2011 Mercedes-Benz E350

The 2011 Mercedes-Benz E350 is a popular luxury sedan known for its comfortable ride, elegant interior, and sophisticated styling. The E350 came standard with a 3.5L V6 engine producing 268 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. Other engine options included the E550 which had a 5.5L V8, and the E350 Bluetec with a 3.0L diesel engine. All engines were paired with a 7-speed automatic transmission. Owners generally appreciate the E350’s smooth driving experience and luxurious features, but some common complaints include electrical issues and occasional problems with the engine and transmission.

Engine

3.5L V6 Engine

• Camshaft Adjuster Solenoid Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light, rough idling, decreased fuel economy, and potential engine misfires. The camshaft adjuster solenoid regulates oil flow to the camshaft adjusters, and a failure can disrupt the engine’s timing.
  • 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 under the car or around the engine, burning oil smell, and low oil level. Valve cover gaskets and the oil filter housing can develop leaks over time due to heat and age.
  • Solution: Replace the valve cover gaskets and/or the oil filter housing gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

7-Speed Automatic (722.9)

• Torque Converter Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibrations at low speeds, especially during light acceleration, and potential stalling.
  • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter and performing a transmission flush.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Body Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Hard or erratic shifting, delayed engagement of gears, and potential limp mode. The valve body controls the hydraulic pressure that engages different gears.
  • Solution: Replace or rebuild the valve body.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Failure (if equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: The vehicle sitting lower than normal, especially on one side, a noticeably bumpy ride, and the air compressor running constantly.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty air struts, air compressor, or air lines.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+ per strut, $400 - $800+ for the compressor
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• EIS (Electronic Ignition Switch) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty starting the car, the key not being recognized, and various electrical malfunctions.
  • Solution: Replacement of the EIS module and reprogramming.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• SAM (Signal Acquisition Module) Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Malfunctioning lights, wipers, or other electrical accessories, and potential issues with the car’s computer systems.
  • Solution: Replacement or reprogramming of the affected SAM module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Headlight Condensation
  • Description/Symptoms: Moisture buildup inside the headlight housings, reducing visibility.
  • Solution: Removal of the headlight and drying it out, resealing the housing, or replacing the headlight assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof not opening or closing properly, getting stuck, or making excessive noise.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the sunroof motor, tracks, or cables.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2011 Mercedes-Benz E350 is generally a reliable luxury car, but some common issues can arise as the vehicle ages. Electrical problems with the EIS and SAM modules can be costly to fix, and issues with the 7-speed transmission and air suspension (if equipped) are also relatively common. The engine is generally reliable, but oil leaks and camshaft adjuster solenoid failures are potential issues. The severity of these issues varies, but some repairs can be quite expensive, so a thorough inspection before purchasing a used 2011 E350 is recommended.