2007 Mercedes-Benz E550

2007 Mercedes-Benz E550

Overview

The 2007 Mercedes-Benz E550, part of the W211 generation, is a luxury sedan known for its potent V8 engine and refined driving experience. While generally well-regarded for its performance and comfort, like any vehicle of its age, it has specific areas that have seen more attention from owners regarding reliability. This analysis focuses on documented common issues beyond routine maintenance, providing insights into potential concerns for prospective buyers or current owners. The focus is on the powertrain, suspension, electrical systems, and other key areas that can impact the long-term ownership experience of this German luxury car.

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Engine

5.5L M273 V8

Intake Manifold Runner Flap Actuator Failure

• Symptoms: Check engine light, rough idle, loss of power, rattling noise from intake.
• Solution: Replacement of the intake manifold or repair of the actuator mechanism.
• Cost: $400 - $900

Oil Leaks (Valve Cover Gaskets, Oil Cooler Seals)

• Symptoms: Visible oil drips, burning oil smell, low oil level.
• Solution: Replacement of valve cover gaskets or oil cooler seals.
• Cost: $300 - $700

Transmission

7G-TRONIC (722.9) Automatic Transmission

Torque Converter Seal Leak

• Symptoms: Transmission fluid leaks, potential for transmission slippage or harsh shifting.
• Solution: Replacement of the torque converter seal.
• Cost: $500 - $1200

Valve Body Issues

• Symptoms: Erratic shifting, delayed engagement, transmission warning light.
• Solution: Repair or replacement of the valve body.
• Cost: $1000 - $2500

Suspension

Standard & AirMatic Suspension

AirMatic Compressor Failure

• Symptoms: Vehicle sagging, suspension warning light, uneven ride height.
• Solution: Replacement of the air compressor unit.
• Cost: $600 - $1500

Air Spring Leaks

• Symptoms: Vehicle sagging on one corner, loss of ride height.
• Solution: Replacement of the leaking air spring strut.
• Cost: $500 - $1000 per corner

Electrical

General Electrical System

SAM (Signal Acquisition Module) Issues

• Symptoms: Various warning lights, malfunctioning lights (headlights, taillights), power window issues, central locking problems.
• Solution: Diagnosis and repair or replacement of the SAM module.
• Cost: $500 - $1500

Seat Control Module Failure

• Symptoms: Power seats not functioning, memory seat issues.
• Solution: Replacement of the seat control module.
• Cost: $300 - $700

Exterior

Body and Trim

No Major Issues

• Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
• Solution: No widespread issues reported.
• Cost: N/A

Interior

Cabin Components

Sunroof Drain Clogs

• Symptoms: Water leaks into the cabin, musty smell, potential damage to electronics.
• Solution: Clearing of sunroof drains.
• Cost: $100 - $300

Headliner Sagging

• Symptoms: Fabric detaching from the headliner board.
• Solution: Re-gluing or replacement of the headliner.
• Cost: $300 - $800

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Summary Verdict

The 2007 Mercedes-Benz E550 offers a compelling blend of performance and luxury, but potential buyers should be aware of common issues. The 5.5L V8 engine can experience problems with the intake manifold runner flap actuator and oil leaks. The 7G-TRONIC transmission, while generally robust, can suffer from torque converter seal leaks and valve body issues. Suspension components, particularly the AirMatic system, are prone to compressor and air spring failures. Electrical gremlins, often related to the SAM module, can manifest in various ways. Interior issues like clogged sunroof drains and sagging headliners are also noted. Despite these potential concerns, many E550s remain reliable with proper maintenance and timely repairs, offering a rewarding ownership experience for those prepared for the associated costs.