2016 Mercedes-Benz E250

The 2016 Mercedes-Benz E250 is a diesel-powered luxury sedan known for its fuel efficiency and comfortable ride. The E-Class lineup also offered gasoline engine options such as the E350 with a 3.5L V6, the E400 with a 3.0L V6 Biturbo, and the E550 with a 4.7L V8 Biturbo, each paired with a 7-speed automatic transmission. The E250’s 2.1-liter turbocharged diesel inline-4 engine produces around 195 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. Owners generally appreciate the E250’s fuel economy, luxurious interior, and smooth ride. Common complaints include higher maintenance costs associated with the diesel engine and potential issues with the emissions system.

Engine

2.1L Diesel Inline-4 (E250)

• Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The DPF can become clogged with soot, leading to reduced engine performance, poor fuel economy, and a warning light on the dashboard. Frequent short trips can exacerbate this issue as the DPF needs higher temperatures to regenerate.
  • Solution: Forced regeneration, cleaning the DPF, or replacing the DPF.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $2000+ depending on the chosen fix.
  • Recalls: None Found
• AdBlue (DEF) System Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: The Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) system, which uses AdBlue (Diesel Exhaust Fluid), can experience issues with the DEF injector, DEF tank heater, or NOx sensors. Symptoms include warning lights, reduced engine power, and the car going into limp mode.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty component (injector, heater, sensor).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1500+ depending on the component and the repair shop.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Whining noise from the turbo, loss of power, black smoke from exhaust.
  • Solution: Turbocharger replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

7-Speed Automatic (7G-Tronic)

• Torque Converter Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibrations at low speeds, especially during acceleration or deceleration.
  • Solution: Replacing the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1800 - $3500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Body Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or erratic shifting, slipping gears, delayed engagement.
  • Solution: Replacing or rebuilding the valve body.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Compressor Failure (if equipped with Airmatic)
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sagging, ride height issues, “Visit Workshop” message related to suspension.
  • Solution: Replacing the air suspension compressor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Air Strut Leaks (if equipped with Airmatic)
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sagging, especially overnight, accompanied by hissing sounds.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking air strut(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $2500+ per strut
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: The battery drains quickly, especially if the car sits for a few days, requiring frequent jump starts.
  • Solution: Diagnose the parasitic drain and replace the faulty component. Could be related to the infotainment system, seat control modules, or other electronic components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+ depending on the source of the drain
  • Recalls: None Found
• Infotainment System Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: System freezing, glitches, unresponsive touchscreen, Bluetooth connectivity problems.
  • Solution: Software update, replacement of the head unit if necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $2000+ depending on the issue and fix.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• No Issues Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof getting stuck, making unusual noises, or failing to close properly.
  • Solution: Sunroof track cleaning and lubrication, or repair/replacement of the sunroof motor or mechanism.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+ depending on the severity.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2016 Mercedes-Benz E250, while offering a luxurious experience and good fuel economy, can present owners with several potential issues. The diesel engine is susceptible to DPF and AdBlue system problems, potentially leading to costly repairs. Transmission issues, especially with the torque converter and valve body, can also be a concern. Electrical glitches and air suspension problems (if equipped) can add to the maintenance burden. While some issues can be relatively inexpensive to address, others, like turbocharger failure or air strut replacement, can be quite costly. Potential buyers should be aware of these potential issues and factor them into their purchasing decision, including a thorough pre-purchase inspection.