2003 Mercedes-Benz S55 AMG

The 2003 Mercedes-Benz S55 AMG is a high-performance luxury sedan. It was available with a 5.4L Supercharged V8 engine. The S55 AMG generates 493 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque. It was mated to a 5-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise the car for its powerful engine, comfortable ride, and luxurious features. Common complaints include high maintenance costs, complex electronics, and potential for expensive repairs.

Engine

5.4L Supercharged V8

• Intercooler Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Overheating, loss of power, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) related to intake air temperature or supercharger performance.
  • Solution: Replacement of the intercooler pump.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Supercharger Clutch Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Whining noises from the supercharger, decreased boost pressure, and potential engagement/disengagement issues.
  • Solution: Replacement of the supercharger clutch or related components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $2500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Crankshaft Position Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Stalling, difficulty starting, rough running engine, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replacement of the crankshaft position sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic Transmission (722.6)

• Conductor Plate Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Erratic shifting, transmission stuck in limp mode, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) related to transmission solenoids or sensors.
  • Solution: Replacement of the conductor plate within the transmission. Requires dropping the transmission pan and valve body.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh shifting, delayed engagement, slipping between gears.
  • Solution: Replacement or rebuild of the valve body.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $2500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering at low speeds, unusual noises from the transmission, poor acceleration.
  • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1200 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Airmatic Suspension Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sitting unevenly, suspension warning lights illuminated, harsh ride quality.
  • Solution: Replacement of air struts, air compressor, valve block, or air lines.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000+ per strut, $500 - $1200+ for compressor
  • Recalls: None Found
• ABC (Active Body Control) System Leaks/Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle leaning excessively in corners, suspension warning lights, fluid leaks near suspension components.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of ABC pump, accumulators (spheres), valve blocks, or hydraulic lines.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $4000+ depending on component
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Dead battery, requiring frequent jump starts.
  • Solution: Diagnosis and repair of parasitic drain, potentially involving faulty modules or wiring.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Instrument Cluster Pixel Loss
  • Description/Symptoms: Missing or distorted pixels on the instrument cluster display.
  • Solution: Replacement or repair of the instrument cluster.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Door Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Doors not locking or unlocking properly.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty door lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per door
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust (Especially around wheel wells and door edges)
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible rust forming on body panels.
  • Solution: Body repair and paintwork.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3000+ depending on severity
  • Recalls: None Found
• Headlight Lens Clouding/Yellowing
  • Description/Symptoms: Headlight lenses becoming cloudy or yellowed, reducing light output.
  • Solution: Polishing the headlight lenses or replacing the headlights.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+ for polishing, $300 - $1000+ for replacement
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof not opening or closing properly, binding, or making excessive noise.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of sunroof motor, tracks, or cables.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Command System Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Navigation system freezing, radio not working, or other issues with the COMAND system.
  • Solution: Software update, repair or replacement of the COMAND unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2003 Mercedes-Benz S55 AMG, while offering impressive performance and luxury, is prone to several common issues. The airmatic suspension and ABC system are notorious for failures, leading to potentially high repair costs. Electrical gremlins, such as battery drain and instrument cluster problems, can also be frustrating. Engine and transmission issues, while less frequent, can also be costly. Prospective buyers should be aware of these potential issues and factor them into their budget. Thorough inspection and maintenance records are crucial when considering purchasing this vehicle.