Mercedes-Benz E 500
Large-displacement naturally aspirated V8, second generation with variable valve timing on all four camshafts. Technically related to the M272 V6 — shares its known balance shaft sprocket problem on build years before 2007 (engine number below 088611). From that number the sprocket was made of hardened steel. Check early engines for fault codes P0016/P0017 and cold-start chain noise. The 5.5-litre with 285 kW is the typical variant; the 5.0-litre with 225–250 kW is somewhat more forgiving in heavier vehicles. The M278 BiTurbo successor is more efficient and more powerful, but sounds considerably less characterful — the M273 is the last true naturally aspirated V8 from Stuttgart. Pre-purchase: always check for camshaft adjuster leaks (oil in wiring harness) and thermostat fault P0128. Oil changes every 10,000 km with MB 229.5.
E 500 W211 — The Last Real V8 in the Executive Saloon
In the W211, the M273 is still audible — the insulation is less effective than in the W212. Window down: rich V8 note at kickdown. The W211 is lighter than its successor, which makes the 285 kW felt. 7G-Tronic shift pauses barely noticeable. Anyone who finds an E500 W211 without the P0016 sprocket fault has one of the cheapest V8 entry points on the market.
Engine Weaknesses 9
The M273 V8 shares the balance shaft sprocket issue with the M272 V6. The soft composite material of the sprocket wears down, causing timing chain rattle.
Symptoms: Fault codes P0016/P0017, chain rattling, rough idle, power loss
As with the similarly-designed M272, the solenoid valves leak. The V8 has 4 per bank — consequential costs are particularly high due to more solenoids. Oil migrates by capillary action all the way to the ECU.
Symptoms: Check engine light with camshaft fault codes P0014/P0015/P0021/P0025, lambda sensor failures, in extreme cases ECU failure
Like the M113, the valve cover gaskets on the M273 V8 become porous over time. With a V8 having two cylinder heads, the workload doubles.
Symptoms: Oil spots under the vehicle, oil smell after hard driving, oily engine bay
Identical to the M272: plastic linkages on the variable intake flaps become brittle and break. Fault code P2006 is typical.
Symptoms: Check engine light with P2004–P2006, minimal power loss at certain rpm
The 3-disc thermostat on the M273 V8 fails prematurely in the open position. On motorway driving coolant temperature drops to 75–86°C. Difficult to access in the V8 engine bay.
Symptoms: Coolant temperature fluctuates between 75–102°C depending on load, engine does not reach operating temperature in cold conditions, fault code P0128
The M273 V8 frequently shows sporadic misfires from aged ignition coils. Water in the plug well through porous seals accelerates failure.
Symptoms: Hesitation on acceleration, rough engine running, fault codes P0301–P0308, check engine light flashes with heavy misfires
As mileage increases the M273 V8 shows noticeable oil consumption. 32 valve stem seals wear simultaneously. Above approx. 0.5 L/1,000 km intervention is needed. When doing the balance shaft repair, renew seals and rings at the same time.
Symptoms: Blue smoke on cold start or after long overrun phases, dropping oil level between service intervals, oil consumption above 0.5 L/1,000 km
The throttle body is prone to heavy carbon buildup from approx. 120,000 km. Idle hesitates and vibrates, throttle response lags on load changes. Cleaning is possible but requires a basic adaptation with a diagnostic tool.
Symptoms: Rough idle at operating temperature, slight hesitation on pull-away, engine revs unevenly after cold start, occasional stalling
Engine mounts fatigue and no longer adequately dampen V8 vibrations. Noticeable vibrations in the interior and at the steering wheel around 1,800 and 2,400 rpm. Test: blip the throttle at idle — more than 4 cm of engine movement indicates mounts are due.
Symptoms: Noticeable vibrations at 1,800 and 2,400 rpm, dull droning in the passenger compartment, visible engine rocking when blipping the throttle at idle
Vehicle Weaknesses 6
Sensotronic Brake Control on pre-facelift models (2002–2006) suffered hydraulic failure. Approximately 1.3 million vehicles were recalled worldwide. Repair cost €2,200–3,500.
The Signal Acquisition and Actuation Module (SAM) fails, particularly when water ingress occurs. Leads to loss of lighting, windscreen wipers and instrument cluster.
SBC electrohydraulic brake (2002–2006) suffered from faulty high-pressure pump control. Two recalls in 2004 and 2005. SBC vehicles require specialist workshop.
AIRMATIC air suspension wears heavily. Air reservoir and compressor fail frequently. Replacement requires complete rear axle disassembly — very costly.
Control arm and track rod end bearings develop play. A common MOT failure point. Regular cause for failed MOT inspection.
SAM modules (front and rear) control lighting, wipers and door functions. Moisture damage and ageing lead to complete failures.