2020 Mercedes-Benz E350

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz E350 is a mid-size luxury sedan known for its refined ride, elegant interior, and advanced technology. The standard engine for the E350 is a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 producing 255 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque. Other available engine options include the E450’s 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-6 and the AMG E53 and E63’s performance-oriented engines. All E350 models are equipped with a 9G-Tronic 9-speed automatic transmission. Owners generally praise the E350 for its comfortable driving experience, luxurious appointments, and cutting-edge features. Criticisms often center around the sometimes-complex infotainment system and the cost of maintenance.

Engine

2.0L Turbocharged Inline-4 (M264)

• High-Pressure Fuel Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The high-pressure fuel pump can fail, causing the engine to run rough, stall, or not start. A check engine light may illuminate with codes related to fuel pressure.
  • Solution: Replace the high-pressure fuel pump.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Turbocharger Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Whining noises from the turbocharger. A reduction in power. Check engine light may be illuminated with codes related to the turbocharger.
  • Solution: Replace the turbocharger.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000-$3,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

9G-Tronic 9-Speed Automatic (725.0)

• Rough or Delayed Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Owners have reported rough or delayed shifts, particularly between lower gears. Hesitation when accelerating or downshifting.
  • Solution: A software update may resolve the issue. In more severe cases, valve body replacement or transmission replacement might be required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Software update: $200-$400, Valve body replacement: $1,500 - $3,000+, Transmission Replacement: $6,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Issues (If Equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: If equipped with air suspension (AIRMATIC), owners have reported issues with the air struts leaking, causing the vehicle to sag or not maintain proper ride height. The air compressor may also fail.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty air strut(s) or air compressor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Air Strut Replacement: $1,000 - $2,500+ per strut, Air Compressor Replacement: $800 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• MBUX Infotainment System Glitches
  • Description/Symptoms: The MBUX infotainment system can experience glitches, including freezing, lagging, or unexpected restarts. Connectivity issues with Apple CarPlay or Android Auto have also been reported.
  • Solution: Software updates are frequently released to address these issues. In some cases, a system reset or replacement of the MBUX unit may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Software Update: $0 (if under warranty or performed as part of a service), MBUX Unit Replacement: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sensor Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Malfunction with sensors such as the blind spot monitoring system, lane keep assist, parking sensors, or rain sensors.
  • Solution: Replace the failed sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+ depending on the sensor
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Panoramic Sunroof Issues (If Equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: Panoramic sunroofs can experience issues with the motor, causing the sunroof to become stuck open or closed. Water leaks can also occur due to seal degradation or drainage clogs.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the sunroof motor, clean or repair drainage lines, or replace the sunroof seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Sunroof Motor Replacement: $500 - $1,200+, Seal Replacement: $200 - $500+, Drainage Cleaning: $100 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Seat Motor Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Power seats may have issues with the motors failing, preventing adjustment.
  • Solution: Replace the seat motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400-$1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz E350 generally offers a luxurious and comfortable driving experience. However, potential buyers should be aware of potential issues with the high-pressure fuel pump, turbocharger, rough shifting in the 9-speed transmission, MBUX system glitches, and potential air suspension problems (if equipped). The severity of these issues varies, with some being minor inconveniences and others potentially leading to costly repairs. The estimated costs to fix these issues can range from a few hundred dollars for software updates or sensor replacements to several thousand dollars for engine or transmission repairs. Potential buyers should have a pre-purchase inspection performed by a qualified mechanic to assess the vehicle’s condition and identify any potential problems.