2015 Mercedes-Benz E350
The 2015 Mercedes-Benz E350 is a luxury sedan known for its comfortable ride, elegant interior, and advanced technology. The E350 is equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 302 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque. Other engine options include the E400 with a 3.0L Turbo V6 (329 hp and 354 lb-ft of torque), the E63 AMG with a 5.5L Turbo V8 (550 hp and 531 lb-ft of torque), the E250 BlueTEC with a 2.1L Diesel I4 (195 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque), and the E350 4MATIC. All engines are typically paired with a 7-speed automatic transmission, with the exception of the E63 AMG which is paired with a 7-speed AMG Speedshift MCT. Owners often praise the E350 for its smooth engine, comfortable seats, and quiet cabin. Some common complaints include the high cost of maintenance, complicated electronics, and occasional glitches with the infotainment system.
Engine
3.5L V6
- Camshaft Adjuster Solenoid Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Check engine light, rough idling, decreased fuel economy, and potential engine misfires. The camshaft adjuster solenoid can fail, causing improper valve timing.
- Solution: Replace the faulty camshaft adjuster solenoid.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
- Recalls: None Found
- Oil Filter Housing Leak
- Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks around the oil filter housing, low oil level, and possible engine overheating. The plastic oil filter housing can crack over time, leading to leaks.
- Solution: Replace the oil filter housing assembly with an updated design, preferably one made of aluminum.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
- Recalls: None Found
- Engine Mount Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Excessive engine vibration, especially at idle or during acceleration. Failed engine mounts can cause the engine to move excessively, leading to discomfort and potential damage to other components.
- Solution: Replace the engine mounts.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
7-Speed Automatic (7G-TRONIC)
- Torque Converter Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Shuddering during acceleration, especially at low speeds. Hesitation when shifting. The torque converter can fail, leading to poor performance.
- Solution: Replace the torque converter.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Valve Body Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Hard or erratic shifting, transmission slipping, or failure to shift into certain gears. The valve body controls the flow of transmission fluid and can become clogged or malfunction over time.
- Solution: Replace or rebuild the valve body. In some cases, flushing the transmission can help clear debris.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000+
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Air Suspension Failure (If Equipped)
- Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sagging on one or more corners, air compressor running constantly, “Visit Workshop” message related to suspension. The air struts, air compressor, or air lines can leak or fail.
- Solution: Diagnose and replace the faulty component (air strut, compressor, valve block, etc.).
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2500+ per strut, $500 - $1500+ for the compressor.
- Recalls: None Found
- Control Arm Bushing Wear
- Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the front suspension, especially when going over bumps. Poor handling and alignment issues. The control arm bushings can wear out, leading to excessive play in the suspension.
- Solution: Replace the worn control arm bushings or the entire control arm assembly.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Battery Drain Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Dead battery, difficulty starting the car, or needing to jump-start the car frequently. A parasitic draw on the battery can be caused by various electrical components.
- Solution: Diagnose and repair the source of the parasitic draw. This may involve replacing a faulty module or repairing wiring.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
- Recalls: None Found
- COMAND System Malfunctions
- Description/Symptoms: Freezing, rebooting, or complete failure of the COMAND infotainment system. The COMAND unit can experience software glitches or hardware failures.
- Solution: Software update or replacement of the COMAND unit.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $2000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Window Regulator Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Window not going up or down, or window falling into the door.
- Solution: Replace the window regulator.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Sunroof Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Sunroof is sticking open, leaking, or making noise when opening and closing.
- Solution: Clean and lubricate the sunroof tracks. If the issues persist, replace sunroof motor or sunroof assembly.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $50- $100 for cleaning and lubrication, $300-$800+ for motor or assembly replacement.
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Cracked Dashboard
- Description/Symptoms: Cracks appearing on the dashboard, particularly in warmer climates or with prolonged sun exposure.
- Solution: Dashboard replacement or repair.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2500+
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2015 Mercedes-Benz E350, while a luxurious and comfortable vehicle, can be prone to certain issues. Engine problems such as camshaft adjuster solenoid failure and oil filter housing leaks can lead to moderate repair costs. Transmission issues, particularly with the torque converter and valve body, can be more expensive. Electrical glitches, especially with the COMAND system and battery drain, are also relatively common. The air suspension, if equipped, is also known for issues. Overall, potential buyers should be aware of these common problems and factor in the potential cost of repairs when considering a 2015 E350. It would be best to have a pre-purchase inspection performed by a qualified mechanic.