Common Mercedes-Benz Problems

Car trouble is always frustrating and inconveniencing. Even worse is the fact that the source of the problem can sometimes be difficult to pinpoint. Knowing the problems that are likely to occur from a certain manufacturer can help you figure out exactly what is wrong with your car. Every car make has its problems, and Mercedes-Benz is no different. Some of the most common issues that arise with Mercedes-Benz involve the electrical system, engine cooling, or suspension.

Electrical System Problems

Most of the commonly occurring problems in Mercedes-Benz cars have to do with the car’s electrical system. The electrical system starts with the battery, which is used in starting the car and in operating various functions such as the car’s lights, sound system, and other accessories. The battery itself is sometimes the problem, but in Mercedes-Benz, it is also common for the alternator, which produces the electricity that is stored in the battery, to be problematic. If the alternator is not working properly, the battery is not being recharged, and therefore will run out of charge quickly. Other electrical system issues that often appear in Mercedes-Benz vehicles are wiring problems and issues with various controls found on the dashboard, such as the radio or air conditioning.

Rattling at Engine Startup

Many Mercedes-Benz owners report a rattling sound when starting their car. This problem is especially likely to occur during the winter or in cold areas. In many cases, the rattle is caused by a worn belt tensioner. The belt winds around the different elements of the car engine to give them power. When the belt tensioner is not working properly, the belt won’t be tight enough around these components; if you think this might be the problem, it’s important to get it checked as soon as possible. If the rattling sound continues after the car has been running for a while, it might be due to a water pump pulley, and may cause your car to overheat easily.

Engine Cooling Problems

As mentioned before, a faulty water pump pulley can cause your engine to overheat. The water pump cools your car by pumping coolant through all the necessary systems. It can fail due to a faulty pulley or a worn and rusted seal. Engine cooling problems also occur when a faulty gasket head causes a coolant leak inside your car’s system. A leaky radiator can also cause your car to overheat. You can spot a radiator leak fairly easily because fluid will drip from under the car.

Ignition Switch Failure

Another common problem specific to Mercedes-Benz cars is the failure of the ignition switch. If you insert the key into the ignition but find that it doesn’t turn, this is probably the cause. Mercedes-Benz uses an ignition switch technology called the Electronic Ignition Switch, or EIS. This unit determines whether the key you’re using is right for the car, and you will only be able to turn the key if the EIS has accepted your key’s pattern. However, sometimes the EIS can fail, so that you are not able to turn the key even though it displays the right pattern. You can predict a complete EIS failure because it will probably become more difficult to turn the key in the ignition prior to the failure. If you find that the key doesn’t turn as smoothly as it used to, you might want to get the car’s EIS checked.

Rear Suspension Rattling

Suspension problems sometimes occur in Mercedes-Benz vehicles, especially at the rear suspension. A fairly common issue is a breakage with one of the rear springs. The spring snaps near its lower portion, and the broken end is left loose to knock against the other parts of the car, creating a rattling sound. If you hear a rattle coming from the back of your car, check to see if there are any broken springs and bring your car in to be serviced as soon as possible.

While it can be stressful when your car doesn’t function as it should, try to keep calm and diagnose the problem as best you can. Start by considering the most commonly occurring problems in Mercedes-Benz cars. Taking your car to a Mercedes-Benz dealership (rather than a third-party auto repair service) is a good idea as well. Because the workers there are more familiar with Mercedes-Benz cars, they are more likely to correctly identify what is wrong with your car, whereas other auto services may mistake the problem for something else.