Used 2006 Mercedes-Benz R-Class Consumer Reviews
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Multiple, Major Problems
ewagg1111, 05/07/2012
2006 Mercedes-Benz R-Class R350 4dr Wagon AWD (3.5L 6cyl 7A)
72 of 73 people found this review helpful
I bought my 2006 R Class brand new in January of 2006. I have enjoyed driving the car and agree it has been the best car that fits my lifestyle, children, and hauling. However, this car has been very expensive to maintain. I have invested nearly $15K in repairs for things that were not covered under warranty. I have had to replace both the front right and left struts for $4K. The SOS system which I never used for $1,700. The seals on the transfer case for $1,100. The Cam Shaft for $5K. The airshock suspension systems for $2,100. The list goes on and on. MB USA has never stepped up to assist in any of these repairs. I doubt that I will ever buy another MB again. Don't love the car that much.
R Class V8
Stuart SM, 04/20/2017
updated 10/25/2018
2006 Mercedes-Benz R-Class R500 4dr Wagon AWD (5.0L 8cyl 7A)
36 of 36 people found this review helpful
It's been a great car. The noncommittal minivan in crossover form! Fair warning, the rear doors are quite large and require ample space to open all the way. This has been the best car I've ever driven in the snow and on ice. V8 power, get what you pay for in fuel economy. The interior is Mercedes soft and quiet, no complaints save for some flecking of the silver trim on the steering wheel. Room for days, 6 adults fit comfortably with leg room to spare, surprising I know. Update. Maintenance is funny and more expensive than even expected from a Mercedes. Many Mercedes only parts. A window switch was twice quoted at over 2k parts and labor. Also, the engine on this vintage required 2 spark plugs per cylinder- the mechanic assured me this was a very short run of that design. For the size and comfort and power we enjoyed- we would not buy again.
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Big Mistake! Least Reliable Car I've ever owned!
nolemonsplease, 08/23/2013
2006 Mercedes-Benz R-Class R350 4dr Wagon AWD (3.5L 6cyl 7A)
37 of 38 people found this review helpful
Just bought this car in March '13. The car is a 2006 with 68K miles. During the test drive everything was running smooth and we fell in love with the car, (more the interior than the exterior) The car almost looks like a Minivan but it grows on you. After 3 months of driving this used car the Transmission pooped out on us. It cost $1,500 to fix and we did not take it to the dealer (this was the cheaper mechanic option) Now the car randomly drops the left side suspension. Apparently the air shocks deflate overnight or while parked for a long time and it tilts to one side. Can't wait to find out how much new air shocks will cost but I'm assuming it will not be cheap. Gas guzzler too!
Mercedes does not stand behind product
tmerc, 02/08/2013
2006 Mercedes-Benz R-Class R350 4dr Wagon AWD (3.5L 6cyl 7A)
66 of 70 people found this review helpful
2006 Mercedes with 63,711 miles and has had all recommended service performed at the suggested mileage, including regular oil changes every 4,000 miles (synthetic oil). Car stalled without warning. Towed to Park Place Mercedes where it was diagnosed that pistons in cylinders 1 and 4 had come apart, requiring a complete engine block replacement. The cost of repair was quoted at $15,000.00. The value of the car, prior to the catastrophic event, as listed on Kelley Blue Book is $17,000.00 private sale. My expectation is that an engine on a well-maintained, vehicle should last beyond 63,711 miles, unless there are issues with quality of parts used, or the quality of the engine construction.
Love this car
Rebecca, 07/06/2016
2006 Mercedes-Benz R-Class R500 4dr Wagon AWD (5.0L 8cyl 7A)
15 of 15 people found this review helpful
I bought mine at auction so there were a few mechanical repairs needed to be made right off the bat. With those taken car of (issues with shifting and an oil leak) a few other items have come up to repair. My automatic back door broke and is no longer automatic and does not lock and one of my headlights broke electrically. Other than that, the comfort is great and it really feels like a luxury car. Anyone that rides in it loves it, there is so much leg room in the front and middle rows. It's a longer SUV than I would prefer, but I've been very happy with it.
