2021 Mercedes-benz Amg e53 problems

General information about Mercedes-benz-Amg e53
Overview of popular issues
Analysis of common problems
Сomplaints list
Recalls list

The W213 Mercedes-Benz E-Class is the fifth-generation of the Mercedes-Benz E-Class. Sold from 2016 (as a 2017 model), it is the successor to the W212/S212 E-Class models. The coupe/convertible models share the same platform as the sedan/wagon, in contrast to the previous generation. The high-performance Mercedes-AMG E 63 and E 63 S versions of the W213 have been available as well from 2016 (as a 2017 model), and these are the only versions with V8 engines.

Since the mid 1990s, the Mercedes-Benz E-Class has been equipped with quad headlights and a differentiated design compared to the C-Class and S-Class. With the 2017 model, Mercedes decided to take a more streamlined direction, first seen with the 2014 E-Class mid-generational refresh and then going in an entirely new direction with the all-new 2017 model.

Launched in spring 2016 following a world debut at the 2016 North American International Auto Show in January, the 2017 E-Class was the most technologically advanced car Mercedes had ever produced at the time. This current generation of the Mercedes E-Class has won many plaudits from automotive publications, including the 2021 Motor Trend Car of the Year, the first time Mercedes-Benz has ever won this award.

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Common 2021 Mercedes-benz Amg e53 problems

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz AMG E53 is a powerful and luxurious vehicle, but like any other car, it has its share of common problems reported by owners.

One of the issues that owners have reported is related to the powertrain. The 2021 Mercedes-Benz AMG E53 is equipped with a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-6 with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system, which produces a combined output of 429 hp and 384 lb-ft of torque.

Another issue that has been reported by owners is related to the steering wheel controls. The 2021 Mercedes-Benz AMG E53 comes with a new steering wheel that has 22 individual touch-sensitive controllers and two sliders on its four spokes. While this design may look sleek and modern, it can be frustrating to use, especially when trying to adjust the cruise control or access the infotainment system. Some owners have reported that the controls can be unresponsive or difficult to use, which can be a safety hazard while driving.

In addition to these issues, the 2021 Mercedes-Benz AMG E53 has also been subject to several recalls. One of the recalls is related to the starter motor positive cable, which may not have been installed correctly, potentially allowing the power supply harness wires to chafe. This can cause a short circuit and increase the risk of a fire.

Finally, some owners have reported issues with the rear seat belt automatic locking retractors, which may deactivate early. This can prevent the child restraint system from securing properly, which can be a safety hazard for young passengers.

In terms of maintenance and reliability, the 2021 Mercedes-Benz AMG E53 is generally considered to be less reliable than the regular E-class, such as the E350. However, the m256 engine, which is used in the E53, has little to no issues, and ongoing maintenance can help ensure the car's longevity. It is worth noting that AMG models are inherently more expensive to maintain due to their high-performance components and specialized service requirements.

In summary, the 2021 Mercedes-Benz AMG E53 is a powerful and luxurious vehicle that has some common problems reported by owners, including a muffled exhaust note, frustrating steering wheel controls, and several recalls related to the powertrain and safety systems. While the car may be less reliable than the regular E-class, ongoing maintenance can help ensure its longevity. However, it is worth noting that AMG models are inherently more expensive to maintain due to their high-performance components and specialized service requirements.

Is the E53 any good?

Merc's lower-tier AMG E-Class is anything but lower tier. The E53 brings stealthy performance (rather than OTT showy-ness) to the table with a properly gorgeous engine and the appropriate soundtrack, for £30k less than the E63.

Does E53 AMG have air suspension?

The E53 strikes a peculiar balance between the rip-snorting E63 and the docile E450. We would select the cabriolet and save the hard-top coupe and sedan for those concerned more with raw performance. Standard air suspension, 12.3-inch digital instrument panel, and all-wheel drive make most options superfluous.

Is the E53 a real AMG?

Overview. After briefly going MIA, the 2025 Mercedes-AMG E53 high-performance sedan returns packing a potent plug-in hybrid powertrain.

