2018 Mercedes-Benz E43 AMG

The 2018 Mercedes-Benz E43 AMG is a performance-oriented sedan that slots between the standard E-Class and the full-blown E63 AMG. It features a turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine producing 396 horsepower and 384 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 9G-TRONIC nine-speed automatic transmission and 4MATIC all-wheel drive. While praised for its blend of performance, luxury, and technology, some owners have reported certain recurring issues. Common dislikes include the complexity of the infotainment system and occasional reliability concerns. The other engine option for the E-Class is the E300 which has a 2.0L Inline-4 Turbo engine. The E63 S AMG has a 4.0L V8 Bi-Turbo.

Engine

3.0L Turbocharged V6

• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Whining noise from the engine bay, loss of power, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty turbocharger(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil spots under the car, burning oil smell, low oil level. Common leak areas include valve cover gaskets, timing chain cover, and oil cooler lines.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking gaskets or lines.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,500+ depending on the location and severity of the leak.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Low coolant level, overheating, coolant smell. Often related to the thermostat housing or water pump.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty component (thermostat housing or water pump).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

9G-TRONIC 9-Speed Automatic (725.0)

• Rough or Delayed Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh shifts, hesitation when shifting between gears, particularly at lower speeds.
  • Solution: Software update or transmission valve body replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 for a software update, $1,500 - $3,000+ for valve body replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibrations at low speeds, especially when accelerating.
  • Solution: Torque converter replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Problems (If Equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sagging on one side, error message on the dashboard, compressor running constantly.
  • Solution: Replace leaking air struts or the air suspension compressor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $3,000+ per strut, $800 - $2,000+ for the compressor.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Control Arm Bushing Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noise when going over bumps, uneven tire wear, vague steering feel.
  • Solution: Replace worn control arm bushings or the entire control arm.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per control arm.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Car not starting, dead battery, requiring frequent jump starts.
  • Solution: Identify and repair parasitic drain. Could be caused by a faulty module, improperly shut-off accessory, or a failing battery.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+ depending on the source of the drain.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Infotainment System Glitches
  • Description/Symptoms: Screen freezing, system rebooting, Bluetooth connectivity problems, navigation issues.
  • Solution: Software update, replacement of the COMAND unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 - $500 for a software update (if available), $1,000 - $3,000+ for COMAND unit replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sensor Failures (e.g., Parking Sensors, Blind Spot Monitoring)
  • Description/Symptoms: Inaccurate readings, error messages, system not functioning.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ per sensor.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Headlight Issues (LED)
  • Description/Symptoms: LED headlight flickering or complete failure.
  • Solution: Replacement of the headlight assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+ per headlight.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof not opening or closing properly, getting stuck, making unusual noises.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the sunroof motor or track.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Seat Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Seats not moving, error message on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty seat motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2018 Mercedes-Benz E43 AMG, while a well-regarded performance sedan, exhibits several potential issues. Engine and transmission problems can be costly, with turbocharger replacements and valve body issues being the most significant concerns. Electrical glitches and suspension issues can also contribute to higher maintenance costs. Overall, while not all E43 AMG owners experience these problems, potential buyers should be aware of these potential pitfalls and ensure a thorough inspection before purchasing a used model. The severity of the issues ranges from minor inconveniences to significant repair expenses, making pre-purchase due diligence crucial.