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A second class action lawsuit is needed for R350
DL67, 02/22/2017
updated 01/10/2022
2006 Mercedes-Benz R-Class R350 4dr Wagon AWD (3.5L 6cyl 7A)
52 of 56 people found this review helpful
DO NOT BUY THE R350 !!! It is plagued with problems. To date I have spent $19k on this car and will take a full bath on it. I bought the car used almost a year ago at 97k miles for 12k. I have spent 7k in repairs and was just quoted another $8500 for the latest repair. So far we have replaced the air suspension on both sides, wheel sensors, and camshaft sensor recall. Now the balance shaft needs replacing at the cost of $8500. NO- Absolutely not!!!! There was a class action lawsuit for this exact repair. For this money I could have bough a cheaper but RELIABLE car. Mercedes should be ashamed but they wont. This car is a piece of junk. Steer clear. I am donating it to charity and writing it off on my taxes. Never again Mercedes - I was warned but didn't listen. This is the worst car experience ever in 30 years of owning cars.. Oh and the "leather" isnt even real leather - WTH???? In addition - it is almost impossible to validate needed repairs yourself - bluetooth readers don't catch all MB codes and you cant be sure if a dealer or repair shop are being honest. In our experience - a MB dealership and 2 top rated MB repair shops cherry picked the easiest,most profitable repairs and left the most significant repair on the table (the balance shaft needs replacing at the cost of $8500.) Why? Because they know that most people will draw a line at that repair and they would rather just make a few thousand in fees -rather than haggle/confront a customer over a major repair. Mercedes knows this piece of garbage is still out on the road and in used car lots - awful product. After some time has past I still stand byt this review but have more perspective. It is my opiniont that Mercedes specific repair shops and dealerships are highly aware of the problems with this vehichle and other models like it. I took the car to the top rated MB repair shop for the initial pre-purchase inspection. Only minor items noted. So I purchased. However, a year later at the same repair shop and the owner clearly stated that the model I purchased was a lemon. But he did not say that BEFORE I purchased?!?!? No - he only saw more business coming his way. Very sad. Updating again - I stand by this review - hopefully this model is fading from the market now. I will NEVER buy a Merecedes again - there are too many great reliable luxury cars out there that trump Merceds.
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R350 Major Engine Repairs
Steven Wand, 06/02/2016
2006 Mercedes-Benz R-Class R350 4dr Wagon AWD (3.5L 6cyl 7A)
27 of 29 people found this review helpful
A class action suit was settled last year for owners of 2006/2007 R350 Mercedes that experienced an major engine problem after 40-50,000 miles. Unfortunately, the local dealer ducked the obligation tell us about any recall or repair requirement, and the judge let Mercedes close out the filing date last year for owners to get reimbursements for these engine repairs. Our losses were $4500 last year and another $5000 this year.....and there were thousands of owners with this problem. For certain, as we have sworn our children, NEVER to purchase a Mercedes product, again.
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Total loss at 48k miles
lemon9697, 04/22/2012
2006 Mercedes-Benz R-Class R350 4dr Wagon AWD (3.5L 6cyl 7A)
26 of 29 people found this review helpful
I thought this car was a wonderful solution for a luxury drive with three rows of seats. That is until it had complete transmission failure at 48k miles, notwithstanding regular and expensive service at my local dealership, Autohaus on Edens. According to my independent, it has a failure in almost every major system. Neither the dealership nor Mercedes will stand behind the car and it will cost more than its blue book value to fix. Had planned on buying MBs forever. Never again!
Worst car in 35 years
guyfromtoronto, 06/29/2015
2006 Mercedes-Benz R-Class R500 4dr Wagon AWD (5.0L 8cyl 7A)
56 of 65 people found this review helpful
This car has been an ongoing nightmare since I have purchased it. The transmission has failed three times along with many electronics, engine components, water pump, oil pump, suspension three times, shocks twice, buttons, switches, wheel bearings etc.. This is nowhere near the build quality of any prior merceds I have owned. The tow truck has been such a regular to my street that the neighbors already know him. My kids scream when I attempt to dive it to take one of our other cars as they re scared to be in it and will break down again. This is the last Mercedes I will ever own. The mechanic at mercdes even told me that the cars are just terrible in the last few years. Stay far away!
