1995 Mercedes-Benz S420
Introduction:
The 1995 Mercedes-Benz S420 is a luxury sedan featuring a 4.2-liter V8 engine with 275 horsepower and 290 lb-ft of torque paired to a 4-speed automatic transmission. Known for its comfortable interior, stylish exterior, and powerful performance, the S420 has some common issues that owners should be aware of.
Engine
M119 4.2L V8
- Intake Manifold Gasket Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, overheating engine, white smoke from exhaust
- Solution: Replace intake manifold gaskets
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
- Recalls: None Found
- Distributor Cap and Rotor Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Engine misfires, rough idling, difficulty starting
- Solution: Replace distributor cap and rotor
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $300
- Recalls: None Found
- Intake Manifold Gasket Failure
Transmission
4-Speed Automatic
- Transmission Fluid Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: Fluid leaks around transmission pan, slipping gears
- Solution: Replace transmission pan gasket, inspect for worn seals
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
- Recalls: None Found
- Solenoid Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Transmission slipping or not shifting smoothly
- Solution: Replace faulty solenoid
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800
- Recalls: None Found
- Transmission Fluid Leaks
Suspension
- No Issues Found
Electrical
- Power Window Regulator Failure * Description/Symptoms: Power windows not functioning, window glass falling off track * Solution: Replace power window regulator * Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600 * Recalls: None Found
- Xenon Headlight Ballast Failure * Description/Symptoms: Xenon headlights flicker or fail to turn on * Solution: Replace xenon headlight ballast * Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400 * Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Fog Light Lens Yellowing * Description/Symptoms: Fog light lenses become discolored and cloudy * Solution: Replace fog light lenses * Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $250 * Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Climate Control Panel Pixelation * Description/Symptoms: Pixels on climate control panel display become blurry or disappear * Solution: Replace climate control panel * Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $700 * Recalls: None Found
- Seat Adjustment Motor Failure * Description/Symptoms: Seat adjustments become inoperable * Solution: Replace seat adjustment motor * Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $800 * Recalls: None Found
Summary:
The 1995 Mercedes-Benz S420 has several potential issues that owners should be aware of. While many of these issues are relatively common, their severity and cost of repair can vary widely. Engine and transmission problems can be the most expensive to fix, while interior and exterior issues are generally less costly. Overall, the S420 remains a reliable and enjoyable luxury sedan, but potential buyers should factor in the possibility of repairs when considering this vehicle.