2012 Mercedes-Benz S350

Introduction:

The 2012 Mercedes-Benz S350 is a luxury sedan powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 302 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque. It comes with a 7-speed automatic transmission. The S350 is praised for its comfortable ride, luxurious interior, and advanced technology features. However, it has faced some reliability issues over the years.

Engine

• M276 3.5L V6
  • Intake Manifold Studs Failure:
    • Description/Symptoms: Studs that hold the intake manifold in place can fail, causing air and coolant leaks. Symptoms may include a rough idle, power loss, and coolant leaks.
    • Solution: Replace the intake manifold studs.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Balance Shaft Module Failure:
    • Description/Symptoms: The balance shaft module, which helps reduce engine vibrations, can fail, leading to rattling noises and vibrations.
    • Solution: Replace the balance shaft module.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $3,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

• 7G-Tronic 7-Speed Automatic
  • Torque Converter Shudder:
    • Description/Symptoms: The torque converter, which transmits power from the engine to the transmission, can develop a shudder or vibration. Symptoms may include vibration during acceleration or gear changes.
    • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $3,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Airmatic Suspension Struts Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: The airmatic suspension struts, which provide a comfortable ride, can fail due to leaks or component failures. Symptoms may include a rough ride, uneven suspension height, or problems with the vehicle leveling system.
  • Solution: Replace the affected suspension strut(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+ per strut
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Discharge Issue:
  • Description/Symptoms: The vehicle’s battery can discharge prematurely, leaving drivers stranded.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the underlying electrical issue causing the discharge.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• COMAND System Malfunctions:
  • Description/Symptoms: The COMAND infotainment system may experience malfunctions, such as freezing, crashing, or loss of functionality.
  • Solution: Update or repair the COMAND system.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sunroof Seal Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: The sunroof seal can fail, allowing water to leak into the vehicle’s interior. Symptoms may include water leaks around the sunroof or a musty odor in the cabin.
  • Solution: Replace the sunroof seal.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Steering Wheel Peel:
  • Description/Symptoms: The steering wheel material may peel or wear off, making it less comfortable to grip.
  • Solution: Replace the steering wheel.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2012 Mercedes-Benz S350 has faced some reliability issues, including those related to the engine, transmission, suspension, electrical, and interior components. The severity of the issues varies, and some may be more costly or difficult to fix than others. It’s important to note that not all vehicles will experience these problems, and the overall reliability of the S350 depends on factors such as maintenance and driving habits.