What the Hell was Mercedes thinking? Major Engine Problem You Should Look Out For.

Shopping for a Mercedes-Benz? Good for you, but don't buy anything untill watching this video. In this new series I hightlight common or ridiculously expensive repairs on certain modes. I go over how to tell if your car, or a future used car exhibits behaviors consistant with the issue, I talk about what to do about it, and how much it could cost. I include a lot of material here in the description box on manufactures bulletins, Recalls and potential extended warranties. I hope you enjoy and don't forget to subscribe.
Balance Shaft Bulletin from Mercedes
drive.google.com/file/d/1QZfR...
Extended warranty coverage
drive.google.com/file/d/1AI8f...
If your engine serial number is higher than that on the bulletin, you are safe and your balance shaft or gear (V8) is the updated part.
Music Credit
• Something New by Joaki...
• Krale - Frontier (ft. ...

[@LegitStreetCars]

If anyone has an idea for a future video in this series, post up or email. [e-mail]. I can get my hands on a lot of different cars so this could be fun. Must be something interesting like a major design flaw, something really expensive or very common. Can't wait to hear from you.

[@nicke2307]

LegitStreetCars some bmws the frame/ subframe cracks

[@nicke2307]

Isnt there a really tricky rtv sealant pattern you have to apply?

[@nicke2307]

Also lets not forget ABC hoses rupturing and the system/valves failing lol

[@egzecutore4732]

E 63 head bolt problems

[@rjd_F30]

audi's 4.2 liter timing chain tensions are made of cheap plastic and require the engine to be lifted for replacement. common on many S/RS cars

[@GregPaul01760]

I no longer own a Mercedes vehicle, but for many years I owned a lot of the old classic sedans like the W108. I found this video, and frankly all your videos, to be immensely interesting and engaging. Keep up the great work! I especially like your perspective on the relative costs and feasability of self-repair vs. full-priced Dealer repairs.

[@mpkp2011]

I bought a 2011 ML350 4matic as my first car just over a 1.5 years ago and good lord it was the best purchase I've ever made. $18,000 and 85k miles on it, dark grey with new wheels, brakes, and fluids. I've already put over 15,000 miles on it. The performance and ride comfort is unparalleled. It feels like a tank, and rides like a cloud. Only sometimes I wish I had the V8 550, but then the engine hits 3500rpm and I forget such silly thoughts. It looks so sleek and beautiful, most people ask me if it is a 2015 or 2016 model! They're blown away when I tell them to go back another decade. I feel safe driving it in any environment, and confident taking it to the middle of nowhere, knowing it'll get me back home without breaking a sweat. This car works perfectly for my everyday driving to school and work, but it thrives as a roadtrip king. I can eat up mile after mile in my ML without noticing, and it only gets better mileage as well. A few weeks ago I went on a 650 mile roadtrip roundtrip, and averaged 22mpg and only going through 1.5 tanks of gas.The space is perfect for me, I've taken it on a few camping trips and I'm able to load everything and everyone I need very easily, and it's nice knowing that in the future I can add a trailer to it or some nice roof racks as well. I won't lie, I've even been tempted by the ram bars because little kid me saw the First Gen in Jurassic Park like that, but I want to keep the clean look instead. If you are looking for one, get a facelifted model that fixes most issues. So far I have had only one unexpected issue with the brakelights. Apparently the wiring harness on them is weak and known to fail on many MLs, but the fix was only $50 from the shop. Since the engineering is so smart too I was still able to drive around, as it used the functioning tail lights as a backup brake light. Look up how the repairs look on youtube and you can spot if it has been done to an ML you want to purchase, as it will likely need changing at this point in time. In addition, I had my service A, transmission service, and spark plugs done since I've owned the car. Service A from my SoCal dealership was quoted $250 and the transmission service I was quoted at $626. This was when I scouted for a local mechanic who quoted me at only $300 for transmission, $100 for my oil and filter. $75 for transfer case fluid as well. The sparks I changed myself from watching YT videos, and only cost about $100 after buying all parts and tools. It did eat up 6 hours of my time though, but was well worth it. Soon I look at replacing my front rotors, tires, brakes, and replacing the air filters and swapping differential fluids. All costly, but I was aware this will need to be done in time. And it will be well worth it to keep my beast on the road for many years to come.

[@melmelcorvette]

I bought a ml350 2008 I’m having the brake light issue lol I want a gl now with air suspension.

[@user-tx8in8xc3f]

Can you share your mechanic in SoCal

[@mpkp2011]

@@melmelcorvette late reply but did you ever end up going for the GL?

[@mpkp2011]

@@user-tx8in8xc3f Elite Motors in Mission Viejo. They do such an awesome job, give good advice, and even throw me freebies from time to time. Never taking my car back to a regular dealer and the ML still thrives at 155k miles on the odo!

[@lamboferruccio]

Love your videos Alex, very informative with honest no bullshit content. I’ve been in the business over 25yrs, I’m a tech also and always learning and your content has helped me fix/modify cars and I thank you for that brother 👊🏼

[@sleepsound3107]

Thank you for creating this channel, it is awesome. You should do a video about the 722.9 transmission, especially the early ones!

[@HeROsiNhEaVeN]

I appreciate you Alex....for passing on all of your wisdom to us.....and all of the free info...you work your ass off and it shows....been a subscriber since about 12k subs.....always looking forward to your next video....salute to you bro!🤘

[@LegitStreetCars]

Dude thanks so much. This really means a lot to me. See you in the next video. Alex

[@klwthe3rd]

New viewer and I'm hooked on these informative videos. It is so nice to have someone highlight very expensive potential catastrophe failures on these MB vehicles. Alex's presentation is so straightforward and very easy to follow. All business and I walk away feeling so much more informed. My newest favorite channel. Keep up the great work.

