Mercedes-Benz Owners and Lessees File Class Action Lawsuit Complaint Against Mercedes-Benz Over Allegedly Defective Balance Shift Gears In Mercedes Benz M272 Engines & Idle Gears In Mercedes Benz M273 Engines.
A class action lawsuit has been filed against Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (“Mercedes-Benz” or “Defendant”) in the United States District Court for the District of New Jersey (styled Greg Suddreth and Paul Dunton v. Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC) alleging, among other things, that Mercedes-Benz M272 engines are equipped with defective gears in their balance shafts and Mercedes-Benz M273 engines are equipped with defective idle gears which wear out prematurely, excessively and without warning, purportedly causing the vehicles to malfunction, the check engine light to illuminate and the vehicle to misfire and/or stop driving, according to the Mercedes Benz M272 and M273 balance shaft gear and idle gear class action lawsuit complaint.
The Mercedes Benz M272 and M273 balance shaft gear and idle gear class action lawsuit complaint is reportedly brought on behalf of a putative class of all owners and lessees within the United States of Mercedes vehicles equipped with M272 engines (bearing serial numbers up to 2729..30 468993) or M273 engines (bearing serial numbers up to 2739..30 088611), unless otherwise excluded. The Mercedes Benz class action lawsuit also is reportedly brought on behalf of Illinois and Massachusetts subclasses.
The Mercedes M272 engine is reportedly installed on the following Mercedes Benz vehicles:
Model Years 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010:
- Mercedes Benz C 230
- Mercedes Benz SLK 350
- Mercedes Benz CLS 350
- Mercedes Benz E 230
Model Years 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010:
- Mercedes Benz CLS 280
- Mercedes Benz CLK 280
- Mercedes Benz C 280
- Mercedes Benz E 280
- Mercedes Benz SL 280
- Mercedes Benz C 350
- Mercedes Benz E 350
- Mercedes Benz S 350
- Mercedes Benz SL 350
- Mercedes Benz Viano
Model Years 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010:
- Mercedes Benz R 280
- Mercedes Benz R 350
- Mercedes Benz ML 250
- Mercedes Benz Sprinter
Model Years 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010:
- Mercedes Benz S 280
Model Years 2008, 2009, 2010:
- Mercedes Benz CLC 230
- Mercedes Benz CLC 350
The Mercedes M273 engine is reportedly equipped on the following Mercedes Benz vehicles:
Model Year 2006:
- Mercedes Benz E 500 and E 550
- Mercedes Benz CL 500 and CL 550
- Mercedes Benz CLS 500 and CLS 550
- Mercedes Benz GL 500 and GL 550
Model Year 2007:
- Mercedes Benz GL 450
- Mercedes Benz S 450
- Mercedes Benz ML 450
Model Year 2008:
- Mercedes Benz ML 500 and ML 550
Model Years 2006 and 2009:
- Mercedes Benz CLK 500 and CLK 550
For more information on the Mercedes-Benz balance shaft gear and idle gear class action lawsuit, read the Mercedes-Benz class action lawsuit complaint.
If You Have Thoughts On The Mercedes-Benz Balance Shaft Gear & Idle Gear Class Action Lawsuit, Share Your Class Action Comments Below.
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R350 2006 65000 miles
no CEL yet but my mechanic had 2 magnetics sensors changed
saying he has a MB maintenance bulletin.
this was for prevention according to MB.
the cost of each was around 10$ plus 100$ of labor,
this very well known problem with the balance shaft is preventing me
of having a fair price for my car.
MB should recall all m272 and m273 engine
i finally trade in my r350 in a BMW dealer,
got 15k for it.
too bad MB, i now drive a 328xi
bye bye forever!!!
We own an 2006 R350. Big pile of junk and will NEVER purchase a Mercedes again. Every month another light burns out. Our brake lights have been on the back-up system for the last 2 years as the MB service people said it is very common for the brake light controller to go bad. I asked if MB is fixing it due to a known problem and they said to wait and maybe a recall will happen or pay $500 for the new part plus labor. Basically I am done supporting the local MB service dept for work that should be covered.
What is the status Mercedes-Benz Class Action Lawsuit ???
I bought a 2007 R350 on February 2009, my warranty expired April 2011. I took it for service to MB a few days before my warranty expired and all was well. At the end of August I started having problems changing gears. I took it to an authorized MB mechanic who told me it was the computer needing to be re-programed, charged me $600.00 when I got home the same thing happened. He now tells me it’s the transmission and MB won’t authorize the repair, I have to take it to the MB dealer and it’s around $3,000.00. I want to be a part of this lawsuit. I can’t afford this!
I have had the SAME EXACT problem with my 2007 clk350 that I bought 8 months ago, the MB dealer is going to charge me $3000 to repair the transmission because its stuck in first and is now in fail safe mode and the specialty transmission shop can’t touch it because Mercedes won’t release the software rights! I need to be a part of this lawsuit too!!! Does anyone have any suggestions? My car is not drivable, and I still owe money on it!
my 2006 clk350 has the exact same problem.only 32000 miles
on the car.how do I participate in the class action suit?
my daughtr has same problem. balance when out at leee than 70000 milea. she has bee190 d that I drove for 0epair charge of 4000 dollars to repair. I owned A 1964 diesel model190 D that I drove for 20 year with no prolem. The co. has changed. 2006 C230 with faulty balance shaft. The co. shoujld issue A recall , if not class action suid be filed.
I have a 2006 C230 with the same code problem coming up on the M272. engine. with faulty balance shaft. My mechanic told me to get rid of the car. He has sen several of these so far. He said it approx 5,000.oo repair, He sugested there may be an option to change out the motor with a used motor not in same engine class. Has anyone else explored this option with a positive result? I would consider it if it is feesable. My wife loves her car and would like to keep it. I am retisant to keep it unless I am confident of the fix.