What is the mileage of E53 AMG?

11.7 kmpl

Mercedes-Benz AMG E53 mileage is 11.7 kmpl.

2021 Mercedes-benz Amg e53 car problems categorized by type of issue

After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Mercedes-benz Amg e53 problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:

Forward collision avoidance problems
Unknown or other problems
Power train problems
Electrical system problems
Engine problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 2021 Mercedes-benz Amg e53 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

2021 Mercedes-benz Amg e53 complaints

The NHTSA has received 5 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2021 Mercedes-benz Amg e53.

2023-07-24

POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2023-06-30
VIN: W1KZF6BB5MA
Components: POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
Summary: Was driving the car when it gave me a -48v malfunction. This was quickly followed by an overheat warning to turn the car off. It appears to be an issue with the -48v battery. Still waiting to hear what root cause is as MBUSA has had the car for 24 days and counting without many answers.

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2022-12-15

SEAT BELTS,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2022-06-02
VIN: W1KZF6BB7MA
Components: SEAT BELTS,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
Summary: What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? Automatic Emergency Braking / Selt Belt Pretensioner. Car can be inspected at dealer during a scheduled service if needed. How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? I was driving on a local road (paved, no painted road markings, some small cracks/pot holes but all minor) that I frequently drive without issue. This time as I was coming out of a minor left-hand curve and about 30 meters from a slightly sharper right hand turn the Automatic Emergency Braking warning light activated, as well as the warning alarm, and the Seal Belt Pretensioner engaged and yanked me (driving) back (as it would if the vehicle was preparing for a collision. However, the vehicle never activated the brakes to slow the vehicle and the warning light and alarm deactivated and the seat belt released the tension. There were no vehicles coming from the other direction, no animals or pedestrians in sight. There is a utility pole located about 2-3ft off the right side of the road near this area. I've now had this occur two more times (three total) in the same location driving in the same direction. Twice I was the only occupant, and once there were two occupants, one in the driver's seat and one in the passenger seat (the Seat Belt Pretensioner activated for both occupants). Safety Issue: Automatic Emergency Braking System activating unexpectedly and unnecessarily. When Automatic Emergency Braking System is activated the Seat Belt Pretensioner activates and forcefully restrains the occupant (as I assume it should the vehicle expects a collision or harsh braking). This is very surprising and distracting for the driver (and in one instance also a passenger, who afterwards said they remarked they felt like it almost gave them a heart attack). This can lead to an accident given the unexpectedness. Additionally, the brakes never engaged or slowed the vehicle in any of the three instances.

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2022-05-01

UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2022-04-01
VIN: W1K1K6BB9MF
Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Summary: The doors are very Heavy and it is difficult to get it to stay open. Additionally if the car is on a slight uphill and the door is fully open, the door tends to start closing and is not held in place-it becomes very dangerous if you are stating to get out of the car.The door is so heavy that a leg can get caught and broken I have advise Mercedes of this problem but they tell me that the tension is not adjustable It is very dangerous getting both in and out even wee on a flat surface and much more dangerous on the slighted of inclines

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2021-09-02

UNKNOWN OR OTHER,BACK OVER PREVENTION PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2021-09-02
VIN: W1KZF6BB7MA
Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER,BACK OVER PREVENTION
Summary: Car displays blank screen when transmission is placed in reverse with the words in RED: "System Inoperative".

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2020-11-06

FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2020-11-04
VIN: 4JGFD6BB7MA
Components: FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
Summary: WHILE GOING 45 MPH ON A CLEAR FOUR LANE SMOOTH BLACKTOP CITY STREET THE CAR CAME TO A COMPLETE EMERGENCY STOP. A RED TRIANGLE APPEARED ON THE DASH BUT BECAUSE OF THE STARTLING NATURE I COULD NOT REMEMBER EXACTLY WHERE. THERE WAS NO APPARENT REASON FOR THIS EMERGENCY STOP, THIS STREET WAS FAMILIAR AND HAD BEEN DRIVEN DAILY FOR OVER THIRTY YEARS. IF THIS HAD HAPPENED ON THE FREEWAY AT FREEWAY SPEEDS THIS COULD HAVE BEEN A DISASTER.

