2011 Mercedes-Benz S350

The 2011 Mercedes-Benz S350 is a luxury sedan known for its comfort, technology, and smooth ride. The S350 was only sold as a diesel model, featuring a 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 diesel engine producing 255 horsepower and 457 lb-ft of torque. It comes standard with a seven-speed automatic transmission. Many owners appreciate the quiet and refined driving experience and luxurious interior. Downsides often include the high cost of maintenance and repairs, as well as the complexity of the vehicle’s systems. Other engine options for the 2011 S-Class include gasoline V8 and V12 engines, as well as a hybrid option, but these are not the S350 model.

Engine

3.0L V6 Diesel (OM642)

• Oil Cooler Seal Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks are common due to degradation of the oil cooler seals. This can manifest as oil drips under the vehicle, a burning oil smell, or visible oil residue around the oil cooler area.
  • Solution: Replacing the oil cooler seals with updated Viton seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Intake Manifold Swirl Flap Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The swirl flap motor controls the flaps within the intake manifold that optimize air flow. Failure can lead to reduced performance, poor fuel economy, and a check engine light. Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) related to swirl flap control are usually present.
  • Solution: Replacement of the intake manifold or swirl flap motor, depending on the severity of the damage and the ability to source the motor separately.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

7G-Tronic (722.9)

• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The 7G-Tronic transmission is known to have valve body issues. Symptoms include harsh or erratic shifting, delayed engagement, and slipping between gears.
  • Solution: Replacement of the valve body.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Torque converter failure can manifest as shuddering, stalling at low speeds, or a complete loss of drive. Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) may be present.
  • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,800 - $3,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Airmatic Suspension Compressor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The Airmatic suspension system relies on an air compressor to maintain ride height. Compressor failure can lead to the vehicle sitting low, uneven ride height, or a warning message on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Replacement of the Airmatic suspension compressor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Airmatic Strut Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: The air struts can develop leaks over time, causing the vehicle to sag overnight or have a bouncy ride.
  • Solution: Replacement of the leaking air strut(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,200 - $2,500+ per strut
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Electrical components remaining active after the car is turned off can drain the battery overnight.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the parasitic draw. This can involve tracing circuits and replacing faulty modules or components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+ (depending on the complexity of the issue)
  • Recalls: None Found
• SAM (Signal Acquisition Module) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: SAM modules control various electrical functions. Failure can lead to issues with lights, wipers, locks, and other systems.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty SAM module and reprogramming.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Adaptive Headlight Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: The adaptive headlights can fail to adjust properly, causing poor visibility or error messages on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Replacing the headlight assembly or control module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• COMAND System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The COMAND system, which controls navigation, audio, and other functions, can experience software glitches, screen failures, or unresponsive buttons.
  • Solution: Software updates, component repair, or replacement of the COMAND unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sunroof Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: The sunroof mechanism can fail, causing it to stick, make noise, or leak.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the sunroof mechanism or motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1,200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2011 Mercedes-Benz S350, while offering a luxurious experience, has several common issues, particularly related to its diesel engine, transmission, air suspension, and electrical systems. The most prevalent problems revolve around oil leaks in the engine, valve body issues in the transmission, and airmatic suspension faults. Repairs can be costly due to the complexity of the vehicle and the price of Mercedes-Benz parts. Addressing these potential issues proactively can help maintain the vehicle’s performance and longevity, but owners should be prepared for potentially expensive repairs.