Does anyone know what the status is on the Class Action Lawsuit? Check enging light on my 2007 E350, 56,00 miles, came on and sure enough it is the Balance shaft. I was quoted at $6,500 for repair. Mercedes has offered to pay 50%, I feel they should cover the full cost. Will definately look at competitors for next car puchase. Dissapointed in Mercedes.
Stacey ..how did u get MB to pay 50% ..was your car still under warranty ?
Hi, Mercedes benz in New Jersey ( Global mercedes in fairfield Nj) pay 100% for my rapair, but 1 monthly later my computer went bad and they dont know why, finaly a sold the car. I’m very dissapointed with Mercedes cars.
I have a 2007 C230 and have the “balance shaft” problem. Diagnostic shows codes 1208 and 1200 intake and exhaust camshaft premature wear and need replacement for at least $6000. I already complaint to NHTSA. Where else can I go against MB? Thanks
Iam also having this problem with my 2007 ML350 said repairs could go above $6,000.00…what can i/we do to get our cars fixed ?mine is still running as for now but light is on so who knows when it will stop.This should be a RECALL !!!
I have a 2006 ML 350 with about 80k on it about 6 months ago had a check engine light come on took it to the dealer and they covered the repair 6k because I was under extended warranty it was the balance shaft sensor they had to take eng and trans out of the car to fix it. Im know getting a code p0017 which is another sensor not sure about the fix yet can anyone tell me is this included in the class action or im I on my own
I also have a 2006 ML 350 and had to get the transmission replaced in 2009. It cost over $7,000! If there is a class action, I want to be included. We purchased the mercedes because of the past reliability. We were just outside of the warranty. We put $17,000 down to purchase it new!
Does this lawsuit also apply to 2011 models? I have a 2011 C350 with the M272 engine, and am becoming concerned that as the miles accumulate, I will have similar horrendous problems as outlined by others. I’m not optimistic enough to think that M-B magically solved the problems after the 2010 model year…
I’m interested in joining this class acction suit. I drive a 2007 C230 with just barely 40K. Got a CEL and I took it in to the dealership here in Northern CA. I had been using E-85 gas along because this particular model that for that year has this option. Light came on and went away before my first appointment on Oct 3rd. I was told the that gas along with temperature change could possibly cause this. Had to return the next day because CEL returned. Got a quote for $5400.00 to repair this problem. I did get a call from the Servoce Rep. They offered to pay $4050.00 which made me suspious and this is how our found the c;ass action information. I took this article in to the dealer and I asked them if the had knowledge prior to me coming in and they pretty much denied/dodged the question. Went to pick up my car last night and the engine and transmission seem to be out of sync. Pleas e let me know how I can be included.
I too am interested in what happened so far with the class action againse MB. We have a 2006 ML 350 with the same engine. We traded in a 1986 SDL to purchase this one. We would have preferred another diesel but none were offered in USA models of this vehicle then due to our emissions laws. Ours has had two check engine light events. The first was diagnosed as mis firing on cylinder #2 and with a swap of coils and plugs with cylinder #1 the problem disappeared. About four months later the second CEL event happened. This time paln was to replace coil and all plugs as car had passed 50000 miles and it is a recommended repair then. Unfortunately car had no compression whatsoever in cylinder #2. Further investigation confirms a defective head on that side. It appears to be the valve guide for cylinder #2. Shop and his engine machine shop colleague both see same issue. Shop told me today that MB has a new part number for a new exhaust valve replacement. Shop owner and I both wonder why. Was this the fix that happened in 2008? So far repair will be about $4000 for new head. We paln to trade the vehicle before year end as we see no reason to look at a seacond one of these events. MB needs to step up to the bar and soon. Note that all of the engines we are discussing are made in Germany to MB standards. Our experiences are not an adertisement for traditional German quality. We expected this vehicle to last well over 100000 miles without simialr repairs.
I understand from my service adviser at the dealer in League City, Tx, that MB is taking care of this problem without charge to the owner. They have two cars in the shop now for the problem, one has 124000 miles. He said if the code/s are there they do the work. He has always been up front and honest in the past, so I have no reason to think differently now.
Success to all — Norm
Norm, Keep us updated on your repairs. I would like to know if your Mercedes Dealer actually comes through. At least I would be able to go to my dealer and point out that some repreable dealerships are stepping up to the plate.
Norm, did you purchase your car at that dealership. Just curious as to see if the dealship will honor and fix the problem eventhough the car wasn’t purchased with them.
Look forward to your response.
Thanks,
Eddie
My GL450 is in the shop for this same thing and MB of Annapolis is paying to fix it. I did not purchase it there either.
My son’s first car, a 2007 C-230, developed the “Limp Home” syndrome yesterday. I took it to my independent mechanic today and it was diagnosed with a faulty Valve Body. 58,000 miles. Work must be done at MB dealership. I have a long history owning and leasing MB’s and am hoping to at least get some help offsetting the repair costs from the dealer. But Mercedes should be ashamed at not issuing a recall on this obvious flaw.
Any updates on this? Just had my intake solenoid replaced for $300, and the CEL is still on. Now SM at dealer is telling me that it could be the balance shaft sprocket. Sound familiar? Car has 76K miles on it. C2804M
I’m in! just picked up the car after replacing the intake manifold – ridiculous…
Going back to Infiniti – I know it’s a lesser brand, but owned two before this E350 lemon and NEVER had an issue!
