2008 Mercedes-Benz R350

2008 Mercedes-Benz R350

Overview

The 2008 Mercedes-Benz R350, a luxury crossover, offers a spacious and comfortable ride, blending minivan practicality with SUV styling. While generally well-regarded for its comfort and features, like any vehicle, it has specific areas that have seen more attention from owners regarding reliability. This analysis focuses on documented technical issues beyond routine maintenance, providing insights into potential concerns for owners and prospective buyers of this model year. Understanding these common points of failure can help in proactive maintenance and budgeting for repairs.

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Engine

3.5L V6 (M272)

Intake Manifold Runner Flap Failure

• Symptoms: Check engine light, rough idle, loss of power, P2004/P2005/P2006 error codes.
• Solution: Replacement of the intake manifold assembly or repair kit.
• Cost: $600 - $1200

Balance Shaft Wear

• Symptoms: Check engine light, rough idle, P0016/P0017 error codes (crankshaft/camshaft position correlation).
• Solution: Replacement of the balance shaft and timing components.
• Cost: $2000 - $4000+

Transmission

7G-TRONIC (722.9)

Valve Body Issues

• Symptoms: Harsh shifting, delayed engagement, slipping gears, transmission warning light.
• Solution: Repair or replacement of the valve body.
• Cost: $1500 - $3000

Torque Converter Problems

• Symptoms: Shuddering at low speeds, slipping, rough engagement.
• Solution: Replacement of the torque converter.
• Cost: $1000 - $2500

Suspension

Standard Chassis

Air Suspension Leaks (if equipped)

• Symptoms: Vehicle sagging, uneven ride height, compressor running excessively.
• Solution: Replacement of air springs, lines, or compressor.
• Cost: $500 - $1500 per corner

Control Arm Bushing Wear

• Symptoms: Clunking noises over bumps, vague steering, uneven tire wear.
• Solution: Replacement of control arms or bushings.
• Cost: $400 - $800

Electrical

General Electrical System

CAN Bus Communication Errors

• Symptoms: Various warning lights, malfunctioning accessories, intermittent electrical gremlins.
• Solution: Diagnosis and repair of faulty modules or wiring.
• Cost: $300 - $1000+

Headlight Control Module Failure

• Symptoms: Headlights not working, flickering, or adaptive lighting malfunctions.
• Solution: Replacement of the headlight control module.
• Cost: $300 - $600

Exterior

Body Panels & Trim

No Major Issues

• Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
• Solution: No widespread issues reported.
• Cost: No widespread issues reported.

Interior

Cabin Electronics & Features

Sunroof Drain Clogs

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

Seat Control Malfunctions

• Symptoms: Power seats not moving, memory functions failing.
• Solution: Repair or replacement of seat control modules or motors.
• Cost: $400 - $900

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Summary Verdict

The 2008 Mercedes-Benz R350 is a comfortable and capable vehicle, but potential buyers should be aware of specific reliability concerns, particularly with the engine and transmission. The 3.5L V6 engine is prone to issues with the intake manifold runner flaps and balance shaft wear, which can be costly to repair. The 7G-TRONIC transmission can experience problems with its valve body and torque converter. Suspension components, especially if equipped with air suspension, can also require attention. Electrical gremlins and interior issues like sunroof drains are also noted. While many owners enjoy their R350s, proactive maintenance and a budget for potential repairs are advisable.