2016 Mercedes-Benz S65 AMG Has A Check Engine Light

Check Engine Light On in 2016 Mercedes-Benz S65 AMG: Causes and Solutions

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Reviewed by
Devin Cabugcal
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 2016 Mercedes-Benz S65 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 2016 Mercedes-Benz S65 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.

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 2016 Mercedes-Benz S65 AMG?

When faced with a check engine light on your 2016 Mercedes-Benz S65 AMG, it's essential to start with a systematic diagnostic approach. Begin by checking the gas cap; a loose or damaged cap is a common culprit that can easily trigger the warning light. Next, examine your dashboard for any additional warning indicators or messages that might offer further insight into the issue. Utilizing an OBD-II scanner is a crucial step, as it allows you to retrieve error codes from the vehicle's computer, which can significantly narrow down the potential problems. Additionally, inspect the engine bay for any visible signs of damage, such as frayed wires or loose connections, which could be contributing to the issue. Lastly, monitor your vehicle's performance for any irregularities like rough idling or decreased fuel efficiency, as these symptoms can provide valuable context for diagnosing the problem. By following these initial steps, you can effectively gather information that may lead to a resolution of the check engine light concern.

What are the common problems that could cause the check engine light to illuminate in a 2016 Mercedes-Benz S65 AMG?

When the check engine light comes on in a 2016 Mercedes-Benz S65 AMG, it can be a source of concern for any car owner. Understanding the common problems that may cause this warning light to illuminate is crucial for effective troubleshooting. One frequent culprit is a faulty oxygen sensor, which can lead to reduced fuel efficiency and increased emissions, making it essential to address promptly. Another simple issue could be a loose gas cap; ensuring it is secure can sometimes resolve the warning light without further intervention. More complex problems may involve the catalytic converter, which, if malfunctioning, can significantly impact vehicle performance. Additionally, worn-out spark plugs or issues with the mass airflow sensor can disrupt the engine's air-fuel mixture, triggering the light. Ignition coil troubles can also lead to misfiring, further complicating the situation. For DIY enthusiasts, diagnosing these issues can often begin with a simple visual inspection or using an OBD-II scanner to read error codes, allowing for a more informed approach to repairs. However, if the problem persists or seems beyond basic fixes, consulting a qualified mechanic is advisable to prevent further damage and ensure the vehicle operates optimally.

How urgent is it to address the check engine light in a 2016 Mercedes-Benz S65 AMG?

When the check engine light illuminates in your 2016 Mercedes-Benz S65 AMG, it signals a potential issue that requires immediate attention. Ignoring this warning can lead to a cascade of problems, including reduced fuel efficiency and compromised engine performance. For DIY enthusiasts, the first step is to use an OBD-II scanner to retrieve diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) that can pinpoint the underlying issue. This initial diagnosis can help you determine whether the problem is something manageable, like a loose gas cap, or more serious, such as a failing sensor or engine component. Addressing these issues promptly not only helps maintain your vehicle's performance but also prevents more costly repairs down the line. Remember, while some minor fixes can be handled at home, consulting a professional mechanic for complex issues is always a wise choice to ensure your vehicle remains in optimal condition.

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2016 Mercedes-Benz S65 AMG Check Engine Light Guide