I just unloaded my 2008 E-350 (56,000 mles) for a new Lexus after replacing the intake manifold (at the League City Dealership) for $2,000 and repairing a coolant leak on the engine $500. I bought the car new and had it serviced at the daler on time every time. First and last Mercedes. Pieces of junk. Back to Lexus. They are truly a quality build.
Tech said this was an uncommon occurance yet I find hundred of problems with these on the web. Is this issue also covered by the class action suit?
Our 2006 E350 is driven by a little old lady who wears tennis shoes (my wife) and it has less than 28,000 miles on it. We were just told that the balance shaft needs replacing to the tune of $6,600. As we’re retired and on a fixed income, this is an extreme hardship. I suppose we can always sell the car as is and perhaps purchase a Japanese car with whatever we get but it all seems so unfair. Has anyone spoke with Greg Suddreth and/or Paul Dunton, those that filed the law suit? Any advice would be appreciated.
MERCEDES-BENZ 1991-1997 ENGINE WIRING HARNESS DEFECT
Below, please read the list of 672 reported consumer complaints (and counting) that I have found on the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website concerning the chronic disintegrating engine control / fuel injection wiring harness failure suffered by 1991 through 1997 Mercedes Benz automobiles. This list should not–by any means–be considered complete, as it only lists those reports of Mercedes wiring harness defects that I was able to locate on the NHTSA’s website.
ALERT: a recent NHTSA search has shown that there are now 1997 Mercedes wiring harness failures being reported!
As you scroll down the list, fast approaching SEVEN-HUNDRED COMPLAINTS and DOZENS OF FIRES, please note that the first of the NHTSA complaints on the list is my own. I have printed out these collected complaints, and mailed the hard copy to the NHTSA’s Office of Defects Investigations (ODI), to encourage a much needed safety recall. In fact, I have sent two sample wiring harnesses to the NHTSA’s Director of Investigations, Gregory Magno, at his request.
If your 91-97 Mercedes has suffered from this same disintegrating engine wiring harness defect–and if it hasn’t, it will–please call John Hart, a customer service supervisor at Mercedes-Benz USA (MBUSA), who claims to have NEVER heard of this problem: 1-800-FOR-MERCEDES (1-800-367-6372)
In fact, as you read through the list, notice the arrogance by which the consumer is told this same lie–over and over–by MBUSA. (note, a more current MBUSA customer service supervisor to complain to is Robyn Letz, 1-800-367-6372, ext. 6209)
Click the below link to see hi-resolution images of a few typical defective MB engine wiring harnesses (remarkable pics):
http://sites.google.com/site/infoage1/mercedes-benz-1991-1996-engine-wiring-harness-defect/images
Mercedes-Benz USA is willfully putting you and your family’s lives in jeopardy, and they have their hand in your wallet. Highway robbery? Read the below list, and judge for yourself.
Then, go straight to the top: Click the following link to email MBUSA President, Ernst Lieb, and let him know how you really feel: ernst.lieb@mbusa.com
Help force Mercedes to recall this appalling defect:
Click here to file your own complaint with the NHTSA
Same story here – 2006 ML350, I replaced all 4 balance shaft sensors, now I’m told the balance shaft needs to be replaced – $5,500
I just bought a 2006 Mercedes ml 350 with a check engine light dealer also said costs 5700 and if I had services of oil changes that they would pay half I think this issue should be paid by dealer it should be a recall now I cant get the car regesterd till its fixed help me
I’m going through the same thing with my 2006 R 350 , today I was told that the cam shaft and crank shaft was malfunctioning after diagnosing the problem they told me the balance shaft was pulling and the shaft need to be replaced for $4800 WOW !They said Mercedes don’t feel as if it’s a safety issue to do a recall, but if your car is stalling and cutting off while your driving is not a safety issue than what is it! I will b filing a suit against mercedes benz as well.
who do i contact about the law suit? – i’m having the same problem (car doesn’t accerlate); engine light on (repair telling me it’s nothing, just needs to be reset); etc. – my car won’t accerlate over 25 mph (c230-2006)
I’ve got a 2007 C230 (Brabus edition) with 49k miles on it. CEL started coming on/off within the last week. Odd that it lights and within a few starts or after a period of time it’s gone again. I grabbed my OBD II reader and pulled codes p0016/p0017 from it. Engine # 272920.30.397407 so I’m within the bounds of this bigger problem. After some searching I found that sometimes replacing the cam shaft magnets may fix the error I have so I’ve ordered them (cheap and easy to replace DIY). Hoping that I don’t end up with a $5k repair bill though. Guess I’ll see. Do you have to do anything to join this class action or are you covered because of class action status?
I own a 2006 R350 w/ 48k mi. and I am having similiar problems. My check engine light has come on. I cannot accelerate the car past 30mph. When I turn the car on and put into drive, i get a big jerk from the car. I will not take it to MB dealer b/c I had bad experience w/ them in the past w/ a c240 i used to own. They rip u off and have you keep coming back for more repairs. My girlfriend did sue MB for lemon law and won $5k for her inconvience. How can I join the class action suit. Please assist.
Is there a class action lawsuit going on athis time in Southern California I am having issues with my 2004 C230.
2007 R350… Engine light came on just over 50K miles and I got the same diagnosis as everyone else here. What do I need to do to support this lawsuit? I want in! Thanks.
I just had this same issue with a 2006 C230. Week of Nov. 21st the check engine light comes on and the car starts missing very badly. Had my local mechanic (not the dealer) attempt a diagnosis which was inconclusive. Towed the vehicle to the dealer that is in El Paso TX (live in Las Cruces). Dealer has had it for about 10 days and told me today that there is nothing can or will do other then sell me a usesd engine for about $9K. I opened a customer care case with Mercedes this morning and also want to know how I can avail myself of legal recourse because MB doesn’t seem to want to do the right thing in my situation.
