1996 Mercedes-Benz S500

Introduction

The 1996 Mercedes-Benz S500 is a luxury sedan powered by a 5.0-liter V8 engine that produces 315 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. It is paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission. The S500 is known for its elegant design, spacious interior, and powerful performance. However, it also has some common issues that owners should be aware of.

Engine

5.0L V8

• Leaking head gasket: Symptoms include overheating, white smoke from exhaust, and loss of coolant. Solution: Replace head gasket. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
• Faulty intake camshaft adjusters: Symptoms include rough idle, poor acceleration, and decreased fuel economy. Solution: Replace intake camshaft adjusters. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $1,500+
• Timing chain tensioner failure: Symptoms include rattling noise from engine, difficulty starting, and loss of power. Solution: Replace timing chain tensioner. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,200 - $1,800+

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic

• Transmission slipping: Symptoms include delayed shifting, rough shifting, and loss of power. Solution: Rebuild or replace transmission. Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $3,000+

Suspension

• Front suspension struts failure: Symptoms include clunking noise from front suspension, uneven tire wear, and poor handling. Solution: Replace front suspension struts. Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,200+
• Rear suspension springs failure: Symptoms include sagging rear end, poor handling, and excessive body roll. Solution: Replace rear suspension springs. Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1,000+

Electrical

• Battery drain: Symptoms include difficulty starting, dimming headlights, and dead battery. Solution: Test and replace faulty components (e.g., alternator, starter, battery). Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on component
• Faulty ignition coil: Symptoms include misfiring, poor acceleration, and increased fuel consumption. Solution: Replace ignition coil. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $300+
• Faulty oxygen sensor: Symptoms include rough idle, poor fuel economy, and increased emissions. Solution: Replace oxygen sensor. Estimated Cost to Fix: $250 - $400+

Exterior

• Rust on undercarriage: Symptoms include visible rust spots, holes, and weakening of metal components. Solution: Repair or replace rusted components. Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on severity
• Fading headlights: Symptoms include reduced light output and difficulty seeing at night. Solution: Replace headlights. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
• Power door lock failure: Symptoms include difficulty locking or unlocking doors, and erratic behavior. Solution: Repair or replace door lock actuator. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+

Interior

• Air conditioning blower motor failure: Symptoms include lack of airflow from vents, overheating, and excessive noise. Solution: Replace blower motor. Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600+
• Faulty power seat switch: Symptoms include inability to adjust seat position, intermittent operation, or stuck seat. Solution: Replace power seat switch. Estimated Cost to Fix: $250 - $400+
• Sunroof leak: Symptoms include water dripping from headliner, wet seats, and musty odor. Solution: Inspect and seal sunroof drain tubes and gaskets. Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+

Summary

The 1996 Mercedes-Benz S500 is a well-built and luxurious sedan, but it is not without its problems. Engine issues, such as leaking head gaskets and faulty camshaft adjusters, are common. The transmission can also experience issues, including slipping and failure. The suspension and electrical systems can also have problems. However, many of these issues are relatively minor and can be repaired at a reasonable cost. Overall, the S500 is a reliable and enjoyable car to own, but owners should be aware of the potential issues listed above.