2011 Mercedes-Benz E500

The 2011 Mercedes-Benz E500 is a luxury sedan known for its comfort, elegant styling, and powerful performance. The E500 came standard with a 5.5-liter naturally aspirated V8 engine producing 382 horsepower and 391 lb-ft of torque. It was paired with a 7-speed automatic transmission (7G-TRONIC). While appreciated for its smooth ride and opulent interior, some owners have reported experiencing certain recurring issues. Common praises include the powerful engine and comfortable ride. Common complaints include electrical glitches and higher maintenance costs associated with a luxury vehicle.

Engine

5.5L Naturally Aspirated V8 (M273)

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks are common, particularly from the valve cover gaskets and oil filter housing. Symptoms include visible oil on the engine, oil spots under the car, and a burning oil smell.
  • Solution: Replace the valve cover gaskets and/or the oil filter housing gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ depending on the source of the leak and shop labor rates.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Camshaft Adjuster Solenoid (Cam Magnet) Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks from the camshaft adjuster solenoid. Oil can seep into the wiring harness.
  • Solution: Replace the camshaft adjuster solenoid and clean the wiring harness.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found
• Check Engine Light (CEL) - Various Causes
  • Description/Symptoms: The check engine light can illuminate for various reasons, including issues with the mass airflow (MAF) sensor, oxygen sensors, or catalytic converters. Rough running, poor fuel economy, and stalling can be present.
  • Solution: Diagnose the underlying cause using an OBD-II scanner and address the specific issue. This may involve replacing sensors, repairing vacuum leaks, or replacing catalytic converters.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies widely depending on the cause, ranging from $100 for a sensor replacement to $2,000+ for catalytic converter replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

7G-TRONIC (722.9)

• Rough Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifts, especially between 2nd and 3rd gear, or 5th and 4th gear. The transmission may also exhibit clunking noises.
  • Solution: Perform a transmission fluid flush and filter replacement using Mercedes-Benz approved fluid. If the problem persists, valve body replacement or repair might be required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500 for a fluid flush; $1,500 - $3,000+ for valve body repair/replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering, vibration, or stalling, especially at low speeds or when accelerating from a stop.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Airmatic Suspension Issues (If Equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: Sagging suspension, especially overnight, or the car sitting unevenly. The Airmatic compressor may run constantly, or the “Visit Workshop” message may appear on the dashboard. This can also cause a rough or bouncy ride.
  • Solution: Diagnose the source of the leak (air strut, air line, compressor) and replace the faulty component.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+ per strut; $500 - $1,000+ for compressor replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: The battery drains quickly, especially if the car sits for several days. The car may not start, or various electrical systems may malfunction.
  • Solution: Diagnose the source of the parasitic draw, which could be a faulty module, relay, or wiring issue.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the complexity of the problem.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Central Locking System Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: The central locking system may fail to lock or unlock all doors, or the key fob may not work.
  • Solution: Check the key fob battery, and diagnose the central locking module and door actuators.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400+ depending on the cause.
  • Recalls: None Found
• COMAND System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The COMAND system screen may freeze, reboot, or become unresponsive. Navigation, audio, and other functions may be affected.
  • Solution: Attempt a software update or reset. If the problem persists, the COMAND unit may need to be repaired or replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,500+ depending on the repair needed.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The sunroof may be difficult to open or close, make excessive noise, or leak water.
  • Solution: Clean and lubricate the sunroof tracks and seals. If the problem persists, the sunroof motor or mechanism may need to be repaired or replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Seat Motor Failures
  • Description/Symptoms: The power seats may stop moving in one or more directions.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty seat motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Dashboard Pixelation/Display Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Pixels on the dashboard display may fade or disappear, making it difficult to read information.
  • Solution: The instrument cluster may need to be repaired or replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2011 Mercedes-Benz E500 offers a luxurious driving experience, but it’s important to be aware of potential issues. Engine oil leaks and transmission problems can be significant expenses, while electrical and suspension issues are also common. The severity and cost of these issues can vary, but preventative maintenance and careful inspection during pre-purchase are recommended. While many issues are not incredibly severe, the cost of repair can be very high.