2010 Mercedes-Benz R350

2010 Mercedes-Benz R350

Overview

The 2010 Mercedes-Benz R350, a versatile luxury crossover, offers a blend of SUV space and minivan practicality. It was available with different powertrain configurations, primarily a 3.5L V6 gasoline engine, and in rear-wheel drive or 4MATIC all-wheel drive. While generally considered a comfortable and well-appointed vehicle, like any complex machine, 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 prospective buyers or current owners.

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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 Gear Wear

• Symptoms: Check engine light, rough idle, misfires, P0016/P0017 timing codes.
• Solution: Replacement of the balance shaft gear and potentially timing components.
• Cost: $1500 - $3000+

Transmission

7G-TRONIC (722.9)

Valve Body Malfunction

• Symptoms: Harsh shifting, delayed engagement, slipping gears, transmission warning light.
• Solution: Repair or replacement of the valve body.
• Cost: $1000 - $2500

Torque Converter Issues

• Symptoms: Shuddering at low speeds, slipping, rough engagement.
• Solution: Replacement of the torque converter.
• Cost: $800 - $1800

Suspension

Standard Chassis

Air Suspension Leaks (if equipped)

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

Electrical

General Electrical System

SAM (Signal Acquisition Module) Failures

• Symptoms: Various warning lights, malfunctioning lights (headlights, taillights), power window issues, CAN bus communication errors.
• Solution: Diagnosis and replacement of the SAM module.
• Cost: $500 - $1000

Keyless Go System Malfunctions

• Symptoms: Difficulty starting, doors not unlocking/locking, intermittent operation.
• Solution: Diagnosis and potential replacement of door handles, antennas, or control modules.
• Cost: $300 - $800

Exterior

Body Panels & Trim

No widespread issues reported.

• Symptoms: N/A
• Solution: N/A
• Cost: Varies

Interior

Infotainment & Controls

COMAND System Glitches

• Symptoms: Screen freezing, audio cutting out, navigation issues.
• Solution: Software updates or module replacement.
• Cost: $200 - $700

HVAC System

No widespread issues reported.

• Symptoms: N/A
• Solution: N/A
• Cost: Varies

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Summary Verdict

The 2010 Mercedes-Benz R350, while offering a comfortable and spacious experience, presents a mixed reliability profile. The 3.5L V6 engine has known issues with intake manifold flaps and balance shaft gears, which can be costly to repair. The 7G-TRONIC transmission can also develop problems with its valve body and torque converter. Electrical gremlins, particularly with the SAM module, are not uncommon. While the suspension and exterior are generally robust, air suspension systems (if equipped) can be a source of expense. Interior electronics, such as the COMAND system, may experience occasional glitches. Prospective buyers should be aware of these potential issues and factor in the cost of maintenance and potential repairs, especially for higher-mileage examples.