Mercedes-Benz E350 Has Rough Idle

Diagnosing the Causes of Rough Idle in Your Mercedes-Benz E350 and How to Restore Smooth Performance

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Reviewed by
Aisha
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
21% chance it's the
Spark Plugs
0%
15% chance it's the
Ignition Coil
0%
64% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a Mercedes-Benz E350 has rough idle are a vacuum leak, an issue with the spark plugs, or a problem with the ignition coil.
  • Spark Plugs: Worn or fouled spark plugs can lead to misfires, poor fuel economy, and difficulty starting the engine.
  • Ignition Coil: A faulty ignition coil can cause misfires, rough idling, and difficulty starting the engine due to inadequate spark delivery to the spark plugs.
Proper diagnosis will determine the exact cause of your symptom, saving you money on unnecessary repairs. The diagnostic experts at RepairPal Certified shops have the right tools and experience to solve any symptom.

How much does it cost to fix a Mercedes-Benz E350 has rough idle?

Common Repairs

The total repair cost will vary based on the condition of your vehicle and the number of repairs needed to fix your symptom. Proper diagnosis will save you money by finding the exact repairs needed to fix your car right the first time.

Brake caliper failure occurs in two different ways, and they create different symptoms.

The caliper can become stuck, in which case it won't release the brake pads. The seized caliper will cause the vehicle to brake constantly on one side, forcing the car to move toward that side. This pulling will be accompanied by a strong odor from one wheel.

Another way calipers fail is by leaking. If the caliper leaks, the brake pedal will feel too easy to push, and will sink all the way to the floor when held. Braking will become less effective the longer this goes on. There may also be brake fluid leaking onto the wheel.

Here are a few common symptoms of worn-out brake pads:

  1. Low brake pad warning light is on: Not all vehicles are equipped with this system, but if yours is, this dashboard indicator light will likely be the first signal it’s time to replace your brake pads.
  2. Brakes start to squeal regularly: This is often one of the first signs of worn brake pads and is caused by a metallic piece built into brake pads for this exact purpose. This part contacts the brake rotor to make a squealing or whining noise when the pads are low.
  3. Brakes make loud grinding noise: If not addressed early enough, your brake pads may get so worn that the metal backing plate of the pad grinds against the metal rotor.
  4. Brake pads look thin: You may be able to visually check your brake pad thickness to determine if they need replacement.

Brake rotors are mainly maintenance free, but when they have been subjected to abnormally hard use, the heat they absorb can cause the metal to turn blue, and cracking to occur. When this occurs, customers often specify they have lost braking power, or the vehicle's brakes are making noise. There may be no symptoms at all related to changing the brake rotors, since it is recommended to change brake rotors on most modern vehicles when performing a standard brake service.

Most often, a brake system inspection will just be a routine portion of manufacturer specified maintenance, and will be performed at mileage intervals. In those cases, there will likely be no symptoms. However, when a brake system makes a funny noise, causes vibration, is hard to use, will not slow the vehicle, prevents the vehicle from driving, makes the vehicle pull to one side, or leaks brake fluid, the vehicle will need a visit dedicated to the inspection of the brake system.

Troubleshooting Rough Idle in a Mercedes-Benz E350

When troubleshooting a rough idle in your Mercedes-Benz E350, it's crucial to follow a methodical diagnostic approach that prioritizes simpler issues before delving into more complex problems. Begin by checking for vacuum leaks, as these can significantly impact engine performance and are often straightforward to detect. Next, inspect the spark plugs; worn or faulty plugs can lead to misfiring, which is a common cause of rough idling. If these components are in good condition, turn your attention to the EGR valve, as a malfunction here can disrupt the air-fuel mixture and contribute to idle issues. Additionally, the Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor is vital for maintaining the correct air-to-fuel ratio, so ensure it is clean and functioning properly, as contamination can lead to erratic idling. If the rough idle persists, consider investigating the camshaft magnets, as diagnostic trouble codes related to these components may indicate more serious underlying issues that require further diagnosis. By systematically addressing these potential causes, you can effectively identify and resolve the rough idle problem in your vehicle.

What Are the Common Causes of Rough Idle in a Mercedes-Benz E350?

When diagnosing a rough idle in a Mercedes-Benz E350, it's essential to consider several common problems that may be affecting the vehicle's performance. One of the primary culprits is a vacuum leak, which can disrupt the air-fuel mixture and lead to an unstable idle. Additionally, worn or faulty spark plugs can cause misfires, resulting in a rough running engine. Ignition coil issues are also prevalent, as they can prevent the spark plugs from firing correctly. Furthermore, engine misfires can stem from problems with the ignition system, including faulty wires or coils. If the vehicle experiences poor idle after a cold start, it may indicate issues with the glow plugs or fuel injectors, particularly if the spray patterns are irregular. Lastly, fluctuations in air intake or irregular ignition timing can exacerbate rough idling. By understanding these common causes, DIY enthusiasts can better diagnose and address the rough idle issues in their Mercedes-Benz E350, ensuring smoother operation and improved performance.

Why is a Rough Idle in a Mercedes-Benz E350 a Cause for Urgent Attention?

A rough idle in your Mercedes-Benz E350 should not be taken lightly, as it can signal serious underlying problems that require immediate attention. Ignoring this symptom can lead to a cascade of issues, including diminished engine performance and decreased fuel efficiency, which can ultimately affect your driving experience. Moreover, a rough idle may indicate that critical engine components are under stress, potentially leading to more severe damage and costly repairs down the line. By addressing the rough idle promptly, you not only safeguard your vehicle's performance but also enhance its longevity, ensuring that it remains reliable for years to come. Therefore, if you notice your E350 idling roughly, it’s crucial to investigate the cause and take action before the situation escalates into a more significant problem.

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