Mercedes-Benz E-Class Sedans

mmb568 · February 2003

As an FYI to all, my dad just bought an E500, pewter metallic, sport pkg, park distance, active suspension, ventilated seats, keyless go, xenons, etc (pretty much loaded) from Caliber Motors in Orange County. Sticker was $65,500 he got it for $62,500 + tax/lic.

retnav · February 2003

My Pewter E-320 has the charcoal interior and I love it, easy on the eyes and not difficult to keep clean. My previous car, An Acura RL, was silver with a black interior and it held up superbly. Previous cars with tan/beige interiors and my wife's Subaru with an ash interior are fine and are not difficult to maintain. All in what appeals to you.

dmberger · February 2003

I live in the foothills outside of Denver. We purchased a 2001 E430 4Matic 1 1/2 years ago. Due to severe drought here, our winters had been pretty minimal and I really hadn't been able to try out the 4Matic. Well, I am NOT impressed and to make matters worse, we talked our neighbors into buying a 4Matic (they purchased a 2002 E320) and they aren't impressed either. We have a driveway that is steep, but not bad. Going up the drive, the car is all over the place and the traction caution light is flashing like a strobe. I was stuck in my driveway just last week and here is my real concern... I was in about 4 inches of snow, not much of a grade and only the right rear wheel was spinning! NONE of the other wheels were even making an attempt to turn. Once we gave the car a slight push, the other wheels grabbed and the car took off (with it's usual strobing traction light and slipping from side to side). I immediately called the dealer and took it into be checked out. They said that there is nothing wrong. This exact same thing happened to my neighbor. She was comining up a hill and had to stop for a BMW (rear wheel drive) that couldn't make it up the hill. Once she got stopped, she could not get going again. Only one wheel was turning until someone gave the car a push. They have the same issue with the car being all over the place and the traction indicator going nuts when going up the driveway. Yes, we have good snow tires on the car. We also have an ML430 and it goes up the driveway without any problem. We previously owned an Audi A6 4.2 and I could go anywhere in that car. I don't feel safe at all in the E-Class when it comes to ice and snow. Anyone have an explanation or having the same issues?

2ndmb · February 2003

turn off the traction control and you will be ok.

bigrobnh · February 2003

2ndmb is correct. you need to turn off the traction control. If you read the winter driving section of your owners manual it explains why. Essentially, you need some wheel slip to get started when driving in snow...your traction control system will stop any wheel that slips. In the case of snow, if all 4 slip, all 4 will be stopped and you'll go nowhere!

I'm very pleased with my 4Matics ability to handle the snows of NH (I'm not pleased with the overall reliability or quality though). I have 4 Blizzak MZ-01's mounted. Any person in snow country doesn't need to be reminded of the need for snow tires, even with AWD.

I have to admit, though, that I think my wife's Subaru Legacy is a little more adept at handling the snow. We run both with snow tires so it's a fairly even comparison. By gut feel is that it's the basic difference of the torque splits. The E is 35/65 (I believe) and the Subaru is (60/40). The small bias to pull vs push, I think, makes a slight difference.

dmberger...make sure you take the time to read your owners manual cover to cover. There's all sorts of stuff in there that the dealer never told you when you purchased the car. I also find that my co-workers are impressed that it's hard cover!

Enjoy,
BigRob.

wilkerson1 · February 2003

My E500 also has the dieseling characteristic you mentioned. I thought it was just another one of the peculiar sounds it has. How did you find out about the service bulletin? I'm worried the dealer will act as if they never heard of it.

jim256 · February 2003

Try this number with your dealer, I believe it's the correct one for "ticking" as they describe it: P-B-07.00-21D-DTB. I got the number from another owner. I expect the dealer will be helpful.

habitat1 · February 2003

Tell me about the 4-matic relaibility and problems you have had. We are considering a 2003 E320 Wagon 4-matic as a replacement for our SUV. What should we be aware of in terms of maintenance, repair and quality issues? Thanks.

polo2928b · February 2003

Thank you for insight, I am going to order the multicontour, I just do not know if I still have time since the car was ordered some 3 weeks ago.

bigrobnh · February 2003

I'll do a summary. Most issues relate to the E in general...however I have had multiple issues on the drive train. I have a 2001 E320 4Matic.

