2011 Mercedes-Benz S450

The 2011 Mercedes-Benz S450 is a luxury sedan known for its comfort, technology, and smooth ride. While the S-Class generally enjoys a reputation for reliability, certain issues have surfaced among owners of the 2011 model. The S450 is equipped with a 4.7L V8 engine producing 335 horsepower and 339 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 7-speed automatic transmission (7G-Tronic). Other engine options for the S-Class in 2011 included the S350 (3.5L V6), S550 (4.6L V8), S600 (5.5L V12), and AMG variants with even more powerful engines. Owners typically praise the S450 for its luxurious interior, quiet cabin, and advanced features, but some have expressed concerns about the cost of maintenance and repairs.

Engine

4.7L V8 (M278)

• Camshaft Adjuster Solenoid Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light, rough idling, reduced engine performance.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty camshaft adjuster solenoid.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil spots under the car, burning oil smell, low oil level. Often from valve cover gaskets or oil filter housing.
  • Solution: Replacement of the leaking gasket or component.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+ depending on location and severity.
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

7G-Tronic (722.9)

• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh shifting, delayed engagement, slipping between gears, transmission getting stuck in gear.
  • Solution: Replacement of the valve body or repair of the solenoids within the valve body.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering at low speeds, unusual noises, transmission slipping, poor fuel economy.
  • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Airmatic Suspension Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sagging on one or more corners, rough ride, compressor running constantly, “Vehicle Too Low” warning on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Replacement of the air struts, air compressor, or associated air lines.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,500+ per strut, $500 - $1,500+ for compressor.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery frequently dying, difficulty starting the car, electrical system malfunctions.
  • Solution: Identify and repair the source of the parasitic drain, which could be a faulty module, sensor, or wiring issue.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+ depending on the complexity of the issue.
  • Recalls: None Found
• COMAND System Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Screen freezing, navigation issues, audio problems, Bluetooth connectivity issues.
  • Solution: Software update, replacement of the COMAND unit, or repair of the associated wiring.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Headlight Condensation
  • Description/Symptoms: Moisture buildup inside the headlight housings.
  • Solution: Resealing the headlight housing or replacing the headlight assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof not opening or closing properly, getting stuck, or making unusual noises.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the sunroof motor, tracks, or other components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Seat Heater Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: Seat heater not working or overheating.
  • Solution: Replacement of the seat heater element or control module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2011 Mercedes-Benz S450, while offering a luxurious experience, does present potential owners with several common issues. The most prevalent problems revolve around the airmatic suspension and electrical system, along with potential issues in the engine and transmission. Repair costs can range from a few hundred dollars for minor fixes to several thousand for more extensive repairs such as transmission or air suspension component replacement. It’s advisable to have a pre-purchase inspection performed by a qualified mechanic specializing in Mercedes-Benz vehicles to identify any existing or potential problems.