2010 Mercedes-Benz E300

The 2010 Mercedes-Benz E300 was sold in some markets outside of the United States, primarily in Europe and Asia. It was generally appreciated for its comfortable ride, elegant interior, and overall build quality. Some common complaints included the relatively high cost of maintenance and repairs, and some found the base engine to be underpowered for the vehicle’s size. The E300 was equipped with a 3.0-liter V6 engine that produces approximately 231 horsepower and 221 lb-ft of torque. Other engine options available for the 2010 E-Class included various gasoline and diesel engines, depending on the market. All engines were paired with a 7-speed automatic transmission (7G-TRONIC).

Engine

3.0L V6 (M272)

• Camshaft Adjuster Solenoid Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine may experience rough idling, reduced power, and the check engine light may illuminate. Diagnostic codes related to camshaft timing or position are often present.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty camshaft adjuster solenoid.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Intake Manifold Runner Flap Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light, reduced engine performance, and poor fuel economy. Diagnostic codes often point to issues with the intake manifold runner control system.
  • Solution: Replacement of the intake manifold, as the runner flaps are integrated into the manifold.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

7G-TRONIC (722.9)

• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering during acceleration, especially at lower speeds, rough shifting, and potential stalling. Diagnostic codes related to torque converter clutch slippage may be present.
  • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifting, transmission slipping, and inability to shift into certain gears. The check engine light might illuminate with diagnostic codes related to the valve body.
  • Solution: Replacement or rebuilding of the valve body.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Airmatic Suspension Failure (if equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sitting unevenly, compressor running constantly, failure to maintain ride height, error messages on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Replacement of leaking air struts, compressor, or valve block. Diagnosis of the entire system is required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+ per component
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• EIS (Electronic Ignition Switch) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Key not recognized, inability to start the car, steering wheel lock malfunction.
  • Solution: Replacement of the EIS module and 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: Replacement of the faulty SAM unit and reprogramming.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust on Door Panels and Wheel Arches
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible rust spots appearing on the lower door panels and around the wheel arches.
  • Solution: Sanding, rust treatment, and repainting the affected areas.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+ per panel
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

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

Summary

The 2010 Mercedes-Benz E300 can experience a range of issues, some of which can be costly to repair. Engine issues, particularly with the camshaft adjusters and intake manifold, and transmission problems with the torque converter and valve body, are prevalent. Electrical issues with the EIS and SAM modules can also be problematic. If the car is equipped with the Airmatic suspension, failures can lead to very high repair costs. While the E300 is a comfortable and well-built vehicle, potential buyers should be aware of these common issues and factor in potential repair costs when considering a purchase. The severity of these issues ranges from moderate to severe, with repair costs potentially exceeding several thousand dollars depending on the specific problem and the need for specialized Mercedes-Benz technicians.