In service 3 times to replace two fan speed regulators that disabled the climate control system. First time returned without problem fixed stating no trouble found and lectured me on how the computerized climate control system works (think I set a blood pressure record with this encounter).

In service 3 times to replace what they claim were 3 separate fluid leaks from my drive train. Chalked up to leaking Transmission Seal, Leaking Differential Seal, Leaking Transfer Case seal. Each visit was 2 - 3 days, awaiting parts. Each visit was between 7 and 8 hours of labor. Imagine the out of warranty cost on this one! Imagine the confidence that I have that this will be durable.

Replaced failed drivers seat headrest motor. I'm the only one that drives the car...if it's been adjusted 5 times I'd be surprised.

Re-worked the sun roof slider to stop rattles on bumpy roads.

Requested that they disable the speed sensitive volume control. Didn't know how so they contacted the factory. Returned it to me saying that the job is done but it still works.

At my Service A they detected the steering wheel groan issue that has been mentioned periodically here (thus a problem known to Mercedes). Since "they didn't have the parts" I had to return the next week for service. Left it with them and they did nothing, claiming that they were unable to reproduce. They were the ones that did the initial diagnosis in the first place.

As just mentioned, my wood trim has cracked completely through in 3 places. I assume it's due to the cold. Note to self, install heating zone in garage so my Car can be comfy.

The paint doesn't seem to be very durable. I have a host of paint chips on my hood.

Every service appointment goes the same way. You have to pass "20 questions" to get a loaner which, usually, is some rent a wreck sort of thing (I must admit that I have received an ML and a C, though both have lived hard lives and been in the posession of chain smokers). If any parts are needed, whatsoever, you are looking at an over night stay which usually stretches to a third day for whatever reason.

Now, get this. I LOVE THIS CAR. The problem is that the E-Class is slightly less bullet proof than I expected/am accustomed to. What I'm really experiencing is the synergy of an extremely weak service department and a car that needs strong preventative maintenance. Here, in NH, I have extremely limited options for service. As it is it's a 40 minute drive one way (times 4 if I have to leave the car) to the dealer.

Worked with my salesman, dealership owner, service manager and regional rep. They were kind enough to extend my warranty by 1 year, gratis.

Hope this helps.
BigRob.

habitat1 · February 2003

Thanks for the comprehensive write up.

I'm impressed that you can see through all the service headaches and still love the car.

However, I could only justify spending $50-55k for a 2003 E320 4-matic Wagon if I knew it was going to be a solid performer with minimal repairs for at least 8-10 years and 150k miles. You have raised a lot of issues that I will need to explore further.

It is interesting that one of our frineds traded her previous generation E-Wagon (not 4-matic) for a Volvo Cross Country when she moved to Michigan. She regrets it, since the Volvo has been in for more repairs in 18 months than her Mercedes was in 10 years. That's actually what got me thinking Mercedes wagon.

Thanks again for the informative write up. It does help and I wish you the best.

bigrobnh · February 2003

my pleasure. Again, I think my story would be a different one if I had access to a competent service department. My 6 major visits could have been reduced to 2 or 3. If the dealer were 5 miles away it would be a different story too.

The car is gorgeous, is great in the snow (just watched my neighbor take two passes to get up his driveway in his FWD Seville STS), is an unbelievebly comfortable highway cruiser and has all the space and features I could want. I just fantasize about MBUSA taking the franchise away from the folks in Manchester and dropping a new dealer in Nashua.

Regards,
BigRob.

maui19 · March 2003

I love my E320 4matic, but I am disheartened by the number of annoying problems I've had. I've had to get the headrest motors replaced, had to have the CD changer repaired, the radio has quit twice, the blower motor is whistling, and now one of the sterring wheel multifunction switches creaks every time I use it. I also get some kind of shuddering every once in a while on sharp left turns. This is more unscheduled maintenence than was needed on my Pathfinder and Accura combined.

These annoyances are compounded by the fact that the car has to go into the shop at least twice to get any single problem repaired. Some of this is due to the ineptitude of the repair people, and some is due to the fact that the dealer never seems to have ANY part in stock. Getting repairs done is now more annoying than these problems, so I'm just living with most of these things.

I now am sorry I got this car, and probably would not get a Mercedes again. There are too many great luxury cars out there to endure these kinds of shortcomings.

