2011 Mercedes-Benz E500

Introduction

The 2011 Mercedes-Benz E500 is a mid-size luxury sedan powered by a naturally aspirated 5.5L V8 engine mated to a 7-speed automatic transmission. It produces 382 horsepower and 391 lb-ft of torque. The E500 is known for its elegant styling, luxurious interior, and powerful performance. However, like many vehicles, it has had its share of issues.

Engine

5.5L V8

• Intake manifold runner control valve failure: The intake manifold runner control valve may fail, causing a loss of power and rough idling. The valve needs to be replaced. Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600
• Camshaft adjuster failure: The camshaft adjuster may fail, leading to reduced engine power and increased fuel consumption. The camshaft adjuster needs to be replaced. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $1,500+
• Engine oil leak: There have been reports of oil leaks from the engine, particularly around the oil filter housing. The oil filter housing gasket or other seals may need to be replaced. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400

Transmission

7-Speed Automatic

• Transmission shudder: Some owners have reported experiencing transmission shudder during gear shifts. The transmission may need to be reprogrammed or rebuilt. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
• Transmission slipping: The transmission may slip when shifting gears. The transmission may need to be rebuilt. Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
• Torque converter failure: The torque converter may fail, causing the transmission to overheat and slip. The torque converter needs to be replaced. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+

Suspension

• Front suspension noise: The front suspension may make a clunking or rattling noise over bumps. The suspension components, such as the control arms or ball joints, may be worn and need to be replaced. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
• Rear suspension sag: The rear suspension may sag over time, causing the vehicle to sit lower in the back. The rear springs or shocks may need to be replaced. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
• Airmatic suspension failure: The airmatic suspension system may fail, causing the vehicle to lose its ability to adjust ride height. The air springs or compressor may need to be replaced. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+

Electrical

• Battery drain: The battery may drain quickly, even when the vehicle is not in use. The parasitic drain may need to be diagnosed and fixed. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
• Electrical shorts: There have been reports of electrical shorts in the vehicle’s wiring harness. The wiring harness may need to be repaired or replaced. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
• Navigation system failure: The navigation system may fail to function properly. The navigation unit may need to be replaced. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+

Exterior

• Headlight condensation: The headlights may develop condensation inside the lens. The headlights may need to be resealed or replaced. Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
• Tail light failure: The tail lights may fail to function or develop condensation inside the lens. The tail lights may need to be replaced. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
• Rust: There have been reports of rust developing on the body panels, particularly on the wheel arches and undercarriage. The rusty panels may need to be repaired or replaced. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+

Interior

• Climate control malfunction: The climate control system may not function properly, leading to inconsistent cabin temperatures. The climate control module or other components may need to be replaced. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
• Sunroof malfunction: The sunroof may not open or close properly. The sunroof motor or other components may need to be replaced. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
• Seat belt warning chime: The seat belt warning chime may not turn off even when the seat belt is fastened. The seat belt buckle or sensor may need to be replaced. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+

Summary

The 2011 Mercedes-Benz E500 is a well-regarded luxury sedan, but it has not been without its issues. Some of the more severe problems include transmission shudder, slipping, and torque converter failure, which can be expensive to repair. Other issues, such as oil leaks and suspension noise, are more common and less costly to fix. Overall, the E500 is a reliable vehicle, but it is important to be aware of the potential issues before purchasing one.