Don't buy this car
Joe, 01/21/2017
2006 Mercedes-Benz R-Class R350 4dr Wagon AWD (3.5L 6cyl 7A)
7 of 7 people found this review helpful
If you want a car which will spend a great deal of time in the shop, and cost you thousands of dollars in repair bills, then this is the car for you. These cars are overly complex and prone to break down A LOT. Repairs by Mercedes Dealers are a complete scam. Dealer once tried to charge me 800 dollars to replace thermostat. A simple thermostat!! Since I have owned this vehicle the "airmatic" air suspension went out. ( $ 3,000 to $ 4,000 if Mercedes repaired it ). I opted to replace air suspension with coil spring conversion kit, cost me about $ 400. Engine started leaking oil last year, not sure how much this repair will be. Recently the transmission control module went out. I'm at the point that it may be cheaper to just junk it out and buy a Honda.
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MUST READ R500 REVIEW
rwagen, 10/26/2011
2006 Mercedes-Benz R-Class R500 4dr Wagon AWD (5.0L 8cyl 7A)
94 of 114 people found this review helpful
I am writing this to inform any potential R500 buyers out there of what to expect from this car. First the good stuff - this is the best car you will find with three row seating. It is really fast and luxurious. The V8 which they don't even offer anymore is bullet proof. It is the same engine that they have perfected over 10 years. The R350's are underpowered and there is a problem with the engine. There is a pending class action on the R350's. The gas mileage is not the best... FWY is 21 around town you will average 14-16 The 3 things that WILL need to be addressed are the transmission valvebody $2k, the airmatic shocks $1K and the rear taillights wiring $250 they WILL fail .
Chode's car
chode, 01/24/2007
2006 Mercedes-Benz R-Class R500 4dr Wagon AWD (5.0L 8cyl 7A)
11 of 12 people found this review helpful
Great car to drive. Ride is smooth without feeling floaty. Our car has the airmatic suspension. Sport mode is pretty harsh but the other two modes provide a very nice ride. Interior quality is superb. Forward visibility is excellent. Rearward visisbility is not the best, a backup camera should be standard, but it is not even available. Overall I really like it. It looks different from most other cars on the road. It is a very versitile design. In 2007 mercedes benz offered the 550 motor in some of their line ups. This car with that 550 motor would be awesome. I know the AMG version is out there, but at almost 90 grand it too much bread.
Faulty Cam gears
frustrated43, 12/31/2010
2006 Mercedes-Benz R-Class R350 4dr Wagon AWD (3.5L 6cyl 7A)
6 of 6 people found this review helpful
$6,000.00 repair bill to replace Faulty cam gears. The metal that the cam gears were made of is too soft. You will have problem in or around 65,000 miles and MB will not help you with it other then taking your $6,000. This is the worst vehicle I have ever owned in my 30 years of car ownership.
There is no other vehicle like R-class Mercedes
paxnrth, 07/02/2015
2006 Mercedes-Benz R-Class R350 4dr Wagon AWD (3.5L 6cyl 7A)
13 of 15 people found this review helpful
All cars seat the driver well, and most seat the front passenger well, but I know of no other vehicle that seats 4 or 5 more passengers behind the front seat in equal comfort. The middle two seats are large and spacious, think Business Class on an airplane. And even the two rear seats are very adequate for adults less than 6'2". With the glass Panorama roof you don't feel boxed in riding in an R-class.
Airmatic Suspension Failure
Deana J, 08/23/2010
2006 Mercedes-Benz R-Class R500 4dr Wagon AWD (5.0L 8cyl 7A)
16 of 19 people found this review helpful
I bought this vehicle new and within weeks of purchase it began displaying a warning light relating to the suspension system. I have had suspension problems over and over again with this vehicle. I had it at the Mercedes service center four times in less than 2 months this summer--each time was due to a suspension problem. I called Mercedes USA to no avail. They would promise a remedy but fail to follow through. I will not purchase another Mercedes because, in my experience, the company does not stand behind defective products.
Keep it around
brubon, 01/20/2008
2006 Mercedes-Benz R-Class R500 4dr Wagon AWD (5.0L 8cyl 7A)
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
This is the best Mercedes on the highhway for comfort and drivability. Plenty of room inside for 6 adults comfortably, and as fuel efficient as my old Acura MDX...and it's a V8. Great vehicle.
