2021 Mercedes-Benz E450 Has A Check Engine Light

Troubleshooting the Check Engine Light in Your 2021 Mercedes-Benz E450: Common Causes and Solutions

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Reviewed by
Aisha
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
40% chance it's the
Emissions System
0%
60% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a 2021 Mercedes-Benz E450 has a check engine light are an emissions system component, a sensor, or a catalytic converter.
  • Emissions System: A faulty emissions system component, such as an oxygen sensor or EGR valve, can lead to increased emissions and trigger the check engine light.
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 2021 Mercedes-Benz E450 has a check engine light?

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.

A faulty oxygen sensor is one of the most common causes of a check engine light. Symptoms may include a decrease in fuel mileage, hesitation or misfiring from the engine, rough idling or even stalling. A faulty sensor may cause the vehicle to fail an emissions test.

Any time there is an emissions fault the check engine light will be displayed. The purpose of the check engine light is to inform the driver that an emission related fault has been found, and that there are on-board diagnostic (OBD) trouble codes stored in the powertrain or engine control module. Additionally, since the emissions systems are so intertwined into engine control and transmission control systems, symptoms may include nearly any sort of drivability concerns. This may include harsh shifting, failure to shift, hesitation on acceleration, jerking, engine failure to start or run, loss of power, or any number of other drivability issues.

Due to the nature of electrical systems on modern vehicles, the range of problems these can cause are nearly limitless. However, there is a way to categorize them in two ways. Permanent and intermittent problems. Permanent problems appear and remain. This may be the vehicle will not start, the radio does not work, or the door chime will not turn off among many, many others. These problems are more straight-forward to diagnose since they present themselves at all time. This means there will always be a fault to find. Intermittent electrical problems, however, can be difficult or impossible to locate, since they appear then disappear without warning. The best case scenario for an intermittent issue is when replicating the problem is easily accomplished and understood. This allows a technician to make an issue semi-permanent, allowing them to find the fault. Other issues that come and go without warning and cannot be replicated on demand must occur when the technician is servicing the vehicle, otherwise there is no problem to correct. It is most important to understand that electrical system faults always require inspection, and can include the vehicle working in any manner, or not working at all.

Like we noted in the last section, general diagnosis symptoms are the most vague of the bunch. There are several diagnostic spectrums, electrical diagnosis, drivability diagnostics, engine diagnostics, transmission diagnostics, and the list could continue for about 5 or 10 more spectrums of diagnostics. The most important take-away here, is that general diagnostics are diagnostics that have no other spectrum in which they fit, or the problem is unknown. This means that any vehicle left outside of a repair facility with the keys and an authorization to perform diagnosis will be diagnosed under the general diagnosis spectrum.

When the Check Engine Light comes on, you may experience engine performance issues such as poor acceleration, rough idling, or an engine that won't start. In some cases, no abnormal symptoms will be experienced. Other systems like the transmission or ABS can cause the Check Engine Light to illuminate and lights for those systems can come on at the same time. Similar lights may say "Check Engine Soon", "Malfunction Indicator Light" or just "Check". In rare case the engine can overheat.

What are the initial diagnostic steps to take for a check engine light on a 2021 Mercedes-Benz E450?

When faced with a check engine light on your 2021 Mercedes-Benz E450, it's essential to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach. Begin by visually inspecting the gas cap, as a loose or damaged cap is a common culprit that can easily trigger the warning light. Next, take a moment to review your dashboard for any additional warning indicators or messages that may provide further insight into the issue. Utilizing an OBD-II scanner is a crucial step; by connecting it to your vehicle's diagnostic port, you can retrieve specific error codes that will help identify the underlying problem. Pay attention to any unusual symptoms your vehicle may be exhibiting, such as rough idling or poor acceleration, as these can offer valuable clues. Finally, consulting your owner's manual can provide tailored information regarding the check engine light and recommended troubleshooting steps. By following this structured approach, you can effectively gather the necessary information to diagnose and address the issue with confidence.

What are the common problems that could cause the check engine light to illuminate in a 2021 Mercedes-Benz E450?

When the check engine light comes on in your 2021 Mercedes-Benz E450, it can be a source of concern, but understanding the common problems that may cause this warning can empower you to take action. One frequent culprit is a loose gas cap, which can disrupt the fuel system's pressure and trigger the light. Another common issue is a faulty oxygen sensor, which plays a crucial role in monitoring exhaust emissions and fuel efficiency; if it malfunctions, it can lead to increased emissions and reduced performance. Additionally, problems with the catalytic converter, such as blockages or inefficiencies, can also illuminate the check engine light, indicating that the exhaust system needs attention. Worn or faulty spark plugs can cause misfires, leading to engine performance issues and triggering the light as well. Furthermore, a malfunctioning mass airflow sensor can disrupt the air-fuel mixture, affecting engine performance and efficiency. Lastly, issues with the ignition coil can lead to misfires and poor engine performance, resulting in the check engine light being activated. While some of these issues may be simple fixes, others may require professional diagnosis and repair, so it's essential to assess the situation carefully.

How urgent is it to address the check engine light on a 2021 Mercedes-Benz E450?

When the check engine light illuminates on your 2021 Mercedes-Benz E450, it is essential to recognize the urgency of the situation. This warning light is not merely a nuisance; it signals potential issues within the engine or emissions system that could escalate if left unaddressed. Ignoring this alert can lead to decreased fuel efficiency and may cause significant damage to engine components, which can result in costly repairs down the line. Moreover, some issues indicated by the check engine light may pose safety risks, making it imperative to act swiftly. For those inclined to take a DIY approach, it is advisable to start by using an OBD-II scanner to retrieve diagnostic trouble codes, which can provide insight into the specific problem. However, while DIY diagnostics can be helpful, it is crucial to consult a qualified mechanic or dealership for a thorough evaluation and resolution of any underlying issues. By addressing the check engine light promptly, you not only safeguard your vehicle's performance and longevity but also ensure a safer driving experience.

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