BTW, I was pleased to received a customer satisfaction survey from MB asking about my service experience. I told them what I thought.

carnaught · March 2003

What year E320 4matic do you have and are you in Hawaii?

maui19 · March 2003

I have a 2001 E320 4matic, and I live in NH rather than Hawaii (but Maui sounds pretty good right now!)

retnav · March 2003

I am curious, does anyone or the host of this board know whether anyone from Mercedes reads these boards or attempts to assist any one with some of these problems? Last year I bought my wife a 2002 Subaru Outback. Reading the boards beforehand made me seriously consider not buying. Nevertheless, I went ahead. That vehicle so far has been outstanding; the one problem we did have--- windshield washer wouldn't work one muddy day eight months after purchase--- the dealer repaired on the spot when we drove in unannounced.
Now , with my new E-320, so far I have had no problems, but the glove compartment catch doesn't work right. This dealer said he would have to order parts which does not concern me now. However, service informs me they work on appointment only, so presumably an unannounced arrival would not be dealt with dispatch.
It seems to me Mercedes-Benz should not be happy to read some of these boards if they are, in fact, reading them. Or do you suppose their attitude is each owner has to deal with his/her own dealer as best he/she can---too bad so sad!! Could there be a Mercedes rep of some stripe who might weigh in here???

merc1 · March 2003

Mercedes is having these problems for several reasons.

For one, Mercedes' cars were always of the nuts and bolts variety, not all the electronic wizzardry thats in place now. Mercedes was one of the last companies to switch to totally electronic fuel injection because they didn't trust the reliability of such a system. Needless to say that somewhere during the mid-nineties this philosphy changed and they went buzzerk with electronics. Just look at the difference between a 1995 E320 and a 2003 E320. Mercedes traded their world-beating build quality for cheaper fittings here and there, and more investment in electronics. I saw an article in CAR magazine a few years ago that put this in to perspective. They were talking with several long-time Mercedes "experts" and when they were asked if Mercedes cost cutting extended down to the "guts" of the car, the experts replied "No, all the thing underneath are just about as robust as ever, but things you see, feel and use {electronics} are significantly cheaper than before.

Mercedes' biggest problem with reliability is their choice of suppliers. Mercedes is either buying from cheaper suppliers or they're letting the suppliers dictate the quality. There is simply no excuse for the amount of CD players, Comand systems, window switches (a popular VW problem too), lightbulbs, sunroof/seat switches, etc, etc to be failing when on Japanese cars they last for nearly the life of the car. I might could understand the exotic stuff not working once in a while, things like ABC since it's the only system of it's kind currently in production. I'm honestly dreading the day I hear about SBC not working properly.

The next problem is the sheer number of models Mercedes now has and the frequency in which new models are introduced. For 2003 alone there is a new E, CLK, facelifted S-Class, additional C-Class models and a new SL. All launched within 6 months of each other. Mercedes has never had so much product. Dealerships all over the country are expanding their service bays and showrooms. In 1993 you simply had the 190, 300-Class, S-Class and SL. Not a whole lot to keep track of. The dealers weren't ready for this rapid expantion, neither was Mercedes. It's going to take years to fix folks.

M

bigrobnh · March 2003

Hey Maui, I don't suppose the service department you're using is in Manchester NH, is it?

Merc1, I agree with much of your argument. Decontenting/cost cutting has clearly been done. I bought a 97 Camry which got blasted in reviews/press due to the fact that it had been "decontented". You know what, that car was flawless. Decontenting doesn't necessarily need to impact the overall quality. Looking at the problems I'm experiencing, it is clear that my car suffers from pure cost cutting. Trim cracking due to cold. Headrest motors failing after less than 20 uses. Repeated failures of the same part. The G.D. vanity mirror cover came off in my hand when peeling off the airbag warning label (the plastic was weaker than the adhesive on the sticker!). It's very sad for a car that cost me 53K. The fact that I don't have the support of a compentent service department has me very very worried. I had hoped to keep this car 10 years, it will be gone after the first non-warranty issue happens.

However, I will not attribute it to the sheer number of new models. That may make things worse but is not the cause. The W210 version that I drive was introduced, I believe, in 1995 as a MY1996. I purchased my 2001 in 2000. You would think that a company with the reputation of MB would have perfected their highest volume car after 5 or 6 model year runs, no?

