2015 Mercedes-Benz E550

The 2015 Mercedes-Benz E550 is a luxury sedan known for its powerful engine and comfortable ride. In addition to the E550’s 4.7L Twin Turbo V8 engine producing 402 horsepower and 443 lb-ft of torque, other engine options for the 2015 E-Class include a 2.0L Turbocharged Inline-4, a 3.5L V6, a 3.0L Turbocharged V6, and a diesel 2.1L Turbocharged Inline-4. All engine options were paired with a 7-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise the E550 for its smooth acceleration, luxurious interior, and advanced technology. Common complaints include higher maintenance costs and the complexity of the electronic systems.

Engine

4.7L Twin Turbo V8 (M278)

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks often develop from the valve cover gaskets and the oil filter housing. Symptoms include visible oil leaks on the engine, oil puddles under the car, and a burning oil smell.
  • Solution: Replace the valve cover gaskets and/or oil filter housing gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Turbocharger Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The turbochargers can experience issues such as excessive play in the bearings, leading to decreased performance, whining noises, and potential failure.
  • Solution: Turbocharger replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2500 - $5000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Fuel Injector Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Fuel injectors can fail, causing rough idling, misfires, poor fuel economy, and a check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty fuel injectors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

7G-Tronic (722.9)

• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The 7G-Tronic transmission is known for valve body issues. Symptoms include harsh shifting, delayed engagement, slipping between gears, and a general lack of smooth operation.
  • Solution: Valve body replacement or rebuild. In some cases, a software update might temporarily alleviate the problem, but replacement is often necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Humming or whirring sounds, shaking at certain speeds, transmission slipping.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3500
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Airmatic Suspension Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The Airmatic air suspension system can experience leaks in the air struts, compressor failure, and issues with the control module. Symptoms include the car sitting unevenly, the suspension not adjusting properly, and error messages on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty air struts, compressor, or control module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $3000+ per strut, $800 - $1500 for the compressor.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive battery drain can occur due to faulty modules or systems not shutting down properly. This can lead to a dead battery, especially after the car has been sitting for a few days.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the faulty module or system causing the drain.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+ (depending on the source of the drain)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Electronic Control Unit (ECU) Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: The ECU can experience malfunctions, leading to various issues such as engine stalling, transmission problems, and other unpredictable behavior.
  • Solution: Replace or reprogram the ECU.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroofs can experience motor failure or problems with the track mechanism, causing them to be stuck open or closed, or make excessive noise.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the sunroof motor or track mechanism.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• COMAND System Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: The COMAND infotainment system can experience software glitches, screen failures, and issues with the navigation or audio functions.
  • Solution: Software update or replacement of the COMAND unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Seat Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The power seat motors can fail, preventing the seats from adjusting properly.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty seat motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ per seat
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2015 Mercedes-Benz E550, while offering a luxurious experience and powerful performance, is prone to several notable issues. The most significant concerns revolve around the engine, particularly oil leaks and potential turbocharger problems on the V8 models, and transmission issues with the 7G-Tronic transmission. The Airmatic suspension can also be a source of trouble. Electrical problems like battery drain and ECU malfunctions add to the potential ownership costs. Repair costs can range from a few hundred dollars for minor issues to several thousands for major component replacements, making thorough inspection and preventative maintenance crucial for prospective buyers.