I was recently informed that I shouldn't engage "Sport" mode on my 2006 MBZ R350 for extended periods of time-- i.e., driving around town, while on the freeway, etc. Doing this is putting too much stress on my air suspension system-- according to a mechanic friend of mine. My question is whether or not this is in fact true.
Asked by MRSMBZMAYHEM May 06, 2013 at 09:50 PM about the 2006 Mercedes-Benz R-Class R 350 4MATIC
Question type: Maintenance & Repair
Air suspension problem, cracked housing, excess stress on system.
3 Answers
It was made with a sport mode I would hope the vehicle could handle it. I dont think it would be neccessary driving around town but it shouldnt hurt it.
MRSMBZMAYHEM answered 11 years ago
My only problem with this is that I prefer driving my R-Class with the stiffer suspension. The comfort suspension is too soft, while the "regular" setting (neither "sport" nor "comfort") is just meh... If I can't (shouldn't) drive in sport mode I'd rather drive a BMW X5. I really love the utility of my R-Class -- our boys are both over 6'4" & I can fit our dog's XL crate in the rear as well. It's the perfect car for road trips even though both of our kids drive their own cars its great for going in one vehicle.
Leave it in "Sport". I like a firmer suspension too. Bags and tubing is going to leak after a while anyways. Fix the damage and you're good for another seven years.