2017 Mercedes-Benz E550

The 2017 Mercedes-Benz E550 offered a blend of luxury and performance in the mid-size sedan segment. The E550 was equipped with a 4.7L Biturbo V8 engine, producing 402 horsepower and 443 lb-ft of torque. It came standard with a 9G-TRONIC 9-speed automatic transmission. Other E-Class models offered different engine options, including a 2.0L Turbocharged Inline-4, a 3.0L Turbocharged V6, and an AMG-tuned 4.0L Biturbo V8. Drivers often praised the E550 for its comfortable ride, powerful engine, and luxurious interior. Common dislikes included higher maintenance costs and some reported electrical issues.

Engine

4.7L Biturbo V8

• Oil Leaks from Turbocharger Oil Feed Lines
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks are visible around the turbochargers, often accompanied by a burning smell. Low oil level warnings may also appear.
  • Solution: Replace the turbocharger oil feed lines and seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Failed Spark Plugs
  • Description/Symptoms: Misfires are visible while operating the vehicle.
  • Solution: Replace the spark plugs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

9G-TRONIC 9-Speed Automatic

• Rough Shifting or Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: The transmission may exhibit harsh or delayed shifts, particularly between certain gears. Some owners have reported hesitation when accelerating from a stop.
  • Solution: In some cases, a software update can address shifting issues. In more severe cases, valve body replacement or transmission rebuild may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (software update) - $4,000+ (transmission rebuild)
  • 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 error messages related to the air suspension system may appear on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Diagnosis of the specific component failure (air strut, compressor, valve block, or level sensor) and replacement of the faulty part.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000+ per strut, $500 - $1500+ for compressor replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• COMAND System Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: The COMAND system (infotainment) may freeze, reboot unexpectedly, or experience problems with features such as navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, or the display screen.
  • Solution: Software updates may resolve some issues. In other cases, replacement of the COMAND unit may be required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150-$300 (software update), $1,000 - $3,000+ (COMAND unit replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The battery may drain quickly, especially when the vehicle is not in use for extended periods. This can lead to difficulty starting the car.
  • Solution: Diagnosis of parasitic drain, which may involve identifying and replacing a faulty module or component that is drawing power when the car is off.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (depending on the source of the drain)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sensor Failures
  • Description/Symptoms: Multiple sensors (ABS, wheel speed, camshaft, etc.) may fail, causing warning lights on the dash and malfunctions.
  • Solution: Replace sensors
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200-$500
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The sunroof may become stuck, make excessive noise during operation, or fail to seal properly, leading to water leaks.
  • Solution: Cleaning and lubrication of the sunroof tracks and mechanism may resolve some issues. More extensive repairs may involve replacing the sunroof motor or other components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Seat Motor Failures
  • Description/Symptoms: One or more of the seat motors may fail, preventing the seat from adjusting properly.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty seat motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per motor
  • Recalls: None Found
• Dashboard creaking noises
  • Description/Symptoms: Creaking noises occur within the dashboard area.
  • Solution: The dashboard components need to be disassembled, then certain surfaces need to be lubricated to reduce the creaking noises.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2017 Mercedes-Benz E550 provides a luxurious driving experience, but owners should be aware of potential issues. Engine oil leaks and transmission shifting problems are relatively common and can be costly to repair. Electrical issues, particularly with the COMAND system and battery drain, may also arise. While not all E550s will experience these problems, pre-purchase inspections and careful maintenance are essential to mitigate potential repair costs. Overall, the severity of these issues ranges from minor inconveniences to major mechanical failures, with repair costs varying accordingly.