2013 Mercedes-Benz S350

The 2013 Mercedes-Benz S350 BlueTEC is a luxury sedan known for its comfortable ride, opulent interior, and advanced technology. The S350 BlueTEC is equipped with a 3.0-liter turbocharged diesel V6 engine, producing 240 horsepower and 455 lb-ft of torque. Other engine options for the 2013 S-Class included gasoline V6, V8, and V12 engines. The S350 BlueTEC came standard with a 7-speed automatic transmission. Owners generally appreciate the smooth ride, quiet cabin, and fuel efficiency (for a large sedan) of the diesel engine. Common complaints revolve around potentially expensive repairs, particularly with the complex air suspension and electrical systems.

Engine

3.0L Turbocharged Diesel V6 (OM642)

• Oil Cooler Seal Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leak near the front of the engine, often dripping onto the serpentine belt and causing a burning smell. Can lead to low oil levels if not addressed.
  • Solution: Replace the oil cooler seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) Clogging
  • Description/Symptoms: Reduced engine performance, warning lights related to the DPF, and potentially going into limp mode. Occurs more frequently with short trips and infrequent highway driving.
  • Solution: Attempt to regenerate the DPF (either automatically or manually via a scan tool). If regeneration fails, the DPF may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 (forced regeneration) - $2000+ (DPF replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

7G-TRONIC (722.9)

• Torque Converter Lock-Up Clutch Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibration at low speeds, particularly when the torque converter is attempting to lock up (usually around 30-45 mph). Can also manifest as harsh shifting.
  • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter. In some cases, transmission replacement might be recommended if the issue has been ongoing for a long time and caused further damage.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $4000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Erratic or harsh shifting, delayed engagement, or getting stuck in a gear.
  • Solution: Valve body replacement or rebuild.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Airmatic (Air Suspension) Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sagging on one or more corners, compressor running constantly or failing, “Airmatic - Visit Workshop” warning light, harsh ride.
  • Solution: Diagnose the source of the leak (air spring, air line, valve block). Replace faulty components. Replace compressor if it has been overworked.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+ per air spring; $300 - $800+ for compressor replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Car won’t start, battery needs frequent charging.
  • Solution: Diagnose parasitic draw by testing each fuse. Likely culprit is a control module not going into sleep mode. Replace faulty module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200 (diagnostic) + cost of parts and labor for replacing faulty module (can vary widely).
  • Recalls: None Found
• COMAND System Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Screen freezing, navigation issues, audio problems, inability to control functions.
  • Solution: Software update (first attempt). If that fails, the COMAND unit may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300 for software update; $1000 - $3000+ for COMAND unit replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found
• SAM (Signal Acquisition Module) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Various electrical issues, including lighting problems, wiper malfunctions, and issues with other electronic systems.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty SAM unit. This requires programming to the vehicle.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Panoramic Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty opening or closing, excessive noise during operation, water leaks.
  • Solution: Lubricate tracks and mechanisms. Repair or replace damaged components (seals, motors, cables).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500 for lubrication/minor repairs; $500 - $2000+ for major repairs or replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Seat Heater Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Seat heater not working, only working intermittently, or overheating.
  • Solution: Diagnose and replace the faulty heating element or control module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2013 Mercedes-Benz S350 BlueTEC, while a luxurious and comfortable vehicle, can be prone to several issues. The air suspension and electrical systems are common sources of problems, which can lead to expensive repairs. Engine and transmission issues, while less frequent, can also be costly. The severity of the problems ranges from minor inconveniences to major mechanical failures. Potential buyers should be aware of these common issues and have the vehicle thoroughly inspected before purchase.