Auto Recall Watch
U.S. public vehicle records

2011 Mercedes-Benz E550 problems and owner complaints

Explore the records behind recurring owner reports.

Key facts

61 owner complaints analyzed

3 distinct recall campaigns

70,500 mi median reported failure mileage

Scope: 2011 model year. Data updated: . 22 complaints include usable failure mileage. View data status.

Owner-reported patterns

Most common problems

Air Bags is the most frequently named component, appearing in 32 of 61 complaints (52.5%). A complaint can name multiple components.

Recurring terms in complaint narratives
TopicMatching reportsShare of complaints
Braking behavior34.9%
Electrical and battery issues23.3%
Transmission and shifting11.6%
Steering behavior11.6%
Fuel system concerns11.6%

Topic matches use published keyword rules. They describe mentions, including negations or comparisons, and do not confirm a diagnosis. Read the matching rules.

Component breakdown

Number of unique complaints naming each component. Top eight shown.

Air Bags
32
Suspension
19
Unknown Or Other
3
Engine
2
Fuel/Propulsion System
2
Service Brakes
2
Electrical System
1
Lane Departure: Blind Spot Detection
1
Component breakdown data
CategoryCount
Air Bags32
Suspension19
Unknown Or Other3
Engine2
Fuel/Propulsion System2
Service Brakes2
Electrical System1
Lane Departure: Blind Spot Detection1

Air Bags: 32; Suspension: 19; Unknown Or Other: 3; Engine: 2; Fuel/Propulsion System: 2; Service Brakes: 2; Electrical System: 1; Lane Departure: Blind Spot Detection: 1

Reported problems by failure mileage

Complaint counts in mileage bands. These are not failure rates per vehicle or mile.

Under 25,000
1
25,000 to 49,999
6
50,000 to 74,999
5
75,000 to 99,999
8
100,000 to 149,999
2
150,000 and above
0
Reported problems by failure mileage data
CategoryCount
Under 25,0001
25,000 to 49,9996
50,000 to 74,9995
75,000 to 99,9998
100,000 to 149,9992
150,000 and above0

Under 25,000: 1; 25,000 to 49,999: 6; 50,000 to 74,999: 5; 75,000 to 99,999: 8; 100,000 to 149,999: 2; 150,000 and above: 0

75,000 to 99,999 miles has the most reports with usable mileage (8). 39 complaints have missing, zero or invalid mileage.

Complaints over time

Year the complaint was filed, not the vehicle model year or incident year. The snapshot year is partial.

2014
1
2016
6
2017
20
2018
10
2019
14
2020
3
2021
1
2022
4
2023
1
2024
1
Complaints over time data
CategoryCount
20141
20166
201720
201810
201914
20203
20211
20224
20231
20241

2014: 1; 2016: 6; 2017: 20; 2018: 10; 2019: 14; 2020: 3; 2021: 1; 2022: 4; 2023: 1; 2024: 1

Pattern summary

Air Bags leads the component reports. Braking behavior appears in 3 complaint narratives. Electrical and battery issues appears in 2 complaint narratives. Transmission and shifting appears in 1 complaint narratives. Use these patterns to inspect individual reports and prepare questions for a mechanic.

Calculated from recorded counts. An AI narrative has not been published for this selection.

Complaint evidence

Examples provide context, not a representative sample or a verified diagnosis.

Owner report 10855669 · 2016-04-15 (April 15, 2016)

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 MERCEDES-BENZ E550. UPON INSPECTING THE VEHICLE, THE CONTACT DISCOVERED THAT THE FAILURE WITH THE ADAPTIVE CRUISE CONTROL MAY HAVE BEEN ASSOCIATED WITH THE FRONT AND REAR BRAKING SYSTEM. AS THE FAILURE PROGRESSED, THE FRONT BRAKES OVERHEATED AND WARPED PREMATURELY DUE TO THE FRONT DISCS AND ROTORS. THE DEALER CONFIRMED THAT THE ROTORS WERE WARPED AND REPLACED THE FRONT AND REAR BRAKE PADS AND ROTORS. THE FAILURE RECURRED WITH THE BRAKES HAVING A STRONG SENSATION, OVERHEATING, AND CAUSED THE VEHICLE TO BE UNSTABLE WH…

Owner-reported narrative. Look up ODI 10855669 at NHTSA ↗

Owner report 10902081 · 2016-08-28 (August 28, 2016)

BRAKE LINE CORRODED LEAKING. FUEL LINE CCORRODED

Owner-reported narrative. 25,124 miles reported. Look up ODI 10902081 at NHTSA ↗

Owner report 10648992 · 2014-10-21 (October 21, 2014)

BEGINNING SOMETIME IN MAY 2013, THE CAR BEGAN LEAKING FUMES INTO THE PASSENGER CABIN WHICH MADE ME VERY ILL. AFTER TAKING IT TO BOTH PARK PLACE MERCEDES HERE IN DALLAS, AND THEN MERCEDES BENZ OF PLANO, NEITHER SERVICE DEPARTMENT COULD DETERMINE WHAT WAS WRONG WITH THE VEHICLE. AFTER REPEATED ATTEMPTS TO GET TO THE BOTTOM OF THE MATTER WITH PARK PLACE, I TOOK IT TO MERCEDES BENZ OF PLANO IN NOVEMBER 2013. THEY EVALUATED THE CAR, CHANGED THE BATTERY, AND GAVE THE CAR BACK TO ME IN DECEMBER OF 2013 FOR A WEEKEND, CLAIMING IT WAS FIXED. THE CAR,…

Owner-reported narrative. Look up ODI 10648992 at NHTSA ↗

Owner report 11493623 · 2022-11-15 (November 15, 2022)

The issue with the vehicle's electrical causing power to the starter to stay on even after the vehicle is in the park and turned off, the starter's Solenoid and other electrical parts burn, its a serious fire hazard and needs to be addressed immediately.

