2009 Mercedes-Benz S600

The 2009 Mercedes-Benz S600 is a luxurious sedan known for its powerful V12 engine and opulent features. The S-Class lineup also included other engine options, such as V8 engines in the S550 and S63 AMG models. The S600’s twin-turbocharged 5.5-liter V12 engine delivers approximately 510 horsepower and 612 lb-ft of torque, providing effortless acceleration and a smooth driving experience. Owners often praise the S600 for its quiet cabin, comfortable ride, and advanced technology. Criticisms sometimes include high maintenance costs, complex electronics, and potential for expensive repairs due to the sophisticated nature of the vehicle.

Engine

5.5L Twin-Turbo V12 (M275)

• Oil Leaks from Valve Cover Gaskets and Oil Pan Gasket
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks are common due to the age and heat exposure of the gaskets. Symptoms include visible oil leaks on the engine, oil spots on the ground, and a burning oil smell.
  • Solution: Replacement of the valve cover gaskets and oil pan gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+
• Ignition Coil Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Misfires, rough idling, check engine light illumination, and reduced engine power. The M275 has 12 individual ignition coils, and they can fail individually.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty ignition coil(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per coil (including labor)
• Turbocharger Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Reduced power, whistling noises from the engine, and potential oil consumption.
  • Solution: Inspection and potential repair or replacement of the turbochargers.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3000 - $6000+
• ABC Hydraulic Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power steering and suspension function, ABC warning light illuminated. The ABC pump is vital for both power steering and active body control.
  • Solution: Replacement of the ABC pump.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic (722.6)

• Transmission Slipping/Rough Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Delayed gear changes, harsh shifting, and potential slipping between gears.
  • Solution: Transmission fluid flush and filter replacement may resolve minor issues. More severe cases may require valve body repair or complete transmission rebuild/replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500 (fluid/filter), $1000 - $2500 (valve body), $4000 - $7000+ (rebuild/replacement)
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering during acceleration, especially at lower speeds, and potential stalling.
  • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+

Suspension

• Active Body Control (ABC) System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sagging suspension, uneven ride height, stiff or bouncy ride, and ABC warning lights. The ABC system is complex and prone to leaks and component failures.
  • Solution: Diagnosis of specific component failure (struts, pump, valve block, accumulators) and replacement of the faulty parts. ABC fluid flushes can sometimes help prevent issues.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+ per component (struts are particularly expensive). ABC system repairs can be very costly overall.
• AirMatic Suspension Leaks (If Equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sagging overnight or after being parked for a while, the air compressor running frequently, or suspension malfunction warnings.
  • Solution: Identify and repair leaks in the air struts, air lines, or valve block. Replacement of faulty components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000+ per strut.

Electrical

• Battery Drain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Dead battery, difficulty starting the car, and needing to jump-start the vehicle frequently.
  • Solution: Diagnosis and repair of parasitic drain, which can be caused by a faulty module or component not shutting down properly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (diagnosis), $200 - $1000+ (repair, depending on the source of the drain).
• COMAND System Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Freezing, crashing, or complete failure of the COMAND (Cockpit Management and Data) system, which controls navigation, audio, and other functions.
  • Solution: Software updates, replacement of the COMAND unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500 (software), $1000 - $3000+ (replacement unit)
• Sensor Failures (e.g., Crankshaft Position Sensor, Camshaft Position Sensor)
  • Description/Symptoms: Stalling, rough running, check engine light illumination.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+

Exterior

• Adaptive Headlight Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Headlights not leveling properly, error messages related to the headlights, or headlights not turning on.
  • Solution: Diagnose and replace faulty headlight modules or motors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+

Interior

• Seat Motor/Adjustment Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Seats not moving or adjusting properly, clicking sounds from the seat motors.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the faulty seat motor or control module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof not opening or closing properly, getting stuck, or making unusual noises.
  • Solution: Cleaning and lubrication of the sunroof tracks, repair or replacement of the sunroof motor or mechanism.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+

Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 2009 Mercedes-Benz S600, while a luxurious and powerful vehicle, can be prone to a range of issues, particularly related to its complex engine, transmission, ABC suspension, and electrical systems. The most concerning issues revolve around the potential for expensive repairs to the ABC suspension and the V12 engine, including turbocharger and oil leak problems. Electrical gremlins can also be a persistent headache. While some repairs may be relatively inexpensive, others can quickly escalate into significant costs, making thorough inspection and maintenance history crucial when considering the purchase of a used S600.