Problem Reports
Problem with your car? See what our experts say or submit your own.
1992 Mercedes-Benz 500SEL Problems
Electrical Issues Due to Degraded Engine Wiring Harness
The engine wiring can degrade because the insulating material falls off leaving the bare wire exposed. This can cause many problems depending on which wires are exposed and what they touch.
Coolant Leak Due to Cracked/Broken Heater Core Outlet Housing
A cracked or broken heater core outlet housing can cause a coolant leak near the bulkhead (firewall). Our technicians remind us that coolant leaks should be repaired in order to avoid overheating the engine due to coolant loss.
High Usage Vehicles May Experience Ignition Lock and Tumbler Failures
Due to wear, high usage vehicles can experience ignition lock and tumbler failures. The ignition lock cylinder will generally require replacement to correct this concern.
Transmission Oil Seals May Leak on High Mileage Vehicles
High mileage vehicles may develop a transmission fluid leak from one or more of the oil seals.
Poor AC Performance Due to Refrigerant Loss
A refrigerant leak may develop from one or more of the following AC components: AC compressor, hose manifold for the compressor, or the evaporator core. The loss of refrigerant can cause poor AC performance. Our technicians tell us that proper leak diagnoses should be performed in order to determine the cause of any refrigerant loss.
Premature Tire Wear Due to Cracked Lower Control Arm Bushings
The lower control arm bushings can wear and crack, resulting excessive movement at the control arm pivot point, leading to irregular and premature tire wear. Worn Ball joints can also cause similar tire wear symptoms. I some cases it may be necessary to replace the lower control arm, including bushings & ball joint to correct this concern.
Engine Oil and Coolant Leaks Resulting in Fulid Intermix
Internal and External engine oil & coolant leaks can develop from the head gasket and/or timing cover gasket; these leaks should be repaired before the engine oil and coolant intermix which can result in severe engine damage.
Excess Free Play in Steering and/or Alignment Issue
The tie rod ends, idler arm, and/or drag link components of the steering linkage may wear prematurely. Please keep in mind the wheel alignment should be checked and adjusted when any of these items are replaced.
Throttle Valves May Experience Electrical Failure
The electronic throttle assembly may suffer an electrical failure. It is often cheaper to send the valve to a service center for repair that to purchase a new part.
Emissions-related ports in cylinder head may clog
ABS Modulator Failure Due to Dirty Brake Fluid
As brake fluid becomes dirty over time, it can cause a failure of the anti-lock brake system (ABS) modulator assembly. Our technicians recommend a complete brake system flush every two years to help prevent this issue.
Closing Assist/Door Lock Issues Due to Pneumatic System Problems
Problems with the pneumatic system can cause closing assist and door lock issues.
Cracked Driveshaft Flex Discs May Cause Driveshaft Movement/Vibration
A vibration felt through the center floor of the vehicle can be caused by cracked and/or shredded driveshaft flex discs, resulting in excessive driveshaft movement. If not repaired, damage to the driveshaft center support bearing, transmission, or differential can occur.
Power Window May Fail Due to Window Regulator
One or more door windows may stop working due to a failed window regulator. Replacement of the failed regulator will be necessary to correct this concern.
Head Light Lenses Become Cloudy/Opaque
The lenses for head lights may become opaque (cloudy or hazy) as a result of sun exposure. This can reduce the effectiveness of the lights. Our technicians tell us plastic polishes can improve the clarity of the lenses, but replacement of the lamp housings is necessary to regain full intensity of the lights.