Owner-reported narrative. Look up ODI 11493623 at NHTSA ↗

Owner report 11443261 · 2021-12-09 (December 9, 2021)

Transmission cooler which i manufactured inside the radiator failed causing transmission fluid to mix with anti-freeze/coolant, now the transmission slips and per recommendation from a mercedes dealership the vehicle needs a new transmission, torque converter, radiator, radiator cap, new upper and lower radiator hoses, new upper and lower radiator overflow hoses, new thermostat and the entire cooling system to be flushed and the transmission lines to be flushed, estimated at $11,200 for the repair

Owner-reported narrative. Look up ODI 11443261 at NHTSA ↗

Owner report 11021398 · 2017-09-05 (September 5, 2017)

AIRMATIC FRONT AIR STRUT/SHOCK FAILURE. THE FRONT LEFT HAS FAILED ON MY CAR. IT HAPPENED WHILE DRIVING AND A SHORT WHILE AFTER AN ACCIDENT AND THE TWO MAY BE RELATED DUE TO THE BRAKING FORCES PUTTING PRESSURE ON THE FRONT STRUTS. THE FAILURE DID NOT HAPPEN IMMEDIATELY AFTER THE CRASH. HOWEVER, ABOUT A MONTH LATER, OR SO, THE CAR LOWERED AND RED WARNING LIGHT CAME ON WITH A WARNING TO TO "PULL OVER AND STOP DRIVING IMMEDIATELY". I WAS DRIVING NORMALLY, BUT I HAD THE ACCIDENT IN LATE JUNE. ALSO, IN ADDITION THE THE TEMPORAL OCCURRENCE OF M…

Owner-reported narrative. 71,000 miles reported. Look up ODI 11021398 at NHTSA ↗

Owner report 11500100 · 2023-01-04 (January 4, 2023)

The vehicle felt like it was all over the road at highway speeds. Took it to a mechanic and the rear subframe had become weakened with premature rust. The mounting point for one of the rear suspension arms had broken off of the subframe and was making contact with my gas tank. I called the dealer to see if there were any recalls. No recalls for this issue however there are a few reports on this website. I have also been on forums for my vehicle and it is a VERY common problem on these vehicles. From what i gather this is a widespread iss…

Owner-reported narrative. Look up ODI 11500100 at NHTSA ↗

Explore the data

Vehicle analysis explorer

Inspect model-year patterns, reported mileage, monthly activity and the evidence behind each signal.

Data completeness

61 unique complaints in this selection. Analysis snapshot: 2026-10-01.

36.1%Usable mileage22 / 61 records
100.0%Valid incident date61 / 61 records
100.0%Valid filing date61 / 61 records
100.0%Ordered incident and filing dates61 / 61 records

Missing, zero and invalid mileage is excluded. Dates after the snapshot are excluded. Examples are limited selections, not a representative sample.

Problems by model year

Model-wide comparison of the eight most reported components across the model. Cells show counts and shares within each model year. Open a cell for source examples.

Component complaint heatmap
Component20102011201220132014201520162017
Air Bags
3044.1%
ODI 10894306

TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2010 MERCEDES BENZ E550. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBERS: 16V081000 (AIR BAGS) AND 16V363000 (AIR BAGS) HOWEVER, THE PARTS TO DO THE RECALL REPAIRS WERE NOT AVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER HAD EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIRS. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PARTS NOT YET AVAILABLE.

Look up ODI 10894306 at NHTSA ↗

3252.5%
ODI 10892524

TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 MERCEDES-BENZ E550. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 16V081000 (AIR BAGS) AND STATED THAT THE PART NEEDED FOR THE REPAIR WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PARTS NOT AVAILABLE.

Look up ODI 10892524 at NHTSA ↗

847.1%
ODI 10477296 · 100 mi

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 MERCEDES BENZ E550 (N/A). THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE AIR BAG OFF WARNING INDICATOR ILLUMINATED WITH THE FRONT PASSENGER SEAT OCCUPIED. THE OCCUPANT'S WEIGHT WAS APPROXIMATELY ONE HUNDRED POUNDS. THE MALFUNCTION RECURRED INTERMITTENTLY. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER TWICE WHERE THEY INFORMED THE CONTACT THAT THE AIR BAGS WERE OPERATING PROPERLY. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE PROBLEM. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 100.

Look up ODI 10477296 at NHTSA ↗

850.0%
ODI 11075047

"TAKATA RECALL" THE REPAIR PARTS ARE NOT AVALIABLE TO CORRECT OR REPAIR THE PROBLEM. THIS IS THE PASSENGER SIDE AIR BAG, WHAT AM I TO DO.

