2008 Mercedes-Benz S450

The 2008 Mercedes-Benz S450 is a luxury sedan known for its comfortable ride, opulent interior, and advanced technology. The S450 is equipped with a 4.7L V8 engine producing 335 horsepower and 339 lb-ft of torque. Other engine options for the 2008 S-Class include the S550 which has a 5.5L V8 and the S600 which has a 5.5L V12. All engine options are paired with a 7-speed automatic transmission (7G-TRONIC). Owners generally appreciate the car’s smooth ride, quiet cabin, and elegant design. Common complaints often revolve around the high cost of maintenance and repairs, as well as the complexity of the vehicle’s numerous electronic systems.

Engine

4.7L V8

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks can develop from various locations, including the valve cover gaskets, oil filter housing gasket, and rear main seal. Symptoms include visible oil leaks under the car, a burning oil smell, and low oil levels.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking gaskets or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,500+ depending on the location and severity of the leak.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Camshaft Adjuster Solenoid Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The camshaft adjuster solenoids (also known as variable valve timing (VVT) solenoids) can fail, leading to rough idling, reduced engine performance, and potential engine misfires. A check engine light may illuminate.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty camshaft adjuster solenoid(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per solenoid.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks from hoses, radiator, or water pump. Symptoms include low coolant levels, overheating, and visible coolant leaks.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking hoses, radiator, or water pump.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+ depending on the component.
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

7G-TRONIC 7-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Torque Converter Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The torque converter can sometimes exhibit issues, leading to shuddering during acceleration, erratic shifting, or complete failure to engage.
  • Solution: Replacing or rebuilding the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Body Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: The valve body, responsible for controlling fluid flow within the transmission, can experience problems, resulting in harsh or delayed shifts, slipping, or failure to shift.
  • Solution: Replacing or rebuilding the valve body.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Airmatic Suspension Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: The Airmatic air suspension system is prone to issues such as air leaks from the struts or air lines, compressor failure, and control module malfunctions. Symptoms include a sagging vehicle, uneven ride height, a noisy compressor, and error messages on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty air struts, air lines, compressor, or control module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,500+ per strut, $200 - $800 for the compressor.
  • Recalls: None Found
• ABC (Active Body Control) Suspension Problems (If Equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: The ABC hydraulic suspension can have issues with the pump, accumulators, struts, and lines. This can cause uneven ride height, leaks, and a generally poor ride.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $4,000+ depending on the specific component.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive battery drain can occur due to a variety of reasons, including faulty modules, parasitic draws, or a failing alternator. Symptoms include a dead battery, difficulty starting the vehicle, and frequent jump-starts.
  • Solution: Identifying and repairing the source of the battery drain, replacing the battery, or replacing the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+ depending on the cause.
  • Recalls: None Found
• SAM (Signal Acquisition Module) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The SAM modules control various electrical functions. Failure can cause issues with lights, wipers, windows, and other systems.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty SAM module and reprogramming it.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• COMAND System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The COMAND infotainment system can experience issues with the screen, navigation, audio, and Bluetooth connectivity. Symptoms include a blank screen, system freezes, and inability to control certain functions.
  • Solution: Repairing or replacing the COMAND unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Door lock actuators can fail, preventing the doors from locking or unlocking properly.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty door lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per door.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The sunroof mechanism can fail, causing the sunroof to jam, leak, or not open/close properly.
  • Solution: Repairing or replacing the sunroof mechanism.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2008 Mercedes-Benz S450, while luxurious and comfortable, can suffer from a number of potentially expensive issues. The most common problems revolve around the Airmatic suspension, electrical systems, and potential oil leaks from the engine. Transmission issues, while less frequent, can also be costly. Severity can range from minor inconveniences to major mechanical failures. Repair costs can vary significantly depending on the specific issue and the repair shop. Prospective buyers should have a pre-purchase inspection performed by a qualified mechanic familiar with Mercedes-Benz vehicles to identify any potential problems.