Why is my car always in S mode. Always starts in 1st gear even if it shows E

What is your question?

My car is a 2013, E 350 Bluetec. I had the same hard shifting as as others mentioned since the car has had about 3k miles on it. Now it gas 12k, it has been to the dealer 3 times for it. This last time they took my transmission apart, and it appears to be better. Since this last time the car is always starting in 1st gear. Even when I first start the car, or put it manually min E mode....apparently I lost E mode, and dealer is telling me that always starting in 1st is normal. In that case what is the point for the E button? Would appreciate any feedback!