2009 Mercedes-Benz E280

2009 Mercedes-Benz E280

Overview

The 2009 Mercedes-Benz E280, part of the W211 generation, is generally considered a robust and well-engineered vehicle. It offers a blend of luxury, performance, and comfort, characteristic of the E-Class lineage. While most owners report a positive ownership experience, like any vehicle of this age and complexity, certain areas have seen more attention than others. This analysis focuses on documented technical reliability concerns, excluding routine maintenance and standard wear and tear, to provide a clear picture of potential issues for prospective buyers or current owners.

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Engine

3.0L V6 (M272)

Balance Shaft Wear

• Symptoms: Check engine light, rough idle, poor performance, P0016/P0017 codes.
• Solution: Replacement of the balance shaft and associated timing components.
• Cost: $2000 - $4000

Intake Manifold Flap Failure

• Symptoms: Check engine light, reduced engine power, rough idle.
• Solution: Replacement of the intake manifold assembly.
• Cost: $600 - $1200

3.0L V6 Diesel (OM642)

Crankshaft Position Sensor Failure

• Symptoms: Intermittent starting issues, stalling, check engine light.
• Solution: Replacement of the crankshaft position sensor.
• Cost: $200 - $500

Glow Plug Module Failure

• Symptoms: Difficulty starting in cold weather, check engine light.
• Solution: Replacement of the glow plug control module.
• Cost: $300 - $700

Transmission

7G-TRONIC (722.9)

Valve Body Issues

• Symptoms: Harsh shifting, delayed engagement, transmission fault warning.
• 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 - $2000

Suspension

Standard Chassis

No Major Issues

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

Electrical

General Electrical System

SAM (Signal Acquisition Module) Failures

• Symptoms: Various electrical gremlins, malfunctioning lights, power windows, or other accessories.
• Solution: Diagnosis and potential replacement of the SAM module.
• Cost: $500 - $1500

Parking Sensor Malfunctions

• Symptoms: False alarms or failure of parking assist sensors.
• Solution: Cleaning or replacement of faulty sensors.
• Cost: $200 - $600

Exterior

Body and Trim

No Major Issues

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

Interior

Cabin Components

No Major Issues

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

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Summary Verdict

The 2009 Mercedes-Benz E280 is a capable luxury sedan with a generally good reliability record for its class and age. However, potential buyers should be aware of specific engine concerns, particularly balance shaft wear in the M272 gasoline engine and potential issues with the OM642 diesel. Transmission reliability, especially with the 7G-TRONIC, can also present challenges, with valve body and torque converter issues being noted. Electrical gremlins, often related to the SAM module, are not uncommon. While the suspension, exterior, and interior are typically robust, proactive inspection and maintenance are crucial for ensuring long-term satisfaction with this sophisticated German automobile.