1999 Mercedes-Benz S420

1999 Mercedes-Benz S420

The 1999 Mercedes-Benz S420 is a luxury sedan powered by a 4.2-liter V8 engine that produces 279 horsepower and 302 lb-ft of torque. It comes paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission as the sole option. The S420 is known for its spacious interior, impressive performance, and sophisticated features. However, it is not without its share of issues.

Engine

• 4.2-liter V8
  • Intake manifold leaks: Oil leaks from the intake manifold gaskets, causing rough idling, reduced power, and increased oil consumption.
    • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gaskets.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Valve cover leaks: Oil leaks from the valve covers, resulting in oil dripping onto the engine and a burnt oil smell.
    • Solution: Replace the valve cover gaskets.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $700+

Transmission

• 5-speed automatic
  • Clunking noises during shifting: A worn transmission mount or flex disc can cause clunking or jerking when shifting.
    • Solution: Replace the transmission mount or flex disc.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Hesitation or delayed shifting: Malfunctioning transmission solenoids or a faulty transmission control module can lead to hesitation or delayed shifting.
    • Solution: Replace the solenoids or transmission control module.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+

Suspension

• Airmatic suspension system:
  • Air leaks in the air bags: Punctures or tears in the air bags can cause the suspension to lower or sag.
    • Solution: Replace the faulty air bag.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
  • Compressor failure: A malfunctioning compressor may not be able to maintain proper air pressure in the suspension system.
    • Solution: Replace the air compressor.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+

Electrical

• Central locking system:
  • Malfunctioning door lock actuators: Failed actuators can prevent doors from locking or unlocking properly.
    • Solution: Replace the faulty door lock actuators.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
• Battery drain:
  • Faulty alternator: A malfunctioning alternator may not provide sufficient power to charge the battery, leading to a dead battery.
    • Solution: Replace the alternator.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+

Exterior

• No Issues Found

Interior

• Sunroof malfunctions:
  • Sticking sunroof: A faulty sunroof motor or switch can prevent the sunroof from opening or closing properly.
    • Solution: Replace the sunroof motor or switch.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,200+
• Climate control failure:
  • Blower motor issues: A malfunctioning blower motor may not circulate air properly, leading to inadequate heating or cooling.
    • Solution: Replace the blower motor.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+

Summary

The 1999 Mercedes-Benz S420 is a luxurious and well-equipped sedan, but it does come with a few potential issues. While some of these issues, such as electrical malfunctions and suspension problems, can be expensive to fix, others, like intake manifold leaks and sunroof malfunctions, are relatively minor and less costly to address. Overall, the severity and cost of these issues vary, and it’s important for owners to be aware of the potential problems and factor in the cost of maintenance and repairs when considering this vehicle.