2016 Mercedes-Benz E400

The 2016 Mercedes-Benz E400 is a mid-size luxury sedan known for its comfortable ride, elegant interior, and strong performance. The E400 is equipped with a 3.0L Twin-Turbo V6 engine producing 329 horsepower and 354 lb-ft of torque. The E-Class in 2016 also offered other engine choices, including a 2.0L Turbo 4-cylinder in the E300 and a 3.5L V6 in the E350. A common point of praise is the E400’s smooth ride and powerful engine. Criticisms tend to focus on the complexity of the infotainment system and some reported reliability concerns. All engine options were paired with a 7-speed automatic transmission.

Engine

3.0L Twin-Turbo V6

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks originating from the valve cover gaskets and/or oil filter housing. Symptoms include visible oil drips, burning oil smell, and low oil levels.
  • Solution: Replacing the valve cover gaskets and/or oil filter housing gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ (depending on location and severity)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Turbocharger Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Whining noises, loss of power, and potentially a check engine light related to turbocharger performance.
  • Solution: Diagnosis to determine the exact cause. Could involve replacing a turbocharger, repairing vacuum lines, or addressing wastegate issues.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+ (depending on the repair needed)
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

7-Speed Automatic (7G-Tronic)

• Rough Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifts between gears, especially when cold. Can also manifest as a hesitation when accelerating from a stop.
  • Solution: Transmission fluid flush and filter change may resolve minor issues. More severe cases may require valve body repair or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 (fluid/filter) - $2,000+ (valve body)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibrations, especially at low speeds or when accelerating gently.
  • Solution: Torque converter replacement is often required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Failure (if equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: The vehicle may sag on one or more corners, the air compressor may run constantly or not at all, and error messages may appear on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty air spring(s), air compressor, or air lines.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+ per air spring; $500 - $1,500+ for the compressor.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The battery drains quickly, especially if the car sits for several days. Can be caused by a parasitic draw from a faulty module or accessory.
  • Solution: Diagnosis to identify the source of the parasitic draw and repair or replace the faulty component.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (depending on the component)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Malfunctioning Sensors
  • Description/Symptoms: Faulty sensors (e.g., parking sensors, oxygen sensors, wheel speed sensors) can trigger warning lights on the dashboard and affect vehicle performance.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (depending on the sensor)
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof may become stuck, fail to open/close properly, or leak.
  • Solution: Diagnosis to identify the cause, which could include a faulty motor, broken track, or clogged drain tubes. Repair or replace the affected components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Infotainment System Glitches
  • Description/Symptoms: The COMAND infotainment system may freeze, crash, or experience other software glitches.
  • Solution: Software updates may resolve some issues. In other cases, the COMAND unit may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (if software update) - $1,000+ (if unit replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2016 Mercedes-Benz E400, while lauded for its performance and luxury, can experience several issues. Engine oil leaks and turbocharger problems are common concerns, potentially leading to significant repair costs. Transmission issues, particularly rough shifting, can also be a problem. Air suspension issues can arise if equipped. Electrical problems, such as battery drain, and interior issues with the infotainment system are additional areas to watch. The severity and cost of these issues vary, but potential buyers should be aware of these common complaints and factor them into their purchase decision.