Mercedes-Benz E550 Has Rough Idle

Diagnosing the Causes of Rough Idle in Your Mercedes-Benz E550 and How to Restore Smooth Performance

Find Repair Location
Reviewed by
Andrew Hajjar
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 E550 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 E550 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.

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.

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 E550

When troubleshooting a rough idle in your Mercedes-Benz E550, it's essential to adopt a methodical diagnostic approach. Start by checking for engine misfires, as these can often be felt as vibrations while the vehicle is stationary. If you notice any irregularities, proceed to inspect the throttle position sensor for error codes, particularly P0120 or similar, which may indicate a malfunction requiring replacement. Next, examine the Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor, as a dirty or faulty sensor can disrupt the air-fuel mixture, leading to idle issues. If the check engine light is illuminated, utilize an OBD-II scanner to retrieve fault codes that can guide your troubleshooting efforts. Additionally, testing the O2 sensor is crucial, as its failure can also contribute to rough idling; live readings can help assess its performance. Finally, consider temporarily increasing the idle RPM to 1500 to monitor misfire counts, which can provide further insights into the problem. By following this structured approach, you can effectively identify and resolve the rough idle issue in your vehicle.

Troubleshooting Rough Idle Issues in a Mercedes-Benz E550

When troubleshooting rough idle issues in a Mercedes-Benz E550, it's crucial to recognize the common problems that may be affecting your vehicle's performance. Sensor failures, particularly in the throttle body or throttle position sensor, are frequent culprits that can disrupt the engine's ability to maintain a smooth idle. Additionally, a clogged air filter can impede airflow, leading to struggles during idle. The Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor is another vital component to examine; if it becomes contaminated or malfunctions, it can inaccurately assess the air-to-fuel ratio, worsening idle conditions. By understanding these common issues, you can methodically inspect each part, allowing you to tackle the root causes of rough idle rather than merely addressing the symptoms. This thorough approach not only saves you time and effort but also deepens your knowledge of your vehicle's mechanics, helping you keep your Mercedes-Benz E550 running smoothly.

Why is a Rough Idle in a Mercedes-Benz E550 Urgent to Address?

A rough idle in your Mercedes-Benz E550 is not just an annoyance; it signals potential underlying issues that require immediate attention. Ignoring this symptom can lead to serious engine health problems, such as vacuum leaks or faulty spark plugs, which may escalate into costly repairs if left unaddressed. Additionally, a rough idle can significantly impact your vehicle's performance, resulting in decreased fuel efficiency and power output, making your driving experience less enjoyable and more expensive. Safety is another critical concern; a rough idle could indicate more severe mechanical failures that might compromise your vehicle's reliability on the road. By addressing the issue promptly, you not only enhance your vehicle's performance and safety but also prevent further damage that could lead to expensive repairs down the line. Timely maintenance is key to ensuring the longevity and efficiency of your Mercedes-Benz E550, making it essential to take a rough idle seriously.

You’ve got options with RepairPal

Whether you need a more accurate auto repair estimate or help finding a reputable shop in your area, we’ve got you covered.

Mercedes-Benz E550 Rough Idle Causes & Repairs | RepairPal