2012 Mercedes-Benz S600

The 2012 Mercedes-Benz S600 is a luxury sedan known for its opulent features and powerful performance. It came equipped with a twin-turbocharged 5.5-liter V12 engine producing 510 horsepower and 612 lb-ft of torque. Other engine options available for the 2012 S-Class included a 3.5L V6, 4.6L V8, and a 5.5L V8, depending on the specific S-Class model. While owners appreciate the S600’s smooth ride, powerful engine, and luxurious interior, some common complaints revolve around the high cost of maintenance and repairs, as well as occasional electrical gremlins. The S600 is exclusively equipped with a 5-speed automatic transmission.

Engine

5.5L Twin-Turbo V12

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks, often originating from the valve cover gaskets, oil cooler lines, or the rear main seal. Symptoms include visible oil drips under the car, the smell of burning oil, and low oil levels.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking gaskets or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1500+ depending on the source of the leak.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Ignition Coil Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Misfires, rough idling, and a check engine light. Diagnostic codes typically indicate a specific cylinder misfire.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty ignition coil.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150-$400 per coil, plus labor.
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic

• Torque Converter Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering during light acceleration, especially at low speeds. Can also manifest as harsh shifting.
  • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Airmatic Suspension Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The car sits lower on one or more corners, the ride is harsh and bumpy, and there may be warning lights on the dashboard related to the suspension system. The air compressor may also run constantly.
  • Solution: Replace faulty air struts, air compressor, or the valve block.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $3,000+ per strut, compressor replacement around $800 - $1,500.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: The car battery drains quickly, especially when the car is not in use. This can lead to difficulty starting the car or needing to jump-start it.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the source of the parasitic draw. This could involve replacing faulty modules, fixing wiring issues, or addressing aftermarket accessories that are drawing power when they shouldn’t.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+ depending on the source of the drain.
  • Recalls: None Found
• COMAND System Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: The COMAND system (Mercedes’ infotainment system) can experience various issues, including screen flickering, freezing, failure to boot up, or problems with the navigation or audio functions.
  • Solution: Software update, replacement of the COMAND unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $2000+ depending on the specific issue and repair needed.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Headlight Condensation
  • Description/Symptoms: Moisture build-up inside the headlight housings.
  • Solution: Resealing the headlight housing or replacing the headlight assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1500+ per headlight.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof may become stuck, make excessive noise, or fail to open or close properly.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the sunroof motor, tracks, or related components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1200+
  • Recalls: None Found

In summary, the 2012 Mercedes-Benz S600, while a supremely luxurious vehicle, can suffer from a number of issues, particularly related to its complex engine, air suspension, and electrical systems. The cost of repairs can be significant due to the price of parts and the specialized labor required. Potential buyers should be aware of these potential issues and budget accordingly for maintenance and repairs.