I was considering buying an E350 2008 that has low mileage (25K) and an engine block number 2729xx30728xxx – which is beyond what is mentioned in the lawsuit. Just don’t know if I want to either chance it or support MB if their not going to support me!
I spoke with the Law firm that was handling the class action lawsuit – Kantrowitz, Goldhamer and Graifman. The person I spoke with there indictated that the New Jersey District Court judge denied the claim in favor of the defendant (Mercedes). Kantrowitz said they are going forward with a National class-action suit. They are also taking down names of affected owners.
Maybe it’s time that we “occupy Mercedes”, so to speak, and band together on this issue by feeding our complaints to Kantrowitz.
So when does the “occupy Mercedes” movement start? That should at least draw enough news coverage to get Mercedes to do something. I bought my Mercedes after a bad experience with Audi and on the assumption the parts for a Mercedes are half the price of the Audi. Apparently the reason the parts are half the price is that Mercedes is using half the quality.
I own a 2006 ML #%) suv. Same thing have a check engine light. One MB dealer told me veriofy gas cap and then it’s a cam shaft problem. 5k to repair. I am up in Montreal Canada, . I’d like to know what is going on with the Class Action Lawsuit. I have owned other high end German Vehicules that offer me Reliability and Durability, but I most definitely Cannot say the same for Mercedes Benz- Too Bad.
I purchased a 2007 350slk new in Sept. 2007 and a 2006 c230 for my mom 2 months later. I am having issues with both cars. My warrenty ran out 9/9/2011 and my problem started 10/5/11. MB says I am out of warrenty, that I can have it towed to the local dealer (which mind you is not them) for free and they should be able to handle this problem at my cost. If I have to pay for both these vehicles I may as well buy a new car, but for whom,me or mom? I feel like I purchased a migraine for both me and her… How do I become a double part of this lawsuit? Help. From Napa, CA and Sanford, FL.
Brigitte
I would like to be added to this. I bought mine in feb and now find out it has a big problem like this.
My 2006 C230 (72k) about a month ago came up with the same thing code P0016 and 17 told $5500 -$6000 from dealer and MB will not cover it.
So disappointed, I’ve been a long time MB owner and recently added a 2007 C230 Sport to our family (3 MB family now) with 43,000 miles and although no CEL yet I have read enough that makes me ill. It is clear from all that I’ve read on several sources that no one knows how many of these gears are bad, a problem MB knew about and is trying to avoid fixing. Lets hope that another round of Legal fights will help in making MB own up.
I own a 2007 C230 Sport. The CEL came on tonight. The car has 53730 miles on it. I plan on taking it in next week for an A service and to check the code. I hope it is not the balance shaft code, but if it is, I will be adding my name to the lawsuit.
Hi, just wondering if you got the dreaded Balance shaft codes? Also what is the date of production on your 07? Thanks
This information is very new to me. I purchased my first Benz R Class 350 in April 2011. Its a 2007 and having the same issues. Check engine light is on. When I shift gears to drive there is a big jerk, as well as the gears wont idle past 30 miles per hour. This is very dangerous and I have almost been hit twice trying to accelerate from a light. What information do I need to make this public for a recall or repairs?
I too had the same situation, I have a 2006 CLS 500- I have 45000 miles in her. I have this situation that while driving the RPM goes high but I am only doing 40 to 50 miles/hr. so I have to full up to the side and turn off the car and start it back up. This normally brings the back the car to normal status, looked like i just rebot the computer. Did someone advised you or contacted you about what to do with your car? I am from California SanDiego area. Anyone in the vicinity had experienced same situation please let me know. What information do I need to make this public for a recall or is there any recall at all? suggestion for repairs? Thanks
Hello Juan,
I have the same problem on a 2006 C230 Sport. What I have been told is the transmission solenoid valve is failing and needs to be replaced. When you turn off your car, it resets the solenoid to function properly. It also data logs the issue for diagnostics. Unfortunately, you cannot just replace the solenoid as it is attached to, I believe, a circuit board, so the whole circuit board has to be replaced. I have already had to replace the Balance Shaft and the Transmission, so I am not happy with the quality of the vehicle, or the support from Mercedes. My recommendation is to buy a BMW, which I have never had any problems with. Somehow, Mercedes Corporate needs to get the message.
Good Luck,
Jerry
If you are on this list or come to view this list and have had issues with C230 (or similar engine – M272 or M273) intake manifold failures, please fill out a complaint at NHTSA. This seems to be another common trend but goes unreported. Our 2006 C230 would not pass inspection because the system spit back two codes, P0170 & P0173 (MB codes 2092/2096 or P0172/P0175) and we were told our intake manifold needed to be replaced at a cost of $2110. The intake tumble valve assembly has worn bushings which causes the valve to let air in when it is not supposed to. The service rep showed us by opening the hood and literally wiggling the part forward and back when it is supposed to only move side-to-side. Nice manufacturing MB. After reading pages of similar complaints I am amazed that a company who used to pride itself on quality has fallen so far. I am suspect and need to get a second opinion as this would not be the first time this dealership (MB Georgetown, Texas) has tried to pull one over on my wife (her car) not knowing friends and family are mechanics. Last time it was a non-existent brake issue.
I have a 2006 C-230. The check engine light comes on and then go off. I have scheduled a appointment. Reading this information is very concerning. I will update this weblog after my visit. My issues just started this month.
I have a E 350 2006 and I have replace a crank sfat sensor for all most two times while within the warrenty and third time withouta warrenty. also this time they have mentioned car stalls because of the intake manifold linkage was broken and need to replace whole intake manifold for almost $1,800.00 . Isn’t this should cover from this law suit or as a recall from the Mecedes Bens?? It is a serious and life threatghning issue, specially car engine stops while you are driving at any speed. Couls you please send me some information about this?