I Love it but the gas!
Busy Mom, 06/12/2010
2006 Mercedes-Benz R-Class R500 4dr Wagon AWD (5.0L 8cyl 7A)
11 of 13 people found this review helpful
I bought this vehicle to accommodate my family of 5 and that it has done! Elegant look, smooth ride, and the space/seating capacity keeps the kids from fighting. The only issue I have had with this crossover is the gas mileage. It seems I am always at the gas station! We have to stop between our frequent team practices, and I often have to stop for gas several times during the week for work and extra curricular activities. This is a real drag. And we now have to plan a gas stop into our travel time when planning out our routines. This is no fun and it takes the pleasure out of driving this family dream machine.
mercedes is a joke
RC, 10/29/2015
2006 Mercedes-Benz R-Class R350 4dr Wagon AWD (3.5L 6cyl 7A)
17 of 21 people found this review helpful
Just got out from the dealer again. this is another $1500 spend since last month I spend $4950. this R350 was purchase from the dealer 2012. the mileage was 38000, now the mileage only 53000. this pass 4 years total spend over $20000. average over $1 per mile. I don't know what happens to mercedes. seems like they have no liability to look at and respons for their problems. in fact they made more money from the customer for all their problems.
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2006 R500, Unfortunate Disaster, 74K miles
moffaman, 11/15/2012
2006 Mercedes-Benz R-Class R500 4dr Wagon AWD (5.0L 8cyl 7A)
23 of 30 people found this review helpful
I bought this car certified and have had problem after problem beginning with a water issue that caused electrical problems. Which, despite the knowledge of this problem Mercedes didn't want to admit it existed. They never fully addressed the problem until my warranty coverage was up, then they insisted we put the $7K claim through MY insurance. A few months later I had to spend $3,200 more to fix a rear suspension problem....now 60 days later I'm looking at $2,500 for a differential. I haven't even touched on the problems with the steering column, or the window switches that don't work because the entire panel simply fell out of the drivers side door one day.
Great Car!!!!
MarkC, 09/23/2005
2006 Mercedes-Benz R-Class R500 4dr Wagon AWD (5.0L 8cyl 7A)
9 of 11 people found this review helpful
So far so great. What a Vehicle. The space is positively shocking. 6 full size adults could fit in this car effortlessly. It drives like a sedan not a truck or minivan. The R500 has power to spare. Chock full of amenities. We are very pleased so far. And our dealership was great. We said so long to our over-sized SUV and have not missed it yet. This car will probably change the SUV or crossover market.
Consider the source
STJ, 05/20/2020
2006 Mercedes-Benz R-Class R500 4dr Wagon AWD (5.0L 8cyl 7A)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
Its a big engine Mercedes. To give this car a low rating due to fuel economy and pricey parts is ridiculous.You're dopes and ruining the overall value of user reviews. Been a dream car in every way.
Happy but dissapointed
douglas, 06/28/2010
2006 Mercedes-Benz R-Class R500 4dr Wagon AWD (5.0L 8cyl 7A)
17 of 23 people found this review helpful
It's a great car, I love the look of it from the front and when I got inside and test drove I fell in love and I got a great deal. First brand new car I purchased and am glad I did. So I have owned mine now for 4 years and its still drives like a brand new car .
MB lives up to its reputation
Jeremy, 10/12/2009
2006 Mercedes-Benz R-Class R500 4dr Wagon AWD (5.0L 8cyl 7A)
8 of 10 people found this review helpful
This vehicle is the first luxury car I've ever owned. I bought it under MB's CPO program in June of 09 with about 15k miles. This car is a dream come true! At first I was weary about the V8's fuel economy but I easily get 16-18 around town and 25 on the highways. Very Impressive for a car and engine of this size. It handles and brakes like a sports car! I haven't had it for long but no issues whatsoever thus far. The back seats have plenty of legroom and the panoramic roof is HUGE and never fails to impress my passengers. Overall I couldn't be more satisfied.
