2011 Maybach 57

The 2011 Maybach 57 is the epitome of ultra-luxury, boasting handcrafted interiors, a smooth ride, and distinctive styling. It is powered by a hand-built 5.5-liter twin-turbocharged V12 engine producing 543 horsepower and 664 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission. The Maybach 57 offers an unparalleled level of customization and passenger comfort, often cited as its biggest strength. However, downsides include its high maintenance costs, complex systems prone to failure, and the sheer size of the vehicle making it difficult to maneuver in tight spaces. A higher performance “S” model was available, powered by a 621-hp version of the same engine.

Engine

5.5L Twin-Turbocharged V12

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks are a common issue, often originating from the valve cover gaskets, rear main seal, or turbocharger oil lines. Symptoms include visible oil on the engine, burning oil smell, and low oil levels.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking gaskets or seals. For turbocharger oil lines, replacement of the line is typically necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,500+, depending on the source of the leak and labor involved.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Turbocharger Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The twin-turbochargers can experience failures, including wastegate malfunctions, oil leaks, or complete turbo failure. Symptoms include loss of power, whistling or grinding noises from the engine, and potentially a check engine light.
  • Solution: Depending on the nature of the failure, the wastegate actuator can be replaced, or the entire turbocharger may need replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $5,000+ per turbocharger, including labor.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Cooling System Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Leaks can occur at hoses, the radiator, or the water pump. This can cause overheating issues.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking parts and flush the cooling system.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic

• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Torque converter issues can manifest as shuddering during acceleration, particularly at lower speeds, or a complete failure to engage gears.
  • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The valve body can develop problems, leading to harsh or delayed shifting, slipping between gears, or complete transmission failure.
  • Solution: The valve body can be rebuilt or replaced. In some cases, transmission replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Airmatic Suspension Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The Airmatic suspension system, responsible for the Maybach’s smooth ride, is prone to failures. Common issues include air leaks in the struts, compressor failure, and control module malfunctions. Symptoms include the vehicle sitting low on one or more corners, a loud hissing sound from the suspension, and a “vehicle rising” warning on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaking air struts, replacing the air compressor, or replacing the control module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $4,000+ per strut, $1,000 - $2,000+ for the compressor, depending on the parts needing replacement and labor involved.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive battery drain can occur due to various modules not shutting down properly, a faulty alternator, or parasitic draws from aftermarket accessories. Symptoms include a dead battery, requiring frequent jump starts.
  • Solution: Diagnose the source of the drain using a multimeter and testing each circuit. Repair or replace the faulty component.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+, depending on the source of the drain.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Navigation/Infotainment System Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: The complex infotainment system can experience glitches, screen freezes, or complete failure. This can include issues with the navigation system, audio system, and climate controls.
  • Solution: Software updates may resolve some issues. If hardware is faulty, replacement of the affected module may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Automatic Door Closing System Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: The automatic door closing system, while convenient, can experience malfunctions. Doors may not close completely, or the system may fail to engage.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the affected door closing mechanism.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+ per door.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroofs may leak, get stuck, or make excessive noise when operating.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the sunroof motor, tracks, or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2011 Maybach 57, while offering unparalleled luxury, is prone to a variety of costly issues, particularly related to its complex engine, Airmatic suspension, and electrical systems. Engine oil leaks, turbocharger problems, suspension failures, and electrical gremlins are the most concerning. The estimated repair costs can range from several hundred to thousands of dollars per incident, making ownership an expensive proposition. Due to the scarcity of parts and the specialized knowledge required to service these vehicles, repairs can often only be performed at authorized Maybach or Mercedes-Benz dealerships, further increasing costs.