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2021 Mercedes-benz Amg e53 recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 15 recalls for different components of the 2021 Mercedes-benz Amg e53.

2024-06-14

Manufacturer: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC
Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING
Summary: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2019-2021 CLS 53 4MATIC, 2019-2023 E 53 4MATIC Cabriolet, E 53 4MATIC Coupe, E 53 4MATIC Sedan, 2021-2024 GT 43 4MATIC, and 2019-2025 GT 53 4MATIC vehicles. The transmission wiring harness connection might not have been correctly wired during a prior recall repair, and during production. which can expose the electrical connector to corrosion, and result in an electrical short-circuit.
Consequence: An electrical short circuit can increase the risk of a fire.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the two-part wiring harness and connector, free of charge. Interim letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, were mailed August 9, 2024. A second notice will be sent once the final remedy is available. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-877-496-3691. This recall supersedes recall 22V-533. Vehicles repaired under the prior recall will still need to have the new remedy performed.

2024-02-09

Manufacturer: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC
Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING
Summary: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2021-2023 CLS450, E450, E450 All-Terrain, AMG E53, AMG GT43, AMG GT53, and 2021 AMG CLS53 vehicles. The 48-volt ground cable connection located in the engine compartment may not be tightened properly and may result in the ground cable overheating.
Consequence: An overheated ground cable increases the risk of a fire.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect the 48-volt ground cable connection and repair it as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 22, 2024. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2024MMNNNN.

2023-12-21

Manufacturer: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC
Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
Summary: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2021-2024 GLE, GLS, C-Class, E-Class, S-Class, SL, GLC, CLS, AMG GT, and G-Class vehicles. Please refer to MBUSA's recall report for specific vehicle details. The fuel pump may shutdown, causing a loss of drive power.
Consequence: A loss of drive power can increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the fuel pump, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on June 28, 2024. Owner notification letters will be mailed in phases, on February 23, 2024, April 19, 2024, June 28, 2024, August 9, 2024, and October 1, 2024. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. This recall is an expansion of NHTSA recall number 23V-445.

2022-09-30

Manufacturer: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC
Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:12V/24V/48V BATTERY
Summary: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2019-2022 CLS450 Coupe and AMG E53, 2019-2021 AMG CLS53 Coupe, and 2021-2022 E450 vehicles. The 12-Volt battery in the trunk may not be properly secured, which, in the event of a crash, can cause electrical connection failure, disabling various safety features including, emergency call (eCall) system, electric seat adjustment, hazard warning lights, and automatic door locks.
Consequence: The inability to operate safety features (eCall system, hazard lights, electric seats, or automatic door locks) can increase the risk of injury during a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will secure the 12V battery, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 20, 2023. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2022100009.

2022-07-22

Manufacturer: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC
Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING
Summary: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2021-2022 AMG GT43, 2019-2022 AMG E53, E53 Coupe, E53 Cabriolet, AMG GT53, and 2019-2021 AMG CLS53 vehicles. The transmission wiring harness may be misrouted, which can expose the electrical connector to corrosion, and result in an electrical short-circuit.
Consequence: An electrical short-circuit can increase the risk of a fire.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect and repair the electrical connector, as necessary. Dealers will also reroute the harness and install an additional bracket. All repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed October 14, 2022. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2022080010.

2022-05-20

Manufacturer: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC
Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE
Summary: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2017-2022 CLA-Class, GLA-Class, GLE-Class, GLS-Class, SLC-Class, A-Class, AMG GT-Class, C-Class, E-Class, S-Class, SL-Class, GLC-Class, CLS-Class, GLB-Class, and G-Class vehicles. Please refer to MBUSA's recall report for specific vehicle model details. An error in the communication module's SIM card software can cause a mobile network connection failure, disabling the emergency call (eCall) system.
Consequence: A disabled eCall system would prevent a vehicle occupant from contacting the emergency services call center in an emergency, potentially delaying emergency responders and increasing the risk of injury.
Remedy: The communication module software will be updated through an Over-the-Air (OTA) update or by a dealer, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 8, 2022. Owner notification letters will be mailed in phases, on July 8, 2022, May 17, 2024, July 29, 2024, and September 27, 2024. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's numbers are for this recall is 2022060005 and 2023110006.