R350 engine problems
Andrew, 10/15/2010
2006 Mercedes-Benz R-Class R350 4dr Wagon AWD (3.5L 6cyl 7A)
54 of 80 people found this review helpful
Not many potential buyers know that the R350 with the v-6 engine has a faulty balancing camshaft gear that is prone to failure. The gear is failing impacting the timing of the engine. In order to repair it the entire engine needs to be taken out of the car and apart. Cost over $5,500. All V-6 M272,and V-8 M273 engines between 2004 and 2009 have the potential problem that results in the extensive repairs. MB USA is not honoring the repairs and there is a class action complaint in process. Think twice about buying a used Mercedes Benz. You may be for a $5,500 surprise even if the car has 50,000 miles on it.
A Tour DeForce
Kirk Bryan, 05/18/2010
2006 Mercedes-Benz R-Class R500 4dr Wagon AWD (5.0L 8cyl 7A)
9 of 12 people found this review helpful
I bought this with 70,000 miles and it drives like new. The comfort is incredible. The multicontour seats fit like a glove. The armrests and steering wheel are in the perfect position. The head rest doesn't push my head down to my chest like all the new cars do. The sound system is the best I have ever heard. I keep finding more features to use. The mileage better than most smaller v6 SUVs. None of the problems some people talk about. Too bad the economy forces me to sell it.
No problems-Great Car
Serving us well, 06/06/2009
2006 Mercedes-Benz R-Class R350 4dr Wagon AWD (3.5L 6cyl 7A)
5 of 6 people found this review helpful
We bought this car early of "07" and have driven it from the Canadian line to the gulf of Mexico. Driving in winter blizzards and southern frog floaters. Avg gas mileage for hwy- 23to24 mpg. City-19 mpg. Great touring car, for its size it handles very well. What little warranty work we have had done, we have done it when its time for service. If this car keeps performing like this in the future, MB will have good success.
Best car I ever had
caygirl, 11/23/2006
2006 Mercedes-Benz R-Class R500 4dr Wagon AWD (5.0L 8cyl 7A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
I have had the BMW X5, and 325Ci and the Porsche Cayenne, and this is the best car I have had by far. It is practical, comfortable, and well appointed. My husband has the Mercedes S class and is happy to get in and drive it with our two kids in the back and nanny or other passenger in the third row. Everyone is happy and comfy. I strongly recommend this car if you need seating for more than 4. Fast too. Caveat: Parktronic is a must!
Great car
sgg, 05/12/2007
2006 Mercedes-Benz R-Class R500 4dr Wagon AWD (5.0L 8cyl 7A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
This is a great car for the purpose intended , i.e. long trips , hauling kids and stuff. Iinterstate cruising is comfortable and as fast as you dare. Gas consumption in the R500 is about 20 mpg on the highway and 14 mpg in town. I will probably get another R class, but will get the diesel version .
Luxury on the road
Purchased used, 06/18/2008
2006 Mercedes-Benz R-Class R500 4dr Wagon AWD (5.0L 8cyl 7A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
We purchased a lease return vehicle, replacing a Volvo XC90. The MB is pure luxury in nature. Although the controls are more complicated, the features are second to none. Everyone remarks about the car when we're out and about. At first I thought it was overpriced, but the feel while in the car shows that it is indeed well designed and confortable. We have two 15 year old boys that are 6 feet tall, and the room in the 2nd row sold us on the vehicle. They have lots of room and don't realize they are in a car, even on long trips. Heated 2nd row seats were also a selling point as we live in a cold climate, but have only had front heated seats available before. We are very happy with it.
Absolutely Love It
Dee Peake, 08/23/2009
2006 Mercedes-Benz R-Class R500 4dr Wagon AWD (5.0L 8cyl 7A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
After doing a great deal of research, and test driving equivalent vehicles we decided to purchase our R500. My family has quickly fallen in love with this vehicle. The leg room in the second row is unmatched by any other vehicle. I traded in a sportier Jag for the roomier family friendly vehicle. I have not regretted it for a minute, the R500 is luxurious without being pretentious. Highly recommend it. We purchased the extended warranty to just to be safe but we have not had the smallest of issues.
What a nightmare
Rick Kueber, 10/16/2006
2006 Mercedes-Benz R-Class R500 4dr Wagon AWD (5.0L 8cyl 7A)
4 of 5 people found this review helpful
In less than 6 months of ownership, my R500 is being towed back to the dealership for the same problems - SRS warning light. According to Mercedes this may cause the airbags to deploy randomly (nice) or not work at all. Also, the low coolant level light is on. For $70k, one would think you would get a much better car. This will definitely be my last Mercedes. Audi Q7, here I come.
