So on my 2001 S55, 70K miles, I have this annoying vibration that I get upon take off, all the way until I am passed 45 mph or so. I recently changed my tires, michelins, balanced them, and got an alignment at the dealer. I changed my front rotors and brakes, rear shoes. I asked 3 people where they think it is coming from: None knows. One guy was able to notice the vibration I am feeling. He checked drive shaft play, mounts, engine and transmission mounts, NONE, everything looks Ok. It is not a shaking as one you get in a steering wheel. Is it possible one of the wheels is bent? Is it possible a transmission issue?

 

Were the flex joints checked? These are rubber couplers between the trans and the driveshaft, and between the driveshaft and the differential case.

Look closely - if you see cracks, then replace them.

 

Hmm, heard that before, but not sure if they checked them out. Will do tomorrow.

 

The slightest bend in a low profile rim and tire can cause a noticeable vibration.
Benz rims seem to bend all the time. Especially if you live in an urban city area with bad roads and potholes. Definitely get the rims checked. Also bent axle shaft could do that.we have someones that straightens rims . We give them a ton of business.

 

Just called the tire place and asked them what balancing they did and they already done the forced road, so that's out of the question. Need to take it for them to check the flex joints.

 

So, took it to the dealer, and after 4 hours and 3 cups of coffee he came out and said it was hard to find anything. No wheels are bent, He said the rea transmission mount needs replacement, that the engine is sitting higher or lower due to that and that's what's causing the vbration. I told him I will come on Monday to do it. I always have this skeptical issue with MB or any dealer, how do I know it is true and that it will solve the problem. He wants to charge me $240 including the diagnoses which he charged me today, $55. So another $190 some. Any ideas?

 

these cars have such tight limitations, and if one thing such as a trans mount has any play or slop, and has become moshey the whole drive train is effected and usually a vibration occurs.