Mercedes-Benz R Class Common Problems and Solutions
Vibration Through Centre Floor
Problem:
When the engine is running, you can feel a heavy vibration through the centre of the car's floor.
Solution:
This can be a very serious problem if not addressed promptly. It is caused by cracked or shredded driveshaft flex discs, which result in significant movement of the driveshaft. If you do not order replacements from our parts list quickly, you risk causing serious damage to your driveshaft centre support bearing, the transmission, and the differential.
Difficulty level
Screeching While Steering (R350)
Problem:
When you turn the steering wheel, you notice a screeching noise. The sound becomes even louder if you try to turn the steering wheel while the car remains stationary. The power steering warning light may also illuminate.
Solution:
There is a crack causing the screeching noise. The crack will be either in the plastic reservoir or on the seal between the power steering reservoir and the power steering pump. You will need to replace the power steering fluid reservoir and the seal connecting the reservoir to the pump. Additionally, you will need to bleed the air from the entire system. Have your replacement parts delivered by BreakerYard and watch some tutorial videos if you have never tackled such a big job before.
Difficulty level
Power steering Reservoir
Creaking Noise
Problem:
There is a creaking noise coming from the front of the car while driving.
Solution:
The creaking noise is caused by poorly designed ball joints. Mercedes has since updated the design of the joints, and you can order the updated parts directly from BreakerYard.
Difficulty level
Ball Joint
Knocking From Front
Problem:
You can hear a knocking noise coming from the front of the car while driving.
Solution:
The anti-roll bar links tend to wear out quickly on the R Class, which is what's causing the knocking noise. Usually, you can fix this by ordering just the links from our parts list. However, if the links have caused significant damage, you'll need to order a complete anti-roll bar unit.
Difficulty level
Anti Roll Bar Link
Car Sitting Awkwardly
Problem:
The car sits unevenly, leaning to one side, or remains particularly low.
Solution:
This could be caused by broken suspension springs, which are very common in the R Class. The good news is that these are easy to replace. However, if you have air suspension bellows fitted, then they could be the issue. Try ordering the springs first and replacing them because they are much less expensive and easier to do yourself.
Difficulty level
Suspension Coil Spring
Limp Home Mode Initiated (3.0-Ltr V6 Diesels Only)
Problem:
The car has entered limp mode, and the check engine light has illuminated.
Solution:
This is the first sign that the motor driving the inlet port swirl flaps is reaching the end of its lifespan. You will find new flaps in our parts list, and they are easy to install.
Difficulty level
Engine Has Completely Shut Off
Problem:
While driving the car, it suddenly shuts off.
Solution:
Although this is a software issue, it's not something that a software update will resolve. You're going to need to order a completely new SAM control unit from BreakerYard and replace the outdated one.
Difficulty level
Lost Power
Problem:
The car is losing power and then doesn't restart.
Solution:
If your R-Class was built between January 2006 and December 2007, then it was probably fitted with a faulty crankshaft sensor. Not only do we always have these in stock for you to order, but they are also very easy to install.
Difficulty level
Crankshaft Sensor
Turbo problems
Problem:
The actuator on the turbo is known to fail on this vehicle. If there is an engine warning message on the dashboard and/or a loss of intermittent power when accelerating, then this is your problem.
Solution:
At the least you will need to replace the actuator, but it could also mean replacing the entire turbo which can be expensive.
Difficulty level
Actuator
Early signs of rust
Problem:
The R-Class is prone to early signs of rust. This is a particular problem on the bottom of the boot lid and the bottom of the doors. You are best sorting this issue as soon an you can to stop the rust spreading.
Solution:
You can rub down the affected area, treat it and then touch up with the correct paint. If you are unsure about doing this, take it to a specialist.
Difficulty level
Suspension problem
Problem:
The front springs on the R-Class are prone to cracking. If you are hearing a knocking noise coming from the front suspension when driving and/or notice that the vehicle is a bit lop sided, this will most likely be the issue.
Solution:
You will need to replace the front springs to rectify the situation. It is recommended that you change both front springs at the same time. We can help you find replacement springs at very low prices.
Difficulty level
Lack of power/acceleration
Problem:
The MAF (Mass Air Flow) sensor is known to fail on the R-Class. If this part fails you will be noticing that there is a lack of power and poor acceleration while driving.
Solution:
You can remove the MAF sensor and give it a clean with some MAF sensor cleaner. If this does not resolve the issue, you will need to fit a replacement MAF sensor. Watch the video below to see how to clean the MAF sensor:
Difficulty level
Mass Airflow Sensor