2021 Mercedes-Benz S560 Has A Check Engine Light

Troubleshooting the Check Engine Light in Your 2021 Mercedes-Benz S560: Common Causes and Solutions

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Reviewed by
Bo Fader
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
40% chance it's the
Emissions System
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60% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a 2021 Mercedes-Benz S560 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 2021 Mercedes-Benz S560 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 2021 Mercedes-Benz S560?

When faced with a check engine light on your 2021 Mercedes-Benz S560, it's essential to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach to effectively identify the underlying issue. Start by visually inspecting the gas cap, as a loose or damaged cap is a common culprit that can easily trigger the warning light. Next, pay attention to any additional dashboard indicators or messages that may provide further insights into the problem. Utilizing an OBD-II scanner is a crucial step; by connecting it to your vehicle's onboard diagnostic system, you can retrieve specific error codes that will guide you toward the exact issue at hand. Additionally, take note of any unusual symptoms your vehicle may be exhibiting, such as rough idling or poor acceleration, as these details can significantly aid in the diagnostic process. By following these initial steps, you can gather the necessary information to address the check engine light effectively and potentially save on costly repairs.

What are the common problems that could cause the check engine light to illuminate in a 2021 Mercedes-Benz S560?

When the check engine light comes on in a 2021 Mercedes-Benz S560, it can be concerning, but understanding the common problems can help you diagnose the issue. One frequent culprit is a loose gas cap, which is an easy fix that can often be resolved by simply tightening or replacing the cap. Another common issue is a faulty oxygen sensor, which plays a crucial role in monitoring exhaust emissions and fuel efficiency; if this sensor fails, it may require replacement. Additionally, problems with the catalytic converter can lead to inefficiencies that trigger the light, indicating a need for inspection or replacement. Spark plug or ignition coil issues are also prevalent, as they can cause misfires that affect engine performance. A malfunctioning mass airflow sensor can disrupt the air-fuel mixture, leading to the check engine light illuminating as well. Lastly, an engine misfire, often caused by bad spark plugs or fuel injectors, can also trigger the warning light. While some of these issues can be addressed with basic DIY skills, it’s essential to have the vehicle properly diagnosed to ensure that any underlying problems are resolved effectively, preventing further damage and maintaining optimal performance.

How urgent is it to address the check engine light in a 2021 Mercedes-Benz S560?

When the check engine light illuminates in your 2021 Mercedes-Benz S560, it is crucial to understand the urgency of the situation. This warning indicator is not just a minor inconvenience; it signals potential issues with your engine or emissions system that could escalate into more serious problems if left unaddressed. Ignoring this light can lead to costly repairs, decreased vehicle performance, and even safety risks on the road. For DIY enthusiasts, the first step is to use an OBD-II scanner to retrieve diagnostic trouble codes, which can provide insight into the specific issue at hand. However, while some minor issues may be resolved at home, it is essential to recognize when professional help is needed. Promptly diagnosing and addressing the underlying cause of the check engine light not only helps maintain the health of your vehicle but also ensures your safety and the longevity of your investment. Therefore, taking immediate action when the light comes on is not just advisable; it is imperative for the well-being of both you and your vehicle.

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Check Engine Light Causes for 2021 Mercedes-Benz S560