[@backinyourcar155]

U rite

[@ryotaryuu]

Something like this should be a recall to fix all the affected engines. That is definitely a manufacturers defect. How was their not a class action lawsuit?

[@wingitreview]

Agreed!

[@williambelford9661]

There was

[@mercedesornothing8664]

my dad has been working for mercedes for over 30 years and has been telling me about this is balance shaft issue for a while now. Its great to see a video like this from a professional mercedes mechanic. you can get great deals on these cars now because most people get scared when they see the $10k estimate and give the car away for free basically. $500 in parts and a couple of days of work aint bad at all for what you get.

[@mackeymichael]

Yeh a good way to get a european car on the cheap if you're a mechanic.

[@hellcat1988]

Of all the vehicles that I've owned and worked on over the years, I've found cars that range between $18K and $24K seem to be the most reliable and cheapest to fix in the long run.

[@derekdayton5869]

From one Mercedes tech to another I send my support. It's amazing you are helping owners with their over priced repairs.

[@olivermatthew8008]

Hey Alex, thanks for this video. I'm the second owner of a 2006 W203 C350 with the M272 engine, and its serial number is well within the danger zone for this balance shaft issue. The thing is, I'm at 182,000 miles without any indication of there being a problem. I'm in contact with the first owner, and he doesn't remember ever getting the balance shaft fixed, so I must've gotten really lucky! When I first got the car, I did a lot of repair work on common engine issues the first owner neglected, like replacing the recalled camshaft adjuster magnets you mentioned (exhaust camshaft position timing over-retarded codes), replacing the broken plastic intake manifold actuator rod with an aluminum URO kit (intake manifold runner control stuck open code), and replacing a faulty MAF (fuel trim codes). Now my car runs so well, and it's been thousands of miles since I last had a check engine light (gone after doing my repairs).

[@LegitStreetCars]

You are indeed very lucky if you are on your original balance shaft. It could have been replaced under warranty long ago and maybe the previous owner didn't remember. Its funny how we only remember what we pay for, haha. Call the dealer where it was serviced while under warranty. They may be able to look up the records. Alex

[@olivermatthew8008]

Haha, very true. Thanks for the reply and great content

[@area8053]

@@olivermatthew8008 what codes did you have on your c350?

[@kf2139]

Whats the serial number out of range mean under or over?

[@kf2139]

Im a bought to buy one in the next few day i have two serial numbers gotta choose Which one to buy lollll

[@o0wizzetta0o]

Would have been nice to see the work being done on the solenoids. I like watching the wrenching as much as the rest of ya show. 👍👌

[@kaseyschutz]

You could have a whole series on the BMW E65/E66 and common issues that they presented in the earlier years.. valve stem seals, alternator bracket, carbon build up in the secondary air system, etc

[@LegitStreetCars]

Awesome. I'll start doing my research. Alex

[@Slikk750Blokk]

The alternator bracket is a f****n joke! Essentially a built in fault to get you back into the stealership for a $1000+ repair! I hate my e65

[@kaseyschutz]

The sooner you learn that the 7 series owns you the better off you'll be haha!

[@eurocarman]

Ever wonder why a car needs a water cooled alternator?

[@davem5333]

@@eurocarman Because the Germans love to overcomplicate things.

[@eusvt]

Love this channel , helped me fix my problems on my w211 and hopefuly my future w221 , keep doing what you do , thanks!

[@TheTMontgomery]

Having owned and given up a 2006 ML 350 I enjoyed seeing the problems now easily solved. Will forward this to the current owner. Would like you to do a series on the SLK R171 generation looking at problems and solutions. Had a transmission computer failure at 34K on a 280 which I found unusual even though the car was 6 years at the time. Since I intend to keep it as a classic would really like to see more in-depth material on the R171. Thanks

[@JackS425]

If I remember right there's a filter for the air compressor for the air suspension on these, and if it gets clogged up it can cause the compressor to fail prematurely. It lives above the wheel on the passenger side, behind the wheel well cover. Same thing with the GLs.

[@theengineer134]

Mercedes M111 and M271 engines often have oil leaks at the camshaft adjustment magnets. The oil will spread though the wiring harness and destroy the ECU and various sensors. There is an adapter from Mercedes that goes between the magnet and the wiring with stops the oil from spreading.

[@alsobinich463]

Driving the M111, i had to buy a new magnet. The adapter wasn`t available for my car.(W210, 1996)

[@andrewwilliams3756]

True information , I worked on a couple of ml models with the same problems when they came out. Tricky job but very nice to do when you love your job.....especially when you fire the beast up and it roars again.

[@edlingja1]

Your subscriber praise was SO refreshing. Absolutely made my day! Love your work; so much better than large commercial productions!

[@LegitStreetCars]

Jay its seriously true. Look at the comments here. They are usually very helpful with people listing other issues or how they figured something out. I'm going to use these to make more videos like this as I can't know all the cool interesting issues with every car. Thanks for the kind words, see you next video. Alex

[@jamr2t]

If it came in with the P1200/1208 code we used to drain the oil and stick a flexible magnet in the drain hole and if we fished out any metal pieces, Bam. Confirmed You need a balance shaft. I've done a handful of these a few years ago

[@LegitStreetCars]

Ya I used to do that too. You can also pop off the timing cover on the right side and boroscpoe but really if it was in that range, it needed on sooner or later. Alex

[@allancooper3865]

Does this apply to the 2010 ml350 or did mb resolve it by then , pertaining to balance shaft issues , or any other issues relating to the 2010 ml350 sport

[@jamespong6588]

@@allancooper3865 they say they fixed it,

[@MrGGPRI]

Fast wearing teeth and chain (3:18) makes nice steel particles that move thru the oil galleries and wear accelerates exponentially; the bearings must love it...

