Mercedes-Benz is popular for its high-end and luxurious vehicles that are sold around the globe, but they’re not without their problems.
Some problems that can occur when your Mercedes starts getting up in miles include suspension issues, transmission problems, oil leaks, engine misfire, rust, damage to the insulation, a bad catalytic converter, and low brake pressure. Note that some models have their own additional problems.
The earlier you’re aware of potential problems, the better prepared you will be when they arise. Some problems are synonymous with almost all Mercedes-Benz models, while others are only present in particular Mercedes models.
What problems do Mercedes have after a lot of mileage?
Let’s take a deeper look and highlight some of the common problems you should expect when you buy a Mercedes car, from big issues like suspension and transmission problems, to easier-to-fix things like rust. Irrespective of the problem, professional mechanics should be able to diagnose and repair your car many challenges, even as your Mercedes gains miles.
#1 Suspension system issues
This is one of the first problems that you should expect when you buy a Mercedes-Benz. The suspension system in many Mercedes starts to develop issues after 100,000 miles. By suspension, we mean tires, tire air, shock absorbers, springs, and linkages that connect the car to its wheels.
The suspension parts that develop problems quickly are tie rods, control arm bushings, ball joints, and sway bar links. This issues may already start bothering the driver after around 60,000 miles. So, if you begin to notice misalignment with the wheels or the steering wheel, you should visit a mechanic for inspection.
The air suspension has also experienced problems in many Mercedes. Many drivers have pointed out that the air suspension bags and air suspension relays are not effective and often have a tendency to fail.
#2 Transmission problems and leaks
One of the most outstanding features of a Mercedes-Benz is its 5-speed automatic transmission that is stronger than most vehicles. Regrettably, it’s made up of parts with a variety of problems. The 13-pin connector and the valve body have problems that you will have to deal with when you cover around 100,000 miles.
Without any explanation, the 13-pin connector may start to leak transmission fluid. Next, the fluid can spill into the wiring harness, causing damage to the control module. The valve body may also cause bad shifting. So, when your Mercedes is approaching 100,000 miles, you should visit the mechanic regularly to inspect the transmission and service it.
#3 Quick to rust
Another common problem that Mercedes-Benz owners are likely to encounter is rust. Of course, most cars rust as they get older or when not in use. But many Mercedes rust much more quickly than most vehicles. They also rust in many places.
You may be surprised to notice rust in different parts of your car after not even covering too many miles. Take a flashlight and look beneath the driver and passenger seats, along the floorboards, on the bumpers, under the wheel wells, behind the license plates, at the bottom of the doors, and even on the front fenders.
#4 Faulty catalytic converters
Catalytic converters play a huge role in reducing harmful emissions by removing certain hydrocarbons from your vehicle’s exhaust system. Unfortunately, the catalytic converters in Mercedes-Benz car models can become faulty after operating for only 60,000 miles. They usually become clogged or fail to work effectively. You may also notice performance problems like misfire and hesitation.
If your catalytic converter is faulty, you may fail the emissions tests, which is vital. A bad catalytic converter will also make the check engine light turn on until you diagnose the issue. Depending on your Mercedes model, you may have to dig deeper into your pockets to have it replaced.
#5 Engine misfire and underperformance
As you put the miles on your Mercedes, expect the performance of your engine to dwindle as well. This applies to all cars and not just Mercedes-Benz vehicles. The car may start to misfire, underperform, or even make engine noises. This problem happens earlier in Mercedes models than in other vehicles.
The manufacturer recommends changing spark plugs and the ignition coils after every 100,000 miles, but in some Mercedes models, it is necessary before this period. So, if your car is almost reaching 100,000 miles, you should have your spark plugs and ignition coils changed.
FAQs about common Mercedes issues
What kind of problems should I expect with Mercedes Benz?
Whether you buy a new or old Mercedes Benz car, there are some problems that you should expect. These include engine misfire, oil leaks, insulation damage, suspension problems, a faulty catalytic converter, low brake pressure and rust issues.
When do Mercedes start having problems?
Depending on the Mercedes model, they can begin to develop issues as early as 60,000 miles. While other models will only struggle with bigger problems after 100,000 miles. Almost all Mercedes models will develop suspension problems after 100,000 miles, and many models begin to have ignition failure after 75,000 miles.
Which Mercedes Benz models have the most problems?
All Mercedes Benz vehicles have problems, but some are more reliable than others. Before you buy the Benz of your dreams, make sure you’re aware of the problems it might face. Here are some Mercedes models and the issues they’re known for:
- 2002 Mercedes-Benz C320 – Develops a faulty power seat module that drains the battery after the car covers significant miles.
- 2007 Mercedes-Benz S550 – A bad 7-speed automatic transmission, after covering around 60,000 miles.
- 2011 Mercedes-Benz C300 – This model may have the most problems. Drivers complain about excessive noise when driving. The car was recalled in 2019 because of airbag problems.
Get regular car maintenance
Most Mercedes Benz car problems start after covering around 100,000 miles, and some Mercedes models have more problems than others. If you already own one of the models with multiple problems, don’t panic! Just make sure to regularly visit a professional mechanic or a specialized Mercedes dealer for service checks or whenever you encounter any of the highlighted Mercedes problems.
