2021 Mercedes-Benz E350

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz E350 is a luxury sedan known for its sophisticated styling, comfortable ride, and advanced technology. The E350 comes standard with a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 engine that produces 255 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque. Other engine options for the 2021 E-Class include a 3.0-liter inline-6 and a 4.0-liter V8, depending on the trim level. All engines are paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission. Owners typically praise the E350 for its refined interior, smooth handling, and abundance of features. However, some common complaints include the complexity of the infotainment system and the high cost of maintenance and repairs.

Electrical

• MBUX Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
  • Description/Symptoms: The Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) system can freeze, become unresponsive, or crash unexpectedly. This can affect navigation, audio, and other vehicle functions.
  • Solution: Software updates are typically released by Mercedes-Benz to address these issues. A hard reset may also temporarily resolve the problem. In some cases, the MBUX unit may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Software updates are generally free. Replacement of the MBUX unit can range from $1,200 - $2,500+ depending on the dealer and specific components.
  • Recalls: None Found
• 12V Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Premature battery drain leading to difficulty starting the vehicle or requiring frequent jump starts. Can be caused by a faulty module not going into sleep mode.
  • Solution: Diagnose the parasitic draw to identify the faulty module and replace it. Battery replacement may also be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ depending on the module and labor costs.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Parking Sensor Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: Parking sensors failing to detect objects or providing false alarms.
  • Solution: Inspect and clean the sensors. If the problem persists, the faulty sensor must be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per sensor, including labor.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Rattling/Squeaking
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling or squeaking noises emanating from the sunroof area, particularly when driving on uneven surfaces.
  • Solution: Adjusting or lubricating the sunroof mechanism can sometimes resolve the issue. In more severe cases, the sunroof assembly may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+ depending on the severity and necessary repairs.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Seat Creaking
  • Description/Symptoms: Creaking noises coming from the seats, especially during movement or cornering.
  • Solution: Tightening or lubricating the seat frame and components can help reduce or eliminate the noise.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door Handle Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The flush door handles may not always extend properly or retract fully.
  • Solution: Cleaning and lubricating the mechanism may help. If that doesn’t work, the door handle mechanism may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Engine

2.0L Turbocharged Inline-4

• No Issues Found

Transmission

9-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Rough Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or jerky shifts, especially during low-speed acceleration or deceleration. Can feel like a hard thump.
  • Solution: A transmission software update may resolve the issue. In some cases, a transmission fluid flush or replacement of faulty solenoids may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Software update is usually free. Transmission fluid flush is $200 - $400. Solenoid replacement can be $500 - $1000+ depending on the labor and solenoids that need replacing.
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Issues (If Equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicles equipped with the optional air suspension system may experience issues such as air leaks, sagging, or failure of the air compressor.
  • Solution: Identify and repair any air leaks in the system. Replace the faulty air struts or the air compressor as needed.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Air strut replacement can range from $800 - $1,500+ per strut. Air compressor replacement can cost $700 - $1,200+.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz E350 generally has a good reputation, but owners have reported some common issues, primarily related to the electrical system (MBUX glitches, battery drain), interior components (sunroof and seat noises), and occasionally, the transmission (rough shifting) or air suspension (if equipped). While some fixes are relatively inexpensive, others, such as replacing the MBUX unit or air suspension components, can be costly. Severity ranges from minor annoyances to potentially impacting vehicle drivability.