Post
Research the Car Logo

2006 Mercedes-Benz S500

Posted
By Research the Car 4 min read

The 2006 Mercedes-Benz S500 is a luxury sedan known for its comfort, advanced technology, and elegant styling. The S500 comes standard with a 5.0L V8 engine producing 302 horsepower and 339 lb-ft of torque. Other engine options available include a 6.0L V12 in the S600 and a 5.5L AMG V8 in the S55 AMG. The standard transmission is a 7-speed automatic (7G-TRONIC). Owners often praise the S500 for its smooth ride, quiet cabin, and abundance of features. Common dislikes include the high cost of maintenance and repairs, as well as the complexity of the vehicle’s electronics.

Engine

5.0L M113 V8

  • Oil Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks are common, often originating from the valve cover gaskets, oil filter housing gasket, or rear main seal. Signs include oil spots under the car, a burning oil smell, and low oil level.
    • Solution: Replacing the affected gaskets or seals.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $800+, depending on the location of the leak.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Camshaft Position Sensor Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The engine may experience rough idling, stalling, or reduced power. The check engine light will likely illuminate.
    • Solution: Replacing the faulty camshaft position sensor.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

7G-TRONIC 722.9 7-Speed Automatic

  • Valve Body Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifting, slipping between gears, or failure to shift at all. This is a common issue on early 722.9 transmissions.
    • Solution: Replacing or rebuilding the valve body. Sometimes a software update can help in the early stages.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Torque Converter Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering at low speeds, especially during acceleration. The transmission may also make unusual noises.
    • Solution: Replacing the torque converter.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,200 - $3,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

  • Airmatic Suspension Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The Airmatic suspension system is prone to leaks and compressor failures. Symptoms include the car sitting low on one or more corners, a “Car Too Low” warning light, and a noisy or non-functioning air compressor.
    • Solution: Replacing the faulty air struts, air compressor, or air lines.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+ per strut, $500 - $1,500+ for the compressor.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • ABC (Active Body Control) Hydraulic Suspension Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The ABC system can experience leaks, pump failures, and pulsation dampener problems. Symptoms may include uneven ride height, a stiff ride, and warning messages.
    • Solution: Replacing the leaking components, pump, or pulsation dampener. Flushing and refilling the ABC fluid.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $3,000+, depending on the specific issue.
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • EIS (Electronic Ignition Switch) Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty starting the car, the key not being recognized, or the car starting and then immediately shutting off.
    • Solution: Replacing the EIS module.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • SAM (Signal Acquisition Module) Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Various electrical malfunctions, such as non-functioning lights, wipers, or other accessories. The SAM modules control many of the car’s electrical functions.
    • Solution: Replacing the faulty SAM module.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,200+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Battery Drain Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: The car’s battery drains quickly, especially if it sits for a few days. This can be caused by a faulty module not shutting down properly.
    • Solution: Diagnosing and replacing the faulty module causing the drain.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies widely, depending on the source of the drain.
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • Headlight Condensation
    • Description/Symptoms: Moisture buildup inside the headlight lenses, which can reduce visibility and damage the bulbs and electronics.
    • Solution: Resealing the headlight housings or replacing the headlights.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+, depending on the severity and repair method.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Side Mirror Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Side mirrors failing to fold in or out, or the mirror glass becoming loose or delaminated.
    • Solution: Replacing the faulty side mirror assembly.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per mirror.
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

  • Sunroof Malfunctions
    • Description/Symptoms: The sunroof may fail to open or close properly, get stuck, or make excessive noise.
    • Solution: Repairing or replacing the sunroof motor, tracks, or related components.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Command System Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: The COMAND system (navigation, radio, climate control interface) can experience glitches, freezing, or complete failure.
    • Solution: Software updates, or replacing the COMAND unit.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,500+ depending on the issue.
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2006 Mercedes-Benz S500, while a luxurious and comfortable vehicle, can suffer from a number of costly issues. The Airmatic or ABC suspension, transmission, and electrical systems are the most common sources of problems. Repairs can be expensive due to the complexity of the vehicle and the cost of parts. Potential buyers should be aware of these potential issues and have the car thoroughly inspected before purchasing.

Mercedes-Benz, S500
Mercedes-Benz S500 2006
This post is licensed under CC BY 4.0 by the author.