I have the same problem Bryan had and my 500E needs new Air cells. Is this a do it myself replacement or delaer only?

David Hendy
'92 500E 66k miles

Have you ever replaced/flushed the hydraulic fluid? Good job to do at the same time, and one I'd rather have a pro do-pretty messy if you've never done it before.

Good luck!

__________________
"If God had meant for us to walk, why did he give us feet that fit car pedals?" Sir Sterling Moss

Michael
2014 E63S Estate
2006 SLK55
1995 E500
1986 Porsche 944 turbo

I just replaced the air cells on our wagon, and it is very similar to the 500E.

You need to depressurize the system at the valve, which means fluid almost everywhere.

Also, you will need four *NEW* copper washers (2-per air cell), as well as an allen socket and a 11mm and/or 12mm flare wrench (do NOT use an open box wrench, you will strip the hydraullic connectors).

Getting access to the air cells is a pain, but do-able.

DO NOT any under any circumstance, disconnect from the self-levelling valve.

When re-connecting the hydraullic lines to the air cells, lubricate the threads with hydraullic fluid, and finger tighten. DO NOT FORCE or you will STRIP the threads and have a leak (don't ask me how I know).

A pro can probably do it in 2-3 hours, a first timer DIY will take 4-6.

Good luck,

:-) neil

Don't forget to get a new filter and to flush out the system (a good flush takes 3-4 liters).

I sucked out all the old fluid from the engine-bay resevoir and filled with new fluid.

Attach a length of hose to the return line (pipe coming to top of resevoir) and place the other end of the hose into a clear container.

Start the car and watch the fluid coming draining into the container. It is properly flushed when it comes out clean. Be sure to keep adding fresh fluid to the resevoir . You only need it 3/4 full when done and it drops slowly while circulating.

Now install a new filter and you're done.

Did wonders for the rear ride!

Good luck,
:-) neil