2013 Mercedes-Benz R350

2013 Mercedes-Benz R350

Overview

The 2013 Mercedes-Benz R350, a versatile luxury crossover, generally offers a comfortable and refined driving experience. While it boasts a premium interior and capable performance, like any vehicle, it has specific areas that have seen more attention from owners regarding reliability. This analysis focuses on documented technical issues beyond routine maintenance, providing insights into potential concerns for prospective buyers or current owners. We will examine the engine, transmission, suspension, electrical systems, exterior, and interior components to offer a comprehensive reliability picture.

---

Engine

3.5L V6 (M272)

Intake Manifold Runner Flap Failure

• Symptoms: Check engine light, rough idle, loss of power, P2004/P2005/P2006 codes.
• Solution: Replacement of the intake manifold assembly or repair kit.
• Cost: $600 - $1200

Timing Chain Wear

• Symptoms: Rattling noise from the front of the engine, especially on startup; check engine light with timing codes.
• Solution: Replacement of timing chain, tensioners, and guides.
• Cost: $1500 - $3000

Transmission

7G-TRONIC (722.9)

Valve Body Malfunction

• Symptoms: Harsh shifting, delayed engagement, transmission warning light, limp mode.
• Solution: Repair or replacement of the valve body.
• Cost: $1000 - $2500

Torque Converter Issues

• Symptoms: Shuddering at low speeds, slipping, unusual noises.
• Solution: Replacement of the torque converter.
• Cost: $800 - $1500

Suspension

Standard Chassis

Air Suspension Leaks (if equipped)

• Symptoms: Vehicle sagging on one or more corners, compressor running excessively, uneven ride height.
• Solution: Replacement of leaking air springs or lines.
• Cost: $500 - $1000 per corner

Control Arm Bushing Wear

• Symptoms: Clunking noises over bumps, vague steering feel, uneven tire wear.
• Solution: Replacement of worn control arm bushings or complete control arms.
• Cost: $400 - $800

Electrical

General Electrical System

Window Regulator Failure

• Symptoms: Power windows not operating, slow window movement, grinding noise.
• Solution: Replacement of the window regulator and motor assembly.
• Cost: $300 - $600

Sensor Failures (e.g., ABS, Crankshaft Position)

• Symptoms: Illuminated warning lights (ABS, Check Engine), erratic engine performance, traction control issues.
• Solution: Diagnosis and replacement of faulty sensor.
• Cost: $200 - $500

Exterior

Body and Trim

No Major Issues

• Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
• Solution: No widespread issues reported.
• Cost: No widespread issues reported.

Interior

Cabin Components

No Major Issues

• Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
• Solution: No widespread issues reported.
• Cost: No widespread issues reported.

---

Summary Verdict

The 2013 Mercedes-Benz R350 presents a mixed reliability profile. The powertrain, particularly the 3.5L V6 engine and 7G-TRONIC transmission, has documented issues such as intake manifold runner flap failure, timing chain wear, valve body malfunctions, and torque converter problems, which can be costly to repair. Suspension components, especially if equipped with air suspension, can also develop leaks. Electrical gremlins like window regulator failures and sensor issues are not uncommon. However, the exterior and interior generally hold up well with no widespread critical failures reported. Owners should be prepared for potential maintenance costs related to the engine and transmission, while other areas tend to be more robust.