2022-03-25

Manufacturer: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC
Components: STEERING: STEERING WHEEL/HANDLE BAR
Summary: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2021-2022 C-Class, E-Class, S-Class, SL, EClass Coupe/Convertible, CLS, AMG GT 4-doors Coupe, and EQS vehicles with a heated leather steering wheel. Due to a software error in the hand detection control unit, the hands-off detection might not detect when the driver's hands are away from the steering wheel when using the Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC system.
Consequence: Deactivated hands-off detection will prevent DISTRONIC system features from functioning, including warnings to grab the steering wheel and calling first responders as part of the Active Emergency Stop Assist, which can increase the risk of a crash or injury.
Remedy: Dealers will update the hand detection control unit software for the DISTRONIC system, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed May 6, 2022. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2022040010.

2021-07-12

Manufacturer: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC
Components: AIR BAGS:SENSOR:SIDE IMPACT
Summary: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2021 CLS450, AMG E53, AMG CLS53, E350, E450, AMG GT43, AMG GT53, 2020 S450, S560, G550, AMG GLC63, 2020-2021 GLC300, and AMG G63 vehicles. The side crash sensor connectors may come loose, which could delay the activation of air bags and seatbelts during a side impact crash.
Consequence: Air bags and seatbelts that don't function as intended can increase the risk of injury during a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace as necessary, the side impact crash sensors, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on September 3, 2021. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2021070032/33.

2021-06-25

Manufacturer: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC
Components: SEAT BELTS:REAR/OTHER:RETRACTOR
Summary: Mercedes-Benz, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2021 G550, AMG G63, E350, E450, AMG CLS53, AMG E53, AMG GT43, AMG GT53, AMG GT63, 2021-2022 CLS450, and AMG E63 vehicles. The rear seat belt automatic locking retractors may deactivate early, which can prevent the child restraint system from securing properly. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."
Consequence: An unsecured child restraint system can increase the risk of injury during a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect, and replace as necessary, the rear seat belt assemblies, free of charge. Owners notified of the voluntary recall campaign by an interim letter on August 13, 2021. A final letter was mailed on September 24, 2021. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372.

2021-05-28

Manufacturer: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC
Components: SEATS:MID/REAR ASSEMBLY:HEAD RESTRAINT
Summary: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2021 C300 Cabriolet, C43 AMG Cabriolet, C63 AMG Cabriolet, C63 AMG S Cabriolet, E450 Cabriolet, and E53 AMG Cabriolet vehicles. The rear headrests may be incorrectly mounted to the seatbacks.
Consequence: Incorrectly mounted headrests could move or detach from the seat during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect the rear seatback guide bushings and replace them if necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 16, 2021. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2021060010.

2021-05-14

Manufacturer: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC
Components: BACK OVER PREVENTION: SENSING SYSTEM: CAMERA
Summary: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2019-2021 CLA-Class, GLE/GLS-Class, A-Class, E-Class, E-Class Coupe and Convertible, GLA/GLB-Class, GLC-Class, CLS-Class, and AMG GT-Class 4-door Coupe vehicles. Please refer to MBUSA's recall report for specific vehicle model details. The MBUX multimedia system software may cause the display to remain black, or reboot after startup. This could result in the rearview camera image not displaying properly. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 111, "Rear Visibility."
Consequence: A backup camera that displays a blank image reduces the driver's rear view, increasing the risk of a crash or injury.
Remedy: The multimedia system software will be updated by a dealer, or through an over-the-air (OTA) update, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed beginning June 28, 2021. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6373. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2021050012.