Look up ODI 11075047 at NHTSA ↗

956.3%
ODI 11140621 · 84,000 mi

IN STOP AND GO TRAFFIC APPROACHING AN INTERSECTION ON A WET ROAD, THE CAN BUS FAILED, DISABLING ALL OR NEARLY ALL SAFETY SYSTEMS. AT THE TIME, NUMEROUS WARNING MESSAGES AND LIGHTS APPEARED ON THE DASH FOR SRS, ABS, SEATBELT PRETENSIONER, ETC. THE ENGINE WOULD NOT TURN OFF USING THE START-STOP BUTTON, AND THE VEHICLE WOULD NOT SHIFT OUT OF DRIVE. ACCORDING THE DEALER SERVICE CENTER, A REAR BLIND SPOT RADAR SENSOR IS CORRODED, AND CAUSED A SHORT IN THE CAN BUS. THIS EXACT FAILURE HAS OCCURRED WITH AT LEAST ONE OTHER VEHICLE, DOCUMENTED HERE: …

Look up ODI 11140621 at NHTSA ↗

150.0%
ODI 11316553

TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2015 MERCEDES-BENZ E550. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 19V010000 (AIR BAGS) HOWEVER, THE PART TO DO THE RECALL REPAIR WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE DEALER, MERCEDES-BENZ OF CHANDLER 7450 W ORCHID LN, CHANDLER, AZ 85226 WAS CONTACTED AND CONFIRMED THAT THE PARTS WERE NOT AVAILABLE FOR THE RECALL REMEDY. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FA…

Look up ODI 11316553 at NHTSA ↗

1100.0%
ODI 11035143

TAKATA AIR BAG RECALL. MERCEDES REFUSES TO REPLACE OR REPAIR. THEY SAID THERE IS NO REMEDY AVAILABLE. I FEEL VERY UNSAFE WITH THIS CAR. WE LIVE IN FLORIDA WHICH IS HIGH HUMIDITY STATE AND HIGH HUMIDITY CAN CAUSE THE AIR BAGS TO EXPLODE ON THEIR OWN AT ANY TIME.

Look up ODI 11035143 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

Suspension
2739.7%
ODI 10678175 · 49,600 mi

THIS MY SECOND VEHICLE FROM MB AND AGAIN ONE WITH AIR SUSPENSION. THIS TIME THIS CAR IS ONLY 5 YEARS OLD WITH LESS THAN 50K MILES AND THE AIR SUSPENSION IS GOING OUT, EVEN THOUGH THE FRONT SUSPENSION HAD ALREADY BEEN REPLACED, LEFT AND RIGHT, AT ONLY 43K MILES. THIS AIR SUSPENSION IS A LEMON PRODUCT AND I DEMAND ALL W212 AIR SUSPENSION OWNERS E550, E63AMG TO REPORT THIS ISSUE TO GET RESOLVED. *TR

Look up ODI 10678175 at NHTSA ↗

1931.1%
ODI 10897712 · 26,000 mi

I BOUGHT 2011 E550 BASE SEDAN LAST YEAR. IT HAD 25K MILES ON IT, AND 2 MONTHS LATER MY REAR SUSPENSION BEGAN LEAKING AND COST ME 2K IN REPAIRS. THE CAR WOULD LEAK OUT AIR FROM SUSPENSION OVER COUPLE HOURS. DEALER OR MY AFTERMARKET WARRANTY WOULDN'T COVER THIS PROBLEM BECAUSE IT'S NOT ON THE CONTRACT, BUT I'M NOT THE FIRST ONE WITH THIS ISSUE. WE SHOULDN'T BE BUYING NEW AIRBAG SUSPENSION ON A CAR THAT HAVEN'T HAD THE ORIGINAL TIRES REPLACED YET.

Look up ODI 10897712 at NHTSA ↗

15.9%
ODI 11205025 · 110,000 mi

I AM NOW OFFICIALLY ON MY 3RD SET OF WHEELS, 16 FLAT TIRES, AND NOW HAD TO REPLACE EVERY SINGLE COMPONENT IN THE AIR SUSPENSION ALMOST 8K INTO THE REPAIRS

Look up ODI 11205025 at NHTSA ↗

318.8%
ODI 10965984 · 60 mi

FROM THE FIRST DAY THE CAR WAS DELIVERED, THE ENGINE HAD SEVERAL SERIOUS ENGINE MISS-FIRES WHERE IT WOULD NOT RUN ON ALL OF ITS CYLINDERS. DISABLING THE VEHICLE. THE DEALER WOULD RE-FLASH THE COMPUTER. FROM THE FIRST DAY THE CAR WAS DELIVERED, THE BODY FELL APART, REQUIRING A SPECIALIST FROM GERMANY TO RE-WELD AND REINFORCE THE BODY AROUND THE LEFT REAR SUSPENSION MOUNT. I HAVE THE WORK ORDERS, BUT THEY HAVE PERSONAL INFORMATION ON THEM, PREVENTING ME FROM UPLOADING THEM.

Look up ODI 10965984 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

Electrical System
34.4%
ODI 11406755 · 125,000 mi

THE VEHICLE SLAMS ITSELF INTO PARK WHEN MOVING UNDER 5MPH. THIS MOSTLY OCCURS WHEN TEMPERATURES ARE ABOVE ABOUT 75-80 DEGREES FAHRENHEIT.

Look up ODI 11406755 at NHTSA ↗

11.6%
ODI 11493623

The issue with the vehicle's electrical causing power to the starter to stay on even after the vehicle is in the park and turned off, the starter's Solenoid and other electrical parts burn, its a serious fire hazard and needs to be addressed immediately.

Look up ODI 11493623 at NHTSA ↗

423.5%
ODI 10934672 · 25,500 mi

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 MERCEDES-BENZ E550. WHILE ATTEMPTING TO PUT ON THE DRIVER'S SIDE SEAT BELT, THE SEAT BELT FRACTURED. THERE WERE ALSO ELECTRICAL FAILURES IN THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE DEALER WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE SEAT BELT WOULD HAVE TO BE REPROGRAMMED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 25,500. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE.

