2008 Mercedes-Benz E350
2008 Mercedes-Benz E350
Overview
The 2008 Mercedes-Benz E350, part of the W211 generation, is generally considered a reliable luxury sedan, offering a blend of comfort, performance, and advanced features for its time. While it boasts solid engineering, like any vehicle, it has specific areas where owners have reported issues. This analysis focuses on common technical problems beyond routine maintenance, providing insights into potential repair costs and solutions for the most prevalent concerns. Understanding these potential weak points can help owners budget for and address them proactively, ensuring the continued longevity and enjoyment of their E350.
Engine
3.5L V6 (M272)
Intake Manifold Runner Flap Failure
- Symptoms: Check Engine Light (CEL) illuminated, rough idle, poor engine performance, P2004/P2005/P2006 error codes.
- Solution: Replacement of the intake manifold assembly or repair kit for the runner flaps.
- Cost: $600 - $1200
Balance Shaft Gear Wear
- Symptoms: Check Engine Light, rough idle, misfires, P0016/P0017 error codes (crankshaft/camshaft position correlation).
- Solution: Replacement of the balance shaft and associated gears. This is a labor-intensive repair.
- Cost: $2000 - $4000
Transmission
5-Speed Automatic (722.6)
Transmission Control Module (TCM) Failure
- Symptoms: Harsh shifting, slipping gears, limp mode, transmission warning light.
- Solution: Replacement of the TCM.
- Cost: $800 - $1500
Conductor Plate Issues
- Symptoms: Erratic shifting, failure to shift into certain gears, transmission warning light.
- Solution: Replacement of the conductor plate and associated sensors.
- Cost: $500 - $900
7-Speed Automatic (722.9 ‘7G-Tronic’)
Valve Body Issues
- Symptoms: Harsh shifting, delayed engagement, slipping, transmission warning light.
- Solution: Repair or replacement of the valve body.
- Cost: $1000 - $2500
Torque Converter Problems
- Symptoms: Shuddering at low speeds, slipping, rough engagement.
- Solution: Replacement of the torque converter.
- Cost: $1200 - $2000
Suspension
Standard Chassis
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: N/A
- Solution: N/A
- Cost: Varies
Electrical
General Electrical System
SAM (Signal Acquisition Module) Corrosion/Failure
- Symptoms: Intermittent electrical gremlins, non-functioning lights, power windows, or other accessories, CAN bus errors.
- Solution: Cleaning and sealing of SAM module connectors, or replacement of the SAM module.
- Cost: $500 - $1500
Headlight Ballast Failure
- Symptoms: Xenon headlights not turning on or flickering.
- Solution: Replacement of the headlight ballast.
- Cost: $200 - $500
Exterior
Body and Trim
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: N/A
- Solution: N/A
- Cost: Varies
Interior
Cabin Components
Sunroof Drain Clogs
- Symptoms: Water leaks into the cabin, musty smell, potential damage to electronics.
- Solution: Clearing of sunroof drain tubes.
- Cost: $100 - $300
Seat Control Module Failure
- Symptoms: Power seats not functioning correctly or at all.
- Solution: Replacement of the seat control module.
- Cost: $300 - $600
Summary Verdict
The 2008 Mercedes-Benz E350 (W211) is a well-built vehicle with a generally good reliability record, especially considering its luxury segment and age. The most significant potential issues revolve around the M272 engine’s intake manifold runner flaps and balance shaft gear wear, and specific transmission control modules or valve bodies in the automatic transmissions. Electrical gremlins, particularly related to the SAM module, can also occur. While these repairs can be costly, they are often manageable with proactive maintenance and by addressing issues promptly. For owners who stay on top of potential problems, the E350 remains a comfortable and capable luxury sedan.