2010 Mercedes-Benz E550
The 2010 Mercedes-Benz E550 is a luxury sedan known for its powerful performance and refined driving experience. The E-Class also came with engine options like the E350 with a 3.5L V6, the E63 AMG with a 6.2L V8, and the E350 Bluetec diesel. The E550 is equipped with a 5.5L V8 engine producing 382 horsepower and 391 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 7-speed automatic transmission (7G-TRONIC). Owners appreciate the E550 for its smooth ride, luxurious interior, and strong acceleration. Common complaints revolve around maintenance costs, electrical issues, and occasional reliability concerns.
Engine
5.5L V8 (M273)
- Camshaft Adjuster Solenoid Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Check engine light, rough idle, decreased fuel economy, and potential misfires. Fault codes related to camshaft position may be present.
- Solution: Replace the faulty camshaft adjuster solenoid.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
- Recalls: None Found
- Oil Leaks (Valve Cover Gaskets, Oil Filter Housing)
- Description/Symptoms: Visible oil leaks on the engine, burning oil smell, low oil level, and potential oil spots on the ground.
- Solution: Replace the leaking valve cover gaskets or oil filter housing gasket.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
- Recalls: None Found
- Coolant Leaks (Water Pump, Thermostat Housing)
- Description/Symptoms: Overheating, coolant warning light, visible coolant leaks under the car, and a sweet smell of coolant.
- Solution: Replace the faulty water pump or thermostat housing and gasket.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1000+
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
7G-TRONIC (722.9)
- Conductor Plate Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Erratic shifting, harsh shifts, transmission slipping, getting stuck in a single gear, or failing to shift at all. Diagnostic codes related to the conductor plate or speed sensors will be present.
- Solution: Replace the conductor plate, which is located inside the transmission.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
- Recalls: None Found
- Torque Converter Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibrations at low speeds, especially during acceleration. Can also cause stalling or difficulty shifting.
- Solution: Replace the torque converter. In some cases, the transmission itself may need to be rebuilt.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Airmatic Suspension Failure (If Equipped)
- Description/Symptoms: Sagging suspension, uneven ride height, harsh ride, “car too low” warning light, and a malfunctioning air compressor.
- Solution: Diagnose and replace the faulty air struts, air compressor, or valve block.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000+ per strut, $500-$1000+ for compressor
- Recalls: None Found
- Ball Joint Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises coming from the suspension, especially when going over bumps. Can also cause uneven tire wear and loose steering.
- Solution: Replace the worn ball joints.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per side
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Electronic Ignition Switch (EIS) Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Key not recognized, inability to start the car, and intermittent electrical issues.
- Solution: Replace the faulty EIS module and program it to the vehicle.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
- Recalls: None Found
- Battery Drain Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Dead battery overnight or after a short period of inactivity.
- Solution: Diagnose and address the parasitic drain. Common causes include faulty modules, aftermarket accessories, or a failing alternator.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (depending on the cause)
- Recalls: None Found
- SAM (Signal Acquisition Module) Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Various electrical malfunctions, such as non-functioning lights, wipers, or other accessories.
- Solution: Replace the faulty SAM unit and program it to the vehicle.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1200+
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Headlight Condensation
- Description/Symptoms: Moisture buildup inside the headlight housing, which can reduce visibility.
- Solution: Remove the headlight, dry it out, and reseal the housing. In some cases, the headlight may need to be replaced.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ per headlight for resealing, $500 - $1500+ for replacement
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Sunroof Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Sunroof not opening or closing properly, getting stuck, or making excessive noise.
- Solution: Diagnose and repair the sunroof mechanism, which may involve replacing broken tracks, cables, or the motor.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Navigation/Infotainment System Malfunctions
- Description/Symptoms: Freezing, crashing, or failure to boot up. Can also include issues with the navigation system or audio system.
- Solution: Software update, or replacement of the head unit.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ for software, $500 - $2000+ for head unit
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2010 Mercedes-Benz E550, while a luxurious and powerful vehicle, does have some common issues that prospective buyers should be aware of. Engine issues such as oil leaks and camshaft adjuster solenoid failures can be costly to repair. Transmission issues, particularly with the conductor plate, are also a concern. Airmatic suspension problems, if equipped, can lead to significant expenses. Electrical issues with the EIS and SAM modules can be frustrating. Overall, the 2010 E550 can be a great car, but it’s essential to have it thoroughly inspected before purchase and to budget for potential maintenance and repairs. The severity of these issues ranges from minor inconveniences to major mechanical failures, with repair costs varying accordingly, potentially reaching several thousand dollars.