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As the owner of a Mercedes, you want to know that your vehicle will be reliable and deliver high performance the majority of your ownership. Similar to any other vehicle, Mercedes can be reliable and last longer if taken care of and serviced regularly.
Overall, most experts consider Mercedes to have an average reliability rating and average repair costs. The best thing you can do is look at your vehicle’s manual and follow the recommended maintenance schedule. In addition, it is always a good idea to take your vehicle into an auto repair shop as soon as there is any sign of an issue.
Common Problems in Mercedes
All automobile brands and models have common problems they face. Some of the most common problems experienced by Mercedes owners include:
- Cracked Thrust Link Bushings: The thrust link bushing is a rubber cylinder filled with hydraulic fluid and located on the front suspension. When a bushing cracks open, it leaks out all the fluid inside and spills.
- Failing Air Suspension Bags and Air Suspension Relays: This can cause your vehicle’s entire air suspension system to fail.
- Worn Spark Plugs: While spark plugs become worn out on any vehicle over time, many Mercedes owners report they need to replace their vehicle’s spark plugs before they even reach 100,000 miles.
- Failing Electronic Transmission System: This is a common issue that is most likely caused by graphite build-up due to an oil leak.
- Sensotronic Brake Control System Failure: This electro-hydraulic braking system offers a high-pressure brake fluid supply that is very beneficial when braking in an emergency, but is prone to failure overtime.
- Worn Catalytic Converters: Some Mercedes owners have reported their vehicle’s catalytic converters wore out after 60,000 miles due to malfunctioning or clogging.
- Transmission Valve Body Malfunctioning: Despite its strong 5-speed transmission, the transmission valve body is prone to malfunctioning and can cause more issues for the vehicle if not addressed.
- Damaged Control Module: The control module is often damaged due to transmission fluid leaking and spilling onto the wiring harness.
- Worn Ball Joints, Sway Bar Link, and Control Arm Bushings: These parts commonly wear out faster on Mercedes and are likely to cause a failed state inspection.
- Clogged Mass Airflow Sensor: This can lead to inaccurate measurements and affects how smooth your vehicle drives. The best way to prevent it is to have the sensor cleaned and maintained.
Signs You Should Take Your Mercedes in for Maintenance
If your Mercedes experiences any signs of decreased performance, take it to the closest auto repair shop. You can have your vehicle towed or you can drive it, depending on the severity of the issue. Some of the most common signs of vehicle issues include:
- engine misfiring or ignition failure
- bumpier or rougher ride
- check engine light comes on
- oil or transmission fluid pooled underneath the vehicle
- vehicle brakes slowing down or less responsive
- poor shifting
- rattling or banging under the front of the vehicle
European Service Center Can Help Keep Your Mercedes in Top Condition
The best way to ensure your vehicle has a long life and increase its reliability is to follow a schedule for regular maintenance and inspections. As a luxury brand, you will want to have your vehicle serviced by qualified and certified mechanics with experience working on Mercedes vehicles.
European Service Center is a full-service auto shop that provides high-quality auto service to a variety of European automotive brands, including Mercedes. As both a family owned and operated business, and the largest European auto repair company in the U.S., European Service Center has expert mechanics and staff that will provide you with quality work and superior customer service.
Additionally, we offer a 3-year/36,000 mile warranty that is honored by over 30,000 auto repair shops across the United States.
The Atlanta location serves vehicle owners in:
If you are in the area and your Mercedes is due for its routine maintenance or experiencing performance issues, schedule an appointment with us at European Service Center. We look forward to earning your repeat business for all your Mercedes service needs and maintenance.
* Mercedes-Benz Car image credit goes to: gargantiopa.