I have a E 350 2006 and I have replace a crank shaft sensor for all most two times while within the warranty and third time without a warranty. Also this time they have mentioned car stalls because of the intake manifold linkage was broken and need to replace whole intake manifold for almost $1,800.00. Isn’t this should cover from this law suit or as a recall from the Mercedes Bens?? It is a serious and life threatening issue, especially car engine stops while you are driving at any speed. Could you please send me some information about this?
I need to be in on this lawsuit! I have a 2006 E 350 with intake manifold failures plus the thermostat had to be replaced AND the auxillary battery replaced.
Check engine light went on followed by check oil at next refueling. Just got back from MBZ dealer where I was told that the balance shaft sprocket was falling apart. I have a 2006 E350 with 66,000 miles. Cost of repair: $6,200. Spoke with service manager and received no assistance. If there is a class action lawsuit in California, please send me the attorney’s name, so I can join.
i own a 2006 mercedes e350 i was told by an unauthorized dealer that my check engine light that is on read the codes p0016 and p0117 he told me that the repairs would cost more then $5,000 but he told me that this is a known problem and that if i take it to the dealer they might give me a goodwill repair ,the car still runs great except for the check engine light is on
i heard that the lawsuit was dropped
Nobody is monitoring this blog, but after a quick check, the judge dismissed this case 10/31/11, Mercedes NOT GUILTY
http://docs.justia.com/cases/federal/district-courts/new-jersey/njdce/2:2010cv05130/247447/26/0.pdf?ts=1320231596
Wow…just happened to me too. At the worst possible time as far as money and stress. I bought mine used a month or so before this action was filed so was clueless. They will not cover any of my $7200 repair bill since I was not the original owner. Bought it at a MB dealership though. Guess they saw me coming!!!!
Forgot to say 2006 R350. VIN number falls in the numbers mentioned in the suit.
I have the same problem and I would like to also be on this list…
I have the exact problem with my 2007 R350. Was told I need to have all oil change material before they will even look at it. Went to Jiffy Lube to get a printout of all my oil changes. They could only find ONE! I’ve been there so many times I know the woman who works there. Of course, she wasn’t in when I just had the oil changed. Can’t find all of my receipts. Am going to call Visa next to see if they can verify my payments to Jiffy Lube. Who knows, maybe JL and MB are in cahoots together! MB needs oil service proof, JF all of a sudden can’t provide them. Don’t most people take their cars to JL? Will cost over $6000.00. Absolutely ridiculous. I’ve seen people ask if they can be included in this lawsuit but no responses seen. How do you join in? Anyone know? Thanks and sorry to hear about everyones MB problem. We work hard to be able to provide ourselves with a luxury vehicle that is supposed to last forever. MB is not what they used to be. Even their resale value on their cars is horrible. Hello Hyundai!!
I bought a 2006 C230 sport in Sept. 2011 w/ 80K mi. I also bought an aftermarkrt warranty and guess what? Its covered, the work is being done as I speak and the work is very extensive but I understand that youshould not have any problems after its done. By the way the new gears look a lot different from the ones that wore down. Good luck all !
Duane, who did you get the warranty thru? Thanks
I organize a facebook group
http://de-de.facebook.com/groups/MercedesbenzSkandal/
for germany.
We are organizing a class action as well.
Please send helpful links or docs to
MercedesbenzSkandal@groups.facebook.com
Thanks in advance
Guido
Purchased a 2007 R350 in Dec 2009 with 35k miles. Same issue as reported above began in Nov 2011. Luckily the warranty runs through 3/2012. Dealer had the car for 3 weeks working with MB and did extensive repairs. Just this week it began doing same thing, although CEL not coming on. Scheduling to go back in, but with warranty expiring soon, will likely trade.
I have an 07 GL450 and I am have the same issues. I want to be added to the list for this class action lawsuit and make sure MB covers their faults.
2007 GL450 with CEL on. I have issues starting the vehicle sometimes. It only has about 46k miles. Add me to the class action lawsuit please. MB is at fault and should recall the problems.
My 2006 R350 always has a check engine light. The car is built with the lowest quality parts. Did the gear shaft, thermostat, both batteries, and car has repeatedly failed to start after not being run for a day. Mb takes no responsibility. Wife just picked up the car from Loeber and they couldn’t wash it after we spent $800 for service. Count me in on the class action.
Hi Everyone,
I guess I should start off saying that I’m not a Mercedes owner, I’m a mechanic that worked on a 2006 E350 withe the 3.5L engine. I actually took it completely apart and I physically saw the worn balance shaft gear on the engine. How I got to do the job was because it was a friend of a friend and the car was not running, had no compression. it wound up being a year fiasco for me (November 2010 – November 2011) but I did rebuild the engine. Not for nothing but I have never heard of a gear that is perpetually lubricated just wear out!!! That is absolutely ridiculous if you ask me. It seams to me that Mercedes is not the quality it may have once been and to be honest, I would never recommend one to anyone I know. The car itself is a beautiful car with every perk that you would enjoy but that means nothing if they went cheap on quality. I bet it has something to do with Chrysler buying them or maybe it was a corporate decision to go cheap on the metals used for the balance shaft. Seams to me that Pre-Chrysler owned Mercedes were of better quality. Well, I hope that all of you get your cars fixed by Mercedes and just to let you all know, I’m in the business 26 + years now.
Hi, just got a MB R350. Got it shipped to Africa. But the damn thing has not started since arriving at the port. Despite the fact that it was actually driven to Mercedes of Alexandria and serviced prior shipping.
