When working with foreign cars such as a Mercedes, it is essential that you are able to recognize early warning signs that may indicate your car is in need of repair or maintenance. This can ensure that your vehicle stays in tip-top shape to keep you on the road and out of the shop. In this article, we will learn about tips to identify issues within a V12 engine of a Mercedes.
Common Issues with the V12 Engine
If you are the owner of a Mercedes with a V12 engine, it is important that you are able to recognize the most common issues that may occur with your vehicle. This will enable you to quickly identify the source of the problem and bring it to a shop for repairs. Here are some of the most common issues with the V12 engine:
Hydraulic Fluid Leak
This is a concerning sign of vehicle malfunction and diminished performance. A hydraulic fluid leak can occur for many different reasons. Luckily, this is easy to identify, as you will notice liquid leaking out of the car and even pooling on the ground below your vehicle. Hydraulic fluid is easy to identify as it has an amber hue.
Engine Misfiring
For any vehicle operator, especially the owner of a trusted Mercedes, engine stalling or misfiring can be unsettling symptoms to encounter. A faulty mass airflow sensor (caused by vacuum leaks or a clogged air filter), clogged fuel injectors, or even a blown gasket can cause the engine to misfire. While a rare misfire is nothing to stress about, frequent ones are an indicator that you should take it to professionals as soon as possible.
Engine Overheating
There are many reasons your V12 engine could overheat. Leaking coolant, a blown gasket, or any number of various malfunctions can result in the engine of your car overheating. No matter the reason, it is critical to bring your car to a professional shop right away, as it could result in engine failure if left untreated. Some fixes for engine overheating can take place in as little as ten minutes.
Common Causes of V12 Engine
Engine issues can occur for a huge variety of reasons, which is why it is important to practice safe driving methods, especially with an engine as powerful as a V12.
Because your Mercedes is powerful and fun to drive, it is easy to succumb to driving practices that may be causing additional wear and tear on the engine. In particular, it is common for brake pads to be worn down faster than normal due to the extra strain of braking with such a powerful engine. If you hear or notice a squeal or loud noise when braking, get your brakes checked or replaced right away. Some other common causes to these issues include:
Damage to the Active Body Control System. The Active Body Control System is a huge part of what makes Mercedes special, and damaging it can both negatively impact the driver experience as well as cause damage to the vehicle itself. Most often, damage to this system can cause hydraulic fluid to leak.
A faulty oil pressure switch can also become a problem. The oil pressure switch in a Mercedes with a V12 engine is often responsible for any of the major runnability issues, which include misfires, failure of oxygen sensors, and can even cause the check engine light to turn on.
What to do if Your Vehicle Encounters these Problems
If you own a Mercedes with a V12 engine and are encountering any of the problems listed above, your best bet is to get it serviced with a professional.
Germany’s Best Inc services European cars in Berkeley, Emeryville, Piedmont, and Oakland, CA. At Germany’s Best, our experienced German mechanics are able to quickly and cost-effectively identify and fix any issues with foreign cars, and Mercedes are no exception.
Our shop features ASE-certified technicians and has been masterfully serving those in the California area for over 25 years. Using the latest tools, equipment, and technologies, our technicians are able to provide stellar service that is rarely found elsewhere. Call us today to make a convenient appointment. We look forward to earning your patronage.