2021 Mercedes-Benz E450

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz E450 is a luxury sedan, coupe, convertible, and wagon, known for its comfortable ride, elegant interior, and advanced technology. The E450 is powered by a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-6 engine with mild hybrid assist, producing 362 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. It’s commonly praised for its smooth power delivery and luxurious features. Some criticisms include the sometimes-complex infotainment system and the cost of maintenance. The E-Class is also available with a 2.0L inline 4-cylinder and a 4.0L V8. All engines for the 2021 E-Class are paired with a 9G-TRONIC 9-speed automatic transmission.

Engine

3.0L Turbocharged Inline-6 (M256)

• Auxiliary Water Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Overheating, coolant leak, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace the auxiliary water pump.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Leaks from the Oil Filter Housing
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil drips under the car, burning oil smell, low oil level warning.
  • Solution: Replace the oil filter housing gasket or the entire housing if warped or cracked.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Check Engine Light Due to Faulty Mass Air Flow (MAF) Sensor
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, poor acceleration, reduced fuel economy, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace the MAF sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

9G-TRONIC 9-Speed Automatic (9G-Tronic)

• Harsh or Jerky Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Noticeable and uncomfortable shifts between gears, especially at lower speeds. Hesitation when accelerating.
  • Solution: Software update or transmission fluid change. More severe cases may require valve body replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Transmission Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine revs high without corresponding increase in vehicle speed, delayed engagement of gears.
  • Solution: Could be caused by low transmission fluid, worn clutches, or a faulty valve body. Requires diagnosis and repair/replacement of the affected components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Failure (if equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sagging on one or more corners, air compressor running constantly, “Vehicle Too Low” warning message.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty air strut(s), air compressor, or air distribution valve.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,500+ (per strut)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Creaking or Squeaking Noises from Suspension
  • Description/Symptoms: Unusual noises when going over bumps or turning.
  • Solution: Inspect and replace worn control arm bushings, ball joints, or sway bar links.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Malfunctioning Infotainment System (MBUX)
  • Description/Symptoms: System freezing, screen going blank, unresponsive touch controls, Bluetooth connectivity issues.
  • Solution: Software update, or replacement of the head unit in more severe cases.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Car failing to start after sitting for a short period, frequent jump starts required.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair parasitic drain, replace battery.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sensor Failures (Parking Sensors, Blind Spot Monitoring)
  • Description/Symptoms: Error messages on the dashboard, system not functioning correctly.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ (per sensor)
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Problems with Exterior Lighting
  • Description/Symptoms: Headlights, taillights, or turn signals not functioning correctly.
  • Solution: Replace bulb, ballast, or entire lighting unit depending on the cause of the issue.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof not opening or closing properly, making excessive noise, or leaking water.
  • Solution: Repair or replace sunroof motor, track, or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,200+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Seat Motor Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Seat not adjusting properly in one or more directions.
  • Solution: Replace the seat motor or switch.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $700+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz E450 exhibits a range of potential issues, from minor sensor malfunctions to more significant engine and transmission problems. Electrical and suspension issues are also fairly common. While some repairs are relatively inexpensive, others, such as air suspension or transmission repairs, can be quite costly. The severity of these issues varies, but prospective buyers should be aware of these potential problems and consider a thorough inspection before purchasing.