The Mercedes Benz repair company here had a look at it and said the engine has no compression. I am not sure if it’s possible to join the class atction from here. But I would really appreciate if you could share the repair secrets and details since you were able to fix your friends MB. Please specify what exact parts need to be changed and approx parts costs.
Thanks.
Wow this makes a little more sense. So much for the Reliability and Durability that Mercedes had to ofer throught their High End Products…
I have an 06 C280 that has the problem with the balance shaft. Started having sensors fail at around 46k and replaced several times. Now at 104,000 and issue just got worse. I am glad to report my dealer is “goodwilling” the repair and replacement of cam sensors AND balance shaft. I will update if things change.
I bought a 2006 MB R350 8 months ago. I have had problems with the car from day one. 2 weeks after I bought the vehicle the rear end dropped to the ground and I end up replacing the air the right rear air bags. A weeks later the rear automatic latch went out and I replaced that. The bulb replacement light are always on and off and the right front marker lamp light is constant. Now the car is starting to lean to one side. Can you please add me to the lawsuit.
Add me to the law suite. I recently experience the problem and took my car to the dealer and they sold me the sensors. But they recommended me to bring the car for a quote since they believe it will be “the probably something else”. I replaced the sensors – cleared the codes, and after 50 miles the check engine light showed up again. I don’t think there is room to explain the multiple problems I am experiencing due to this camshaft problem.
Hi,
I just purchased a 2007 CLK350 with 46,663 miles. It has one year of “Certified Pre Owned” warranty with up to 100,000 miles left. Add me to the lawsuit. I will be really upset if the sales people new about this issue and failed to disclose this material fact to me.
I have a 2006 E350 and I’m having the same problem how can I join the suit? It’s only got 73000 on it! I can’t afford this kind of money to get it fixed. I live in North Carolina and I can’t get it inspected and get my tags renewed until the check engine light is off! I’ll get a ticket if I don’t do something soon! My tags and inspection ran out in November 2011.
My 07 E 350 check engine light came on and I took it to a dealer, they told me it was a balance gear and it was going to cost me roughly $6000 to fix.
They did nothing to help me. I looked this up online and seen so many people with the same complaint I could not believe it.
My neighbor has an R class and told me he had the same problem and took it to Mercedes Benz in Bridgewater NJ they fixed it 100% no charge. He was out of warranty by 15000 miles. They said they know about the problem and were happy to help. I made an appointment and after inspecting my car which had 120,000 miles on it they told me they couldnt cover the whole repair but did cover 80% and charged me a completely fair price for the difference. They even gave me a loaner car to use while my car was being fixed. I am happy with the work they did.
I bought a 2008 C 280 for my wife just as it was coming off of lease. This was a “certified” Mercedes purchased from the dealer that had leased it out. We have had several issues with this car. The transmission has been rebuilt at a cost of $5,135.00. Last week the engine coolant low advisory came on. This week the Check Engine Light came on. We have been told the same story as above. The Balance Shaft needs replacing and will cost “around $6000.00″. I too bought a Mercedes because I beleived it was well made and would last. I want to be included in any suit that will assist with MB paying for these repairs. Please keep me advised.
We have a 2006 R 350. just found out today from the dealer we have the same balance shaft gear problem mentioned above & they r asking $8K to fix it. How can we join this lawsuit in Illinois?
2006 ML 350, 115k miles, cam shaft balance code discovered, I spoke with Mercedes USA they recommend to take vechile to dealership to see what can me done. My issue with this is that this repair is happening too frequently in 272′s. Why isn’t this a recall? Also, the replace part from the dealer is of a completely different composite material, hmm. This raises the question that the root cause is the OEM shaft assembly. Would like to know the status of the pending lawsuit.
I have just been told that the balance shaft of my Mercedes 350E must be replaced also at a cost of $5000 at a MB dealership service dept. Who can I call at MB to seek restitution or at least partial relief for this extremely expensive problem concerning a design defect which is so well-documented? Please advise.
Well, add me to the list. Just got the dreaded cam/crank sensor combo check engine lights which indicate this. Also have a faulty conductor plate as well which is a known problem. Both of these fixes will cost about $10,000.00 together. Btw my car is an 06 w about 100k
AGAIN- Nobody is monitoring this blog, but after a quick check, the judge dismissed this case 10/31/11, Mercedes NOT GUILTY
http://docs.justia.com/cases/federal/district-courts/new-jersey/njdce/2:2010cv05130/247447/26/0.pdf?ts=1320231596
I have the same problem in New York, I own a 2006 E350. I dont drive the car as much since the problem was diagnosed, and it seems to run ok so far. This car was diagnosed with a faulty “balance shaft” and now i am getting another error for the “Thermostat – P0128″. I had a lot of expectation from the Mercedes brand and so far it has been nothing but problems. I would love to join the lawsuit, Mercedes Benz needs to do the right thing by their customers and should fix these issues for FREE!!!
I too had the same situation, I have a 2006 CLS 500- I have 45000 miles in her. I have this situation that while driving the RPM goes high but I am only doing 40 to 50 miles/hr. so I have to full up to the side and turn off the car and start it back up. This normally brings the back the car to normal status, looked like i just rebot the computer. Did someone advised you or contacted you about what to do with your car? I am from California SanDiego area. Anyone in the vicinity had experienced same situation please let me know. Any information do I need to make this public for a recall or is there any recall at all? suggestion for repairs? Thanks
I see the lawsuit got dismissed so that leads me to this: Will there be a larger, national lawsuit in the works?? If so, please keep us updated.
Hi, I have 2006 c 350 with 65000k, have problem with shaft balance, dealer say 5500$.
