Mercedes-Benz S55 AMG Has A Check Engine Light

Common Causes for the Check Engine Light in Your Mercedes-Benz S55 AMG and How to Resolve Them

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Reviewed by
Andrew Hajjar
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 Mercedes-Benz S55 AMG 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 Mercedes-Benz S55 AMG 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.

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.

Troubleshooting Check Engine Light in a Mercedes-Benz S55 AMG

When faced with a check engine light in your Mercedes-Benz S55 AMG, the first step is to diagnose the fault using an OBD-II scanner, which can provide valuable insights into the specific issues triggering the warning. Start by checking for any simple problems, such as loose gas caps or minor sensor malfunctions, which can often be resolved without professional assistance. If the diagnostics reveal more complex issues, it may be necessary to delve deeper into the vehicle's systems, examining components like the ignition system, fuel injectors, or exhaust sensors. Once you have addressed the underlying problems, you can reset the check engine light by turning the ignition to the "On" position without starting the engine, allowing the system to clear any stored codes. To prevent the light from reactivating, ensure that all repairs are thorough and that you regularly maintain your vehicle. By following this structured approach, you can effectively troubleshoot and resolve check engine light issues, ensuring your S55 AMG remains in optimal condition.

What Could Cause the Check Engine Light to Illuminate in a Mercedes-Benz S55 AMG?

When the check engine light comes on in your Mercedes-Benz S55 AMG, it can be a source of concern, but understanding the common problems can help you diagnose the issue effectively. One of the simplest causes could be a loose gas cap, which can disrupt the fuel system's airtightness and trigger the warning light. If the gas cap is secure, you may want to check for sensor issues, particularly with the mass airflow sensor, as faulty sensors are known culprits for activating the check engine light. More serious concerns could involve the catalytic converter; if it’s failing, it can lead to significant performance issues and should be addressed promptly. Additionally, if you notice a decrease in vehicle performance, the engine may have entered "limp mode" to prevent further damage, indicating a more serious engine or fuel system problem. Other mechanical faults, such as a broken gas cap or issues with the cannister and its lines, can also contribute to the light illuminating. By conducting thorough diagnostics and maintenance, you can identify the root cause of the check engine light and take the necessary steps to resolve it, ensuring your S55 AMG runs smoothly.

Why is the Check Engine Light Important in a Mercedes-Benz S55 AMG?

The Check Engine Light in a Mercedes-Benz S55 AMG is not just a simple warning; it is a critical alert that demands immediate attention. Ignoring this light can lead to severe consequences, including compromised vehicle safety and extensive engine damage. For instance, if the light indicates an engine misfire, continuing to drive the vehicle can result in further damage to the engine components, leading to costly repairs. Additionally, performance issues such as rough idling or poor acceleration can pose safety risks on the road, making it essential to address these symptoms promptly. The diagnostic system is designed to catch problems early, and neglecting the warning can turn minor issues into major repairs, ultimately affecting the vehicle's reliability and performance. Therefore, it is crucial for owners to take the Check Engine Light seriously and seek professional diagnostics to ensure their Mercedes-Benz S55 AMG remains safe and operational.

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