2020 Mercedes-Benz S450 Has A Check Engine Light

Troubleshooting the Check Engine Light in Your 2020 Mercedes-Benz S450: Common Causes and Solutions

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Reviewed by
Aisha
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
40% chance it's the
Emissions System
0%
60% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a 2020 Mercedes-Benz S450 has a check engine light are an emissions system component, a sensor, or a catalytic converter.
  • Emissions System: A faulty emissions system component, such as an oxygen sensor or EGR valve, can lead to increased emissions and trigger the check engine light.
Proper diagnosis will determine the exact cause of your symptom, saving you money on unnecessary repairs. The diagnostic experts at RepairPal Certified shops have the right tools and experience to solve any symptom.

How much does it cost to fix a 2020 Mercedes-Benz S450 has a check engine light?

Common Repairs

The total repair cost will vary based on the condition of your vehicle and the number of repairs needed to fix your symptom. Proper diagnosis will save you money by finding the exact repairs needed to fix your car right the first time.

A faulty oxygen sensor is one of the most common causes of a check engine light. Symptoms may include a decrease in fuel mileage, hesitation or misfiring from the engine, rough idling or even stalling. A faulty sensor may cause the vehicle to fail an emissions test.

Any time there is an emissions fault the check engine light will be displayed. The purpose of the check engine light is to inform the driver that an emission related fault has been found, and that there are on-board diagnostic (OBD) trouble codes stored in the powertrain or engine control module. Additionally, since the emissions systems are so intertwined into engine control and transmission control systems, symptoms may include nearly any sort of drivability concerns. This may include harsh shifting, failure to shift, hesitation on acceleration, jerking, engine failure to start or run, loss of power, or any number of other drivability issues.

Due to the nature of electrical systems on modern vehicles, the range of problems these can cause are nearly limitless. However, there is a way to categorize them in two ways. Permanent and intermittent problems. Permanent problems appear and remain. This may be the vehicle will not start, the radio does not work, or the door chime will not turn off among many, many others. These problems are more straight-forward to diagnose since they present themselves at all time. This means there will always be a fault to find. Intermittent electrical problems, however, can be difficult or impossible to locate, since they appear then disappear without warning. The best case scenario for an intermittent issue is when replicating the problem is easily accomplished and understood. This allows a technician to make an issue semi-permanent, allowing them to find the fault. Other issues that come and go without warning and cannot be replicated on demand must occur when the technician is servicing the vehicle, otherwise there is no problem to correct. It is most important to understand that electrical system faults always require inspection, and can include the vehicle working in any manner, or not working at all.

Like we noted in the last section, general diagnosis symptoms are the most vague of the bunch. There are several diagnostic spectrums, electrical diagnosis, drivability diagnostics, engine diagnostics, transmission diagnostics, and the list could continue for about 5 or 10 more spectrums of diagnostics. The most important take-away here, is that general diagnostics are diagnostics that have no other spectrum in which they fit, or the problem is unknown. This means that any vehicle left outside of a repair facility with the keys and an authorization to perform diagnosis will be diagnosed under the general diagnosis spectrum.

When the Check Engine Light comes on, you may experience engine performance issues such as poor acceleration, rough idling, or an engine that won't start. In some cases, no abnormal symptoms will be experienced. Other systems like the transmission or ABS can cause the Check Engine Light to illuminate and lights for those systems can come on at the same time. Similar lights may say "Check Engine Soon", "Malfunction Indicator Light" or just "Check". In rare case the engine can overheat.

What are the initial diagnostic steps to take for a check engine light on a 2020 Mercedes-Benz S450?

When faced with a check engine light on your 2020 Mercedes-Benz S450, it's essential to approach the situation methodically to identify the underlying issue. Start by checking the gas cap; a loose or improperly secured cap is a common culprit that can easily trigger the warning light. Next, take a moment to review your dashboard for any additional alerts or messages that might offer further insight into the problem. Inspecting the engine bay for visible damage, such as frayed wires or disconnected hoses, can also reveal potential issues that need addressing. If these initial checks do not resolve the light, utilizing an OBD-II scanner is a crucial next step. This tool will provide you with specific error codes that can help narrow down the problem. Finally, consult your owner's manual to interpret these codes and understand the recommended actions. By following this structured diagnostic approach, you can effectively troubleshoot the check engine light and determine the best course of action for your vehicle.

What are the common problems that could cause the check engine light to illuminate in a 2020 Mercedes-Benz S450?

When the check engine light comes on in a 2020 Mercedes-Benz S450, it can be concerning for any driver. One of the most common culprits is a loose gas cap, which can disrupt the fuel system's pressure and trigger the warning light. Another frequent issue is a faulty oxygen sensor, which plays a crucial role in monitoring the exhaust and ensuring optimal fuel efficiency. Additionally, problems with the catalytic converter, such as blockages or failures, can also cause the check engine light to illuminate, indicating that the vehicle's emissions system is compromised. Spark plug or ignition coil issues are other potential causes, as they can lead to misfires and affect engine performance. Furthermore, a malfunctioning mass airflow sensor can disrupt the air-fuel mixture, resulting in the check engine light activation. Lastly, an engine misfire, often stemming from bad spark plugs or fuel injectors, can also trigger this warning. Addressing these issues promptly is essential to maintain the vehicle's performance and prevent further damage, making it advisable for DIY enthusiasts to conduct a thorough inspection or consult a qualified mechanic for diagnosis.

How urgent is it to address the check engine light in a 2020 Mercedes-Benz S450?

Addressing the check engine light in your 2020 Mercedes-Benz S450 is crucial for maintaining the vehicle's performance and safety. Ignoring this warning can lead to serious repercussions, including extensive engine damage and costly repairs. The check engine light is designed to alert you to potential issues within the engine or emissions system, and delaying action can exacerbate these problems, resulting in decreased fuel efficiency and compromised vehicle performance. Moreover, modern vehicles are equipped with advanced diagnostic systems that can help identify the specific issue, making it easier to resolve. By taking immediate action, you not only safeguard your vehicle's reliability but also enhance your safety on the road, as unresolved engine issues can lead to hazardous driving conditions. Therefore, it is essential to prioritize addressing the check engine light to avoid significant damage and ensure the longevity of your Mercedes-Benz S450.

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