Look up ODI 10934672 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

212.5%
ODI 10620788 · 3,260 mi

STARTED IGNITION, IDLE FOR ABOUT 3 MINS WARMING UP THE ENGINE. PREPED TO LEAVE TO CURRENT DESIGNATION. REVERSE, PULLING OUT TO THE RIGHT I TURN MY STEERING WHEEL ALL THE WAY TO THE RIGHT, CAR SHUTS OFF, ALL LIGHTS APPEAR ON THE DASH. TURN OFF AND RESTARTED. AND CONTINUE TO DRIVE IN REVERSE REPEATING THE STEERING TO THE RIGHT... CAR STALLS AGAIN.... I FINALLY MAKE IT HOME BECAUSE I WAS NOT SURE IF THE CAR WAS SAFE TO DRIVE. I PARKED, TURNED ALL THE WAY TO THE RIGHT MADE A WEIRD IDLE NOISE MAYBE 4X LOUDER THEN STANDARD BUT DEEPER. AND BOOM STALL…

Look up ODI 10620788 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

150.0%
ODI 11422919

The contact owns a 2017 Mercedes-Benz E550. The contact received notification of NHTSA campaign number 21V058000 (Communication, Electrical System) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted and it was confirmed that the part was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.

Look up ODI 11422919 at NHTSA ↗

Service Brakes
11.5%
ODI 11164072 · 105,000 mi

I PROCURED THE VEHICLES 32,000 MILES AS A CPO. IT HAD NEW BRAKE ROTORS ON IT. OVER THE NEXT 75,000 MILES THE BRAKE ROTORS HAD TO BE REPLACED 7 TIMES FOR WARPING AND DANGEROUSLY INCREASING STOPPING DISTANCES. THIS APPARENTLY NOT UNUSUAL FOR THIS VEHICLE.

Look up ODI 11164072 at NHTSA ↗

23.3%
ODI 10855669

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2011 MERCEDES-BENZ E550. UPON INSPECTING THE VEHICLE, THE CONTACT DISCOVERED THAT THE FAILURE WITH THE ADAPTIVE CRUISE CONTROL MAY HAVE BEEN ASSOCIATED WITH THE FRONT AND REAR BRAKING SYSTEM. AS THE FAILURE PROGRESSED, THE FRONT BRAKES OVERHEATED AND WARPED PREMATURELY DUE TO THE FRONT DISCS AND ROTORS. THE DEALER CONFIRMED THAT THE ROTORS WERE WARPED AND REPLACED THE FRONT AND REAR BRAKE PADS AND ROTORS. THE FAILURE RECURRED WITH THE BRAKES HAVING A STRONG SENSATION, OVERHEATING, AND CAUSED THE VEHICLE TO BE UNSTABLE WH…

Look up ODI 10855669 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

318.8%
ODI 10722091 · 20,924 mi

I HAVE HAD A 2013 MERCEDES-BENZ E550 FOR NEARLY THREE YEARS NOW AND LIKE IT IN MANY RESPECTS EXCEPT ONE. IT BOTHERS ME EVERY TIME I DRIVE SO MUCH SO THAT I FEEL COMPELLED TO GET IT OFF MY CHEST. WHEN I SLOW THE VEHICLE TO AN IMPERCEPTIBLE CRAWL, THE AUTOMATIC ADAPTIVE BRAKE ASSIST KICKS IN, BRINGING THE VEHICLE TO A SUDDEN, ABRUPT AND JERKY STOP UNLESS THE GEAR IS IN NEUTRAL. IT IS ANNOYING, ESPECIALLY WHEN YOU HAVE GUEST PASSENGERS. IT REFLECTS POORLY ON THE DRIVER AND THE EMBARRASSMENT IS REGRETFUL. I HAVE OWNED AND OPERATED LUXURY CARS …

Look up ODI 10722091 at NHTSA ↗

318.8%
ODI 11140621 · 84,000 mi

IN STOP AND GO TRAFFIC APPROACHING AN INTERSECTION ON A WET ROAD, THE CAN BUS FAILED, DISABLING ALL OR NEARLY ALL SAFETY SYSTEMS. AT THE TIME, NUMEROUS WARNING MESSAGES AND LIGHTS APPEARED ON THE DASH FOR SRS, ABS, SEATBELT PRETENSIONER, ETC. THE ENGINE WOULD NOT TURN OFF USING THE START-STOP BUTTON, AND THE VEHICLE WOULD NOT SHIFT OUT OF DRIVE. ACCORDING THE DEALER SERVICE CENTER, A REAR BLIND SPOT RADAR SENSOR IS CORRODED, AND CAUSED A SHORT IN THE CAN BUS. THIS EXACT FAILURE HAS OCCURRED WITH AT LEAST ONE OTHER VEHICLE, DOCUMENTED HERE: …

Look up ODI 11140621 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

Steering
22.9%
ODI 10677002 · 29,000 mi

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2010 MERCEDES BENZ E550. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 70 MPH, THE STEERING WHEEL SEIZED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE DEALER. THE TECHNICIAN DIAGNOSED THAT THE FUEL PUMP NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 29,000.

Look up ODI 10677002 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

423.5%
ODI 11348881 · 113,000 mi

I WAS BACKING THE CAR WHEN THE STEERING BECAME STIFF AND A MESSAGE STATING 'POWER STEERING MALFUNCTION SEE OWNERS MANUAL' APPEARED. I TURNED THE CAR OFF AND RESTARTED AN HOUR LATER AND THE SAME MESSAGE APPEARED. STEERING WAS VERY DIFFICULT. THANKFULLY, IT DIDN'T HAPPEN AT A HIGH SPEED OR TURNING.