[@mathewfullerton8577]

Your channel is about the most informative and enjoyable auto channels on KZbin. Keep up the good work!

[@thegreatmechanizedape8262]

this absolutely one of the top car repair KZbin channels.

[@GudInformation]

I wanna get an old SL500 or SL55, can you do a video on those?

[@mairoist]

Is their an issue with the timing chain on the 07 08 09 s550 and update in 2010 thanks love your videos keep it up

[@trevorfitzpatrick4181]

I drive an E39 530i and had an engine rebuild due to excessive cylinder wear which led to burning a lot of oil. I understand that depending on how these cars are driven in their early life the cylinders can warp or something similar and cause problems later. It's a common problem with both E39 and E60 models. Could be worth checking out. Thanks for your videos, they are superb.👍

[@richardcharles8885]

my clk 280 sport v6. 2008. when starting the idle hunts up and down for a min before settling, I've noticed the air filter box is broken by the screws holding it together, would this be the reason it takes a min to settle,

[@thetellingteller]

Thanks for introducing me to FCP Euro!

[@thjn23]

The first production year OM651 had some serious injector problem. All the injectors were sold for spare parts so the engine assembly line couldn't make new engines. Of course they fixed the problem quickly. Also a video about suspension and other stuff would be nice. For example a video about how to inspect track arms, ball joints etc.

[@thjn23]

The problem also occurred only in colder climates i think

[@eurocarman]

F. Hammer: On steering and suspension joint testing Alex does exactly what I do - a large "Channel Lock " pliers to check for looseness quick and accurate.

[@Slikk750Blokk]

This is a legit car channel! Definitely looking forward to your success going forward

[@christophermarshall3975]

Came across your channel recently, binge watching. Keep up the great work.

[@awesomenesssprime8118]

The balance shaft was only the tip of the iceberg for my r350. Total engine failure at 120K. Had codes showing magenets, replaced those, code went away, 500 km later engine blown. Took apart the intake manifold, all flaps broken. Oh and the timing jumped. Found pieces of piston and valve in the oil pan. Sourced a low mileage 2011 v6 from a GLK, then guess what after running well for 3 months, transmission broke!!!! Early 722.9s had a bushing instead of bearing for the pump. Bushing spun and sheared the 2 drive teeth for the pump. I'm rebuilding the transmission now Rear air suspension failed as one side of the car sank. Converted to springs. I should have bought a Toyota Venza. I've owned Audis, BMWs and lots of Japanese and my Mercedes R350 has been the worst vehicle I've owned. AVOID AVOID AVOID!!!!!

[@LegitStreetCars]

I take it was an 06-07? Thats really bad luck. Glad you are out of it. Alex

[@k.r.v.4219]

Awesomenesss Prime oh yea I’ve learned the hard way! I’ll never again buy an imported truck or suv! I’ll stick to Chevys from now on!

[@awesomenesssprime8118]

Was an 06. Hilariously bad for was at the time a 10 year old car

[@TheDrtye]

Shouldn't have bought an Alabama car. 😅 not even suprized about the issues you had. Sucks but it is a crap shoot on weather you get a lemon or not.

[@normandamkar5709]

Awesomenesss Prime I

[@Catire92]

When I was younger I was all about BMW and Mercedes ( I am German). Now let me say you the following: The MB cars, especially the early ML models are extremely delicately, electronic and mechanical issues are common. You will spend a fortune on it. still love those cars though. But unless I can’t afford to buy a new one with dealership warranty I would go with Toyota or other Japanese cars which are a lot cheaper to fix and maintain.

[@ilzanugraha7656]

I love this series,cant wait for more!!!

[@brendanbroo299]

Fan for a couple of years. Turned this episode of Legit Street cars for something to watch while I was in the kitchen cooking. Crazy how the channel has evolved and how much more comfortable Alex is behind the camera and has a much more diverse fleet of cars

[@mommypounder]

Happiness is knowing that you E350's engine was made way outside the effected range.

[@diablocls55]

Same with my E550😂 just a few hundred units outside the affect range, Thank God

[@coolsteff94]

Would love to see common problems on old and even new AMG models.

[@herranton]

Open the hood, point at something, and that usually breaks. Point at something else, and that can be problematic.

[@braapchop5925]

Lmfao

[@juiced71]

Merry Christmas Alex to you and your family! Have a safe and happy New Years! Thanks for all the great vids!!

[@Andy-uj9he]

Just discovered your channel and I'm really enjoying seeing your dealership experiences and common problems on MB's. I am a tech at an Infiniti dealership and have run across a few costly problems with certain models too. Their full size SUV, the QX56/QX80 (the name changed from QX56 to QX80 in 2014) had been redesigned for the 2011 model year and a lot of the problems that plagued the 2004-2010 models had been updated and fixed. However, two major issues with this new 5.6L direct injected V8 are VERY expensive to fix. The first issue this new model experienced were timing chain issues. The timing chain design was flawed because over time, the bank 2 chain would stretch and cause the chain to rub on the oil jet causing a whining noise and would throw the vehicle into limp mode. Most vehicles at this point were still under the factory power train warranty so it wasn't a big issue... New, updated timing chains, oil jet and its all good. I actually did a few of these jobs under customer pay but in July of 2016, Infiniti recalled every 2011-2013 QX56 and M56 (M sedan model with the V8 option) model for timing chain replacement. We were doing 2 chain replacements per week, and they're not easy on your body. They started to trail off and we only see one every once in a while. The recall expires in February of 2017. So they're almost finished. Cost for customer pay timing chain replacement? $5000! (20.0 labor hours). The second expensive issue for the QX56 model are Catalyst Efficiency codes (P0420 and P0430). Simply put, each converter runs $2500 per side (8 hours labor each side) for a total of $5000 for two converters installed! Crazy stuff! Keep up the videos, good content!

