EraCars / Mercedes-Benz E55 AMG (W211)
Mercedes-Benz E55 AMG (W211) (2003–2006)
W211 / S211 · M113K 5.4L supercharged V8, 469–476 hp · 5-speed auto
At a glance
Risk 4/5 Market: Supercharged sedan bargain
Must-have records:
- Airmatic spring/strut and compressor invoices
- SBC pump replacement or rebuild date
- Intercooler pump / transmission service
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Parts & tools: Shop parts at Summit Racing.
Buy-risk rundown
| Issue | Symptom | How to check | Typical cost (as of Nov 2026) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Airmatic air springs and compressor | Car sags overnight; compressor runs constantly; level-control warning | Park overnight on level ground; cycle height settings; listen for the pump | Rear springs ~$150–$300 each aftermarket; front struts ~$600–$1,500 each; compressor ~$250–$500 [2] |
| SBC (Sensotronic) brake pump | Brake warning, odd pedal feel; pump has a finite life | Scan for SBC codes; ask for pump history | New pump ~£1,600; specialist rebuild ~£400 (Sinspeed, per PH) [1] |
| Intercooler pump / supercharger cooling | Boost fade under sustained load; overheating intake charge | Confirm pump works; check mounts and belts | Not yet verified [3][4] |
| Oil level sensor seal / cooler pipe corrosion | Oil leaks; gearbox cooler pipes rotting at the radiator | Inspect underside and fluid levels | Not yet verified [1] |
| Brake discs/pads and tyres | — | Check pad thickness and tyre age | Full disc/pad set ~£450; set of four tyres ~£800 (PH UK) [1] |
Cost figures checked against the sources below in Nov 2026. Bracketed numbers refer to the source list.
Notes
- 2004+ cars have better corrosion protection, but still check wheel arches [1].
- A leaking spring that is ignored often kills the compressor next — catch the leak early [2].
Before you buy
Use our printable pre-purchase inspection checklist and get a PPI from a marque specialist.
Sources
- PistonHeads, Mercedes E55 AMG used buying guide (accessed Nov 2026)
- Bavarian Dismantlers, W211 Airmatic suspension guide (accessed Nov 2026)
- Unusual Cars UK, W211 E55 buying guide (accessed Nov 2026)
- evo, E55 AMG W211 review and buying guide (accessed Nov 2026)
Last updated 2026-11-05. Costs vary by region and shop.
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