2011 Mercedes-Benz S600

Introduction

The 2011 Mercedes-Benz S600 is a full-size luxury sedan powered by a 510-horsepower, 5.5-liter V8 engine paired with a 7-speed automatic transmission. It offers a combination of power, refinement, and advanced technology. However, like any vehicle, the S600 has experienced various issues affecting different components.

Engine

• Engine Stalling
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine suddenly stops running while driving, especially when accelerating or at low speeds.
  • Solution: Replace faulty camshaft adjuster solenoids.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: NHTSA Recall #16V408000
• Timing Chain Tensioner Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Noisy engine, reduced power, and check engine light illumination.
  • Solution: Replace timing chain tensioner and chain.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: NHTSA Recall #15V539000

Transmission

• 7-Speed Automatic Transmission Jerking
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission hesitation or jerking during gear changes, especially when upshifting or downshifting.
  • Solution: Update transmission control module software.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+

Suspension

• Air Suspension Compressor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of ride height, uneven suspension levels, and warning light illumination.
  • Solution: Replace air suspension compressor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
• Rear Suspension Link Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Noise or clunking sound from the rear suspension, especially over bumps or rough roads.
  • Solution: Replace rear suspension link.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1,000+

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery loses charge quickly, even when the vehicle is not in use.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair faulty electrical components or replace battery.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on the source of the drain
• Electrical Module Failures
  • Description/Symptoms: Various electrical system failures, such as malfunctioning controls, instrument panel issues, or lighting problems.
  • Solution: Replace or repair faulty electrical modules.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+

Exterior

• Sunroof Drain Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Water leaks into the cabin through the sunroof drains.
  • Solution: Clean or replace clogged sunroof drains.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Less than $100

Interior

• Center Console Creaking
  • Description/Symptoms: Creaks or noises from the center console area, especially when driving over uneven surfaces.
  • Solution: Locate and tighten loose fasteners or replace worn parts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+

Summary

While the 2011 Mercedes-Benz S600 is a technologically advanced and luxurious vehicle, it has experienced some common issues that can affect its reliability and ownership experience. The most severe and expensive issues involve engine and timing chain problems, which require substantial repairs. Suspension and electrical issues can also be costly, but some minor interior and exterior problems are relatively inexpensive to fix.