2014 Mercedes-Benz E500
The 2014 Mercedes-Benz E500 (also known as the E550 in some markets) is a luxury sedan known for its powerful engine and comfortable ride. Other engine options available in the 2014 E-Class lineup include a 2.1L diesel inline-4, 3.5L V6, and a high-performance 5.5L AMG V8. Transmission options include a 7-speed automatic and AMG Speedshift MCT 7-speed sport transmission. The E500 is powered by a 4.7L twin-turbocharged V8 engine producing 402 horsepower and 443 lb-ft of torque. Owners often praise the E500 for its refined interior, smooth ride, and strong acceleration. Some common dislikes include the high cost of maintenance and repairs.
Engine
4.7L Twin-Turbo V8
- Oil Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks can develop from various locations, including valve cover gaskets, oil filter housing, and timing chain covers. Symptoms include visible oil leaks, burning oil smell, and low oil level warning lights.
- Solution: Replacing the leaking gaskets or seals.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1500+ depending on the location and severity of the leak.
- Recalls: None Found
- Turbocharger Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Turbochargers can fail due to oil starvation or excessive wear. Symptoms include reduced engine power, whistling noises from the engine, and potential check engine lights.
- Solution: Replacing the failed turbocharger(s).
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+ (potentially more depending on if replacing one or both turbos)
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
7G-TRONIC 7-Speed Automatic (722.9)
- Torque Converter Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported issues with the torque converter, leading to shuddering or vibrations at low speeds or during gear changes.
- Solution: Replacing the torque converter or flushing/replacing the transmission fluid if the issue is caught early.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Valve Body Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Malfunctioning valve body can cause harsh shifting, delayed engagement, or complete loss of gear function.
- Solution: Replacing or rebuilding the valve body.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Air Suspension Problems (if equipped)
- Description/Symptoms: Models equipped with air suspension can experience issues such as sagging, uneven ride height, or complete failure. This is often due to leaks in the air struts or a failing air compressor.
- Solution: Replacing the leaking air struts or the air compressor.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $3,000+ per strut. Compressor replacement $800 - $1,500+
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Battery Drain Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported excessive battery drain, leading to difficulty starting the vehicle, especially after periods of inactivity.
- Solution: Diagnosing and addressing the source of the parasitic draw, which may involve replacing faulty modules or repairing wiring issues.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the cause
- Recalls: None Found
- Navigation/Infotainment System Malfunctions
- Description/Symptoms: Issues can range from screen freezing and system crashes to failure of the navigation system and Bluetooth connectivity problems.
- Solution: Software updates, resetting the system, or replacing faulty components.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $2,000+ depending on the complexity of the issue.
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- No Issues Found
Interior
- Sunroof Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Sunroofs can sometimes experience issues with the motor or the track mechanism, leading to difficulty opening or closing.
- Solution: Replacing the sunroof motor or repairing the track mechanism.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Seat Adjustment Motor Failures
- Description/Symptoms: Electric seat adjustment motors can fail, leading to inability to adjust the seat position.
- Solution: Replacing the faulty seat motor.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ per motor.
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2014 Mercedes-Benz E500 is a powerful and luxurious vehicle, but owners should be aware of potential issues. The most significant concerns revolve around potential oil leaks, turbocharger failures in the engine, and transmission problems with the 7-speed automatic. Air suspension issues (if equipped) can also be costly. Electrical gremlins, such as battery drain and infotainment system malfunctions, are also possible. The severity of these issues can range from minor inconveniences to major repairs with costs ranging from a few hundred to several thousand dollars, making pre-purchase inspections and diligent maintenance crucial.