Look up ODI 11348881 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

16.3%
ODI 10620788 · 3,260 mi

STARTED IGNITION, IDLE FOR ABOUT 3 MINS WARMING UP THE ENGINE. PREPED TO LEAVE TO CURRENT DESIGNATION. REVERSE, PULLING OUT TO THE RIGHT I TURN MY STEERING WHEEL ALL THE WAY TO THE RIGHT, CAR SHUTS OFF, ALL LIGHTS APPEAR ON THE DASH. TURN OFF AND RESTARTED. AND CONTINUE TO DRIVE IN REVERSE REPEATING THE STEERING TO THE RIGHT... CAR STALLS AGAIN.... I FINALLY MAKE IT HOME BECAUSE I WAS NOT SURE IF THE CAR WAS SAFE TO DRIVE. I PARKED, TURNED ALL THE WAY TO THE RIGHT MADE A WEIRD IDLE NOISE MAYBE 4X LOUDER THEN STANDARD BUT DEEPER. AND BOOM STALL…

Look up ODI 10620788 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

150.0%
ODI 11509682

The steering wheel tilt feature is stuck in the up position.

Look up ODI 11509682 at NHTSA ↗

Structure:Body
34.4%
ODI 10446730

IN JUNE 2011, I WAS DRIVING AT ABOUT 55 MPH WHEN THE WINDSHIELD CRACKED AND BROKE ON THE PASSENGER SIDE, IN THE CORNER, ABOUT MIDWAY BETWEEN THE TOP AND THE BOTTOM. AT TIME OF THE BREAK, THERE WAS AN IMPACT SOUND, AS IF A PEBBLE HAD HIT THE WINDSHIELD, BUT I DIDN'T SEE ANY OBJECT. THE WINDSHIELD WAS REPLACED ABOUT TWO WEEKS LATER. IN OCTOBER 2011, THE WINDSHIELD BROKE AGAIN IN JUST ABOUT THE SAME SPOT ON THE WINDSHIELD, UNDER THE SAME DRIVING CONDITIONS, THIS TIME IN A DIFFERENT STATE. IT JUST SEEM LIKE AN UNLIKELY COINCIDENT. COULD THERE BE A…

Look up ODI 10446730 at NHTSA ↗

11.6%
ODI 11352674 · 132,000 mi

THE SUN ROOF MAKES A LOUD CRACKING NOISE WHEN YOU HIT CERTAIN BUMPS OR DIPS IN THE ROAD. IT DOES IT MORE WHEN THE WEATHER IS HOT. I HAVE NOTICED THAT CERTAIN MODELS YEARS HAVE BEEN RECALLED. THIS CAR DEFINITELY HAS A SUNROOF ISSUE AND ITS HAD THIS PROBLEM SINCE I PURCHASED IT ABOUT A YEAR AGO

Look up ODI 11352674 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

318.8%
ODI 10965984 · 60 mi

FROM THE FIRST DAY THE CAR WAS DELIVERED, THE ENGINE HAD SEVERAL SERIOUS ENGINE MISS-FIRES WHERE IT WOULD NOT RUN ON ALL OF ITS CYLINDERS. DISABLING THE VEHICLE. THE DEALER WOULD RE-FLASH THE COMPUTER. FROM THE FIRST DAY THE CAR WAS DELIVERED, THE BODY FELL APART, REQUIRING A SPECIALIST FROM GERMANY TO RE-WELD AND REINFORCE THE BODY AROUND THE LEFT REAR SUSPENSION MOUNT. I HAVE THE WORK ORDERS, BUT THEY HAVE PERSONAL INFORMATION ON THEM, PREVENTING ME FROM UPLOADING THEM.

Look up ODI 10965984 at NHTSA ↗

16.3%
ODI 11256099 · 61,950 mi

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2014 MERCEDES-BENZ E550. WHILE DRIVING AT LOW SPEEDS, THE REAR PASSENGER SIDE SPEAKER AND WINDOW BEGAN TO SMOKE. THERE WAS ALSO AN ABNORMAL RUBBER AND BURNING ODOR AND A CRACKING NOISE EMERGING FROM THE VEHICLE. THERE WERE NO WARNING INDICATORS ILLUMINATED. THE CONTACT CALLED MERCEDES-BENZ OF DENVER (940 S COLORADO BLVD, DENVER, CO 80246, [phone removed]), BUT WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 61,950.

Look up ODI 11256099 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

Unknown Or Other
45.9%
ODI 11066132 · 84,000 mi

THE AIR SUSPENSION INTERMITTENTLY DROPS THE CAR, RESULTING IN A WARNING LIGHT THAT SAYS CAR TOO LOW, PULL OVER. YOU HAVE TO STOP THE CAR WHEREVER IT HAPPENS IMMEDIATELY AS THE CAR IS SO LOW IT RUBS THE WHEELS ON THE WHEEL WELLS. I'VE HAD TO STOP ON THE SIDE OF TWO DIFFERENT FREEWAYS AND UP IN THE MOUNTAINS WHEN IT WAS 10 DEGREES OUTSIDE. IT WILL USUALLY RAISE BACK UP IF YOU TURN THE CAR OFF AND ON SEVERAL TIMES, BUT SOMETIMES IT MAY TAKE MUCH LONGER FOR IT TO RAISE BACK UP. SOMETIMES WHEN I COME OUT IN THE MORNING THE CAR HAS LOWERED AS WEL…

Look up ODI 11066132 at NHTSA ↗

34.9%
ODI 11483014

The passenger door will not open from the inside. The vehicle has not been inspected by any parties yet. No warning messages are currently displayed.

