2009 Mercedes-Benz E320

The 2009 Mercedes-Benz E320 Bluetec is a popular luxury sedan known for its comfortable ride, elegant interior, and fuel-efficient diesel engine. It offered a blend of luxury and practicality that appealed to many buyers. The E-Class was also available with gasoline engine options, including the E350 and E550, and a variety of transmissions depending on the engine. Common likes include the smooth ride quality and upscale interior. Dislikes often revolve around the higher cost of maintenance and repairs compared to non-luxury vehicles. The E320 Bluetec features a 3.0L Turbocharged Diesel V6 engine, producing around 210 horsepower and 400 lb-ft of torque.

Engine

3.0L Turbocharged Diesel V6 (OM642)

• Oil Cooler Seal Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leak around the oil cooler area, often dripping onto the engine and potentially causing a burning smell.
  • Solution: Replacement of the oil cooler seals. The updated Viton seals are more resistant to degradation.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Intake Manifold Swirl Flap Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light, reduced engine performance, and possible limp mode. Fault codes related to the intake manifold flaps or swirl flap motor.
  • Solution: Replacement of the intake manifold or swirl flap motor. Some owners opt for delete kits to eliminate the problematic flaps altogether.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Glow Plug Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Hard starting, especially in cold weather, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty glow plug(s) and potentially the glow plug module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

7G-Tronic (722.9) Automatic Transmission

• Torque Converter Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibration at low speeds, especially during light acceleration. Sometimes accompanied by a “clunking” sound during gear changes.
  • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifting, slipping between gears, or failure to shift at all.
  • Solution: Replacement or rebuild of the valve body.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Airmatic Suspension Failure (If Equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sitting unevenly, sagging suspension, failure to maintain ride height, error messages on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Replacement of the affected air strut(s) or the air compressor. Leaks in the air lines can also be a cause.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000+ per strut; Compressor replacement: $500 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• EIS (Electronic Ignition Switch) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Key not recognized, inability to start the vehicle, intermittent electrical issues.
  • Solution: Replacement or repair of the EIS module, often requiring reprogramming.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• SAM (Signal Acquisition Module) Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Malfunctions in various electrical systems, such as lighting, wipers, or power windows.
  • Solution: Diagnosis to determine the specific SAM module that is failing and replacement of the module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust forming around wheel wells, door seams, and other body panels. This is more prevalent in areas with road salt.
  • Solution: Removal of rust and body repair, followed by repainting.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Highly variable depending on the extent of the rust.

Interior

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

Summary

The 2009 Mercedes-Benz E320 Bluetec offers a luxurious and fuel-efficient driving experience. However, it’s important to be aware of the common issues that can arise with this model. The engine oil cooler leaks, swirl flap motor failures, and glow plug issues are the major engine concerns, while the transmission can suffer from torque converter and valve body problems. Suspension and electrical gremlins can also be costly to repair. Rust can also be a concern, depending on the vehicle’s location. While many of these issues are not catastrophic, they can be expensive to address due to the cost of parts and labor for a luxury vehicle. Pre-purchase inspections by a qualified mechanic are highly recommended.