2005 Mercedes-Benz S 417

Introduction:

The 2005 Mercedes-Benz S 417 is a luxury sedan that offers a refined and powerful driving experience. It comes with a choice of two engine options: a 4.0L V8 and a 5.5L V8. The 4.0L V8 produces 306 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque, while the 5.5L V8 generates 355 horsepower and 376 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are paired with a 7-speed automatic transmission. The S 417 is known for its comfortable interior, advanced technology features, and impressive performance. However, it has also been affected by some common issues.

Engine

4.0L V8

• Timing Chain Tensioner Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: The timing chain tensioner can fail, leading to a rattling noise from the engine and potential engine damage.
  • Solution: The timing chain tensioner and related components need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
• Cylinder Bore Scoring:
  • Description/Symptoms: The cylinder bores in the engine can become scored, which can lead to loss of compression and excessive oil consumption.
  • Solution: The engine needs to be rebuilt or replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $5,000 - $10,000+
• Oil Pressure Switch Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: The oil pressure switch can fail, causing the engine to run without sufficient oil pressure and potentially resulting in catastrophic engine damage.
  • Solution: The oil pressure switch needs to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+

5.5L V8

• Valve Stem Seal Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: The valve stem seals can fail, causing excessive oil consumption and visible exhaust smoke.
  • Solution: The valve stem seals need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+

Transmission

7-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Transmission Fluid Leak:
  • Description/Symptoms: The transmission can develop leaks, causing low fluid levels and potential transmission damage.
  • Solution: The leak needs to be identified and repaired.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
• Shifting Problems:
  • Description/Symptoms: The transmission may experience shifting issues, such as hard shifting or slipping gears.
  • Solution: The transmission may need to be rebuilt or replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $5,000+

Suspension

• Airmatic Suspension Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: The Airmatic suspension system can fail, leading to a loss of ride height and impaired handling.
  • Solution: The air suspension components, such as the air struts or compressor, need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
• Rear Axle Bushings Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: The rear axle bushings can fail, causing clunking or rattling noises from the rear of the vehicle.
  • Solution: The rear axle bushings need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+

Electrical

• Battery Discharge:
  • Description/Symptoms: The battery can discharge prematurely, leaving the vehicle unable to start.
  • Solution: The battery needs to be replaced or underlying electrical issues need to be diagnosed and fixed.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
• Electrical System Malfunctions:
  • Description/Symptoms: The electrical system may experience various malfunctions, such as faulty sensors, electrical shorts, or failures in electronic control units.
  • Solution: The specific malfunction needs to be diagnosed and repaired.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+

Exterior

• Headlight Condensation:
  • Description/Symptoms: The headlights can develop condensation, which can impair visibility and damage the headlights.
  • Solution: The headlight housing needs to be resealed or replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+

Interior

• Sunroof Drain Tube Clogs:
  • Description/Symptoms: The sunroof drain tubes can become clogged, causing water to leak into the interior of the vehicle.
  • Solution: The sunroof drain tubes need to be unclogged.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+

Summary:

The 2005 Mercedes-Benz S 417 is a sophisticated luxury vehicle that has been praised for its performance, comfort, and technology. However, like many vehicles, it has been affected by various issues that can be costly to repair. Potential owners should be aware of these issues and consider the potential repair expenses when making a purchase decision. The severity and cost of the problems can vary depending on the specific issue and the extent of the damage.