2015 Mercedes-Benz E500

The 2015 Mercedes-Benz E500 is a luxury sedan known for its blend of performance and comfort. The E-Class in 2015 also offered other engine options, including a 2.0L Turbocharged Inline-4 (E250/E300), a 3.5L V6 (E350), and a high-performance 5.5L Biturbo V8 (E63 AMG). The E500, specifically, features a 4.7L Biturbo V8 engine producing 402 horsepower and 443 lb-ft of torque. This model is generally praised for its smooth ride, powerful engine, and luxurious interior. However, some owners have reported issues with the vehicle’s electrical system and certain engine components. Common complaints include higher maintenance costs compared to other vehicles in its class.

Engine

4.7L Biturbo V8

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks are reported, often originating from the valve cover gaskets or the oil filter housing. Symptoms include visible oil drips under the car, the smell of burning oil, and low oil levels.
  • Solution: Replacement of the leaking gaskets or the entire oil filter housing.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,500+
• Turbocharger Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported issues with the turbochargers, including failure and reduced boost. Symptoms can include a loss of power, unusual noises from the engine, and the check engine light illuminating.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty turbocharger(s) or related components (e.g., wastegate).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $5,000+

Transmission

7G-TRONIC 7-Speed Automatic

• Torque Converter Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Reports exist of torque converter problems, leading to shuddering during gear changes, especially at lower speeds.
  • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+

Suspension

• Air Suspension Problems (if equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: The Airmatic air suspension system, if equipped, is known to develop leaks, causing the car to sag or not maintain proper ride height. The air compressor can also fail.
  • Solution: Replacement of the leaking air springs (struts) or the air compressor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+ per strut; $600 - $1,200+ for the compressor.

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have experienced excessive battery drain, leading to a dead battery, especially if the car sits for extended periods. This can be caused by a faulty module not shutting down properly or parasitic draw.
  • Solution: Identifying the source of the drain and replacing the faulty component. This may involve diagnostic testing to isolate the issue.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the component.
• Navigation/Infotainment System Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: The COMAND infotainment system can experience glitches, freezing, or complete failure.
  • Solution: Software update, component repair, or replacement of the COMAND unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $2,000+ depending on severity and solution.

Exterior

• No Issues Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroofs can experience mechanical failures with the motor and jamming.
  • Solution: Replacing the motor or fixing jammed components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+

Summary

The 2015 Mercedes-Benz E500 offers a luxurious driving experience with a powerful engine. However, potential buyers should be aware of the common issues reported by owners, particularly those related to oil leaks, turbocharger problems, transmission issues, and electrical glitches. The air suspension, if equipped, can also be a source of potential maintenance. While some issues are relatively minor, others can be costly to repair, making a thorough pre-purchase inspection essential.