Odor in my 2006 E320

[islander34]

Has anyone noticed a strange odor in their new e320 or is my nose just sensitive? When I open the trunk the odor is even stronger. Wondering if it was the carpet or glue? Any ideas? I tried Febreeze but didn't help.

[Two560Two]

its just part of the new car smell. nothing you can really do about it

[ILUVMILS]

Make sure the vent tube is connected to the battery. Your car has an AGM, or "Absorbent Glass Mat" battery. It's also known as a VRLA, or "Valve Regulated Lead Acid" battery. These batteries don't give off the rotten-egg smell that most of us are familiar with. I've noticed a kind of funky smell in several 211's, that I've traced to the battery. I've been driving a 2004 E320 for the last few days (for an un-related issue) and I've noticed a slightly unpleasant smell every time I get in the car. I know it's the battery because of a 211 I worked on several months ago. As it turned out, the cars' electrical system was staying "awake", causing the battery to slightly dis-charge. The alternator was working overtime to re-charge the weak battery. After resolving the current draw issue, replacing the battery, and completely de-odorizing the interior, the smell never came back.

One more thing to keep in mind. Some early 211's are also prone to odors from the A/C evaporator, which don't shed condensation fast enough. Since you say that the odor is stronger when you open the trunk though, I'd look to the battery first.

[islander34]

Thanks for the tip.....I'll check it out.

[MyBenzMax]

Originally Posted by islander34

Has anyone noticed a strange odor in their new e320 or is my nose just sensitive? When I open the trunk the odor is even stronger. Wondering if it was the carpet or glue? Any ideas? I tried Febreeze but didn't help.

Better check with your dealer. I believe there's a silent recall on this odor problem. Friend of mine had same experience, dealer is replacing all the carpeting.

[mpolli]

Originally Posted by ILUVMILS

Make sure the vent tube is connected to the battery. Your car has an AGM, or "Absorbent Glass Mat" battery. It's also known as a VRLA, or "Valve Regulated Lead Acid" battery. These batteries don't give off the rotten-egg smell that most of us are familiar with. I've noticed a kind of funky smell in several 211's, that I've traced to the battery. I've been driving a 2004 E320 for the last few days (for an un-related issue) and I've noticed a slightly unpleasant smell every time I get in the car. I know it's the battery because of a 211 I worked on several months ago. As it turned out, the cars' electrical system was staying "awake", causing the battery to slightly dis-charge. The alternator was working overtime to re-charge the weak battery. After resolving the current draw issue, replacing the battery, and completely de-odorizing the interior, the smell never came back.

One more thing to keep in mind. Some early 211's are also prone to odors from the A/C evaporator, which don't shed condensation fast enough. Since you say that the odor is stronger when you open the trunk though, I'd look to the battery first.

Does anyone know the lifespan on these batteries? My friend has a '04 E320 and says his battery is bad. I think that is not too good for a 6 year old AGM that must cost a pretty penny.