[@brianhomka290]

Had a 2006 E-350 with the balance shaft issue. Took a dealer 3 weeks to do the job and about $6300. Lasted 2 months and needed a new engine! Was told by a local mechanic the dealer never should have done the balance shaft job, as there was already bits of metal floating in the engine, which ultimately caused the engine failure. My second and last Mercedes

[@mhdeutschland]

you could buy a new one for the same money. it is your fault to repair it.

[@sammyjames1929]

Was going to buy a 07 cls tomorrow until i saw this video😳 Got the vin ran it car was built july of 06. Checked the engine # and yup it could potentially have this problem. Thanks for saving me $7k!

[@grindergrip]

Not to sure what the problem is but I have a 2005 CLS 350 and currently on 239400 miles on the clock. Not had any issues ....it's a fun car to have

[@infinitewave2894]

Nyembani Handema the problem started in 07 when they came out with the 550 engines. Somewhere around 2008 is when the issue was resolved

[@dorian345]

He didn't save you..You did

[@richsackett3423]

There are literally no cars on the road with this issue. You freaked out and missed out on a deal.

[@ItsCheechFool]

Lmao wtf and you situation is specific to you a video is just a video dude

[@CORZER0]

Your channel is great. Thank you so much for sharing your knowledge!

[@miguelponce8032]

Wish I found this video early. Now dealing with that problem! Thanks for sharing the video

[@area8053]

What year and model is your car ?

[@maxforever26]

I don’t own a Mercedes but I enjoy your videos very much. Keep up the good work.

[@richardroth3944]

Having done automotive training videos, I really like your style and information. Actually considering one of these cars and remember fixing one in my shop a few years ago with the same issue. Keep up the good work. I have subscribed. Rich

[@sufianjaar2642]

Love your channel alex all the way from Amman-Jordan ✌🏻✌🏻 cheers

[@yuppystick]

Graham Stephan's and you both have fantastic videos. You are poised for recognized greatness.

[@Shaquille796]

All your videos are so good idk what it is

[@LegitStreetCars]

Thanks so much. Can't wait to make more. Alex

[@GTI_CHHA]

Suggestion for new episode: hydro-locking C63 engine due to air intake design flaws.

[@DuBstep115]

how many of these have happened? Just one?

[@PetePutros]

Every Mercedes has almost the same intake design. And I've NEVER heard of a hydro lock on and Benz, let alone AMGs.

[@PatricioGarcia1973]

Pete Putros if he drove it submerged it could have happened, but have to be a complete moron to do it...

[@PetePutros]

@@PatricioGarcia1973 not really bc the intake ducts are connected to the top of the radiator support, legit right underneath the hood. He would have had to have water level up to the hood to get in. Only way an AMG hydro locks is from injectors getting stuck open on m156 engines.

[@arvindersidhu7823]

Love you videos bro keep it up!

[@rodwilliams7482]

I have a 2011 AMG S63 and when the transmission goes into gear out of first gear it's like it has a little delay then jumps into gear is that normal

[@BeesonsCars]

Don’t early 2000’s Honda’s have horrible transmissions? (The 5AT)

[@ragingbull94mtx]

Yes. That's why I bought a 6-speed manual Accord Coupe lol

[@BeesonsCars]

ragingbull94mtx I was looking at getting an old Acura CL at one point but all the ones I saw were autos and everyone said the transmission will eventually nuke itself.

[@allin3639]

Tyler Beeson yes, a few of them. But I have a 2002 Civic with 230,000 miles and I've never had a transmission issue

[@andrews6641]

Only the v6 models.

[@racingvenny1151]

Only people who don't go to dealer auction think Honda and Toyota are great cars...smh

[@americanoutdoorsman6348]

Sweet video keep doing what you are doing

[@LegitStreetCars]

Thanks Zach, appreciate all the support man. Alex

[@eurocarman]

Zach: I agree, absolutely appreciate the effort that is obviously been put into this channel. It is right up my alley. I love Alex's approach, and I love his shop, clean, well lighted, organized, little clutter. It is obvious Alex "gets it" you can not be efficient, make a profit, getting things done with out the above items. GOOD JOB SIR!

[@FLPLASTICSURG1]

As usual, you and your videos are outstanding. A suggestion would be to continue your series on how to evaluate a used car prior to purchase. A review of a manufactures list of items that are checked/replaced as part of a Certified Used Vehicle would be helpful when an individual evaluates a Non Certified used car. The potential buyer would then have a guide on how to approach a used vehicle. Thank you for all of your efforts!

[@fhaught]

can you repost the link to determine if a car has the defect described? I own a Mercedes 2009 E550 with the 211 chassis and the 273 engine

[@ItsCleto]

'06 E350 Wagon, 174k miles.. still running great. Edit: Car hit the shit.. Muffler fell off, something started to smoke under hood (guessing alternator), car rolls in park, oil is pitch black.. project car now🙄

[@jasonlewis460]

Did you fix it? Did you find what was wrong with it? I was thinking about getting one

[@shckltnebay]

$6500 repair at 44.5k 06 E350, MBUSA did end up covering 15% so my out of pocket was $5400!!!!!!!!!!!!