There is no excuse for the service I receive, even with the huge growth in sales (and corresponding service). If I can go out on Edmunds and see that there are issues with the Fan Speed regulator or steering wheel groan, don't you think the service reps have seen these too? If sales are growing, don't you think they see a lot of them? These are very basic operational issues.

Thanks,
BigRob.

monakh · March 2003

If it makes you feel any better, I feel no different than you after buying my E500 which cost me almost 70K with taxes.

Honestly, I received as good or better service with Honda. And guess what, their service department was better!

I think, things are deteriorating all round. One would think that with a stumbling economy, the luxury marques would shape up...Guess not. WE will likely have to elect them out of office!

maui19 · March 2003

You guessed it! I don't want to name names, but it starts with an H and ends with olloway. One reason I got the 2002 rather than the 2003 is because it should be far more trouble free than a new design.

Let's see, your headrest motors broke. Mine broke. You'd think they try to keep replacement parts in stock for something that breaks all the time.

habitat1 · March 2003

If it makes you feel any better, my neighbor who recently traded his E55 for a 2003 E500 had a "lock out" this morning. Couldn't get the car open at all, parked inside his garage. Drove to work in his "weekend only" Honda S2000.

As someone who spent a little over $70k with taxes for an M5 last spring, I concur that one should be able to expect better. I also think the combination of price creep on the standard (non-AMG) E-class and poor reliability/service is appalling. We would like to consider the new E500 Wagon when it is released later this year. I will be interested in seeing how the Mercedes dealer resolves my neighbor's issues.

It is a beautiful car; I only hope the beauty is not skin deep.

carnaught · March 2003

could have perhaps gotten his car open with a call to Telaid. Or, did this fail?

rodwilliams · March 2003

Anyone know the likelihood of the 2004 model having DVD Navigation and 3.7L engine? When will it be available in the US? Thanks in advance.

bigrobnh · March 2003

yup, I agree. They should be able to do a frequency of repair analysis and keep heavy hitting parts in stock. Computers are amazing things. Maybe not on the SL or the CL but the E class is their volume leader. The part that really suprises me is that this is basic stuff. Has nothing to do with huge growth of the MB brand. Basic customer service and support. Geez, I had my oven repaired. GE Repairman shows up, I list the symptoms. He says it's either X or Y and I have both parts in my van just in case. Fixes it in 20 minutes, first try. At MB in Manchester (I too, will name no names) they look at you like you're a moon rock or something when you explain your issue. Scarily, I know more about the operation and features of the car than the folks that service it.

As much as I love the look of the 2003, I'd wait till at least the 5th model year. And I would ABSOLUTELY buy the extended warranty (something that I stupidly, didn't do).

Regards,
BigRob.

retnav · March 2003

Earlier I wondered if Any Mercedes reps might intercede and indicate whether they pay attention to some of the problems people are indicating on this board. No response from any of them, but bigrobnh tells us of his problems, but then indicates he wishes he had bought an extended warranty. I think that if I have major problems with my MB I would be more inclined to get rid of it than continue to keep it.
Does this tell us MB is really a pretty good bet in spite of it problems? Could this be why no MB rep of any stripe weighs-in on any of these issues, or am I just missing something?

footie · March 2003

Why in the world would someone from MB 'weigh in' here and tell you other than what is true?

Do you think that MB is suprised by any of this? They DESIGNED the cars and chose the suppliers. They have an older production methodology that cannot equal what is being done defect-wise at Lexus, Infiniti, Toyota, Acura, Honda, Buick.

The same is true at BMW and it's even worse at VW and Audi. A friend has one of the new hump-back 740's. It's on Rev 5.1 of the car software. This rev fixed the problem of the driver headrest accelerating into the ceiling! Not bad for 75K. What a joke.

Like Bigrobnh said, the real problem is that if you like these cars, you need a really good dealer to help you keep it working right and on the road.

jb_shin · March 2003

FWIW, I see BMW NA reps sometimes posting and asking owners to contact them so that they may assist, but I have not heard how effetive their assistance was. I see them on bmwm5.net.

bigrobnh · March 2003

your post intimates that I'm just blowing smoke about my problems...I complain yet I happily drive my car.

