically was only available with a 7-speed automatic transmission (7G-TRONIC). Common complaints include expensive repairs and maintenance costs, as well as electrical issues. Owners generally praise the car’s performance and comfort, but are often concerned about its reliability.

Engine

5.5L V8 (M273)

• Camshaft Adjuster Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The camshaft adjuster solenoids, which control variable valve timing, can fail. Symptoms include a check engine light, rough idling, and decreased engine performance.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty camshaft adjuster solenoids.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+ (depending on location and parts)
• Valve Cover Gasket Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks from the valve cover gaskets. Visible oil around the valve covers and a burning oil smell are common symptoms.
  • Solution: Replace the valve cover gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $700+
• Oil Filter Housing Gasket Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks from the oil filter housing gasket. This can cause oil to drip onto other engine components.
  • Solution: Replace the oil filter housing gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+

Transmission

7-Speed Automatic (7G-TRONIC - 722.9)

• Conductor Plate Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The conductor plate inside the transmission can fail, leading to erratic shifting, limp mode (transmission stuck in one gear), and a check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace the conductor plate. The valve body is often replaced at the same time.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+
• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Problems with the valve body can cause hard shifting, slipping, and general transmission performance issues.
  • Solution: Replace or rebuild the valve body.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1,800+
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering at low speeds, abnormal noises, and poor acceleration.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,200 - $3,000+

Suspension

• Airmatic Suspension Failure (if equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: The Airmatic air suspension system is prone to leaks in the air struts, causing the car to sit unevenly or lower than normal. The air compressor can also fail.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking air struts and/or the air compressor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+ per strut, $500 - $1,200+ for the compressor.
• Ball Joint/Control Arm Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Worn ball joints and control arm bushings can cause clunking noises, poor handling, and uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replace worn ball joints and/or control arms.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+ per corner (depending on parts replaced)

Electrical

• EIS (Electronic Ignition Switch) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The EIS can fail, preventing the car from starting.
  • Solution: Replace the EIS and program it to the vehicle.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
• SAM (Signal Acquisition Module) Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Problems with the SAM modules (front and rear) can cause various electrical malfunctions, such as lights not working, wipers malfunctioning, and other electrical gremlins.
  • Solution: Replace or reprogram the faulty SAM module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,200+ per module
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: The battery drains overnight or after a short period of inactivity. This can be caused by a faulty module or a parasitic draw.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the source of the battery drain.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (depending on the cause)

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust formation, especially around the wheel arches, door bottoms, and trunk lid.
  • Solution: Repair or replace rusted body panels.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies greatly depending on the extent of the damage.

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof motor failure, track misalignment, or water leaks.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the sunroof motor, realign the track, or repair leaks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
• Command System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The COMAND system (navigation, audio, etc.) can experience software glitches, screen failures, or other malfunctions.
  • Solution: Update software, repair, or replace the COMAND unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $2,000+

Recalls:

• 2007070003 - Power Steering Hose Leak
• 2010040002 - Bonding of the sliding roof panel

Summary:

The 2007 Mercedes-Benz E500 offers a luxurious and powerful driving experience, but potential owners should be aware of several common issues. Engine and transmission problems, particularly relating to the camshaft adjusters, valve cover gaskets, conductor plate and valve body within the transmission, and Airmatic suspension if equipped, can lead to costly repairs. Electrical issues with the EIS and SAM modules are also frequently reported. Rust can be a concern in some areas. Overall, the E500 can be a rewarding car to own, but requires careful maintenance and a willingness to address potential problems. The cost of repairs can be significant, making it crucial to have a pre-purchase inspection performed by a qualified mechanic.