2015 Mercedes-Benz S550

The 2015 Mercedes-Benz S550 is a luxury sedan known for its opulent interior, smooth ride, and advanced technology. Engine options for the 2015 model year included a 4.7L Biturbo V8, producing 449 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.0L Turbocharged V6 producing 329 horsepower and 354 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with a 7-speed automatic transmission (7G-TRONIC PLUS). Owners often praise the S550 for its comfort, quietness, and abundance of features. Common complaints include the complexity of the electronics, the cost of maintenance, and some reliability concerns with certain components.

Engine

4.7L Biturbo V8

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks often originate from the valve cover gaskets or the oil filter housing. Symptoms include visible oil drips under the car, a burning oil smell, and low oil levels.
  • Solution: Replace the valve cover gaskets or oil filter housing gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1200+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Turbocharger Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported turbocharger failure or issues. This can manifest as a loss of power, unusual noises from the engine bay, or the check engine light illuminating.
  • Solution: Diagnose the specific turbocharger issue and replace or repair the affected components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

3.0L Turbocharged V6

• No Issues Found
  • Description/Symptoms:
  • Solution:
  • Estimated Cost to Fix:
  • Recalls:

Transmission

7G-TRONIC PLUS (Both Engines)

• Rough Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Jerky or hesitant shifting, especially between certain gears, can occur.
  • Solution: A transmission fluid flush might help, but sometimes valve body issues or internal wear require more extensive repairs or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $5,000+ depending on the severity
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering during acceleration, especially at low speeds.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• AIRMATIC System Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The AIRMATIC air suspension system can experience leaks or compressor failure, leading to the car sagging on one or more corners, a harsh ride, and warning lights on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Identify and repair the leak in the air springs or air lines. Replace the air compressor if it has failed.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $3,000+ per strut or compressor replacement
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Electronic Control Unit (ECU) Failures
  • Description/Symptoms: Various electrical malfunctions can occur due to ECU failures, including issues with the infotainment system, driver assistance features, or engine management.
  • Solution: Diagnose the specific ECU issue and reprogram or replace the affected module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Rapid battery drain, particularly if the car is not driven frequently.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair parasitic draws in the electrical system. Replace the battery if necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Malfunctioning Door Handles (Keyless Go)
  • Description/Symptoms: The touch sensors on the door handles for the Keyless Go system can fail, preventing the doors from locking or unlocking via touch.
  • Solution: Replace the affected door handle.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+ per handle
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Infotainment System Glitches
  • Description/Symptoms: The COMAND infotainment system can experience freezing, slow response times, or random reboots.
  • Solution: Software updates may resolve some issues, but hardware failures may require component replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $2,000+ depending on the issue
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof may become stuck, or make excessive noise when opening and closing.
  • Solution: Lubricate sunroof tracks, or replace broken components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2015 Mercedes-Benz S550, while luxurious and technologically advanced, can present owners with a range of potential issues. Electrical problems, suspension malfunctions, and engine oil leaks are among the most common concerns. The severity and cost of these issues can vary widely, with some repairs being relatively minor and others requiring significant investment. Prospective buyers should be aware of these potential issues and factor them into their purchasing decision.