[@Docbrut]

Much appreciated man I have a 2008 C230 with the 2.5L M272 that I bought brand new and I had no idea of this problem! Will definitely be contacting my dealing and looking into this more

[@sundo-pf5zv]

Hurry up man! 2008 + 10 years extended warranty per the pdf under the video and MBUSA will cover 38% of your repair !!!!!!!! HURRY !!!! 2008 + 10 = NOW !!

[@DrkskinTv]

I have a 2011 ML350, my acceleration stops at 3rd gear sometimes. I have to pull over and turn off the truck and wait a few minutes then try again. It does it about 5 times then I can drive regular again. Any suggestions?

[@samspace81]

My 06 E55 been really good to me overall at 170 000 miles. I enjoy your channel!

[@eurocarman]

Look at that c430 (beater bodied), 178k and as a driver and the "25ft look" it is great!!

[@1stREMESquaddie]

Just had my steering fluid pump replaced by Temecula, CA., Mercedes dealer...$400 for the pump....$1500 for LABOR..........I guess they're paying their mechanics $700 per hour...WHAT A FRIGGING RIP OFF.

[@jetstream454]

Mercedes dealer...never again hey? 😂 That's why accredited specialists are the best

[@roadwarrior144]

No Mercedes tech makes $700 an hour. I work at a Mercedes dealer and I am paid $20 an hour.

[@MrMr123]

How do you feel about BlueDriver obd2 for Mercedes-Benz trouble codes and monitor?

[@MobilediscowirralCoUk]

Love this mercedes shape had 2 now! Your right once small problems fixed and oil changed all time last ages

[@lifeonbicycles]

Haha even Honda has some duds...1999-2004 odyssey transmissions come to mind

[@Rhaspun]

Honda or Toyota isn't infallible. But the odds are usually in your favor to have a reliable car.

[@crxdelsolsir]

Yes but in the overall history of the company that is negligible. I also believe it is only in the USA due to locally sourced parts and local assembly. That is the only period and that is 20 years ago!

[@alimehrozi2828]

Another annoying issue is the plastic part in the intake manifold that has to be replaced with a metal piece (don't buy an entire new intake manifold!!)

[@AdamSmith-gs2dv]

J FERRARI Why the hell would they put plastic near something so hot? My guess is to be cheap.

[@k.r.v.4219]

Adam Smith hello Adam I hate to tell you this, but most new cars and trucks built today have “plastic” intake manifolds!

[@eurocarman]

AngryPostmanSthlm: Most of the plastic parts and light alloy parts are about saving weight which saves MPG. Remember we are talking CAFE requirements and serious fines if you don't meet that requirement.

[@eddiepadilla1078]

eurocarman this has nothing to do with the EPA and everything to do with an engineering practice called planned obsolescence--the manufacture banks on the repair money.

[@eurocarman]

It is an opinion thing - mine doesn't agree with yours - EPA, crash standards, CAFE has everything to do with it

[@AriVovp]

Do you know what cause engine knock when cranking on cool engine? I have this problem after replace the balance shaft .

[@myronjonzon1076]

You should look at the inherent problems with the ML320CDI, oil cooler seal leaks, which cause all kind of problems with the “Swirl” motor, turbo etc. as well as the transmission issues with the modulator which causes further transmission problems.

[@timthemechanix]

Hey, I'm a mechanic, been one for about 40 years. I just finished an '06 Mercedes ml350, v6, 3.5 that came to my shop from another shop 130 miles south of me. That shop had given a quote on the same bulletin listed here. They quoted $4700 for the repairs. I've been doing this too many years to go on another shops diagnosis. Especially with the other shoddy repairs they had already made. They towed it that distance. Anyway, I pulled the codes with my Snap On Modis Edge. There were a bunch of codes, all sorts of misfires, none relating to those listed in the TSB (Technical Service Bulletin) except for a p0017. And for it to meet the criteria it would also need a p0016. And my data showed the exhaust camshaft sensor flat lining. I'd already quoted almost half of they other to replace the balance shaft, so I tore into it the work. I jump ahead though and went to the cam gears. They lined up perfect. So investigating I went to the next test. Oh, I'd replaced the cam sensor and fixed the p0017 code but then it jumped to p0016 code. Second test is to pull the 2 cam sensors on the right cam gear cover, then turn the crank to 305 mark. there are 2 circle marking on the pulse wheels bolted to the front of the cam gears. they are kinda like little clocks with numbers making circles. They both have to line up perfectly with the holes for the 2 cam sensors. If they don't align, it's the balance shaft problem. But the one I had DID align, meaning there was no problem with the balance shaft gear. I wasn't going to pull the engine if I didn't have to. So the next step, I used a borescope to look at the gears. Pulled the valve covers and with rare patience, I looked at the gears on my laptop. No damage to the teeth on the gear, both rows were fine. Turned out to be a stretched timing chain, or that was my deduction. Also not that both those codes with put the car in limp mode, which is to limp it to the closet shop. Replaced the chain which is to connect new to old chain.rotate until the new replaces the old and reconnect. Don't try this at home. Fixed the problem. All the engine numbers and dates fell right into the one for the balance shaft. Problem is, every single search made on the engine came to balance shaft, like it was impossible for it to be anything else. 300 miles on it now with no signs of those code or limp mode. And that shop it came from replaced every coil and plug trying to fix the misfire codes which have since returned and when replacing the power steering pump for leak they didn't replace a seal and didn't bolt it on right, missing bolts which caused the belt to track on only part of an idler pulley. Oh, good video. Thanks.