2021-04-01

Manufacturer: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC
Components: SEATS
Summary: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2021 C-Class, E-Class, E-Class Coupe and Convertible, GLC, CLS, AMG GT 4-door Coupe and G-Class vehicles. Please refer to MBUSA's recall report for specific vehicle model details. A faulty electrical contact within the seat position switch may prevent the driver and passenger air bags and seat belt force limiters from properly activating during a crash.
Consequence: Air bags and seat belts that do not perform properly in a crash can increase the risk of injury.
Remedy: MBUSA will notify owners, and dealers will replace the seat position switches, free of charge. Owner letters were mailed May 21, 2021. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2021040016.

2021-03-26

Manufacturer: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC
Components: SEATS
Summary: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2021 E350, E450, E450 Wagon, E63S AMG, 2020 E63S AMG Wagon, and 2020-2021 E53 AMG vehicles. The passenger seat limiter may allow the seat to be positioned too close to the air bag.
Consequence: A seat too close to the air bag increases the risk of injury in the event of a crash necessitating the deployment of the frontal passenger air bag.
Remedy: MBUSA will notify owners, and dealers will recalibrate the passenger seat limiter, free of charge. The recall began April 29, 2021. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2021040002.

2021-02-05

Manufacturer: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC
Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE
Summary: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2016 - 2021 CLA-Class, GLA-Class, GLE-Class, GLS-Class, SLC-Class, A-Class, GT-Class, C-Class, E-Class, S-Class, CLS-Class, SL-Class, B-Class, GLB-Class, GLC-Class, and G-Class vehicles. Please refer to the Part 573 report for specific vehicle model details. The software design of the communication module may fail to communicate the correct vehicle location for the emergency call system (eCall) in the event of a crash.
Consequence: Failure of the eCall system may result in emergency responders being dispatched to the wrong location, increasing the risk of injury following a crash.
Remedy: MBUSA will notify owners, and the communication module software will be updated by a dealer, or through an over-the-air (OTA) update, free of charge. The recall began March 12, 2021. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-877-762-8267. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2021020025.

2020-10-30

Manufacturer: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC.
Components: SEATS
Summary: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC. (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2021 E350 and E450, 2019-2021 AMG E53 and 2020-2021 AMG E63 vehicles. The front passenger seat may be missing the mechanical seat adjustment range limit stop, allowing the seat to move outside of the acceptable range in relation to the air bag.
Consequence: If the front passenger seat is adjusted beyond the acceptable range in relation to the air bag, there could be an increased risk of injury in the event of a crash with air bag deployment.
Remedy: MBUSA will notify owners, and dealers will inspect for the mechanical seat adjustment range limitation for the front passenger seat and install it if necessary, free of charge. The recall began December 18, 2020. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-368-6372. MBUSA's number for this recall is 2020110013.

Additional sources

More sources of information about 2021 Mercedes-benz Amg e53 problems:

New Member with AMG E53 Problem - MBWorld.org Forums

https://mbworld.org/forums/w213-amg/750679-new-member-amg-e53-problem.html

Jul 17, 2019 ... Each new car I buy I always pray hoping I wouldn't be me... As a BMW owner and that's my first Mercedes, one thing I can say for sure ... BMW ...

buying a 2019 E53 coupe - any common issues? - looking for ...

https://www.reddit.com/r/AMG/comments/xowewt/buying_a_2019_e53_coupe_any_common_issues_looking/

Sep 26, 2022 ... 48 volt system has nothing to do with performance in a gasoline motor. — am master Mercedes tech.

E53 with 48 volt battery problem - not recharging - MBWorld.org ...

https://mbworld.org/forums/w213-amg/732511-e53-48-volt-battery-problem-not-recharging.html

Jan 10, 2019 ... W213 AMG - E53 with 48 volt battery problem - not recharging - Purchased my 1st AMG Mercedes Benz about 2 weeks ago.

Is E53 AMG reliable? : r/AMG

https://www.reddit.com/r/AMG/comments/15sk9cb/is_e53_amg_reliable/

Aug 16, 2023 ... As a Benz tech I can assure you the m256 has little to no issues. ... Any other issues in the E53 ... Mercedes: famously unconcerned with ...