2008 Mercedes-Benz E280

The 2008 Mercedes-Benz E280 is a luxury sedan known for its comfortable ride, elegant interior, and refined driving experience. In 2008, the E-Class was available with several engine options, including the E350 (3.5L V6), E550 (5.5L V8), and E63 AMG (6.2L V8). While the E280 itself was not offered in the US market, it’s important to cover common issues across the W211 chassis which this car is based on. Owners appreciate the car’s build quality and luxurious features but can be frustrated by potential repair costs associated with its advanced systems.

Engine

3.0L Diesel (Hypothetical for E280 based on W211 chassis)

• Oil Cooler Seal Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leak from the oil cooler, resulting in a noticeable oil smell and potential oil drips under the vehicle. This can cause low oil pressure.
  • Solution: Replacement of the oil cooler seals, potentially with updated versions.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $700+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Glow Plug Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty starting, especially in cold weather, accompanied by a check engine light.
  • Solution: Replacement of faulty glow plugs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

7G-Tronic (722.9) Automatic Transmission

• Conductor Plate Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Erratic shifting, failure to shift, or getting stuck in a single gear. The car may go into limp mode. Diagnostic codes related to the transmission control module or individual solenoids are common.
  • Solution: Replacement of the conductor plate inside the transmission. Sometimes the valve body is replaced as well.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering, slipping, or stalling, especially at low speeds. Noisy operation is possible.
  • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1200 - $2500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Airmatic Air Suspension Failure (If Equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: The car sagging on one or more corners, uneven ride height, and a “Visit Workshop” message related to the air suspension. The air compressor may run constantly or not at all.
  • Solution: Replacement of failing air struts, air compressor, or air lines. Addressing leaks in the system.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000+ per strut, $500 - $1000+ for the compressor.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Ball Joint Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clicking, popping, or squeaking noises from the suspension, especially when turning or going over bumps. Loose or wandering steering.
  • Solution: Replacement of worn ball joints.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per ball joint.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• EIS (Electronic Ignition Switch) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty starting the car, the key not being recognized, or the key getting stuck in the ignition.
  • Solution: Replacement of the EIS module and reprogramming.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• SAM (Signal Acquisition Module) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Various electrical malfunctions, such as lighting issues, problems with the wipers, or central locking malfunctions.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty SAM unit and reprogramming.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1200+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Fuel Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine not starting, or stalling issues.
  • Solution: Replacement of fuel pump.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust (Depending on Location)
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust can appear on fenders, door panels, and around the trunk.
  • Solution: Rust repair and repainting the affected area.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof failing to open or close properly, getting stuck, or making excessive noise.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of sunroof motor, tracks, or cables.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2008 Mercedes-Benz E280, while a luxurious and comfortable vehicle, can be prone to certain issues, particularly relating to its electrical systems, transmission, and (if equipped) air suspension. Repair costs can be significant due to the complexity of the car’s systems and the price of Mercedes-Benz parts. Potential buyers should be aware of these common issues and factor in potential repair costs when considering purchasing a used E280 or its other W211 chassis variants. Thorough inspection and a pre-purchase inspection are highly recommended.