Today we are going to talk about the Mercedes W212 E350 from 2010-2016. Hello and welcome!
Although the E350 is seemingly the more reliable model within the w212 lineup, these cars do have common issues that ill be covering today. Read until the end because I do talk about the individual motor issues.
Let’s get started!
Throughout the entire w212 generation, the E350 used the 722.9 7 speed automatic transmission. It is a robust transmission, but there is a common issue that you should be somewhat aware of before you purchase the car.
If you want to know why E350 is the best Mercedes, click here!
Transmission issue:
One issue that has been reported the most is the conductor plate failing in one way or the other. It’s located underneath the drain pan and all you need to do is remove it and replace it.
An issue you may experience is rough or harsh shifts within the first 3 gears. The transmission will rev up pretty high, then shift to the next gear and most likely give a clunking sound. It typically doesn’t happen all of the time but it is an issue nonetheless. This is caused by the turbine speed sensor which is a part of the conductor plate. You could try to repair that yourself or replace it. Which seems possible by a DIYer, in my opinion.
Turbine Speed Sensor:
Process: https://youtu.be/mi278ItoCZk
Crank or camshaft sensor failure:
Are you experiencing no start, random stops, or even sputtering at random with your gasoline 3.5L v6, then your camshaft sensor or crankshaft sensor may be failing. If it is, you should have an engine code pop up that any advanced auto or places alike would be able to check for you. If one failed and not the other, I would go ahead and replace both anyways. 2 camshaft sensors and 2 camshaft adjusters located on both front sides of the cylinder head. I would replace all of them to future proof it. And the crankshaft sensor is located on the rear of the engine.
Camshaft Sensor:
Camshaft Adjuster:
Crankshaft Sensor:
Front suspension arm:
Experiencing uneven thread wear on your tires? Well, that could be a bad bushing from the front wishbone suspension arm. You could push out the bushing, which can be difficult, but the easier thing to do is to replace the entire arm. Link to a replacement part down below.
Front wishbone suspension arm from 1aauto: https://bit.ly/34c873Z
Infotainment scrolling knob:
the infotainment scrolling knob ends up failing. At first it could happen rarely, but then increase its lack of connectivity to the screen and ultimately fail completely. The knob originally has a plastic shaft that controls the functions, which wears down and you could rebuild it and instal a metal shaft which would fix the issue cheaply. Part linked down below!
Metal scrolling Knob Shaft:
Moldy HVAC system:
Smell mold in the cabin? Well you’re not alone!
There is actually a class action lawsuit for the moldy HVAC System. Basically, the water produced from the AC system collects onto the cabin air filter located on the passenger side of the car and molds over time. Mercedes did release a cleaning procedure, but that only lasted so long until you started to smell the mold again. There are a few solutions you could try to do. Turn off your AC before you arrive at your destination to try to expel the residual water. Or some owner reported using an activated charcoal cabin air filter. But, cleaning the system seems to be routine maintenance with this car.
Lets talk Engines!!!
Diesel engine issues:
The most complained issue with the OM642 diesel turbo engine is, well, a failed turbo charger. The main culprits seem to be damaged seals around the turbo, so be sure to check them out and replace them. If this is the issue, then you’ll experience loss of power, lack of acceleration and possibly be stuck in limp mode.
Also, Could have sputtering and stalling due to a faulty throttle actuator, and rough vibrations due to oil becoming a bit sluggy. With that said, if properly maintained, you should see around 300k miles from this engine.
M272 from 2010-2011
The M272 from 2010-2011 has an issue with the intake manifold which could have failed plastic flaps that could, not commonly, but could get sucked into the engine and potentially damage the entire engine. If you have a bad intake manifold you’ll have a loss of power, rough idle and p2004-p2006 engine codes.
Intake manifold for M272:
The thermostat could fail and overheat your engine. Usually happens around 60-100k miles.
Thermostat for M272:
M276 from 2012-2016
From 2012-2016 Mercedes introduced the direct fuel injected M276 engine, which also has a potential issue. The high pressure fuel pump can fail. The pump typically doesn’t fail outright, but it’s a slow failure. You’ll slowly experience rough idle, power loss, long crank times, stuttering and over time, engine codes.
High pressure fuel pump: https://bit.ly/2RAviCE
Excessive Carbon can build up within these engines, which typically happens around 100k miles. You’ll need to get it professionally cleaned by a mechanic.
The timing chain tensioner can also start to fail and create a rattling noise upon startup. In 2014 and up , this issue was non-existent due to updated parts.
Other mentionable issues:
The synthetic leather seats can tear at the seams. A local seamstress should be able to fix it for an affordable price.
The wood trim fades over time
The airmatic system, if equipped, can also fail, usually over 100k miles, which is pricey
Automatic Digital Temperature Control valves can also fail and not send out the appropriate temp air through the vents.
If you have one of these cars then I’m sure you have your own fair share of issues, so mention them down below. But, I still think the E350 is a pretty fantastic car. I love the post facelift cars after 2013.
Hopefully this helped you out and if you enjoyed ill see you in the next video. My main goal is to help people in any way possible, and this is my outlet to do it.
Hope every one has a fantastic day!
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Or, want to learn more about another beautiful luxury car? B7 Audi A4
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