2012 Mercedes-benz R350 problems

General information about Mercedes-benz-R350
Overview of popular issues
Recalls list

The Mercedes-Benz R-Class is a large luxury MPV introduced by Mercedes-Benz in 2005 for the 2006 model year. Following the success of the smaller A- and B-Class MPVs, Mercedes in collaboration with coachbuilder Stola presented a concept vehicle, Vision GST (Grand Sports Tourer), at the 2002 Detroit Auto Show and a second one, Vision R presented at the 2004 Detroit Auto Show, subsequently introducing the production version at 2005 New York International Auto Show. The R-Class was manufactured in Vance, Alabama until 2015 when its production was shifted to Mishawaka, Indiana for a smaller volume production until 2017.

The R-Class (W251) shared its platform with the M-Class (W164) and GL-Class (X164) and was available in two wheelbase lengths: standard 2,980 mm (117.3 in) and long 3,215 mm (126.6 in). The R-Class was sold in the United States and Canada in long wheelbase only. The R-Class in both standard and long wheelbases were sold internationally until the end of 2013 with exception of China where R 320 and R 400 with long wheelbase continued to be sold until 2017.

Updates

2007 changes

Mercedes-Benz announced in May 2007 that the R-Class model range would be expanded with more engine options and availability of rear-wheel-drive system for selected models in addition to 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system. A new smaller 3-litre V6 was available in both petrol and diesel versions. The seating options became more flexible, offering five, six, or seven seats. AMG styling option was added to the extensive list of standard and extra-cost options.

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Common 2012 Mercedes-benz R350 problems

Based on complaints from owners of the Mercedes-Benz R350 2012, several common problems have been identified:

Vibration Through Centre Floor:
- Owners have reported feeling a heavy vibration on the floor of the car running through the middle. This issue is caused by cracked or shredded driveshaft flex discs, leading to dramatic movement of the driveshaft. If not addressed promptly, it can result in serious damage to the driveshaft center support bearing, transmission, and differential.
Screeching While Steering (R350):
- A screeching noise is heard when turning the steering wheel, especially louder when the car is stationary. This noise is typically caused by a crack in the power steering fluid reservoir or the seal between the reservoir and the power steering pump. Replacing the reservoir, seal, and bleeding the air out of the system is necessary to resolve this issue.
Creaking Noise from the Front:
- Owners have reported a creaking noise coming from the front of the car while driving, attributed to poorly designed ball joints. Mercedes has updated the design of these joints, and replacement parts can be ordered to address this issue.
Turbo Problems:
- The actuator on the turbo is prone to failure in the Mercedes-Benz R350 2012. Symptoms include engine warning messages on the dashboard and intermittent power loss during acceleration. Addressing this issue may involve replacing the actuator or even the entire turbo, which can be costly.
Rust Issues:
- Early signs of rust have been noted in specific areas like the bottom of the boot lid and doors. It is crucial to address this problem promptly to prevent further spread. Treating the affected areas by rubbing down, treating, and painting with the correct paint can help mitigate rust damage.
Front Springs Cracking:
- Front springs in the R350 2012 are prone to cracking, leading to a knocking noise from the front suspension while driving. Replacing the front springs, preferably both at the same time, is recommended to rectify this issue.
MAF Sensor Failure:
- The Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor is known to fail in the R350 2012, resulting in poor acceleration and power loss while driving. Cleaning the MAF sensor with MAF sensor cleaner may help, but if the issue persists, replacing the sensor is necessary.

These common problems reported by owners of the Mercedes-Benz R350 2012 highlight various mechanical and functional issues that may require attention to ensure the vehicle's optimal performance and longevity.

Is the R350 reliable?

The probability of a repair being a severe or major issue is 18% for the Mercedes-Benz R350, compared to an average of 19% for luxury fullsize SUVs and 12% for all vehicle models. The average total annual cost for unscheduled repairs and maintenance across all model years of a vehicle.

What is the fuel economy of a 2012 R350 Bluetec?

Performance & mpg

EPA-estimated fuel economy is 16 mpg city/21 mpg highway and 18 mpg combined. The R350 Bluetec 4Matic comes with a turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 diesel that produces 210 hp and 400 lb-ft of torque.

What engine is in R350?

3.5-liter V6 gasoline

The R-Class is offered in two versions: the R350 and the new R320 BlueTEC. The R350 is powered by a 268-hp 3.5-liter V6 gasoline engine, while the R320 gets a 210-hp 3.0-liter turbo-diesel V6, featuring BlueTEC clean diesel technology for enhanced fuel efficiency.

What is the mileage of Mercedes R350 petrol?

Mercedes-Benz R-Class R350 4MATIC Summary

64.29 Lakh. It gives a mileage of 8.4 kmpl.

2012 Mercedes-benz R350 complaints

The NHTSA has received 0 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2012 Mercedes-benz R350.

You can leave your car complaint via the special form below.

2012 Mercedes-benz R350 recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 2012 Mercedes-benz R350.

2024-04-26

Manufacturer: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC
Park It: 1
Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:POWER ASSIST:VACUUM
Summary: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2006-2012 ML, GL, and R-Class vehicles. Please refer to MBUSA's recall report for specific vehicle model details. Moisture may accumulate and cause corrosion in the brake booster housing unit, which can result in reduced brake performance or brake failure.
Consequence: Reduced brake performance or brake failure can increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Owners are advised not to drive their vehicles until the remedy has been performed. Dealers will remove the rubber sleeve, inspect the brake booster, and as necessary, replace the brake booster. All repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on May 24, 2024. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MMUSA's number for this recall is 2024050001/2. This recall is an expansion of previous recall number 22V-315.

2022-05-09

Manufacturer: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC
Park It: 1
Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:POWER ASSIST:VACUUM
Summary: Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC (MBUSA) is recalling certain 2006-2012 ML-Class, GL-Class, and R-Class vehicles. Please refer to MBUSA's recall report for specific vehicle model details. Moisture may accumulate and cause corrosion in the brake booster housing unit, which can result in reduced brake performance or brake failure.
Consequence: Reduced brake performance or brake failure can increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Owners are advised not to drive their vehicles until the remedy has been performed. Dealers will remove the rubber sleeve, inspect the brake booster, and as necessary, replace the brake booster. All repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 30, 2022. Owners may contact MBUSA customer service at 1-800-367-6372. MBUSA's numbers for this recall are 2022050014, 2022050015 2022090006, & 2022090007.

Additional sources

More sources of information about 2012 Mercedes-benz R350 problems:

2012 Mercedes-Benz R350 Problems and Complaints - 4 Issues

https://repairpal.com/2012-mercedes-benz-r350/problems

Problem with your 2012 Mercedes-Benz R350? Our list of 4 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 2012 Mercedes-Benz R350.

Any Problems with the R350? Think about buying a used one ...

https://www.benzworld.org/threads/any-problems-with-the-r350-think-about-buying-a-used-one.1630368/

Jan 14, 2012 ... The most potentially costly is the R350, which has what is termed a 'balance shaft' issue. In fact, if the issue occurs, it is a$5-7k cost.

Mercedes-Benz R350 Problems and Complaints - 12 Issues

https://repairpal.com/problems/mercedes-benz/r350

Top Mercedes-Benz R350 Problems · Camshaft Adjuster Solenoid Failure · Internal Component Failure May Cause Rough Shifting · Engine Performance Problems Due to ...