Resources for the Repair and Maintenance of your Mercedes-Benz S550
Mercedes-Benz S550 Models:
Mercedes-Benz S550 Problems
HVAC Blower Motor May Fail
The HVAC blower motor may fail. This is commonly caused by water entry through the cabin air filter areas during heavy rain or snow. Failed blower motors should be replaced. Our technicians tell us there is no special fix for this issue at this time.
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.
Check Engine Light Due to Faulty Camshaft Adjuster Solenoid
The camshaft adjuster solenoid (which is related to the variable valve timing system) may fail or timing chain/balance shaft components may wear, resulting in illumination of the Check Engine Light and various drivability issues. Mercedes-Benz has released a service bulletin outlining specific repair instructions depending on fault codes stored.
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.
Brake Pads & Rotors May Wear After 20,000 Miles
As a way to increase braking performance, the brake pads and rotors are make of a softer material and may be in need of replacement after approximately 20,000 miles; owners should be vigilant about getting their brakes checked.
Mercedes-Benz S550 Recalls (Recent)
Door Locks May Not Operate As Expected
RepairPal Expert Overview:
During production, on fifty-four Mercedes S-Class models, the front and rear door locks may have been mistakenly interchanged. This means that a rear passenger could open the rear door with a simple pull of the interior door handle, and the front passenger could not open by pulling on the interior handle. This situation could affect the safe exiting of the vehicle in a crash or protection against the accidental opening of the rear door by a child. Dealers will inspect the part numbers on all door locks and replace any that are incorrect. The recall began on March 27, 2009. The Mercedes-Benz recall number is 2009030001.
Learn more »Internal Failure of Front Interior Control Module
RepairPal Expert Overview:
Transistors used in the front signal acquisition and actuation module (SAM-F) may have been damaged during module assembly. As a result, the module could fail without warning, increasing the risk of a crash. Dealers will inspect and replace the affected modules as necessary. This recall is scheduled to begin on May 2, 2008. The Mercedes-Benz recall number is 2008 030005.
Learn more »Incorrect Software Calibration May Cause Fuel Pump to Remain Powered in a Collision
RepairPal Expert Overview:
There is a faulty software calibration that affects several areas including shutting off the fuel supply in a collision. This could cause a fire hazard during an accident. Dealers will reprogram this software. The Mercedes-Benz recall number is 2008 070001. This recall began during August, 2008.
Learn more »Potential Fuel Leak
RepairPal Expert Overview:
Due to a manufacturing defect, a crack can develop on the fuel filter when the vehicle is operated in high temperatures. This crack can result in a fuel leak, increasing the risk of a fire. Dealers will replace the fuel filter to correct this concern.
Learn more »A Front Ball Joint May Fail Prematurely
RepairPal Expert Overview:
One or both front suspension ball joints may fail. Vehicles with significant mileage are more prone to this type of failure. Dealers will inspect and replace the ball joints as necessary. The recall is scheduled to begin during February 2009.
Learn more »Mercedes-Benz S550 Questions and Answers
do i need change transmission oil
my email toonted@hotmail.com
To check level of trasmission
passenger seat frame bent.
My navigation display randomly oscillates +/- 10 degrees as if it is attempting to find the HOME position. Is this a sensor problem, software bug, or??
Mercedes-Benz S550 Reviews
When I purchased my 2008 S550, I understood that repairs and parts were most expensive than Japanese or American vehicles. What surprised me was the number of parts that failed. At 45K my front tie rod bushings failed (upper and lower). Although it wasn't a ton of money it was cause for concern. Rear tires require replacing every 10K miles (this was expected) but the cost of the tires hurt. HV/AC problems plague this vehicle and it's constantly in the shop getting looked at. Sometimes it works, most times it doesn't. Flex joints went out at about 70K miles and ultimately destroyed the transmission (German ingenuity at work). Headlights that rotate in the direction you turn, never worked. Center console buttons broke requiring a complete replacement of it. Arm rests were falling apart after 75K miles (re-upholstered). Bluetooth "ready" vehicle required an 180.00 adapter to make the Bluetooth work. Two front shocks replaced at 60K (purchased OEM Bosch air struts at 900.00 each - 600 to put them on). If you're looking at such a vehicle I suggest you look at options. The Audi A8 is rock solid and has a fraction of the issues this car has. The BMW 745/750's are about on par with the S550 in terms of reliability.
500 miles into the new benz and now the engine light comes on -__- i thought european cars were good
I have had some issues with vibrations in the steering and the car not riding like luxury vehicle, feeling too many bumps. However; I'm working with the dealership to correct this issue.
My 2007 S550 has been nothing but a money pit! I just had to pay $7,000 for a new transmission and it still feels like it's going to stop when it's idling. I have put in well over $25,000 in repairs.
I agree with the writer in Atanta - that "kick" in low gear up the slightest of incline drives me crazy ! My other issues are the lack of side sunshades, the back seats not being heated, and not enough back-up cameras. It is a great car and I love the smooth ride and the interior and exterior styling. I compare heavily to the BMW 750IL that I drove 10 years prior. I also got used to free service - my 20K MB service was over $500.oo ! Ouch