2006 e350 with 65k and dreaded 1200/1208 balance shaft codes.
Having read as much technical and legal documentation as exists online, i conclude there is no recourse but to pay the $5k and avoid MB in future. Looking for an MB specialist, not a dealer.
I have a 2006 Mercedes E350. Around 45,000mile it started to idle rough. I took it to the dealership and they said everything was fine. At 58,000miles the check engine light came on. I again, took it to the local dealer due to the light and the fact that the rough idle had never changed.
When I went to pick it up they said it was just that the computer needed to be “updated”. Upon driving away it still idled rough. over the next two years the check engine light would come off and on, and on several other visits the dealership said the same thing. Two weeks ago it came on and stayed on and the idle problem suddenly became worse. I again took it to the dealership and NOW they said there is a problem with the balance shaft and to diagnose the problem it will be roughly $2000 complete repair estimate of $5800. So I loose it and tell them I will NEVER purchase another MB and that I am going to call MB USA personally. Now the rep will not return my call, the dealership denies that the problem existed for the last 60,000 miles and I’m screwed.
Now I am the worst negative publicity MB could have ever dreamed of.
I see 30 patients in the Dallas area where my patient base is the MB “type”. I tell EVERYONE how MP will not back their defective product.
It is my goal to make sure that ultimately my campaign will result in far more loss that doing what they knew was the right thing to do in the first place. I’m now in the market for a BMW535 but I will NEVER for give MB or purchase so much as a pack of chewing gum from them. Bitter? Just a bit!
I am having the same problem with my 2007 c230 i have taking it to the mechanic 2 times and one had informed me about the class action lawsuit. Where can I get more info?
I have a 2007 mercedes c280 4matic with the same balance shift problem the dealers around tried to charge me 4-5thousand to fix it and i contacted holloway automotive in greenland NH and they fixed it for free. Its required for the mercedes dealers to fix the problem no charge. Contact the best assistant service manager Matt Baillargeon (603)610-6827.
I have 2006 R350 with 68k, have problem with shaft balance, dealer say $7500. Has offered to pay 50%.
Reading all the posts here, it looks like some people have had no help, some have had some discount and some have had it done for free. Is it up to the dealer to decide and/or does MB contribute?
2007 C230 722.9 trans… conductor plate replaced for ~$1,200 after a turbine speed sensor code caused it to go into limp mode. 81k miles.
We own a 2006 R350 w/ 58K on it. Purchased the vehicle close to 3yrs ago. We dropped the van off yesterday for schedule service B, at the same time picking up our CLS550 for the same service. the R350 also had a CEL on. Just this morning, got a call from the dealer in Rochester Hills (MI) & they told me the CEL was due to the balance shaft. Said it would cost $4700! Factory warranty expired last yr in July. Purchased an extended warranty on the CLS 550last year, but didn’t consider one for the R350 at the time because it was still valid. Good news is, they said that Mercedes agreed to pay for the repair in full because we were great customers…. sounded good, but I wasn’t completely convinced as to why they would pay so generously. I search google & found this blog. My guess is, with more customers complaining, they didn’t want the trouble or negative attention also.
Traded a 2003 Mustang in on a 07 c230 sport during test drive cel was on told the salesman i will buy the car but you will have to take care of the cel he sent me to a local MB dealership bought this from a Toyota dealership. Told balance shaft was bad 5192.00 repair. Called Toyota with the news.They told me to bring it back and pick out another car. They gave me a Toyota loaner to drive since they had nothing i wanted. One week went buy and they have decided to pay for the repair. My question is will this fix the issue or will this cause further problems. After reading through these comments i am paranoid about owning this car. Miss my good old dependable American made Ford already.
I own a 2007 GL 450 that has been nothing but trouble since I bought it! I will never own another Mercedes product in my life. The CE light is on and I took it to my mechanic for the past year to have it fixed. He told me the best thing to do was to take it into a dealer, but the cost is in the $5,000 range. I would like to be part of this lawsuit. Where do I sign up??
I own an 2006 r350 and got an schedule with a service rep today, I do also have the same problem and hopefully they do something with it…
My 2006 c280 was taken to an independent MBD on yesterday with the engine light on. Don’t need to go into details i’ve read a lot of these comments and my is the same. I want to know is there or if there is going to be a class action suit in Georgia. Will someone please let me know. I will definitely join in.
I have a 2005 C230 Kompressor. About a week ago, my car almost turned off as I made a stop, I took it to the closes shop and was told there was misfire code. I was given a tech bulletin and told to take it to the dealership, but the want me to pay for a diagnostic so they can see what the misfire is all about in the third cylinder. I bought my car new out the lot and have kept up with maintance. I am upset at this point with Mercedes Benz.
I own a 2006 E350 and got a check engine light report that the “tumbler flap shafts stick” and “constant adjustment of the intake camshaft of right cylinder bank in direction ‘retarded’”. I am now learning that the price tag to fix these issues is significant. I am extremely disappointed to find that after 129,000 miles the mercedes-benz engine in my E350 is basically shot.
i own a 2006 mercedes e350 i was told by an unauthorized dealer that my check engine light that is on read the codes p0016 and p0117 he told me that the repairs would cost more then $5,000 but he told me that this is a known problem and that if i take it to the dealer they might give me a goodwill repair ,the car still runs great except for the check engine light is on
2006 ML350, 74K miles,codes 016 and 017, camshaft balance failure, $5,400 repair. MB offered 25% goodwill discount. I am SICK about this. I love my car! She drives like a dream. This is ridiculous for a manufacturer that builds multi-million dollar Formula 1 vehicles to have a faulty part like this and to not issue a recall. Shame on you MB!
