2014 Mercedes-Benz E550

The 2014 Mercedes-Benz E550 is a luxury sedan that offers a blend of performance and comfort. The E-Class for this year came with a range of engine options, including a 2.1L Turbocharged Diesel Inline-4, a 3.5L Naturally Aspirated V6, a 3.0L Turbocharged V6, and the powerful 4.6L Twin-Turbo V8 found in the E550. This engine delivers 402 horsepower and 443 lb-ft of torque, providing brisk acceleration and ample power for daily driving. The E550 is generally praised for its comfortable ride, luxurious interior, and advanced technology features. Some common dislikes include the complexity of the infotainment system and the potential for expensive repairs.

Engine

4.6L Twin-Turbo V8 (M278)

• Oil Leaks from Valve Cover Gaskets
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks are often observed around the valve cover gaskets. This can result in a burning oil smell and potentially low oil levels.
  • Solution: Replacement of the valve cover gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Whining noises from the engine, loss of power, and potentially smoke from the exhaust.
  • Solution: Turbocharger replacement or rebuild.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2500 - $5000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Fuel Injector Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idle, misfires, and poor fuel economy.
  • Solution: Replacement of faulty fuel injectors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

7G-Tronic 7-Speed Automatic (722.9)

• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering during acceleration, rough shifting, and potential stalling.
  • Solution: Torque converter replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifting, transmission slipping, and getting stuck in gear.
  • Solution: Valve body replacement or rebuild.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1200 - $2500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Airmatic Suspension Failure (if equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sagging on one or more corners, error messages on the dashboard, and a rough or bouncy ride.
  • Solution: Replacement of faulty air struts or air compressor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $3000+ per strut, $800 - $1500+ for compressor.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The car fails to start after being parked for a relatively short period.
  • Solution: Diagnosis and repair of the parasitic drain, which could be due to a faulty module or wiring issue.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+ (depending on the source of the drain).
  • Recalls: None Found
• COMAND System Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment screen freezes, the navigation system fails, or the sound system malfunctions.
  • Solution: Software update, module replacement, or wiring repair.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof fails to open or close properly, makes excessive noise, or leaks.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of sunroof components, such as the motor or tracks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Delamination
  • Description/Symptoms: Separation of the dashboard material from the underlying structure, creating bubbles or cracks. This is often exacerbated by heat.
  • Solution: Replacement of the dashboard, or professional repair/re-upholstering.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2014 Mercedes-Benz E550, while a luxurious and powerful vehicle, can suffer from a range of issues that can be costly to repair. Engine issues like oil leaks and turbocharger problems, transmission issues with the 7G-Tronic transmission, and air suspension failures are potential concerns. Electrical gremlins and interior problems such as dashboard delamination can also add to the ownership cost. Overall, potential buyers should be aware of these potential issues and factor them into their purchasing decision, including a thorough pre-purchase inspection.