Mercedes-Benz produces some of the most impressive and luxurious cars available on the automotive market today, but they aren’t immune to their faults. Like any vehicle, some Mercedes-Benz models can experience problems over their lifetime, but some are more commonly reported by owners than others. From an over-sensitive Check Engine light to concerns with leaking and rusting, we’ve put together our list of the 7 most commonly reported faults by Mercedes drivers.
Sensitive Check Engine Light
The Check Engine light is an important one to watch and should never be ignored, but for Mercedes drivers, the fix is often as simple as screwing on the fuel cap just that little bit tighter. Yes, really – according to MBOntario, Mercedes Benz vehicles are known to flag up that dreaded Check Engine light simply because the fuel cap “has not been tightly secured.” (https://www.mbontario.com/most-common-reasons-for-check-engine-light/, 2019) The best way to check whether this is the case for you or whether there is something more serious going on is simply to tighten up the cap and check your dashboard again. If the light’s gone, you’re good to go. If it’s still there, it may be time to call a mechanic.
Air Suspension Failures
The introduction of air suspension in various Mercedes vehicles, starting in 2000 with the S-Class W220, was a huge step for the brand – but it didn’t come without its hiccups. To this day, air suspension failures are still being reported according to CarGuide.co.uk, who claim that “issues can occur with the air suspension bags and the relays too. The structs can fail totally leaving one corner of the car much lower than the rest.” (https://www.carguide.co.uk/car-problems/mercedes-benz/) While these are relatively affordable to fix and doesn’t apply to every Mercedes model, it’s something to look out for.
Engine Misfiring
Older engines are prone to misfiring and while they should definitely be fixed regardless, GermanAutomotive Mercedes drivers find themselves needing that trip to the mechanic a little faster than some other manufacturers. They state that, although spark plug need replacing for any vehicle, “some Mercedes drivers run into engine misfiring before they even hit 100,000 miles on their vehicle.” (https://germanauto.co.uk/10-common-problems-with-mercedes/, 2021) While this isn’t an expensive fix, it can be inconvenient and frustrating. Investing in specific longer-lasting spark plugs could help reduce this issue.
Rust
Any driver who isn’t using or cleaning their car regularly is likely to see their vehicle start to rust in places and it’s a normal challenge that vehicle owners face regardless of the car or van they drive. GermanAutomotive also reported, however that, for Mercedes, their vehicles reportedly develop rust quickly and may need a bit of extra TLC and a keen eye for detail along the way. They claim that “the average car is susceptible to rust issues during lack of usage, but Mercedes has been known to rust easily and quickly,” (https://germanauto.co.uk/10-common-problems-with-mercedes/) including accumulating rust in places you might least expect, including “along its floorboards, under the wheel wells, on the bumpers, front fenders” and underneath the seats. Pay particular attention to the bottoms of the doors, under the wheel wells, near the bumpers, under and around the licence place and around the front fenders and rear quarter panels. Rust should always be treated and fixed as soon as it’s spotted to ensure the safety and integrity of the vehicle.
Window Regulators
A common problem amongst a lot of luxury and sports vehicles comes in the form of window regulators. This is the system that essentially does the hard work when the electric window controls are used and according to MercedesMedic, are prone to faults and failures across Mercedes, BMW, Lexus and Audi to name a few (https://www.mercedesmedic.com/mercedes-benz-common-problems/). A faulty regulator is an easy fix that a mechanic can quickly resolve in most cases to get things fully up and running again.
Engine Mounts
Mercedes-Benz vehicles typically have oil-filled Engine Mounts, designed to keep the engine’s vibrations from being felt in the cabin itself. According to MercedesMedic, however, “around 100,000 miles, they start to fail and lose the oil.” (https://www.mercedesmedic.com/mercedes-benz-common-problems/) Drivers will feel more vibration through the cabin, through the seat, steering wheel and other components, making for a more uncomfortable drive. It’s an easy repair, typically taking around 4-6 hours work by a mechanic, and for a relatively reasonable price.
Mercedes-Benz vehicles are some of the most stylish around, with smooth drive quality and enough luxurious style to be proud of. However, like any car, they aren’t immune to problems and faults, but knowing what to look out for can help you stay on top of any problems before they happen. Book your vehicle in for a Mercedes service or for much-needed engine repairs today.