Great car with such a size
great dane, 10/07/2006
2006 Mercedes-Benz R-Class R500 4dr Wagon AWD (5.0L 8cyl 7A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Good mileage for such a heavy vehicle. Absolutely quiet and smooth in switching gears. Enough space for even a six-footer in the third row. Takes a while to get used to the brake assistant.
Looks great, rides great.
Karl Z, 04/26/2008
2006 Mercedes-Benz R-Class R350 4dr Wagon AWD (3.5L 6cyl 7A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I love this car. I was going to get a C class but the incentives for this car made me take a look at it. This car may no have been successful seller but my wife and I love this car. It looks great and rides great too. The second row is designed to enjoy the ride. The chairs are great and the Panorama view makes it more enjoyable. I bought this preowned and had nothing major except for lightbulb replacement; however, I have read multiple complaints about quality. I just keep my fingers crossed since we are planning to keep this baby for a while.
This car is a nightmare
XPress, 09/05/2006
2006 Mercedes-Benz R-Class R500 4dr Wagon AWD (5.0L 8cyl 7A)
3 of 4 people found this review helpful
The uniqueness of this car is what makes it attractive. The ride and drive characteristics are great. The unusual appearance gets stares & questions. After 1 year and more than 22,000 miles, I feel qualified to relate all that is not right with this car. Multiple visits to more than one dealer's service department makes this a thumbs down choice for reliable transportation. Car is in the service dept now for the 9th time and is still there after 13 days (the service manager says they need it for at least another week). The problems are recurring; i.e., transmission shifts hard, repeated warning lights (SRS, low coolant,check engine), body panels ill fitting (wind noise), door hard to close. I cannot recommend
Unreliable S
mrsgrace, 12/27/2013
2006 Mercedes-Benz R-Class R350 4dr Wagon AWD (3.5L 6cyl 7A)
10 of 18 people found this review helpful
Purchased this car 2.5 years ago. The car was a 2006 with 45K miles. After only 2.5 years of driving this used car the Transmission tanked, just shut down. I was told by the mechanic at the dealer that a part inside was broken and it would cost $6,000 to fix - I thought i was getting a bargain purchasing this car for $19000 with only 40k miles, what a mistake. Prior to the transmission going the car randomly drops the left side suspension. Apparently the air shocks deflate overnight or while parked for a long time and it tilts to one side. Gas guzzler too, costs me $100 a week to fill it up!
Don't want to drive a van or SUV?
Chuck J., 11/01/2006
2006 Mercedes-Benz R-Class R500 4dr Wagon AWD (5.0L 8cyl 7A)
3 of 5 people found this review helpful
If you want all-wheel drive, room for 6, and can't picture yourself driving a van or SUV, there's no other choice. The Pacifica fits the bill, but it's slow, underpowered and ugly. And, the rear seats on the Pacifica are not as easy to get into. Some reviewers are slamming the R500, because it's a Mercedes that doesn't register with their sense of what a practical car is. Who off-roads or uses all that van cargo space? The positives: V-8 power!, unique sculpted styling, 1st class ride and appointments, not driving the same SUV or van that everybody else is driving. Did I mention blowing the doors off of most vehicles? When the suspension lowers at 70MPH, you'll know sport touring!
Best family vehicle we have owned!!
Steven Wilson, 03/10/2019
2006 Mercedes-Benz R-Class R350 4dr Wagon AWD (3.5L 6cyl 7A)
2 of 3 people found this review helpful
Most reviews complaining about any cost should go and buy a Kia or equivalent. If you maintain this vehicle and drive it normally it will last. Super fun and roomy interior. Great car for the family!
