2020 Mercedes-Benz E53 AMG

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz E53 AMG is a performance-oriented variant of the E-Class sedan, coupe, and cabriolet. It is powered by a 3.0-liter inline-6 turbocharged engine with EQ Boost, producing 429 horsepower and 384 lb-ft of torque. The engine is paired exclusively with an AMG Speedshift TCT 9G 9-speed automatic transmission. Owners generally appreciate the E53’s blend of performance, luxury, and technology. Common likes include the powerful engine, comfortable ride, and stylish interior. Dislikes often mention the complex infotainment system and some reported reliability concerns.

Engine

3.0L Inline-6 Turbocharged with EQ Boost (M256)

• Auxiliary Water Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The auxiliary water pump may fail, leading to overheating issues, particularly during hot weather or high-performance driving. The engine may display a warning message about overheating.
  • Solution: Replace the auxiliary water pump.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• EQ Boost Starter Generator Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The EQ Boost system, which provides electric assistance to the engine, can experience issues. Symptoms include rough idling, reduced power, and error messages related to the hybrid system.
  • Solution: Diagnose the EQ Boost system and replace faulty components such as the starter generator or related control modules. A software update might also be needed.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

AMG Speedshift TCT 9G 9-Speed Automatic

• Harsh Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported experiencing harsh shifting, particularly between certain gears, or hesitation when accelerating. This can be more pronounced during cold starts.
  • Solution: Software updates to the transmission control module (TCM) might resolve the issue. In more severe cases, valve body replacement or transmission rebuild may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (software update) - $5,000+ (transmission rebuild)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Malfunctions (if equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: Models equipped with air suspension may experience issues such as the vehicle not maintaining the correct ride height, sagging on one side, or error messages related to the air suspension system.
  • Solution: Diagnose the air suspension system for leaks in the air struts or lines, and replace faulty components like the air compressor or control module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3,000+ depending on the component.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• MBUX Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
  • Description/Symptoms: The Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system can be prone to freezing, crashing, or experiencing glitches. This may include issues with the touchscreen, voice commands, or navigation.
  • Solution: Software updates are the first line of defense. In persistent cases, the infotainment system’s control unit may need replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (software update) - $1,500+ (control unit replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sensor Failures (Parking Sensors, Blind Spot Monitoring)
  • Description/Symptoms: Various sensors, such as parking sensors or those related to blind spot monitoring, can fail, leading to error messages or malfunctioning safety features.
  • Solution: Diagnose the faulty sensor and replace it.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ per sensor.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• No Issues Found

Interior

• Sunroof/Moonroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The sunroof or moonroof may exhibit problems such as failing to open or close properly, unusual noises during operation, or leaks.
  • Solution: Inspect the sunroof mechanism for obstructions or damage. Lubricate moving parts or replace faulty components like the motor or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz E53 AMG offers a compelling blend of performance and luxury. The most commonly reported issues tend to revolve around the engine’s EQ Boost system, the transmission’s shifting behavior, and electrical glitches within the MBUX infotainment system. Suspension and Sunroof issues also exist. The severity of these issues ranges from minor software glitches to more significant mechanical failures, with repair costs varying accordingly. While most problems are manageable with software updates or component replacements, the potential for costly repairs, particularly within the EQ Boost system and transmission, should be considered.