Unlike most people (apparently) that drive cars like this, I don't have money to throw away. The sooner I unload the car the worse hit I take due to the way the depreciation works. Unload it now, after two years, and I'll lose 15 - 20K. Just about every other car I've driven I've driven for 5 years. I planned on at least this long with my E Class. Based on the legendary longevity of MB cars, this seemed to be plenty do-able.

Why didn't I purchase the extended warranty in the first place? I've owned 2 Toyotas(Corolla and Camry), a Mazda (626) and a Honda (CRX). With the exception of the Mazda, my new cars which I maintain carefully, have been nearly flawless. The thought never entered my mind.

I'll repeat, though. Cars are mechanical and will encounter problems. In my case:
- I'm dissapointed in the number of issues I've experienced.
- I'm totally dissapointed with their ability to fix the car. My dealer visits could have been dramatically reduced had they fixed the car the first try.

Thanks for your time.
BigRob.

retnav · March 2003

No, No,No, bigrobnh, I cast no aspersions on you, my apologies if you took my comment that way. My point was that in spite of your difficulties your regret was that you did not purchase an extended warranty indicating that in spite of the difficulties you would want to keep the car even for an extended period. That would indicate that in spite of difficulties MB must be pretty good. At post 4781 you said you love this car. To Mercedes-Benz that has to be a recommendation. To them it must mean it's between you and the dealer and so we do not see an MB rep off any stripe comment or offer to assist as post 4798 reports he has seen on the BMW board and I have seen Subaru reps comment on the Subaru board. Subaru has a pretty good reputation for making things right. Thus, in the end, someone thinking about buying an MB, instead of being discouraged by your comment may decide to buy.
Nevertheless, there have been a number of complaints about MB on this board and I am still curious that no MB rep comments. Regards

acco20 · March 2003

Read the last 8 or 10 posts. They are rather typical of the way things have been going at MB for the past several years. With all of this...you ladies and gentlemen opted to purchase these vehicles anyway. I am sure the lure of the three pointed star on the bonnet,was a factor. There is little doubt that MB is simply not what it used to be. I think it can be, and in fact may again be, king of the road some day in the future.For now I wish you all good luck in dealing with the problems, large and small. Please don't "shout" back at me...not looking for an argument,just stating what appears to be fact.

carnaught · March 2003

and thus far I must say it is the best one, the current E-class. It is obvious that if I didn't like the marque I wouldn't have bought another. (Keep in mind that my favorite brand is Lexus, having had five.) The fit and finish are excellent and the materials and ergonomics are great. The control the car gives is secure, comforting and fun to drive.

jim256 · March 2003

While it's only my third MB in a row, my new E is also the best. The fit and finish are superb, styling continues to get remarks, the interior comfort is better and the interior is more attractive. Handling is tops. The dealer is great.

retnav · March 2003

You are probably more right than wrong. In the past The Mercedes star had no effect on me, but now that I am driving one I enjoy seeing that star,haven't any idea why. Twenty-five years ago my wife and I chose sailboat over an MB. Had to sell the boat this year--arthritic knees--and was perfectly happy with my Acura. Went to the boat show in December and saw only two cars that made any impression on me E-class MB and the Subaru Outback. Had just bought an Outback so for no good reason started researching the E.
Seeing that my RL was dropping like a rock in resale, I negotiated what I considered a good deal on the E and bought it---- in spite of some comments on these boards. So far I am pleased with the car as are posts 4802 and 3. But as others have noted we have all paid a good price for these cars and I am sure all owners here are distressed to find folks with problems that just shouldn't seem to be and what appears to be a cavalier MB attitude. So far my dealer has been good, and I haven't had any real problem, but it doesn't appear that MB is prepared for quick fixes for minor problems. My Acuras and Hondas had problems too some easy and some not. So thanks for your wishes for our good luck; hopefully we won't need it and MB somehow will create a better reputation for making fixes.
Whistling Dixie, maybe so!

monakh · March 2003

You will notice there is a lot more activity, and there is much talk of trouble in the new E. There is much heated debate on the way Mercedes has handled the COMAND II Nav issue with us, the customers. They just have not been very forthcoming.

