08/28/2026
A 2013 Mercedes-Benz E350 came in for a coolant leak. Our expert technician brought it into the shop to perform a pressure test to pinpoint the leak. However, they were startled when they heard a loud clacking noise coming from the engine. Upon inspection, they found the serpentine belt tensioner slapping around. They followed the belt to the alternator pulley and found it to be wobbling around with metal flakes stuck to it.
Further along, they then found there to be a massive oil leak from the upper timing cover, covering the engine in oil. Due to all the oil, the integrity of the alternator is destroyed and has completely failed. Additionally, the water pump is leaking severely because of the oil saturation damaging the seals.
And only to add to our list of concerns, they also found the cooling system has had a stop leak added to the reservoir, which can completely damage the system, and the brake fluid is completely discolored and contaminated, and the sway bar link bushing is torn and leaking.
Our tech is hoping to combat all of these problems by recommending starting by replacing all problem areas and resealing the upper timing cover.
Then, replace the coolant reservoir and radiator cap and completely flush out the cooling system multiple times to get all contamination out and recommending flushing the brake fluid as well.
After these major issues are dealt with, they will need to look everything over again to make sure that all issues have been addressed and that there aren't anymore that they couldn't see from the initial inspection. Regular maintenance and upkeep is key with German cars. You can trust Bavarian Auto Haus to have your back! Call today at 775-825-6511, we are here for every roller coaster ride!