[@IceMan-il7dx]

Tim I'm in another country but are you sure of this? My CLK280 MY06 is fine but I have the engine no matching the balance shaft problem....? If it goes the car, which I love, is of no value...

[@timthemechanix]

​@@IceMan-il7dx You don't have the same engine, this only refers to the 3.5L m272 and v8 m273. I have US Alldata and clk280 is not there, only a c280 and it has a 3.0L.

[@timthemechanix]

Yeah googled it and it's a 3.0. You won't have this problem.

[@IceMan-il7dx]

@@timthemechanix But mines the m272....don't get me wrong I don't want the problem but my engine was built July 05...I can dig up the no... I'm in Australia - we got the European CLK280 W209...

[@timthemechanix]

@@IceMan-il7dx I think '05 was before the problem - it was because the balance shaft was forged wrong and was tempered wrong. The one I have was early too and doesn't have the problem. And unless you have camshaft related trouble codes, don't sweat it. If it hasn't showed up in 13 years, it won't.

[@essamallawi9605]

I own a 2007 E350 which has the same engine. I am the second owner and the car now has 137k miles and believe it or not it's been super reliable "fingers crossed" and I drive it pretty much everyday and I drive it hard. I am not sure if my car is an early 2007 model or not. Great and informative video as always.

[@kbatzler]

I have an 08 E350 with 131k on it. No issues at all...

[@IceMan-il7dx]

Mine is in the range, Benz won't say if it was fixed. 118,000 miles...

[@diablocls55]

I have a 2007 E550 with 156k miles and I’ve been daily driving it since I bought it with 130k miles

[@miguelortega2836]

I have a 2006 Benz E350 and the idle is very ruff it feels like when it has a bad coil pack, also check engine light is on, codes p300, 301, 302, 303, I replaced the spark plugs camshaft sensors cam adjuster magnets, crankshaft sensor, check the 305 degree with the stamp alignment all good, swap coil packs (no change) the acceleration is poor, the secondary air pump sounds like a jet engine when comes on. could the air valve failed?? any thought what could be the issue???

[@birdsworld3673]

Hello Dear, I have Mercedes Benz w212 Engine A272 , V6 model 2012 I had a problem with cylinder number 2. The engine head was opened and the problem was solved by replacing one of the valves that was broken. When the engine was reassembled, the problem with cylinder number 2 disappeared and the camshaft problem appeared. The mechaic told me that his work was perfect and reopened the camshaft and told me that the balance was 100% correct and that there were no symptoms on the car, whether a delay in starting or any sounds coming from the engine, but there is an engine signal light and also a slight weakness in the engine torque. Is it possible to know the reason? Note that the mechanic told me that it is not a sensor problem

[@superseriousreviews1168]

Honda automatic transmissions, and the 8th gen civic engine block cracking. Toyota burning oil.

[@atos.nympha3451]

Every car got issues

[@jetstream454]

Oil burn: keep giving it oil lol

[@andrewvillanueva4222]

Love my Lexus ls430 2001 Has 278000 miles. With original starter and alternator. I also have a Lexus ls460l 2007 and it is a Awesome car!! Only buy Lexus or Toyota vehicles!!!

[@abepowers4379]

Andrew Villanueva I hate you😆😂. my 07 LS needed a starter after 10years😭😭😭😭😭. control arms JUST started to go. Everything else,Toyota to the T!! BTW, almost went 430,lusted after it for years,but the lot had similarly priced 460,and I dove head first!!

[@allwaysinquire6212]

Don't kid yourselves Toyota has made a lot of lemons as well here in the uk they are now using bmw diesels as there own engines were so shit! Major head gasket issues with the d4d units till 2009 ( I know had it wasn't cheap ) gear box issues are common as well. Just have to do your research online take your chances!

[@andrewvillanueva4222]

allways inquire I will never buy a Mercedes-Benz or BMW vehicles. 3 car dealers told me not buy these vehicles. No many electrical problems. Even a few mechanics told me to never buy a Mercedes-Benz or BMW vehicles. One said within 3 years of ownership you will have problems. And they are expensive repairs if you cannot do the repairs yourself.

[@edcain3676]

stefan urquel : My 01 Tundra Orig.Gear Reduction Starter Lasted 825,000 mls.,& was V-6 ,Not V-8.,Orig.Auto Tranny Lasted 475,000 mls.& Eng.was Still Going @ 888,850mls,W/Only T.Belt Changes Every 125,000 mls & Original.Fuel Pump Lasted 465,000 mls.

[@edcain3676]

O0-01 Vette Oil Sending Unit Is $1500-1750 Just for Serv.@ Dealer,On A $50.00 Part.

[@tmcg7183]

Dear Legit, LOVE the channel! I'm looking at a 07 Merc and I'm wondering what part of the serial number I need to look at in order to determine if this potential purchase is in the 'safe' zone relative to the crankshaft ting gear? Do the numbers in your vid-links refer to the last six digits of the VIN number? Thanks in advance for any advice. T

[@Iamhaxal]

You need to check the engine serial number...if I'm not wrong and from the research I've done all the engines like the one on Alex's video from 2006-2007 and some 2008 had the problems mentioned above, so the engines without the balande shaft problem for the m272 and the idle gear oroblem for the m273 are the engines with serial numbers higher than the ones I put below... M272 Engine Serial No. 2729..30 468993 M273 Engine Serial No. 2739..30 088611 So yeah, do a vin check online to find out the engine serial number of the mercedes you're trying to buy. If you don't understand it, get the vin number and ask your local dealer.

