2007 Mercedes-Benz R320
2007 Mercedes-Benz R320
Overview
The 2007 Mercedes-Benz R320, a luxury crossover, aimed to blend the utility of an SUV with the comfort of a sedan. It was offered with a potent diesel engine, providing a balance of performance and fuel efficiency for its class. While generally well-received for its spacious interior and comfortable ride, like any vehicle of its age and complexity, it has specific areas where owners have reported issues. This analysis focuses on documented technical reliability concerns beyond routine maintenance, providing insights into potential problem areas for prospective buyers or current owners.
Engine
3.0L V6 Turbo Diesel (OM642)
Injectors
- Symptoms: Rough idle, poor fuel economy, engine misfires, check engine light.
- Solution: Replacement of faulty fuel injectors.
- Cost: $800 - $1500 per injector
EGR Valve
- Symptoms: Reduced engine power, black smoke from exhaust, rough idling, check engine light.
- Solution: Cleaning or replacement of the Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) valve.
- Cost: $400 - $800
Turbocharger Issues
- Symptoms: Loss of power, whistling noises from the engine bay, black smoke.
- Solution: Repair or replacement of the turbocharger assembly.
- Cost: $1500 - $3000
Glow Plugs and Relay
- Symptoms: Hard starting, especially in cold weather, check engine light.
- Solution: Replacement of faulty glow plugs and/or the glow plug control module.
- Cost: $300 - $700
Transmission
7G-TRONIC 7-Speed Automatic
Transmission Control Module (TCM)
- Symptoms: Harsh shifting, delayed engagement, transmission warning lights, limp mode.
- Solution: Software update or replacement of the Transmission Control Module.
- Cost: $700 - $1500
Valve Body Issues
- Symptoms: Erratic shifting, slipping gears, failure to shift into certain gears.
- Solution: Repair or replacement of the transmission valve body.
- Cost: $1000 - $2500
Suspension
Air Suspension (Optional)
Air Spring Leaks
- Symptoms: Vehicle sagging on one side, uneven ride height, compressor running excessively.
- Solution: Replacement of leaking air springs or air lines.
- Cost: $500 - $1000 per corner
Air Compressor Failure
- Symptoms: Inability to raise or lower the vehicle, constant compressor operation, warning lights.
- Solution: Replacement of the air suspension compressor.
- Cost: $600 - $1200
Standard Suspension
No Major Issues
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: No widespread issues reported.
Electrical
General Electrical System
Sensor Failures
- Symptoms: Various warning lights (ABS, ESP, Check Engine), erratic gauge readings, cruise control malfunction.
- Solution: Diagnosis and replacement of faulty sensors (e.g., ABS wheel speed sensors, crankshaft position sensor).
- Cost: $200 - $600 per sensor
Headlight Control Module
- Symptoms: Headlights not working, flickering, or turning off unexpectedly.
- Solution: Replacement of the headlight control module.
- Cost: $300 - $700
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 2007 Mercedes-Benz R320, particularly with its diesel engine, presents a mixed reliability profile. The 3.0L V6 diesel engine is prone to issues with injectors, EGR valves, and turbochargers, which can be costly to repair. The 7G-TRONIC transmission can also experience problems with its control module and valve body. Optional air suspension systems are a known weak point, with leaks and compressor failures being common. Electrical gremlins, often related to sensor failures, can also arise. While the exterior and interior generally hold up well, potential buyers should be aware of the significant repair costs associated with the powertrain and optional air suspension. Regular maintenance and prompt attention to early symptoms are crucial for managing the long-term reliability of this luxury crossover.