2007 Mercedes-Benz S65 AMG

The 2007 Mercedes-Benz S65 AMG is a high-performance luxury sedan known for its immense power and opulent features. It was exclusively equipped with a hand-built 6.0L Twin-Turbocharged V12 engine producing 604 horsepower and 738 lb-ft of torque. This engine was paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission (5G-TRONIC). Owners often praised the car’s effortless acceleration and luxurious interior, while common criticisms included its high running costs, complex electronics, and potential for expensive repairs.

Engine

6.0L Twin-Turbo V12 (M275)

• Coil Pack Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Misfires, rough running engine, check engine light illuminated. Individual coil packs on the V12 engine are prone to failure.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty coil pack(s). It’s often recommended to replace all coil packs at the same time to prevent future issues.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300 per coil pack (parts and labor)
  • Recalls: None Found
• ABC (Active Body Control) Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: ABC warning light illuminated, suspension sagging, poor ride quality. The ABC pump, while not directly engine related, is powered by and crucial for the vehicle’s operation. The pump is under high pressure and is prone to failure.
  • Solution: Replace the ABC pump. Flush the ABC system to remove any debris.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $3,500 (parts and labor)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, whistling or screeching noise from the engine, excessive smoke, check engine light illuminated. The turbos on the M275 engine are known to fail, especially on cars that have not been properly maintained.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty turbocharger(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $6,000+ (parts and labor per turbo)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Cover Gasket Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks on the engine, burning smell, low oil level. The valve cover gaskets on the M275 engine tend to harden and leak over time.
  • Solution: Replace the valve cover gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000 (parts and labor)
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic (5G-TRONIC)

• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering during acceleration, slipping between gears, delayed engagement.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000 (parts and labor)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or erratic shifting, delayed engagement, transmission slipping. The valve body controls the flow of transmission fluid and can become clogged or worn over time.
  • Solution: Rebuild or replace the valve body.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000 (parts and labor)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• ABC (Active Body Control) Strut Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle leaning to one side, rough ride, ABC warning light illuminated. The ABC struts are known to fail due to age and wear.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty ABC strut(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+ per strut (parts and labor)
  • Recalls: None Found
• ABC Hose Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Leaking hydraulic fluid, suspension issues, ABC warning light. The high-pressure hoses in the ABC system can leak over time.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking hose(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+ (parts and labor depending on the hose)
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• EIS (Electronic Ignition Switch) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Key not recognized, difficulty starting the car, no response when turning the key.
  • Solution: Replace the EIS module. This often requires dealer programming.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000 (parts and labor)
  • Recalls: None Found
• SAM (Signal Acquisition Module) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Various electrical issues, including lighting problems, window malfunctions, and sensor errors.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty SAM unit. This often requires dealer programming.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+ (parts and labor)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Dead battery, difficulty starting the car, needing to jump-start the car frequently. The S65 AMG has a complex electrical system that can drain the battery even when the car is off.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the source of the battery drain. This can involve testing various electrical components and modules.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+ (depending on the cause)
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Headlight Condensation
  • Description/Symptoms: Moisture buildup inside the headlight housing.
  • Solution: Replace or reseal the headlight housing.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+ (depending on if replacing or resealing)
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof not opening or closing properly, making noises, or leaking.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the sunroof mechanism.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000 (parts and labor)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Air Suspension Compressor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Air pump runs constantly, suspension failure.
  • Solution: Replace the air suspension compressor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2007 Mercedes-Benz S65 AMG, while offering incredible performance and luxury, is prone to several costly issues. Engine and suspension problems, particularly related to the ABC system and turbochargers, can be quite expensive to repair. Electrical gremlins are also a common concern. Prospective buyers should factor in these potential maintenance costs when considering this vehicle. The severity of issues can range from minor electrical glitches to major mechanical failures, with repair costs potentially exceeding several thousand dollars for certain components. A pre-purchase inspection by a qualified Mercedes-Benz mechanic is highly recommended.