Problem Reports
Problem with your car? See what our experts say or submit your own.
2004 Mercedes-Benz S430 4MATIC Problems
The Differential May Develop Leaks From the Seals or Cover
High mileage or older vehicles commonly develop leaks from the differential seals and/or cover. Our technicians recommend a complete reseal of the differential unit whenever these leaks are repaired.
Airmatic Pump Motor May Fail Due to Sticking Relay
The relay which turns the airmatic suspension pump on may fail causing the pump to run continuously. This can result in failure of the pump motor or a dead battery as the pump motor will continue to run after the car is turned off. Also, Worn airmatic pump mount bushings can causes noises in the front axle while driving on bumpy roads or a buzzing noise while the pump is running.
Stalling and/or "Crank no Start" Due to Failed Crankshaft Position Sensor
The engine may develop a stalling and/or no start condition due to a failed crankshaft position sensor.
Buttons on temperature control assemblies work erratically due to wear of parts in control head
Oil Leaking From Oil Level Sensor
An engine oil leak may develop from the oil level sensor. Replacement of the leaking sensor will commonly correct this concern.
Engine Oil Leak From PCV Vent Housing and/or Engine Inspection Plate
An engine Oil leak may develop from the PCV vent housing on the valve cover and/or the inspection plate on the front of the engine.
Spilling sticky liquids around cup holder may cause lid to stick/break
ABS Modulator Failure Due to Dirty Brake Fluid
It is not uncommon to encounter premature failure of the anti-lock brake system (ABS) modulator assembly due to dirty brake fluid. Our technicians recommend flushing the brake fluid every two years in order to help prevent this problem.
Center Console Armrest May Break
The center console armrest can break. Replacement is commonly the recommended repair.
Active Body Control System Can Leak Hydraulic Fluid
The active body control system can leak fluid from numerous areas, including the tandem pump, hydraulic lines, struts, and/or seals. If it is not repaired, the vehicle ride height could drop too low and cause damage to the undercarriage.
Poor AC performance Due to Evaporator Temperature Sensor Failure
The evaporator temperature sensor can fail, causing the AC compressor not to cycle. If the AC compressor does not turn on, the AC system will not blow cold air. If the compressor is stuck on, the air will be very cold at first, before warming up.
Harmonic Balancer May Fail and Damage Timing Cover
The rubber bond in the harmonic balancer can decay, which causes the balancer to move and work its way toward the timing cover. If the balancer comes into contact with the timing cover while the engine is running, it will fracture and damage the cover and potentially other surrounding parts. The harmonic balancer should be inspected at every service.
Vanity Mirror Door May Break
The door for the vanity mirror (or the frame for the door) can break; due to a redesign, the mirror "cassette" will need replacement.
Front Thrust Arm and Control Arm Bushing Can Crack or Tear
Front thrust arm and control arm bushings can crack and sometimes tear completely. If this is not repaired quickly, damage to the front subframe unit will occur, which is very expensive to repair. Updated control arms (that prevent damage to the subframe when the bushings wear out) are available.
Cracked Driveshaft Flex Discs May Cause Driveshaft Movement/Vibration
A vibration felt through the center floor of the vehicle can be caused by driveshaft flex discs, which crack and shred, causing excessive driveshaft movement. Not repairing these can cause damage to the driveshaft center support bearing, or, in the worst case scenario, damage to the transmission or differential.