1991 Mercedes-Benz 560SEC

Introduction: The 1991 Mercedes-Benz 560SEC is a luxurious grand tourer with sophisticated styling and a powerful V8 engine. It was offered with a choice of engines and transmissions:

• Engine:
  • 5.6L V8 (M119): 299 hp, 405 lb-ft of torque
• Transmission:
  • 4-speed automatic (W4A040)

Engine

5.6L V8 (M119)

Head Gasket Failure Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, overheating, engine misfires Solution: Replace head gaskets Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000 Recalls: None Found

Intake Manifold Gasket Leak Description/Symptoms: Vacuum leaks, rough idle, decreased engine performance Solution: Replace intake manifold gaskets Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000 Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-speed automatic (W4A040)

Slipping Gears Description/Symptoms: Transmission slipping out of gear, difficulty shifting Solution: Overhaul or replace transmission Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000+ Recalls: None Found

Electrical

Ignition Control Module Failure Description/Symptoms: No spark, engine won’t start Solution: Replace ignition control module Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500 Recalls: None Found

Alternator Failure Description/Symptoms: Battery not charging, electrical system malfunctions Solution: Replace alternator Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000 Recalls: None Found

Suspension

Front Suspension Bushings Deterioration Description/Symptoms: Loose front end, clunking noises Solution: Replace suspension bushings Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000 Recalls: None Found

Rear Suspension Springs Sagging Description/Symptoms: Rear end sagging, uneven ride height Solution: Replace rear suspension springs Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000 Recalls: None Found

Exterior

Door Lock Actuator Failure Description/Symptoms: Doors won’t lock or unlock remotely or manually Solution: Replace door lock actuators Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000 Recalls: None Found

Interior

Cruise Control Switch Failure Description/Symptoms: Cruise control not engaging or disengaging Solution: Replace cruise control switch Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500 Recalls: None Found

Summary: The 1991 Mercedes-Benz 560SEC is a reliable and luxurious vehicle, but it can experience some common issues as it ages. The most significant and expensive issues relate to engine and transmission problems, which can range from $1,500 to over $2,000 to fix. The electrical, suspension, and interior issues are generally less severe and more affordable to address.