MotorDeets

Mercedes-Benz R500 problems, recalls & best years

The deets on every R500 from 2006 to 2008: 29 owner complaints and 4 recalls across 3 model years.

The model years with the most owner complaints are 2006 (26), 2007 (2), 2008 (1). Best fuel economy: 14 mpg combined (2007).

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Problem areas across all years

Transmission & drivetrain6
Steering6
Suspension6
Electrical5
Seats4
Brakes (hydraulic)2
Airbags2
Other / unknown2

Year by year

YearRecallsComplaintsBest mpg
200622614
20072214
200801–

Want the full repair deets? Get the factory manual.

Recall and complaint data tells you what goes wrong. A service manual tells you how to fix it: torque specs, wiring diagrams, fluid capacities and step-by-step procedures for the Mercedes-Benz R500.

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Pro-shop repair procedures, wiring diagrams and TSBs for your exact car.

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ALLDATAdiy Online access, factory OEM info

OEM procedures, specs and recall/TSB info, the same source many shops use.

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Haynes Print book or AllAccess online

Step-by-step photos written from a real teardown. Great for first-timers.

Books ~$30–$40 · AllAccess $34.99/mo
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FAQ

What is the worst year for the Mercedes-Benz R500?

The model years with the most owner complaints are 2006 (26), 2007 (2), 2008 (1).

How many recalls has the Mercedes-Benz R500 had?

Across 2006–2008, NHTSA lists 4 vehicle recall campaigns by model year (a campaign that covers several years counts once per year).