When you own a Mercedes, there are certain expectations of class, sophistication, and performance. The brand’s name alone conjures the vision of a smooth ride with a luxurious cabin, all powered by a high-performance engine capable of taking you to your destination in comfort and style.

Mercedes models are built with a straight 4, 5 and 6 cylinder engine or a V6, V8, V10, and V12. The cylinders and pistons of a V12 engine create the V-shape under the hood of your Mercedes. It is designed with 12 cylinders mounted on the crankcase in two sets of six. Compared to the V8 engine that fires four times per cycle, the V12 engine fires six times per cycle to give you incredible power and control over your drive.

Because of the almost-perfect arrangement and synchronization of its components, the V12 engine offers incredibly smooth rides and also delivers high performance. So, when a V12 engine develops problems and oddities, the overall enjoyment and comfort of your Mercedes drops. Let’s take a closer look at this problem and discuss what can be done to resolve engine issues.

Common Causes of V12 Engine Failure in a Mercedes

There are a myriad of reasons why V12 engines might develop faults, including:

• Wear and tear of the active body control system
• Coolant and hydraulic leaks
• Blown head gasket
• Cracks in the radiator
• Contaminated or expired engine oil
• Faulty ignition coils
• Bad wiring connections

Warning Signs of Engine Failure

Whenever any part of your vehicle develops a fault, the entire performance of your vehicle is affected. When your V12 engine experiences rough idling or problems with acceleration, you may also notice some of the signs listed below.

It is important to report your suspicions and any indications you notice to a Mercedes specialist immediately to have them repaired. Any delay can lead to more costly damage and emergency repairs to your engine and its synchronized components.

Engine oil leakage

The V12 engine consists of many moving parts which are always in constant motion while you’re driving. The oil in your engine helps maintain its temperature and lubricate its parts to reduce friction, which produces incredible heat. However, as your engine ages, the oil becomes thick and can even have debris in it which can punch holes in hoses and cause oil to leak out.

If the old engine oil and any cracks in hoses are not promptly replaced, you can find oil puddles underneath your car after parking for any length of time. When you notice oil leaking from your car, call our skilled Mercedes technicians to find and fix the leak and replace your oil with a proper type and viscosity.

Misfiring

Your engine must be provided with a precise amount of air and fuel at the exact right time to perform as designed. When your engine is no longer receiving the proper ratio, it cannot complete the combustion cycle as engineered. This can result in engine misfires which can range from rough idling to trouble with acceleration, odd noises and a different sound in your engine bay, and even black smoke from your tailpipe. This can also cause you to pay more at the gas pump, as if your engine is running rich, it’s using more fuel than necessary, causing you to fill up more often.

You know your Mercedes better than anyone. All of the causes listed above can be avoided if you take action when you notice any odd sounds or behaviors and practice routine maintenance. Also, only entrust your car’s service to certified Mercedes technicians.

Master Mechanics Auto Repair for Your Mercedes Needs

If you live in and around Battle Creek, Portage, and Kalamazoo, MI and you need a professional mechanic to maintain and repair your Mercedes, then call Master Mechanics Auto Repair. We are an auto repair shop that is intentional about maintaining and repairing European vehicles. Our experts are ASE-certified and understand the importance of your V12 engine to your Mercedes. In fixing your Mercedes, we will ensure that its optimum power, drivability, performance, and reliability is fully restored. Our experts employ the latest factory-grade tools for all repairs. Please call or visit our shop today to schedule your next service appointment or learn more about our maintenance programs.