[@jgonzalesm6]

Thanks for the MB links. I have 2009 SL550 with 14.2k miles on it. Went to the dealership and requested a VMI sheet via VIN. They gave it to me with no issues. My engine # is 2739..30-230143. So my car has the updated balance shaft instead of the inferior balance shaft. Whew!!! what a relief.👏👏👏👏👍👍👍

[@ArkDaShark1]

S55 AMG buying guide

[@morthomer5804]

Ark - lots of info on benzworld dot com

[@boostedmaniac]

Balance shaft is required because it’s cheaper to manufacture one engine design, in this case a V8 but for the V6 just with 2 cylinders less. V8s have a 90 degree V, but for a V6 it should be 60 degrees. At 90 degrees, the engine is out of balance and requires balance shafts to run smoothly. 90 degree V6s are made because they are cheaper to manufacture when you’re also making a V8. When you buy a Benz you’re thinking your buying a highly engineered car and not an engine designed by bean counters trying to save costs at the price engineering design.

[@dutifer]

Unbelievable how marketing works and shame on them

[@theasim3757]

I have a 2009 Slk350. The left headlamp will not turn off after I turn off the vehicle. I've tried messing with the switch but not luck. Only the left front head light stays on. So I disconnected the battery. Any help will be appreciated.

[@eurocarman]

Your videos are done well. I owned a European repair shop during the early 70's thru the late 90's I watched the these cars get ruined over government regulations, pollution controls, and the new "no maintenance" logic. Most lack of maintenance is related to the annual maintenance cost being included on window stickers starting in the early 90's. I have driven a MB, BMW and Volvo cars over 500k reliable miles. But I don't subscribe to "no maintenance" or if it's not broken don't fix it!!

[@DeathMammoth91]

He is 100% right about Toyota, they are absolutely bulletproof!!

[@allwaysinquire6212]

DeathMammoth err no they are not! The old pre 2000s maybe news ones not so much do a Google search

[@DeathMammoth91]

allways inquire er... yeah. Toyota is still ranked #1 and #2 (Toyota/Lexus) for the most reliable on Consumer Reports reliability ranking for like 8 years running.

[@sundo-pf5zv]

yep. my 1997 corolla with 180k KMS always drove peppy, easy to steer, small turning circle, no issues with w204's ESL (w204 Electronic steering lock: cost me 1600 to fix :( )

[@d1sturb3d119]

I own 3 US spec Lexus's with V8's. Not a single issue besides maintenance.

[@mcearl8073]

vidurc well in that case they must all be good. Lol. I have a Mercedes and it’s been fine other than maintenance too, 150k on it so far.

[@Drake5153]

...why the hell would a v6 need a balance shaft? most other v6's don't use them, hell, even my 4 liter doesn't, sounds like cut corners.

[@ragingbull94mtx]

It's a 90° V6. 90° V6s are not inherently balanced.

[@autotech8767]

V6 are not balanced naturally, especially 90° engines. the 270/274 MB 4 cyl engine has a balance shaft setup. my 94 GM product has a balance shaft. ALOT of car makers use them so the eng has little to no vibration at idle. Its not cutting corners.

[@carlbenz3341]

the only v6 that doesnt need some kind of extra balancing is called flatsix

[@k.r.v.4219]

Carl Benz also inline

[@tidakadaide]

Lots of v6 use balance shafts...just like lots of 4cyl use balance shafts.

[@rusty358]

Do you have any info about which oil grades give the most protection for sprocket wear problem?

[@breakz360]

If the gear has slipped the chain, it usually comes up code P0016, P0017 for passenger side. It's possible to check alignment by removing the camshaft sensors, crank motor to 310 degrees, look in holes of sensors at alignment stamps. If they aren't visible crank another full turn clockwise to 310 degrees. The stamps are a circle of numbers and the circle should be dead center of both sensor holes. If off at all, timing chain has slipped a tooth.

[@trenxtrag9604]

It's long been known that the automotive industry started from! 2000 a. to produce and do it full crap ! and what time it goes on worse! Keep those words In mind !

[@7s29]

Planned obsolescence in these modern cars.

[@alexlee8639]

Even the diesel versions? Thought they were built to last.

[@richsackett3423]

False. That's a lie.

[@alexlee8639]

Rich Sackett what is?

[@kamranetemad7006]

thank you for detailed presentations.

[@RossEnzo]

We’ve had a CLK550 Coupe in the family since new. Four years in and about 35,000 Miles the death wobbles started. We did all the coils and sparks and it fixed it, now we’re at 170k and every time we get the wobbles we just do a major tune up

[@repairvehicle]

You definitely got it right on Honda and Toyota.

[@zacht9447]

I mean if you aren't looking at the overly ambitious motors or the foreign designed motors in american cars they're stupid reliable too I mean million mile reliable like old chevy trucks and the like literally they don't break

[@zacht9447]

I've seen somebody accidentally put diesel in one with an SBC and it just ran rough for a few days but didn't stop running and after it was burned up it was fine

[@carlmcdonald2735]

repairvehicle is that so I have a 2013 Civic for you then

[@CVTaxi]

Yeah. Honda's automatic transmissions are just wonderful.

[@carlosoliveira-rc2xt]

repairvehicle Not necessarily.

[@Mlachake]

Lexus = Peace of mind, money stays in your pocket.

[@Duke-ih8mo]

And with the happynees of a boring ass car

[@JavierCR25]

So just discovered your channel and it’s awesome

[@elviossousa]

Great job. That is important information.

[@bohan9957]

I drive a Lexus and never have to deal with any of these nonsense.

[@smokegreentree]

Lexus is Toyota so basically you have a high end toyota...

