Gas smell at all times. Greater smell when stored. Engine light came on. Took to the dealer, charged $4,000 to repair.

- Houston, TX, USA

My check engine like came on and I took the car to the dealership to trouble shoot the problem. I was told that the "balance shaft gear" needed to be replaced and that it would cost $5,500 minimum. I have since then learned that this is a defective part that has effected literally thousands of M272 engines that Mercedes Benz knowingly used even after learning that the metal components of this very important part of the cars engine would not last. The part typically fails after the manufacturer's warranty and therefore is not covered by the dealership or Mercedes Benz. A class action suit was filed in 2011 and the judge in the case failed to rule in favor of the consumer. I have read where when this defective part fails it can certainly cause a dangerous situation for passengers in the automobile. Many owners have described the failure of this part as failing while driving at highway speeds when the engine and steering are severely affected.

- Lutherville, MD, USA

Purchased certified pre-owned car in June 2012. On or about Feb 2013, car started having illuminating odor in the cabin that resembled fuel or anti-freeze. Garage and car odor was so bad it actually entered my home and I had to leave the garage door open to ventilate. Went on line and found other owners exhibiting exact defect. Took vehicle to Mercedes dealer and was informed that a leak from the fuel tank was the cause and it was not from damage but from the sending unit and lines. The dealer informs me that the repair is not covered under the warranty and that it will cost $2100 to fix. After reading the warranty and contacting Mercedes directly, I contacted the dealer and informed them that it is a covered item and they should make the repair as a warrantied item. They re-checked with Mercedes and called me back and stated that they had "did something in the system to make it reject" and it is a covered repair and will be fixed under the warranty. I am making this complaint because I believe that the replacement unit will be the same oem part that has not been modified to solve this failure from duplicating later.

- San Antonio, TX, USA

When I fill up my gas tank, there is a strong fuel odor. After driving about 30 miles the odor goes away. Took it to the dealer and it was a crack in the upper portion of the fuel tank. This looks to be the exact same issue as many other E350 owners. Total cost for the repair was $2,100. Additionally my check engine light comes on and off randomly. Dealership said it was the camshaft adjusters that need to be replaced. Again, seems to be issues with numerous other owners. My Jeep which was half the price has had less problems than my 2007 E350.

- San Diego, CA, USA