2016 Mercedes-Benz E350

The 2016 Mercedes-Benz E350 is a mid-size luxury sedan that blends comfort, performance, and technology. The E350 is equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 302 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque. It provides smooth acceleration and a refined driving experience. Other available engine options included a more fuel-efficient E250 Bluetec diesel engine as well as the more powerful E400 and E63 AMG engine options. The E350 is generally praised for its luxurious interior, comfortable ride, and advanced safety features. However, some owners have reported issues with the car’s electrical system, air suspension (if equipped), and certain engine components.

Engine

3.5L V6

• Camshaft Position Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine stalling, rough running, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty camshaft position sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Filter Housing/Cooler Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leak, coolant leak, overheating, oil mixed with coolant. Often caused by plastic housing warping.
  • Solution: Replace the oil filter housing/cooler assembly with an updated aluminum version to prevent future warping or leaks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

7G-Tronic (722.9) 7-Speed Automatic

• Torque Converter Lock-Up Clutch Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering during light acceleration, particularly at low speeds. Can also cause transmission slipping.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter. May require transmission flush/service.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or erratic shifting, delayed engagement, getting stuck in gear.
  • Solution: Replace or rebuild the valve body. Often requires programming.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Compressor Failure (if equipped with Airmatic)
  • Description/Symptoms: The vehicle sits unevenly, the suspension is noisy, or a warning light appears on the dashboard indicating an issue with the air suspension.
  • Solution: Replace the air suspension compressor. Ensure the air lines and struts are also inspected for leaks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Air Strut Leaks (if equipped with Airmatic)
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sagging on one or more corners, especially overnight. Ride height adjustments may be ineffective. Hissing sound from the affected strut.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking air strut.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $2000+ per strut
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Dead battery, needing frequent jump starts, electrical systems malfunctioning. Can be caused by a variety of parasitic drains (faulty modules, lights staying on, etc.).
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the source of the battery drain. This can involve testing individual circuits and components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+ (depending on the complexity of the issue)
  • Recalls: None Found
• COMAND System Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment screen freezes, reboots, or displays error messages. Navigation issues. Bluetooth connectivity problems.
  • Solution: Software updates, replacement of the COMAND unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Door Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Door not locking or unlocking properly with the key fob or interior switch, unusual noises when attempting to lock/unlock.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty door lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+ per door
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Panorama Sunroof Issues (if equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof motor failure, glass panel misalignment, excessive wind noise, water leaks.
  • Solution: Sunroof motor replacement, glass panel adjustment or replacement, seal replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Seat Heater Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: Seat heater not working or only working intermittently. Overheating seat.
  • Solution: Replace the seat heater element or control module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per seat
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2016 Mercedes-Benz E350 is a well-regarded luxury sedan, but like any vehicle, it has its share of potential problems. Common issues include camshaft position sensor failure and oil filter housing leaks in the engine, torque converter and valve body issues in the transmission, and air suspension problems (if equipped). Electrical issues, particularly battery drain and COMAND system malfunctions, are also reported. While some issues are relatively minor, others, such as transmission or air suspension repairs, can be costly. Potential buyers should be aware of these common problems and factor them into their purchasing decision. Thorough pre-purchase inspections are highly recommended, especially focusing on the air suspension system (if equipped) and electrical components.