Mercedes-Benz Problems
RepairPal has identified the most common problems for 165 Mercedes-Benz models based on complaints from actual vehicle owners. We'll tell you what the problem is and what it'll take to fix it.
Switches for the vanity mirror light above the sun visor fail; there is an updated switch for some models. On the remaining models, due to a redesign, the mirror "cassette" will need replacement.
On high mileage vehicles, rear spring wear may cause the rear end to sag.
PSE system, voice control module, or Tele Aid module failure can cause a lack of audio. These same modules can also cause dead battery conditions when they fail to "time out." Many electronic control modules are active even when the engine is off. If these modules stay active, they will drain the battery, which is why they have a timer built into the modules. The timer shuts down the modules after a preset amount of time (timing out). If a module does not time out, it will stay active and drain the battery.
Oil feed tubes break and fall into the crankcase (engine) and the tappet becomes noisy (ticking), resulting in degraded idle quality. Our technicians recommend replacing all of the tubes at the same time, broken or not.
Oil pressure switches leak and allow oil to migrate up through the wire harness, potentially damaging all the sensors that connect to the harness.
Instrument cluster lenses break easily.
Internal leaks and a stuck level control valve can cause problems with the load leveling suspension in the rear; the vehicle may ride harshly.
Fuel leaks, erratic or rough engine operation, and fuel economy issues can be caused by the failure of a fuel system component called the EHA (electro-hydraulic actuator) valve.
Position switches for the vario roof can fail, causing the roof to stop in the process of opening or closing.
This vehicle has sensotronic brake control (SBC). If the SBC light on the dash illuminates, have the brakes checked. If the SBC is not working, limited brake pressure is delivered to the front brakes, increasing the distance it takes to stop. The SBC hydraulic unit has a specific service life programmed into the control module. Follow the manufacturer's recommended service procedure for proper maintenance of the SBC.