I have same truck, similar Mileage ( here in Montreal Canada) and this problem is a real nightmare . We buy and pay for higher end Reliability and Durability exactly not to have these problems , and at the end…
Shame on MB…
I have a c 230 2006 and have to replace the balance shaft. $4500.00 is the cost to repair it. Mercedes is willing to pay $3000.00 of it. I feel after reading the other stories, there is obviously a problem that Mercedes should fit the total bill. I am very upset. I just want t know after they fix this, is the car going to be safe to drive? Should i just get rid of the car now that this problem occured.
I had a MB 2006 R350 which I bought from a MB Dealer (Silverstar) the vehicle had 13k when I bought it, always had it serviced, and around 50k it started to have problems, the from Differential was noisy (grinding) the brakes gave up at 33K, also had problems with electrics (rear lights) numerous CEL warnings, battery failed at 48K.
This is not what you expect when you buy a Mercedes, I have had two now, and both were problems. Have now swiched to a BMW with full warranty up to 100k with maintenance package included.
If Mercedes continue to have problems in there vehicles with such low miles, they will have trouble selling them.
Mercedes you need to get these issues under control.
ashand@princesscruises.com
i have a 2007 e 350 , with a balance shaft problem 4750.00 to fix. i would like to about the class action suite. also i only have 60K miles on the car.
At 50k check up they didn’t see this problem huuuuummmmm
We own an 2006 R 350. Just spend over $4000.00 on engine repair. They said its totally MB falt and it should be covered by MB. Dissapointed in Mercedes!
I purchased a 2006 CLK 350 last night in Newark, New Jersey. The ESP Malfunction sign lit up, and the dealer said it was no big deal. Then as I was driving the car back to Boston, the check engine light lit up. The engine started to make loud noises, and I then lost control of my steering wheel. My dealership refuses to pay any compensation, and I am taking my car into a Mercedes Dealer ship tonight. What is the status of the lawsuit? How can I participate?
Hi Lillian Tsu-erh I,
Unfortunately the Lawsuit has been dismissed. While I’m here, I will re-iterate what I’ve said before in that I’m not a Mercedes owner but I did work on a 2006 E350 engine and did the balanceshaft repair along with the chain guides (which are made out of plastic, Why would you use plastic at a critical timing area??????) I’ll say it again….in my 27 years of Automotive repair, I have never seen (until this Mercedes) a metal gear lubricated by oil wear out completely. Sure there is going to be some wear but COMPLETELY GONE????? I would like to help all of you in the repair of your vehicles and I would do the job for $2000 labor but I live in Long Island and it would be out of my garage at my house (I know most people would not be comfotable with that). I even made a slide show of everything I did to build this engine and I’ll say that it was the most complicated engine I have personally ever built (in fact, way too complicated) to have inferior metal and plastic parts. If I were all of you, I would never recommend or buy a newer Mercedes, I would buy something else or (for you die hard Mercedes People) buy the older Mercedes that were made of genuine quality to send a message to Mercedes that when the consumers spend a great amount of money on their vehicles, they expect a great amount of QUALITY for their purchase, NO EXCEPTIONS!!!!
Can anyone provide me with info on the Class Action please??
I have a 2006 C350 Sport Sedan and a 2009 C350 Sport Sedan. I am very interested in more information. My 2006 is already down for the balance shaft AND transmission. MB-USA quoted over $12,000. I fear that the same is going to happen to my 2009???
We purchased our 2008, R350, with approximately 45000 to date. We are experiencing similar problems. How and who can we speak with about these problems with MB? We are requesting to be included in the lawsuit against MB. We work very, very hard for our money to be what appears to be more than unfair consumer practices by MB. Thank you!
Car Stats alerted me about the problem
Arriving in Naples FL—CEL went on
Went to Mercedes Dealer—he slid a paper at me—$7800
I knew from the error codes—it was bal shaft
Called home to NH–my garage said Mercedes here will do—gratis
I shipped car home and rented auto for two mos in FL
My insurance company would not help onship or rent
NH guy said “the MB FL was DblDipping”–like to recover my $$$$$
My SEL kept coming on and I took it in Monday May 7th of this year and they said it was the balance shaft and they would have to take the engine out Thank God it is still under warranty because they said the repair would be about $6,000.00, my vehicle is a 2005 R350.
I drive a 2006 ML 350, great car, however, just found out about a whole circuit board that needs to be replaced apparently Mercedes has not been recalled this faulty circuit board. The circuit board burns out your tail lights, your dashboard keeps flashing to replace bulbs, left, right,left,front, back,etc.. The dealer wants $160 to replace this circuit board. and replace 4 sensors from the check engine light at a cost of 560, plus replace and remove the headlight warning light markers for and added 320…whats wrong with this picture.
I have 2006 pre certified R350 which stopped moving all of a sudden even though engine was on . I had to tow to the MB service center. They are demanding $800.00 FOR THE DIAGNOSIS. The repair could cost $1000.00 or $8000.00. I regret for buying this vehicle. I was sad to learn that judge dismissed the case against MBUSA. If there is any fresh lawsuit against them, I am interested .
I also own 2006 e350 and have the same problem. I took my car to the local Mercedes dealer and they told me I have a problem with the balance shaft. They gave me a quote of $5400.00 just in labor. Sign me up also. This is outrageous.
I also own a 2006 e350 and have the same problem. I took my car to the local Mercedes dealer and they told me I have a problem with the balance shaft. They gave me a quote of $5400.00 just in labor. Sign me up also. This is outrageous.
The dealer suspects I may have a balance shaft problem with the 2006 E350 Mercedes Formatic. The service engine light is on even after replacing the solenoids. But the car has no issues and runs very smooth. When would one know it is balance shaft issue.
Louis
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