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R 500 early review
mmcfadden, 01/16/2006
2006 Mercedes-Benz R-Class R500 4dr Wagon AWD (5.0L 8cyl 7A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I've had this car for 1 month and have driven 2,000 miles. I love everything about this car. It handles like an E- Class. There is the typical MB/BMV sedan driving feel. I opted for the airdynamic suspesion that is wonderful. On/off exit ramps feel terrific with the sports mode, highway- comfort mode and around town-normal mode. A better rear seating arrangement than an S/ML-class. The command center is reasonable intuitive but you have to spend a little time getting to know it. I integrated the phone system, NAV and ipod system. EZ to use. My only complaint is lack of adequate luggage space for long distances when using all seats. Will need cargo rails with large cargo carrier. Buy!
It's a Mercedes!
David, 10/31/2006
2006 Mercedes-Benz R-Class R500 4dr Wagon AWD (5.0L 8cyl 7A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
It's a Mercedes. What's not to like? Love the side/rear views. I don't love the front, but the S-class interior, amazing sunroof, power everything, and extremely pliable ride quality more than outweigh the taffy-pull minivan front end. The V8 is strong and the 7- speed transmission is so smooth you can't feel the upshifts. Occasionally you feel a downshift if making a "rolling stop" but I learned that sometimes this phenomenon is due to hill start assist applying the break when you're rolling a stop sign if on a hill. Interesting...user error, not clunky transmission.
No Buyer's Remorse
Richard Poe, 08/11/2007
2006 Mercedes-Benz R-Class R500 4dr Wagon AWD (5.0L 8cyl 7A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I drove a Suburban (or some version of it) for 15 years, and was ready for a smaller, more driver friendly car. This is it. The V8 is great, mileage a surprising 19/22, and I love the handling and responsiveness compared to the suburban. It's so aerodynamic, I can't feel a gust when I meet an 18 wheeler. While storage is not what I was used to (how could it be?) it is still very good. This car had 7000 miles (put in service 1/07). It was CPO and I bought 1 extra year ($1595), gave me 5 1/2 yr, 100,000 warranty. Paid less for it than my last Denali XL, and feel I got a lot more car. It is sure more fun to drive.
Very functional car
scott, 02/21/2006
2006 Mercedes-Benz R-Class R500 4dr Wagon AWD (5.0L 8cyl 7A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
This is the most functional vehicle we have ever owned. Great power, fantastic in the snow and very comfortable. 2 trips to Palm Springs and the car was a pleasure to drive. Get the panaramic roof for sure. A true 6 passenger (adults) vehicle.
Do not buy an R350
Pete , 08/17/2008
2006 Mercedes-Benz R-Class R350 4dr Wagon AWD (3.5L 6cyl 7A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
We purchased our car used from a Mercedes dealer, it has been in the shop 9 times in 8 months. Tail lamps melted, rear hatch locked shut, air vents all broke. Temperature controls were stuck on a temperature could not change. Plastic on seat rails has broken multiple times. Bad wheel bearing, rattled catalytic converter, broken latch over spare tire, misc trim pieces needed to be realigned. We loved the car initially but after 8 months of loaners for a week at a time in some cases we have vowed to never buy another Mercedes. We have had several Mercedes prior to this one and this car has been a major dissappointment. I would encourage anyone not to buy this car. Do your homework!
The Cruiser
JOHN, 08/02/2006
2006 Mercedes-Benz R-Class R500 4dr Wagon AWD (5.0L 8cyl 7A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
My Dad just recently leased the R500 for me. I only have about 300 miles on it and I am having some problems with the transmision and lots of rattling noises around the car. It is a kick to drive around and I love the power. But for a car that is just below 70K, it needs more standard features. Full leather seats was an option.
Six Months Old and Growing on Me
MB4ME, 09/04/2006
2006 Mercedes-Benz R-Class R350 4dr Wagon AWD (3.5L 6cyl 7A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
This is my fourth MB, including 1 wagon and 2 sedans previously, all wonderful vehicles. R-Class has surprising ease of handling like a sedan. Interior is roomy for six adults and gorgeous. Reading the manual first is imperative to become familiar with the hi-tech features. Nav system is great once you master the input procedures. Cargo area adequate for my golf clubs and groceries with seats up. Great sound system. I am averaging 21 mpg. Awesome all-wheel drive and brakes gripped the road in downhill driveway in the snow. My teenagers are fascinated with the different and innovative crossover R. The more I drive the R-Class the more I appreciate the engineering and styling vision.
