2016 Mercedes-Benz E500

The 2016 Mercedes-Benz E500 is a luxurious and comfortable mid-size sedan known for its powerful engine and smooth ride. Other engine options include the E350 with a 3.5L V6, the E400 with a 3.0L Turbocharged V6, and the E63 AMG with a 5.5L Turbocharged V8. The E500 features a 4.7L Turbocharged V8 engine that produces 402 horsepower and 443 lb-ft of torque. Owners generally appreciate the E500’s refined interior, advanced technology features, and strong performance. Some common complaints include the high cost of maintenance and repairs, as well as the complexity of the infotainment system.

Engine

4.7L Turbocharged V8

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks can occur from various locations, including the valve cover gaskets, oil filter housing, and turbocharger lines. Symptoms include visible oil leaks, a burning oil smell, and low oil levels.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking gaskets or seals is typically necessary. For turbocharger lines, replacement of the lines may be required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1500+, depending on the location and complexity of the leak.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Camshaft Adjuster Solenoid Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Malfunction of the camshaft adjuster solenoid, leading to rough idling, decreased engine performance, and possible check engine light.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty camshaft adjuster solenoid.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Turbocharger Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Whining noises, loss of power, and check engine lights can indicate turbocharger problems.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the turbocharger.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

7G-TRONIC 7-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Torque Converter Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering during gear changes, especially at lower speeds. Possible fault codes related to the torque converter.
  • Solution: Replacing the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or erratic shifting, delayed engagement of gears, and transmission slipping.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the valve body.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Airmatic Suspension Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The Airmatic suspension can experience failures, resulting in the vehicle sagging on one side or uneven ride height. Warning lights may appear on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Replacement of the air struts, air compressor, or valve block.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $3,000+ per strut (depending on location, shop, and part source). Compressor replacement can be $800 - $1500.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The vehicle’s battery can drain overnight or over a short period, making it difficult to start. This can be caused by faulty modules or systems that are not shutting down properly.
  • Solution: Diagnosis of the parasitic drain and repair or replacement of the faulty component.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $1000+, depending on the source of the drain.
  • Recalls: None Found
• COMAND System Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: The COMAND infotainment system can experience glitches, freezing, or complete failure.
  • Solution: Software updates may resolve some issues. More severe problems may require replacement of the COMAND unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $2000+ for software updates or unit replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Headlight Condensation
  • Description/Symptoms: Moisture buildup inside the headlight housings.
  • Solution: Replacing the headlight assembly or attempting to reseal it.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+ per headlight, depending on whether it’s repaired or replaced.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The sunroof may become stuck, make excessive noise during operation, or leak water.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the sunroof mechanism or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Seat Heater Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: The seat heaters may fail to function properly. This could be caused by a broken heating element or a faulty control module.
  • Solution: Replacement of the heating element or control module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2016 Mercedes-Benz E500 is a generally reliable vehicle, but it is prone to some common issues related to its engine, transmission, suspension, and electrical systems. Many of these issues, such as oil leaks and Airmatic suspension failures, can be expensive to repair. Potential buyers should be aware of these potential problems and factor in the cost of maintenance and repairs when considering purchasing a used E500. The severity of issues ranges from minor electrical glitches to more significant mechanical failures.