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 2010-08Related service bulletins
- 10052151Apr 24, 2013Xentry (mercedes): rattling noise coming from the area of the steering column tube system, when driving over rough road and when accelerating or braking, there would be cracking…
- 10020460Dec 4, 2008Play in the rack and pinion steering system. Models 203, 209, 210, 211, 215, 220, 230. Mercedes benz. *kb updated 5/13/09.
- 10028646Dec 2, 2008Mercedes: groaning or dull, heavy cracking noises from steering shaft area. When turning steering wheel or moving off or braking. This may be emanating from the bearing and…
- 10028645Dec 2, 2008Mercedes: chrome plating peeling on decorative caps on the steering wheel spokes, this is due to less than optimal adhesion between chrome plating and base material. Models 164…
- 10025648Apr 22, 2008Rattling/thumping noise on rough roads and/or knocking noise when moving steering in both directions on all model 164 and 251 vehicles. Model years unknown.
- 10019967Apr 26, 2006Flow noises from area of power steering pump and/or foaming of power steering oil in reservoir. On mercedes benz ml and r class models.
Steering: other model years
| Year | Complaints | Share of year |
|---|---|---|
| 2006 | 5 | 19% |
Other parts of the 2006 Mercedes-Benz R500
6 complaintsElectrical system
5 complaintsSeats
4 complaintsSuspension
4 complaintsBrakes
3 complaintsAir bags
2 complaintsOther or unknown
2 complaintsElectronic stability control
1 complaintsExterior lighting
1 complaintsVehicle speed control
1 complaintsWheels
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