1996 Mercedes-Benz S420

Introduction

The 1996 Mercedes-Benz S420 is a full-size luxury sedan powered by a 4.2-liter V8 engine. It was praised for its comfort, power, and safety, but criticized for its high price and complex electronics.

The S420 came with a 5-speed automatic transmission. Other engine and transmission options included:

• 3.2-liter V6 with 5-speed automatic transmission (218 hp, 229 lb-ft)
• 4.2-liter V8 with 6-speed manual transmission (275 hp, 295 lb-ft)
• 6.0-liter V12 with 5-speed automatic transmission (394 hp, 417 lb-ft)

Engine

4.2-liter V8

• Cam/Crankshaft Position Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine stalls, rough idling, no-start
  • Solution: Replace cam/crankshaft position sensor
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Intake Manifold Air Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, loss of power
  • Solution: Replace intake manifold gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Timing Chain Tensioner Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine noise, reduced power, no-start
  • Solution: Replace timing chain tensioner
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-speed Automatic

• Transmission Slippage
  • Description/Symptoms: Delay in gear engagement, loss of power
  • Solution: Replace transmission fluid, overhaul transmission
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Shudder
  • Description/Symptoms: Vibration during acceleration
  • Solution: Replace torque converter
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front SuspensionStrut Mount Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noise, poor handling
  • Solution: Replace front suspension strut mount
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Suspension Link Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive tire wear, uneven handling
  • Solution: Replace rear suspension link
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery goes dead quickly
  • Solution: Test and replace faulty electrical component
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of electrical power, charging system light on
  • Solution: Replace alternator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Headlight Switch Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Headlights not working
  • Solution: Replace headlight switch
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• No Issues Found

Interior

• Window Regulator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Window stuck, not opening or closing
  • Solution: Replace window regulator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Heater/AC Blower Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: No air flow from vents
  • Solution: Replace heater/AC blower motor
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 1996 Mercedes-Benz S420 has a few common issues that can be expensive to fix. The most severe issues include timing chain tensioner failure, transmission slippage, and suspension link failure. However, many of the other issues are relatively minor and affordable to repair. Overall, this vehicle can still be a good choice for those seeking a comfortable and luxurious sedan, but it’s important to be aware of the potential issues and have them addressed as needed.