2013 Mercedes-Benz S500
The 2013 Mercedes-Benz S500 is a luxurious and technologically advanced sedan, representing the pinnacle of Mercedes-Benz engineering at the time. The S500 came standard with a 4.7L Twin Turbo V8 engine producing 455 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque. Some owners praise the vehicle for its smooth ride, powerful engine, and opulent interior. Downsides often mentioned include high maintenance costs and complex electronics that can be prone to issues. Other engine options included the S350 BlueTEC diesel 3.0L V6, S400 Hybrid 3.5L V6, S550 4.7L V8, and S600 6.0L V12. It was paired with the 7G-TRONIC PLUS 7-speed automatic transmission.
Engine
4.7L Twin Turbo V8
- Oil Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks can develop from various points on the engine, including the valve cover gaskets, oil filter housing, and timing chain cover. Symptoms include visible oil leaks on the ground, a burning oil smell, and low oil levels.
- Solution: Replacing the faulty gasket or seal is the usual repair. More extensive leaks may require resealing the timing chain cover.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1500+, depending on the location and severity of the leak.
- Recalls: None Found
- Turbocharger Issues
- Description/Symptoms: The turbochargers can experience premature failure or issues with boost control. Symptoms include reduced engine power, whistling noises from the engine bay, and potentially a check engine light.
- Solution: Turbocharger replacement is usually necessary. Diagnosis of boost control issues may involve replacing solenoids or vacuum lines.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $5,000+ per turbocharger.
- Recalls: None Found
- Ignition Coil Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Individual ignition coils can fail, leading to misfires and rough running. Symptoms include a flashing check engine light, noticeable shaking, and reduced power.
- Solution: Replacing the faulty ignition coil resolves the issue. It’s often recommended to replace all coils at once for preventative maintenance.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+ per coil, including labor.
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
7G-TRONIC PLUS 7-Speed Automatic (722.9)
- Torque Converter Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Shuddering during gear changes, particularly at lower speeds.
- Solution: Replacement of the torque converter is often necessary. A transmission flush and software update may also be recommended.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Valve Body Problems
- Description/Symptoms: Erratic shifting, harsh gear changes, or failure to shift at all. Can also cause the transmission to get stuck in gear.
- Solution: Replacement or rebuild of the valve body. A transmission fluid flush and adaptation reset are also crucial.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,500+
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- AIRMATIC Air Suspension Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: The AIRMATIC air suspension system is known for developing leaks in the air struts or air lines. Symptoms include the vehicle sitting lower than normal, uneven ride height, a noisy air compressor, and error messages on the dashboard.
- Solution: Replacing the leaking air strut or air line is required. In some cases, the air compressor may also need to be replaced if it has been overworked due to the leak.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $3,000+ per strut, depending on location and whether OEM or aftermarket parts are used. Air compressor replacement can add another $500 - $1,500.
- Recalls: None Found
- AIRMATIC Compressor Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Suspension not raising or taking a very long time to raise. Suspension Malfunction error messages.
- Solution: Replacement of the air compressor
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- COMAND System Malfunctions
- Description/Symptoms: The COMAND infotainment system can experience a variety of issues, including freezing, crashing, screen flickering, and navigation problems.
- Solution: Software updates may resolve some issues. More severe problems may require replacement of the COMAND unit.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,500+, depending on the severity and whether a new or used unit is installed.
- Recalls: None Found
- Battery Drain
- Description/Symptoms: The car battery drains quickly, especially if the vehicle is left sitting for a few days. This can be caused by a parasitic draw from a faulty module or component.
- Solution: Identifying the source of the parasitic draw and replacing the faulty component.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+, depending on the complexity of the issue.
- Recalls: None Found
- Seat Control Module Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Problems with the power seat adjustments, memory functions, or heating/cooling features.
- Solution: Replacement of the faulty seat control module or repair of wiring.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Headlight Issues
- Description/Symptoms: The LED headlights can experience failures, including individual LEDs going out or the entire headlight unit malfunctioning. Also, the adaptive headlight functionality can stop working.
- Solution: Replacement of the headlight unit is usually necessary.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $4,000+ per headlight.
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Sunroof Problems
- Description/Symptoms: Sunroof may become stuck, make grinding noises, or leak.
- Solution: Repair or replacement of the sunroof motor, tracks, or seals.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,500+
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2013 Mercedes-Benz S500, while luxurious, is known for several common issues. The most concerning are related to the AIRMATIC suspension, electrical systems (COMAND and battery drain), and potential turbocharger or torque converter failures. Repair costs can be high, especially for suspension and electrical components. Owners should be prepared for potentially expensive maintenance. It’s recommended to have a thorough pre-purchase inspection performed by a qualified Mercedes-Benz mechanic to identify any existing or potential problems.