Look up ODI 11483014 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

150.0%
ODI 10872524

COLLISION HAZARD WARNING. NEITHER THE VISUAL WARNING ON THE DASH OR THE AUDIO WARNING WORKS PROPERLY. THE VISUAL AND AUDIO WARNING WILL ACTIVATE WHEN THERE ARE NO CARS ANYWHERE IN THE VICINITY. BUT IF A CARS SLOWS OR STOPS SUDDENLY IN FRONT, THERE WILL BE NO VISUAL OR AUDIO WARNING.

Look up ODI 10872524 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

Engine
11.5%
ODI 11119751

THE AIRMATIC SUSPENSION HAS MALFUNCTIONED! THE AIR SPRINGS STARTED DEFLATING OVER NIGHT SOMETIMES JUST ON OTHER NIGHTS ALL THEM AND THEN OTHER NIGHTS NOT AT ALL NOW THEY WILL NOT INFLATE AT ALL AND IS UNDRIVABLE. ALSO THE COOLING FAN RUNS CONSTANTLY IF THE CAR IS RUNNING!

Look up ODI 11119751 at NHTSA ↗

23.3%
ODI 10648992

BEGINNING SOMETIME IN MAY 2013, THE CAR BEGAN LEAKING FUMES INTO THE PASSENGER CABIN WHICH MADE ME VERY ILL. AFTER TAKING IT TO BOTH PARK PLACE MERCEDES HERE IN DALLAS, AND THEN MERCEDES BENZ OF PLANO, NEITHER SERVICE DEPARTMENT COULD DETERMINE WHAT WAS WRONG WITH THE VEHICLE. AFTER REPEATED ATTEMPTS TO GET TO THE BOTTOM OF THE MATTER WITH PARK PLACE, I TOOK IT TO MERCEDES BENZ OF PLANO IN NOVEMBER 2013. THEY EVALUATED THE CAR, CHANGED THE BATTERY, AND GAVE THE CAR BACK TO ME IN DECEMBER OF 2013 FOR A WEEKEND, CLAIMING IT WAS FIXED. THE CAR,…

Look up ODI 10648992 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

16.3%
ODI 10965984 · 60 mi

FROM THE FIRST DAY THE CAR WAS DELIVERED, THE ENGINE HAD SEVERAL SERIOUS ENGINE MISS-FIRES WHERE IT WOULD NOT RUN ON ALL OF ITS CYLINDERS. DISABLING THE VEHICLE. THE DEALER WOULD RE-FLASH THE COMPUTER. FROM THE FIRST DAY THE CAR WAS DELIVERED, THE BODY FELL APART, REQUIRING A SPECIALIST FROM GERMANY TO RE-WELD AND REINFORCE THE BODY AROUND THE LEFT REAR SUSPENSION MOUNT. I HAVE THE WORK ORDERS, BUT THEY HAVE PERSONAL INFORMATION ON THEM, PREVENTING ME FROM UPLOADING THEM.

Look up ODI 10965984 at NHTSA ↗

16.3%
ODI 11164710 · 60,240 mi

CUSTOMER RAN CAR OUT OF OIL DESTROYING ENGINE AND TURBO'S TOTAL COST OF REPAIR IS 25,000

Look up ODI 11164710 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

Darker cells indicate a larger share of submitted complaints. Components overlap. This measures complaint composition, not failure probability.

Failure mileage by component

Median and middle 50% of usable owner-reported mileages. Ranges require at least five records.

Component failure mileage distribution
ComponentMileage range (25th–75th percentile)MedianUsable recordsExamples
Air BagsToo few reports for a range37,750 mi4 (sparse)
ODI 11043486 · 40,000 mi

THE AIRBAG HAS NOT BEEN REPLACED

Look up ODI 11043486 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 11044191 · 30,000 mi

TAKATA RECALL - I'VE CONTACTED TWO DEALERSHIPS (MERCEDES BENZ OF SAN JOSE AND MERCDES BENZ OF STEVENS CREEK) BOTH CONTINUE TO SAY THAT THERE ARE NO PARTS. I DON'T WANT TO GET INJURED BY THE AIRBAG IF THERE IS AN ACCIDENT.

Look up ODI 11044191 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 11045833 · 35,500 mi

TAKATA RECALL. I BOUGHT THE CAR NEW, RECEIVED RECALL NOTICES FROM MBUSA IN MAY AND AUGUST 2016, STATING THAT MY DRIVER'S AND FRONT-PASSENGER AIRBAGS HAVE A DEFECT RELATED TO SAFETY. I HAVE MADE FOUR SPECIFIC VISITS TO THE DEALERSHIP IN SANTA MONICA, SIMONSON'S MERCEDES-BENZ, ASKING THAT MY AIRBAGS BE REPLACED. EACH TIME I'VE BEEN TOLD THAT THERE ARE NO REPLACEMENT AIRBAGS AVAILABLE.