I absolutely love my E, but my experience with my dealer along with the trouble I have had with the car has left a real bad taste in my mouth. Despite this, I will likely go ahead with the 04 E55 that I have on order. Sad, but true.

merrel · March 2003

For the past two fill-ups I have put STP Fuel Injector cleaner in the gas tank and my 2003 E320 no longer shakes (in drive) at full stop with engine warm. Could have been foul up in the lines. Seems to have gone away. As for liquid motor mounts causing this type shaking, I doubt it. 8800 miles now and no sign or indicator suggesting oil change.

gsenthil · March 2003

Do you know the pricing vs E500? What is the std equipment?

rodwilliams · March 2003

This is off another site. What do you think? This confirms my decision to wait for MY2004.

I found some interesting detail on the Nav system in the DC media site (perhaps it showed up on an earlier thread?). Note that this is for the *European* release, but it does contain some interesting tidbits of info. I'm particularly curious why the rear seat screens are mentioned here but not avail in the US. The clincher, of course, is the last sentence.

http://www.media.daimlerchrysler.com/gms_frame

Affalterbach, Oct 10, 2002
A new COMAND system celebrates its world premiere in the E 55 AMG

The latest generation of COMAND is marking its world premiere in the E 55 AMG. The pioneering radio, navigation and communications system is available as an option and stands out with its extensive range of comfort and safety-enhancing features. The new COMAND comes as standard with an RDS car radio with double tuner for FM, long, medium and short-wave reception, an amplifier with 4x 25-watt output, video DVD and audio CD player, and DVD navigation with dynamic route guidance based on RDS-TMC. Faster data transfer allows the new and highly efficient MOST (Media Oriented Systems Transport) bus system to considerably increase the processing speed of the system. The 22.5-megabit bandwidth is a four-fold increase on the previous system, which used a D2B data bus system.

DVD navigation increases the speed and precision of the route guidance system

The enlarged 6.5-inch colour screen in 16:9 format improves clarity in the navigation, audio and TV modes (optional). The navigation system is based on leading edge DVD technology, with a series of factors making the latest incarnation faster and more precise that the previous CD-ROM-based system. The navigation computer has a more powerful processor, and the system uses a separate asynchronous channel for the route guidance function, which cannot be occupied, by other channels. The detailed data underpinning the DVD system makes it even more powerful and precise. A DVD for the whole for Europe avoids the need to change from one CD-ROM to the next, making the whole system more user-friendly.

Route guidance also possible in 3-D

The route guidance system can either run with the familiar map and arrow presentation or using a new three-dimensional birds-eye perspective. The driver can also select an extremely informative split-screen option, which shows the road map on the left-hand side of the 50:50 screen and the symbols and advice on when to turn off on the right-hand side. The enlarged 6.5-inch colour display in 16:9 format improves clarity in navigation and TV mode. The navigation system can also be extended to include a dynamic route guidance function as an option. There is a separate slot for video DVDs and audio CDs, and a connection point for an MP3 player. The new COMAND system has 30 audio channels, with sound quality showing a considerably improvement on the previous version with six channels. The optionally available surround-sound system offers the additional pleasure of a concert-hall ambiance.

A second monitor for the rear can be ordered as an option. This allows the rear passengers to watch the television whilst a different function is in use (for example, the navigation system or radio) on the COMAND module in the front of the car, or when the TV pictures are faded out in the front for safety reasons when the car reaches 6 km/h. The rear display offers plug-in facilities for two sets of headphones, as well as auxiliary equipment such as a video camera, digital camera with video output and games console.

Bluetooth telephone with state-of-the-art radio technology now available

Also available as an optional extra is a Bluetooth telephone. The cordless handset works with cutting-edge radio technology and can be used in combination with the fixed-installation car telephone. A mobile phone is also available as an alternative. Both telephones are fitted with a hands-free facility and can be operated using voice commands (LINGUATRONIC), or via buttons on the COMAND screen or multifunction steering wheel.

The mobile office with Internet access and voice control for all functions

As an option, the new COMAND system can be adapted to function as a mobile office, giving the driver and passengers the benefit of WAP Internet access, enabling them to send and receive SMS messages and e-mails, and providing a personal address book function for good measure. Access to the MB Portal will be possible in the near future, as will voice control during a journey, allowing all COMAND functions to be controlled by the driver or front passengers voice. The LINGUATRONIC system already available for the telephone and radio will be extended for use with the navigation, TV, Internet, e-mail, SMS and address-book functions in the new COMAND system. There is even a voice recorder on board, allowing short messages to be recorded quickly in much the same way as with a dictating machine.

