2012 Mercedes-Benz E550

Introduction

The 2012 Mercedes-Benz E550 is a luxury sedan with a powerful 4.6-liter V8 engine that produces 402 horsepower and 443 lb-ft of torque. It comes standard with a 7-speed automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive. The vehicle is known for its luxurious interior, comfortable ride, and advanced technology. However, like any vehicle, it has its fair share of issues.

Engine

• 4.6L V8
  • Timing chain tensioner failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The timing chain tensioner can fail, causing the timing chain to jump and potentially damage the engine. Symptoms may include a rattling noise from the engine, loss of power, and illuminated check engine light.
    • Solution: Replace the timing chain tensioner and timing chain.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $3,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Intake manifold runner failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The intake manifold runners can fail, causing a loss of power and poor fuel economy. Symptoms may include hesitation or surging during acceleration and illuminated check engine light.
    • Solution: Replace the intake manifold runners.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

• 7-Speed Automatic
  • Transmission control module (TCM) failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The TCM can fail, causing the transmission to shift erratically or not at all. Symptoms may include difficulty shifting gears, transmission slipping, and illuminated check engine light.
    • Solution: Replace the TCM.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Torque converter failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The torque converter can fail, causing the transmission to slip and lose power. Symptoms may include shuddering during acceleration, slipping gears, and illuminated check engine light.
    • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• No Issues Found

Electrical

• Battery drain * Description/Symptoms: The battery can drain prematurely, causing the vehicle to start with difficulty or not at all. Symptoms may include dim headlights, flickering interior lights, and dead battery. * Solution: Diagnose and repair electrical system components causing the drain, such as faulty alternator, starter, or electronic devices. * Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+ * Recalls: None Found
• Heated seat failure * Description/Symptoms: The heated seats may fail to heat properly or not function at all. * Solution: Repair or replace the heated seat module or wiring harness. * Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+ * Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• No Issues Found

Interior

• Sunroof rattle * Description/Symptoms: The sunroof may rattle or make noise when open or closed. * Solution: Adjust or replace the sunroof tracks or seals. * Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000 * Recalls: None Found
• Navigation system freezing * Description/Symptoms: The navigation system may freeze or become unresponsive. * Solution: Update the software or replace the navigation unit. * Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+ * Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2012 Mercedes-Benz E550 is a well-built luxury sedan, but it is not without its issues. The timing chain tensioner failure and intake manifold runner failure can be serious problems that require expensive repairs. The transmission control module and torque converter can also fail, causing shifting problems and loss of power. Electrical issues such as battery drain and heated seat failure are also common. Interior issues like sunroof rattle and navigation system freezing can be annoying but are typically less expensive to fix. Overall, the severity of the issues and the cost of repairs can be substantial, which may be a concern for potential buyers.