Look up ODI 11045833 at NHTSA ↗

Suspension64,420–93,500 mi77,000 mi15
ODI 10897712 · 26,000 mi

I BOUGHT 2011 E550 BASE SEDAN LAST YEAR. IT HAD 25K MILES ON IT, AND 2 MONTHS LATER MY REAR SUSPENSION BEGAN LEAKING AND COST ME 2K IN REPAIRS. THE CAR WOULD LEAK OUT AIR FROM SUSPENSION OVER COUPLE HOURS. DEALER OR MY AFTERMARKET WARRANTY WOULDN'T COVER THIS PROBLEM BECAUSE IT'S NOT ON THE CONTRACT, BUT I'M NOT THE FIRST ONE WITH THIS ISSUE. WE SHOULDN'T BE BUYING NEW AIRBAG SUSPENSION ON A CAR THAT HAVEN'T HAD THE ORIGINAL TIRES REPLACED YET.

Look up ODI 10897712 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 10908174 · 64,840 mi

SUSPENSION. ON VEHICLE IS LOPSIDED ALSO NOT ABLE TO RAISE OR DRIVE COMFORTABLE BE THE SUSPENSION IS NOT LEVEL. VEHICLE IS NOT DRIVABLE IN MY OPINION. EVERY TIME I'M COME OUTSIDE THE CAR IS EITHER LEANING TO ONE SIDE OR ON THE FLOOR.

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ODI 10953729 · 99,000 mi

I HAVE OWNED A 2003, 2005, 2009 AND NOW A 2011 E550 AND EVERY ONE OF THESE CARS CAME WITH THE SAME AIR SUSPENSION PROBLEM. ITS NOT FAIR FOR THE CONSUMERS AND ITS CERTAINLY NOT FAIR FOR ALL MERCEDES BENZ CUSTOMERS. MY MECHANIC TOLD ME THAT THE NOTORIOUS AIR SUSPENSION PROBLEM IS CAUSED BY A LEAK IN THE AIR SHOCK. WHICHEVER AIR SHOCK LEAKS, THATS THE SIDE OF THE CAR THAT WILL LEAN DOWN. MY E550 IS LEANING ON THE FRONT SIDE AND BOTH PASSENGER AND DRIVER SIDE ARE BOTH AFFECTED. I WAS QUOTED 1600$ FOR EACH SHOCK FROM MB, WHICH IS OVER 3200$ WITH ALL…

Look up ODI 10953729 at NHTSA ↗

Fuel/Propulsion SystemToo few reports for a range25,124 mi1 (sparse)
ODI 10902081 · 25,124 mi

BRAKE LINE CORRODED LEAKING. FUEL LINE CCORRODED

Look up ODI 10902081 at NHTSA ↗

Service BrakesToo few reports for a range25,124 mi1 (sparse)
ODI 10902081 · 25,124 mi

BRAKE LINE CORRODED LEAKING. FUEL LINE CCORRODED

Look up ODI 10902081 at NHTSA ↗

Complaint and recall timeline

Explore monthly filing activity alongside recall announcements. Up to ten years of monthly history is available.

1 reports2024-112026-10

Solid line: filed complaints. Dashed amber lines: recall announcement dates for this vehicle selection; markers include all recall components. The latest month is partial. Temporal proximity does not establish causation.

Monthly counts, recall campaigns and complaint examples
Monthly complaint and recall timeline
MonthComplaintsCampaigns announcedExamples
2024-110None

No examples available for this selection.

2024-120None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-010None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-020None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-030None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-040None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-050None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-060None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-070None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-080None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-090None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-100None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-110None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-120None

No examples available for this selection.

2026-010None

No examples available for this selection.

2026-020None

No examples available for this selection.

2026-030None

No examples available for this selection.

2026-040None

No examples available for this selection.

2026-050None

No examples available for this selection.

2026-060None

No examples available for this selection.

2026-070None

No examples available for this selection.

2026-080None

No examples available for this selection.

2026-090None

No examples available for this selection.

2026-10 (partial)0None

No examples available for this selection.

Emerging complaint spikes

Complete months in the latest six months with at least 10 complaints, at least twice the preceding 12-month average, and at least three square-root deviations above that average.

This is a descriptive screening rule, not a statistical defect finding. Publicity and reporting changes can increase submissions.

No complete months meet the spike thresholds for this selection.

Equal-age model-year comparison

Model-wide cumulative reports during the first three or five calendar years, starting with the model year (age 0). Only fully elapsed windows are compared.

Age 0Age 1Age 21 reports

2016: 1 complaints · 2017: 0 complaints

Equal observation windows
Model yearThrough age 0Through age 1Through age 2
2016011
2017000
Date coverage across each selected cohort
Date basis for all complaints in selected model years
YearIncident dates usedFiling date fallbacksExcluded dates
2016100
2017200

Incident date is preferred when valid and no later than filing; otherwise filing date is used. Model year approximates age. Equal observation time does not adjust for sales, distance driven or reporting delays. One complaint linked to multiple model years can appear in each cohort.

Components reported together

Each cell counts unique complaints naming both components. Open a nonzero cell for examples.

Component co-occurrence matrix
ComponentAir BagsSuspensionUnknown Or OtherEngineFuel/Propulsion SystemService BrakesElectrical SystemLane Departure: Blind Spot Detection
Air Bags—0000000
Suspension0—000000
Unknown Or Other00—
1
ODI 11493623

The issue with the vehicle's electrical causing power to the starter to stay on even after the vehicle is in the park and turned off, the starter's Solenoid and other electrical parts burn, its a serious fire hazard and needs to be addressed immediately.

Look up ODI 11493623 at NHTSA ↗

00
1
ODI 11493623

The issue with the vehicle's electrical causing power to the starter to stay on even after the vehicle is in the park and turned off, the starter's Solenoid and other electrical parts burn, its a serious fire hazard and needs to be addressed immediately.