With this extensive range of new technology and functions, Mercedes-Benz is making an important contribution to road safety, as the driver no longer has to take his hands off the steering wheel or his eyes off the road in order to operate the COMAND system.

The new-generation COMAND system is now available for the E 55 AMG and all other Mercedes-Benz E-Class Saloons.

mysienna2003 · March 2003

Hi all
Just purchased a '98 e320 4matic wagon. I also purchased a couple of extra remotes that need to be programmed. Anyone here have information to share on how to program Mercedes remotes?
thanks

mbdriver · March 2003

For information on how to program your remote garage door opener, go to www.homelink.com on the web. You'll find detailed info there on the easy steps to follow.

The local garage door company just serviced my automatic door opener on Friday, and I had to reprogram the remote on my 2000 E320 (button on underside of rear view mirror). I learned that my opener uses a "rolling code" but it was a simple matter to complete the programming.

Let us know how you make out.

aggie76 · March 2003

Don't know about the MB but it's different that what mbdriver is describing, he's refering to just getting the garage door working and you're interested in getting the key programmed for doors, trunk, panic alarm - correct? I've got a Lexus and it was fairly involved with locking and unlocking the doors five times, inserting the key and then doing more activities. Best bet is checking on one of the MB owner sites or maybe somehere here has the guide like I got from some guys for my Lexus.

wilkerson1 · March 2003

Well, thanks to jim256, the dealer replaced the motor mounts after he found "some paper" on the shaking (ticking)and dieseling problem I had been experiencing on my '03. This fixed it.

jim256 · March 2003

I had new keys on an '01 C320, and it was a dealer operation from what I observed. The ordering of SmartKeys is apparently a dealer event since each key can be disabled or enabled via the car's software. There is also a learning process where the key has to sit in the slot for some period of time after it is enabled. I do not know that, for example, you can give me a spare SmartKey and I can just have it "reprogrammed" to work in my car. It's more sophisticated than that, I believe. I had a '98 E 320 that needed a new fuel sender, and that, as well, had to be ordered for that car with specific instrument cluster data from the dealer to interface with the computer. It could not be off the shelf or swapped from another car.

mysienna2003 · March 2003

thanks for all the responses - I'll probably ask the dealer how much they want to reprogram the two extra key remotes.

mysienna2003 · March 2003

I've only had the wagon for a month or so and this weekend I had a disappointing experience. We went to a relative friend's house in the early afternoon (it was in the high 40's when we arrived), but when we left the temp had fallen into the low 20's. The roadside parking area which had a fall of snow had melted and a sheet of ice formed under one side of the car. I thought to myself that this should not be a problem because our mighty wagon has 4matic. By this time, you know where this story is headed and, lo and behold, the side with the ice simply spun the tires, but the other side d/n respond. It was not a big deal, but I'm wondering why the other wheels that had traction did not respond. Isn't it 4matic all the time - I don't have to press any buttons, do I? I had the trans in "D" - would it have made any difference if I started in a lower gear? thanks for any help

microrepair · March 2003

Take a look at 4774 and 4775. That might be your problem..

beepa · March 2003

Hi! I have a '99 E320 and was reading the posts and ran across #4775 where it was advised to 'turn off the traction control'. How is that done? I don't see any switch in my vehicle that does that.
I'm waiting for the owner's manual. I had to order it.
Thanx!!!!

livetodrive · March 2003

I am not sure if your 99 is the same as my 2001, but if it is, they are referring to shutting off the ESP, or Electronic Stability Program.

beepa · March 2003

Thanks livetodrive but I don't see how to shut off the ESP either.

jean7of9 · March 2003

On my 99 E320 4matic the ESP switch in on the left of the Gear-Shift and close the ash-tray. Once you press it you will see the warning triangle in the speedometer confirming that ESP is OFF.

mbdriver · March 2003

You had to pay for a loaner? Drats! My dealer (EuroMotorcars in Bethesda, MD) provides loaners free when warranty service is involved. The loaner fleet is 100% Mercedes!

Mercedes-Benz E-Class Sedans

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