What are the most common Mercedes-Benz S-Class problems?
According to Au7o's analysis of 9,900+ owner reports, the 2000-2025 Mercedes-Benz S-Class has 7 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: ABC Hydraulic Suspension System Leak, AIRMATIC Air Suspension Compressor Failure, COMAND Head Unit Failure. Of these, 2 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.
Is the Mercedes-Benz S-Class reliable?
The 2000-2025 Mercedes-Benz S-Class has 7 known issues documented across 9,900+ owner reports. 2 issues are rated critical: ABC Hydraulic Suspension System Leak and AIRMATIC Air Suspension Compressor Failure. Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.
How much does it cost to fix common Mercedes-Benz S-Class problems?
Repair costs for known Mercedes-Benz S-Class issues range from $200 to $6,000, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, ABC Hydraulic Suspension System Leak, typically costs $1,000-$6,000 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.
What year Mercedes-Benz S-Class is the most reliable?
Reliability varies across model years of the Mercedes-Benz S-Class. Based on documented issues, problems are most commonly reported in earlier model years. Au7o recommends checking the specific known issues for your target year before purchasing, and having a pre-purchase inspection performed by a qualified mechanic. Our known issues database covers the 2000-2025 Mercedes-Benz S-Class with 7 documented issues documented across 9,900+ owner reports.
What is the 2000-2013 Mercedes-Benz S-Class ABC Hydraulic Suspension System Leak?
The Active Body Control (ABC) hydraulic suspension system develops leaks in the struts, lines, tandem pump, and accumulators. Repairs are extremely expensive as the system operates at 3,000+ PSI. Leaks cause the car to sag and ride harshly. Repairs typically run $1,000-$6,000. Severity: high.
What is the 2006-2020 Mercedes-Benz S-Class AIRMATIC Air Suspension Compressor Failure?
The AIRMATIC air suspension compressor burns out from overwork, typically caused by slow leaks in the air springs that force the compressor to run excessively. Compressor failure leaves the vehicle sitting low with a harsh ride. Repairs typically run $600-$2,500. Severity: high.
What is the 2007-2013 Mercedes-Benz S-Class COMAND Head Unit Failure?
The COMAND NTG3/NTG4 head unit fails with symptoms including black screen, no audio, DVD drive failure, and loss of navigation. The internal hard drive and capacitors degrade over time. Repairs typically run $400-$3,000. Severity: medium.
What is the 2000-2010 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Power Steering Pump Leak?
The power steering pump develops a leak at the shaft seal or high-pressure line fitting, causing fluid loss and a whining noise when turning. Low fluid levels can damage the steering rack and ABC system (if equipped). Repairs typically run $300-$1,200. Severity: medium.
What is the 2021-2025 Mercedes-Benz S-Class 48V Mild Hybrid Battery Issues?
The 48V EQ Boost mild hybrid system battery degrades or fails prematurely, triggering multiple warning messages and disabling the start-stop, electric boost, and regenerative braking functions. Software glitches also cause false battery fault warnings. Repairs typically run $200-$3,000. Severity: medium.
What is the 2007-2017 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Seat Control Module Failure?
The multi-contour seat control modules fail, disabling power seat adjustment, lumbar support, massage, and ventilation functions. The module is built into the seat frame and exposed to heat and vibration. Repairs typically run $300-$1,200. Severity: low.
What is the 2014-2020 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Magic Body Control Camera Failure?
The Magic Body Control system uses a stereo camera behind the windshield to scan the road ahead and pre-adjust the suspension. The camera module fails or loses calibration, disabling the road-scanning function and reverting to standard AIRMATIC behavior. Repairs typically run $300-$2,500. Severity: low.