Look up ODI 11493623 at NHTSA ↗

1
ODI 11483014

The passenger door will not open from the inside. The vehicle has not been inspected by any parties yet. No warning messages are currently displayed.

Look up ODI 11483014 at NHTSA ↗

Engine00
1
ODI 11493623

The issue with the vehicle's electrical causing power to the starter to stay on even after the vehicle is in the park and turned off, the starter's Solenoid and other electrical parts burn, its a serious fire hazard and needs to be addressed immediately.

Look up ODI 11493623 at NHTSA ↗

—
1
ODI 10648992

BEGINNING SOMETIME IN MAY 2013, THE CAR BEGAN LEAKING FUMES INTO THE PASSENGER CABIN WHICH MADE ME VERY ILL. AFTER TAKING IT TO BOTH PARK PLACE MERCEDES HERE IN DALLAS, AND THEN MERCEDES BENZ OF PLANO, NEITHER SERVICE DEPARTMENT COULD DETERMINE WHAT WAS WRONG WITH THE VEHICLE. AFTER REPEATED ATTEMPTS TO GET TO THE BOTTOM OF THE MATTER WITH PARK PLACE, I TOOK IT TO MERCEDES BENZ OF PLANO IN NOVEMBER 2013. THEY EVALUATED THE CAR, CHANGED THE BATTERY, AND GAVE THE CAR BACK TO ME IN DECEMBER OF 2013 FOR A WEEKEND, CLAIMING IT WAS FIXED. THE CAR,…

Look up ODI 10648992 at NHTSA ↗

0
1
ODI 11493623

The issue with the vehicle's electrical causing power to the starter to stay on even after the vehicle is in the park and turned off, the starter's Solenoid and other electrical parts burn, its a serious fire hazard and needs to be addressed immediately.

Look up ODI 11493623 at NHTSA ↗

0
Fuel/Propulsion System000
1
ODI 10648992

BEGINNING SOMETIME IN MAY 2013, THE CAR BEGAN LEAKING FUMES INTO THE PASSENGER CABIN WHICH MADE ME VERY ILL. AFTER TAKING IT TO BOTH PARK PLACE MERCEDES HERE IN DALLAS, AND THEN MERCEDES BENZ OF PLANO, NEITHER SERVICE DEPARTMENT COULD DETERMINE WHAT WAS WRONG WITH THE VEHICLE. AFTER REPEATED ATTEMPTS TO GET TO THE BOTTOM OF THE MATTER WITH PARK PLACE, I TOOK IT TO MERCEDES BENZ OF PLANO IN NOVEMBER 2013. THEY EVALUATED THE CAR, CHANGED THE BATTERY, AND GAVE THE CAR BACK TO ME IN DECEMBER OF 2013 FOR A WEEKEND, CLAIMING IT WAS FIXED. THE CAR,…

Look up ODI 10648992 at NHTSA ↗

—
1
ODI 10902081 · 25,124 mi

BRAKE LINE CORRODED LEAKING. FUEL LINE CCORRODED

Look up ODI 10902081 at NHTSA ↗

00
Service Brakes0000
1
ODI 10902081 · 25,124 mi

BRAKE LINE CORRODED LEAKING. FUEL LINE CCORRODED

Look up ODI 10902081 at NHTSA ↗

—00
Electrical System00
1
ODI 11493623

The issue with the vehicle's electrical causing power to the starter to stay on even after the vehicle is in the park and turned off, the starter's Solenoid and other electrical parts burn, its a serious fire hazard and needs to be addressed immediately.

Look up ODI 11493623 at NHTSA ↗

1
ODI 11493623

The issue with the vehicle's electrical causing power to the starter to stay on even after the vehicle is in the park and turned off, the starter's Solenoid and other electrical parts burn, its a serious fire hazard and needs to be addressed immediately.

Look up ODI 11493623 at NHTSA ↗

00—0
Lane Departure: Blind Spot Detection00
1
ODI 11483014

The passenger door will not open from the inside. The vehicle has not been inspected by any parties yet. No warning messages are currently displayed.

Look up ODI 11483014 at NHTSA ↗

0000—

Co-reporting does not establish that one component caused another concern.

Recurring narrative patterns

Specific keyword mentions beyond broad component labels. Matching includes negations and comparisons and does not confirm a diagnosis.

1 patterns with matching reports.

Warning lights and dashboard alerts

1 mentions · 1.6% of complaints

Median mileage: 71,000 mi (1 usable records).

ODI 11021398 · 71,000 mi

AIRMATIC FRONT AIR STRUT/SHOCK FAILURE. THE FRONT LEFT HAS FAILED ON MY CAR. IT HAPPENED WHILE DRIVING AND A SHORT WHILE AFTER AN ACCIDENT AND THE TWO MAY BE RELATED DUE TO THE BRAKING FORCES PUTTING PRESSURE ON THE FRONT STRUTS. THE FAILURE DID NOT HAPPEN IMMEDIATELY AFTER THE CRASH. HOWEVER, ABOUT A MONTH LATER, OR SO, THE CAR LOWERED AND RED WARNING LIGHT CAME ON WITH A WARNING TO TO "PULL OVER AND STOP DRIVING IMMEDIATELY". I WAS DRIVING NORMALLY, BUT I HAD THE ACCIDENT IN LATE JUNE. ALSO, IN ADDITION THE THE TEMPORAL OCCURRENCE OF M…

Look up ODI 11021398 at NHTSA ↗

Matching rule\b(warning light\w*|check engine|dashboard warning\w*|malfunction indicator)\b