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SteeringPart report

2006 Mercedes-Benz R500 Steering Problems

Complaints
5about this part
Share
19%of 26 total for the year
Median mileage
63,000miles
Trend
Not enough dataFewer than 15 complaints, too few for a reliable trend.

NHTSA recorded 5 complaints about the steering of the 2006 Mercedes-Benz R500, 19% of the 26 complaints for this model year. Where a mileage was given, the median is 63,000 miles.

Fewer than 15 complaints name this part, so treat the figures as a rough indication only.

Example complaints

Selected from NHTSA records; personal details are removed. They are consumer reports, not findings.

“Have computer issues that are reporting and shutting down braking systems, speed controls, eps, ABS. Independent mechanic (mercedes specialist) reports this is a well known problem on model years 2005 and up, he has multiple vehicles in for repairs to electronic systems. I just spent 1,384.00 plus a week later, more codes meaning another 600+ to repair. He says these electronics systems are a constant source of his income. The rclass is causing me breakdowns, if I turn off engine when it is hot, I will be stalled and unable to crank it until it cools off. …”

NHTSA complaint #10546221, filed 2013-09, 63,000 miles

“The contact owns a 2006 Mercedes-Benz R500. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, she became aware that the power steering was not functioning, after which the vehicle lost all power. The contact was able to coast to the shoulder of the roadway, where the vehicle failed to restart. After a visual inspection of the engine compartment, the contact observed an unknown fluid covering various components. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who diagnosed a failure with the power steering pump. …”

NHTSA complaint #11549204, filed 2023-10, 140,000 miles

“The contact owns a 2006 mercedes benz R500. The contact stated that when making turns, she heard a loud grinding noise. The vehicle was taken to the dealer. After inspection, they advised her that the power steering fluid was low. The vehicle was repaired by adding power steering fluid. Immediately after leaving, the failure recurred. The contact later took her vehicle to another mechanic and they advised her that the power steering rack and pinion failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 48,000. …”

NHTSA complaint #10501151, filed 2013-03, 48,000 miles

“2006 mercedes benz R500. Entire steering column moves with all controls when shifting gears and/or using the turn signal. Intermittent problem. May be attributed to heat exposure (I.e car parked on the street being exposed to the sun). Reported to the dealer numerous times.”

NHTSA complaint #10352882, filed 2010-08

Related service bulletins

Steering: other model years

YearComplaintsShare of year
2006519%

Other parts of the 2006 Mercedes-Benz R500

Transmission and drivetrain
6 complaints
Electrical system
5 complaints
Seats
4 complaints
Suspension
4 complaints
Brakes
3 complaints
Air bags
2 complaints
Other or unknown
2 complaints
Electronic stability control
1 complaints
Exterior lighting
1 complaints
Vehicle speed control
1 complaints
Wheels
1 complaints

← All problems reported for the 2006 Mercedes-Benz R500

About this data. Data from NHTSA (ODI) complaints, recalls, TSBs and investigations, updated Nov 1, 2026. Complaints are unverified consumer reports and may be duplicated or inaccurate.

To check a specific vehicle for open recalls, use its VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. Methodology