Practical Luxury
JB, 06/06/2006
2006 Mercedes-Benz R-Class R350 4dr Wagon AWD (3.5L 6cyl 7A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
16 Months ago the third child came along! We need a Minivan. I'm not gonna drive it! You gonna drive it? No way! Brought the ML in for scheduled visit and this "Huge Wagon" is sitting in the showroom. Wow!! Some what like a minivan. (Just don't call it one...the sales staff gets offended). It is so car-like you forget you've got the whole family with you!! The girls love to sit in the way back and look for birds and planes! The little man sits high in the second row and sees everything! I love the shift lever simplicity. Dash is elegant yet simple. Nav wonderful. Gas mileage is what I expected. Comfort and quietness among the best. If you can afford it, you cannot beat it!
Very good family vehicle but...
Van, 03/19/2006
2006 Mercedes-Benz R-Class R500 4dr Wagon AWD (5.0L 8cyl 7A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
The R500 is a very good family vehicle. It does seat 6 normal sized adults comfortably. The ride is smooth and quiet similar to Lexus (of which I've owned two). For the size of the car, it handles very well and has plenty of pep with the 5L engine. On the other hand, the build quality is suspect. In the first week we had it, we had to replace an O-ring. Now, we're having problems with the automatic lift gate - sometimes it closes completely, sometimes it doesn't. We've sometimes had to close it 5 or 6 times before it will shut all the way. Now the car is starting to pull to the right - prob. an alignment problem. Also, one of the bulbs on the tailgate light has burned out.
R-Class Beauty is only skin deep
Rich Baker, 08/11/2007
2006 Mercedes-Benz R-Class R350 4dr Wagon AWD (3.5L 6cyl 7A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
We have had our R-Class for about a year and a half and it is a beautiful car that seats 6 like no one else. However we have had to take it into the shop too many times, for things like: 1. Static in the audio system Across CD, Sat radio, regular radio, (MB has made software upgrades to the software numerous times, the issue may be addressed but the issue was very intermittent so we will see. 2. Frayed driver seatbelt. 3. Transmission strange noise 4. Electronic tailgate not operating properly. 5. Cloth being separated at the back opening of the tailgate. 6. Navigation system returning erroneous information frozen random display. 14 service tickets over about 16 months.
A Lemon
Faye Powell, 09/07/2006
2006 Mercedes-Benz R-Class R350 4dr Wagon AWD (3.5L 6cyl 7A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I liked driving the R350. It turns on a dime. I am shaken with apprehension because of the electrical problems that I have experienced with this car. I have had the car in my possession since January. I have never taken the car out of town because I feel it will break down. The last breakdown was in the evening when my daughter was driving the car on a busy road in town. The power went out. She lost the steering and it was a miracle that she did not have a very bad accident. This is the second major electrical breakdown. The car was recalled for inspection soon after I took ownership of the the lease. There have been other electrical problems.
First 1000 Miles ( True Highway Cruiser)
Happy Owner, 06/27/2006
2006 Mercedes-Benz R-Class R500 4dr Wagon AWD (5.0L 8cyl 7A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
We just completed our first road trip in our new Mercedes R500. Our experience with the vehicle has been outstanding. We traded in a 2004 Acura MDX because we needed more rear seat space and the R500 clearly delivers. It motors the six of us comfortably and safely. We actually went to the dealership to look at the new GL 450 but were impressed with the size and quality of the R500. Our R500 drives and handles solidly and is good in town and on the highway. Since picking up our R500 we have averaged 17.1 mpg in combined driving and got just over 20 mpg on the highway in Sport Mode. We have only seen one other Mercedes R- Class on the road since purchasing ours almost two weeks ago.
Awesome vehicle with superior Quality!!
Alfar16, 06/02/2009
2006 Mercedes-Benz R-Class R350 4dr Wagon AWD (3.5L 6cyl 7A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I traded a C300 for an R350 because of an expanding family. The vehicle has not disappointed on bit. I fit my family of four with ease and without baggage, this vehicle will fit 6 people comfortably. The car lacks a little power but is not noticeable once one the highway. No problems so far with as I've read in some reviews. The vehicle has striking presence and luxury is apparent as you roll down the street. I would definitely keep the R-350 for a long time as comfort is not comparable for this price range.
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