[@ericmbz-subi2536]

Used to drive a Lexus rx400h until I needed a third row. Many years later they came out with one and its terrible (RXL). 2008 MB R320 CDI with 140k miles-> ftw ^^

[@FormerpresidentHathaway.]

Bo Han or just don’t buy a old Mercedes from the DaimlerChrysler era, just don’t buy from 2006-2011, 2012 and onwards, Mercedes Benz makes super reliable engines and transmissions that last a long time.

[@dillmann8862]

@@FormerpresidentHathaway. Would you explain a little more....2013 and later is better than...I have a 2004 E320- 130 miles just need to change oxygen sensors....But my next car may not be MB due to all the problems I hear about....MB should put more into R&D instead of financing football stadiums, stupid.

[@FormerpresidentHathaway.]

dill mann 2004 was still under DaimlerChrysler and the quality was still declining, 2006-2011 was rock bottom with quality, until they started replacing older generation engines and transmissions from the DaimlerChrysler era, 2012 and current the newer generation Cars from Mercedes are now reliable with engines and transmissions, suspension. They still get minor software glitches, because the cars so super advance than any other cars in the world.

[@Krezo200]

I owned a 2006 cls350 The socalled ‚kettenrad‘ broke at 80.000 KM (!) and costed me 2k € (price was 6.500€ but mercedes payed the 4500€ part) Besides that everything on this car broke Electric windos system, transmission (2€ parts caused it!!!!) and many many more It was totally embarrassing having a break down in the middle of the city intersection Absolutely hilarious Glad i sold this mercedes shitbox Beautiful, elegant and smooth cars but the quality is pure shit We had 6 or 7 mercedes in our family and we wont buy any new mercedes Just lease mercedes, dont buy them..

[@Krezo200]

By the way, it was an extremely well maintained car, i checked the whole history, preowner talked to me for a long time..

[@ponjebach]

krezo Mercedes is not what it was 30yrs ago... Cars were bullet proof, they earn respect with their innovation, reliability, luxury... Today they LOOK like shit, thansks to Slovenian car designer{and I'm Slovenian} and they use Renault dci engines on their low class models... And they are overpriced {heavily }.

[@BiologistRyan]

thats literally any euro luxury vehicle... dont keep past warranty.

[@Executiveinvestments-]

krezo well there you go right there. It was an extremely well maintained car? Then you go on saying you talked to the previous owner. lol The guy abused the shit out of it. Thats why he sold it to you. Funny how you know the history of a car when you didnt even own it. Do you think the guy is going to tell you he abused the car when you are trying to buy it? I tell you, people can be dumb sometimes. You=DUMB.

[@eurocarman]

krezo: This was not a good time for Mercedes - most of the models were as you described. They rusted easily, stupid (engineering related expensive repairs labor and parts). Any problem that is not addressed by the manufacture to replace the parts with (tested) new parts so it won't happen again are not on my good side. Rarely is that the case with Mercedes. But there are many factors here that are NOT manufacture related but dealer/re-seller issues. Bad technicians and parts people are also a factor here. Some repairs are not for the DIY folks without some help from good techs and parts people.

[@oldskoolzz6462]

My 93 Civic DX is travel use and I would say it’s a great commuter!! it reallyy took me from point A to point B with no problem :)

[@paulmudzingwa8611]

hi, can you pliz help i have my c230 v6 2007 with am272 and it runs so smooth but it is showing the check engine light and i checked it and it gave me this code. i cleared the error but it comes out after a 5 to 10 kilometers of drive Self-adaptation of mixture formation for enrichment at partial load for the left cylinder bank is above the permissible limit. (P0174) Permanet Self-adaptation of mixture formation for enrichment at partial load for the right cylinder bank is above the permissible limit. (P0171) Permanet

[@richard66754]

Don’t be a poor man that can’t work on his own shit, owning cars that belonged to a wealthy man. These cars will only make your wallet more empty.. I had a young helper at work that bought a used Jaguar because he thought it was “pimpin’ “. It’s been sitting at the transmission shop for close to six months.

[@DuBstep115]

Now thats a bad transmission shop if it takes 6 months to repair

[@Rhaspun]

I see quite a few people who own older luxury cars. All luxury become affordable after several years. But the cost of repairs will always be higher than average.

[@DuBstep115]

@@Rhaspun depens on platform. Bmw 7 series shares 90% of the parts with 5 series for example.

[@briananthony4044]

Perhaps they are holding it until he can afford to repair it, or pay for the repairs already done

[@DuBstep115]

@@briananthony4044 Jaguar uses mercedes gearboxes and europe/states is full of junkyards were you could buy a spare tranny or parts for less than 800 bucks. I sense a bullshit story.

[@HulluJanne]

Check your microphone levels or speak just a little bit quieter, there is some annoying cracking/distortion at times.

[@antisniper70]

Just lower the volume on the speaker of your phone/headphones, just whatever you are using to watch this

[@HulluJanne]

Listen carefully for the first "welcome". If it doesn't sound distorted to you, congratulations for having insensitive hearing and/or audio gear of such quality that it doesn't deliver the original soundtrack as clearly as it should. The content on this channel seems very good. This seems like the only video (from what I've watched) that has audio problems.

[@garethonthetube]

Agreed, plenty of distortion. Many cheap wireless mics have difficulty with dynamic human voices. Often there is no adjustment possible.

[@lukep6017]

Great video. 2014 m278 engine. What are the things to be aware of to prevent major failures. What are the problems on the m278? Thanks for your help.

[@robertdavis32]

This was probably the most stressful part about car shopping for another MB after my old 2000 C-Class was totaled out, searching for a 2007 C-Class that was out of the affected range of the balance shaft issue