2009 Mercedes-Benz S500

Introduction

The 2009 Mercedes-Benz S500 is a full-size luxury sedan powered by a 4.6-liter V8 engine that produces 382 horsepower and 391 lb-ft of torque. It comes standard with a 7-speed automatic transmission. The S500 is known for its luxurious interior, advanced technology, and impressive performance. However, it has also been reported to have some issues.

Engine

• 4.6-liter V8
  • Oil leaks: Oil leaks can occur from the valve covers, oil pan gasket, or oil filter housing. Symptoms include a burning oil smell, oil spots under the vehicle, and low oil levels. The solution is to replace the leaking gaskets or seals. The estimated cost to fix is $200-$500.
  • Timing chain tensioner failure: The timing chain tensioner can fail, causing the timing chain to skip or break. Symptoms include a rattling noise from the engine, loss of power, and engine stalling. The solution is to replace the timing chain tensioner and timing chain. The estimated cost to fix is $1,500-$2,500.

Transmission

• 7-speed automatic transmission
  • Shifting problems: The transmission may have difficulty shifting gears, slip out of gear, or refuse to engage. Symptoms include rough shifting, delayed shifting, and loss of power. The solution is to have the transmission serviced or rebuilt. The estimated cost to fix is $1,000-$3,000.
  • Torque converter shudder: The torque converter may shudder when the vehicle is accelerating. Symptoms include a vibration felt through the vehicle. The solution is to replace the torque converter. The estimated cost to fix is $1,000-$2,000.

Suspension

• Air suspension leaks: The air suspension system may develop leaks, causing the vehicle to sag. Symptoms include uneven ride height, poor handling, and a hissing noise from the suspension. The solution is to replace the leaking air bags or lines. The estimated cost to fix is $500-$1,500.
• Strut mounts: The strut mounts can wear out, causing a clunking noise when driving over bumps. Symptoms include a clunking noise from the front or rear of the vehicle, poor handling, and uneven tire wear. The solution is to replace the strut mounts. The estimated cost to fix is $200-$400.

Electrical

• Battery drain: The battery may drain excessively, leaving the vehicle unable to start. Symptoms include a dead battery, difficulty starting the vehicle, and electrical component failures. The solution is to diagnose the electrical system and repair or replace the faulty components. The estimated cost to fix varies depending on the source of the drain.
• Alternator failure: The alternator may fail, preventing the battery from charging. Symptoms include a dead battery, flickering headlights, and electrical component failures. The solution is to replace the alternator. The estimated cost to fix is $500-$1,000.

Exterior

• Chrome trim peeling: The chrome trim on the exterior of the vehicle may peel or discolor. Symptoms include unsightly peeling or discoloration of the chrome trim. The solution is to replace the affected trim pieces. The estimated cost to fix is $200-$500.
• Headlight condensation: Condensation may form inside the headlights, causing them to fog up. Symptoms include fogged-up headlights, reduced visibility at night, and headlight failure. The solution is to reseal the headlights or replace them. The estimated cost to fix is $100-$300.

Interior

• Panoramic sunroof leaks: The panoramic sunroof may leak, allowing water to enter the vehicle’s interior. Symptoms include water leaks from the sunroof, wet headliner, and mold or mildew growth. The solution is to reseal the sunroof or replace the sunroof cassette. The estimated cost to fix is $500-$1,500.
• Navigation system failure: The navigation system may freeze, crash, or fail to load maps. Symptoms include a black screen, frozen maps, or error messages. The solution is to update the navigation system software or replace the navigation unit. The estimated cost to fix is $200-$1,000.

Summary

The 2009 Mercedes-Benz S500 is a luxurious sedan with impressive performance and technology. However, it has been reported to have some issues, including oil leaks, transmission problems, suspension leaks, electrical issues, and interior problems. The severity of the issues varies, and the cost to fix them can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars.